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11 million tourists are drawn to Sydney's stretches of beaches and pristine bay each year. It is one of the liveliest cities in the world, which has more than 5 million inhabitants (so much so that it is the most populous city in Oceania!). One of the places that many tourists dream of visiting both to discover its natural beauty and to discover its culture. The history of the Australian city begins in 1778, when the Anglo-Saxon Arthur Phillip founded a prison settlement there. It became a place of detention for a long time and gradually became a landing place for many English and Irish emigrants. The Sydney area is embraced by the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Blue Mountains to the west. 1.Bondi Beach. If you've seen the famous film Point Break you know what we're talking about: Bondi Beach is one of Australia's most iconic beaches. Located only a few kilometers from the city, it is a surfer's paradise due to its high and sometimes indomitable waves. It is no coincidence that its name "Bondi" derives from the way in which the aborigines called this beach, that is "Boondi" which really means "surf". Speaking of surfing, Bondi Beach is also the place to learn to surf. Here tourists (but also locals) can enroll in full immersion courses or in one of the many schools scattered along the coast. 2. Sydney Opera House. Construction of the Sydney Opera House began in 1957 and it opened in 1973. Already at the time his project did not leave indifferent, in fact it was the winner of a well-known international design award. The Sydney Opera House is a true architectural gem that stands on the shores of Sydney Harbour. If you want a tip, go to the promenade in front of the Opera House to take pictures, it will give you the perfect perspective. If you wish, you can also take a boat tour to see the building from all angles. The Sydney Opera House has a self-cleaning white granite roof whose shape was inspired by the white sails of ships. It is not only famous for its architecture but also for the shows that you can come and see. 3. Sydney Harbor Bridge. Built between 1923 and 1932 to improve the viability of the city of Sydney, the bridge soon became its symbol, so much so that it was recognized as a national heritage in 2007. The Sydney Harbor Bridge connects the CBD and the North Shore and is suitable for both motorized vehicles and pedestrians. For a long time it was considered the tallest bridge in the world (134 meters above sea level) but, even if it lost this record for years, it still holds the title of widest bridge in the world (50 meters). The bridge is also known as "The Coathanger" ("the coat hanger") due to its arched shape made entirely of steel which resembles a coat hanger. 4. Darling Harbour. Darling Harbor is not only a port where you can watch the sea and its many moving boats, it is also (and above all) a very lively pedestrian area of the city. If you love nightlife and entertainment, Darling Harbor is the perfect area. It's impossible to get bored here! Shopaholics can take a trip to the Harborside Shopping Centre, revelers will find dozens of nightclubs where they can dance until the morning, such as Cockle Bay Wharf, plus you will find trendy bars and restaurants. But Darling Harbor is not just about music and entertainment, there are also several interesting museums to visit, such as Madame Tussauds and the Powerhouse Museum. The Sydney Aquarium is also in this area, as is Sydney Wildlife World. 5. Taronga-Zoo-Sydney. Taronga Zoo in Sydney is a great place to spend the day and is also one of the most visited attractions in the city. It is not a structure that exploits animals, indeed, the Taronga Zoo in Sydney is famous throughout the world for its conservation and restocking programs. Here you will find over 4,000 animals of 350 different species. Australia has many endemic species, and the delicate balance of the world's largest island challenges the survival of some, such as platypuses. Taronga Zoo therefore accepted the challenge of breeding platypuses in order to better study and protect them. 6. Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens. Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden is considered one of the finest botanic gardens in the world and is also one of the largest. Inaugurated in 1816, centenary species are preserved inside that really deserve to be seen. The position of the park is particularly interesting because in some places it overlooks the Opera House. Walking in such a well-kept, luxuriant garden, surrounded by peace and the singing of birds while being able to admire the Sydney skyline is an enchanting experience to say the least. The Royal Botanic Garden is not only a beautiful green space but also a place where you can perform various interesting activities. 7. Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. At the Sydney Aquarium you will have the opportunity to see thousands of animals up close – around 13,000 to be exact! Inside the structure you will be able to explore different settings and themes that will make you really immerse yourself in the underwater world. There are 14 different paths that complement each other and explain how marine life works and the history of some fish species. Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is more than just an aquarium, it's a living museum of aquatic life. In addition to fish, you can meet seals, penguins, dolphins and many other marine animals. But the main attraction is the transparent tunnel where you can walk while sharks, rays and other fish swim over your head and around you. An indescribable and unforgettable emotion for young and old. 8. Funfair. Luna Park Sydney is a large amusement park that has been around since the 1930s. After being closed for a few years, it was taken over by new owners and today it is once again the favorite place of entertainment for young and old. Whether you're alone or with the family, thrill-seeking or, well, you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, you'll always find something fun to do here! Roller coasters, launch towers, Ferris wheel, rides for kids, games of skill and even live entertainment. In short, the Luna Park is the best way to come and relax and have fun with your family or group of friends. 9. Royal National Park. Just outside the city is the Royal National Park, an exceptional park that you absolutely must explore if you are visiting Sydney. You will be able to immerse yourself in a wild, almost primordial environment and you will have fun discovering the flora and fauna of Australia. Inside the park, you can walk along the waterfront, marvel at the cliffs or delve into the rainforest. Certainly noteworthy are the famous "8 pools", natural pools carved into the rock with a perfect "8" shape, the salt marshes and the mangrove swamps. You won't be able to believe your eyes how much diversity can be concentrated in a small area. 10. Featherdale Wildlife Park. Featherdale Wildlife Park is a nature reserve that is easily accessible by public transport or car and is approximately 40 kilometers from Sydney's CBD. If you love animals this is the ideal place for you. It is not a zoo but a real sanctuary where thousands of native species are kept. From mammals to reptiles to birds, the variety of animals that you will be able to observe up close is nothing short of immense. 11. Hyde Park. In the past the area that today has become Hyde Park was a marshy land where the Aboriginal people hunted ducks then, with colonization, it was reclaimed and transformed into a park open to the public. Hyde Park has also served as a war zone and a racecourse. Since its opening in 1820, Hyde Park has been a place where city dwellers and tourists alike have come to relax in the shade of its many trees. There are many species preserved, from European varieties to palm trees, at every corner you will be able to discover beautiful glimpses that you will carry forever in your heart (and don't forget to take lots of photos!). 12. Queen Victoria Building. The Queen Victoria is an iconic palace in the city and is renowned for its magnificent architecture. The building was built in the Roman Renaissance style at the end of the 19th century. Although it was originally used as the seat of the city market, it is now a luxury shopping center (the equivalent of our Rinascente, if we want to give an example). But it is not only the exterior that attracts attention, its interior has also retained a lot of character: the central gallery with its metal arches, the stained glass windows, the richly decorated staircases, the Great Australian Clock surmounted by the golden dome. 13. Kamay Botany Bay National Park This national park is very popular with both Australians and visitors, partly because it is particularly close to the city, and therefore easily accessible, partly because it is a truly impressive place. Sydneysiders love to spend time here with friends and family, especially on weekends. Overlooking the coast, Kamay Botany Bay National Park offers trails and boardwalks that are easy to navigate and suitable for everyone. Here you can enjoy long deserted beaches, cliffs overlooking the ocean, green and harmonious landscapes in contrast with the roughness of the rocks. 14. Auburn Botanical Garden. The Auburn Botanic Garden is located in the suburbs of Sydney and is a place frequented more by tourists than by locals. This botanical garden has two beautiful lakes, a waterfall and several small bridges that make the atmosphere peaceful and charming, indeed, it is actually one of the favorite places for couples to take romantic photos – or as a wedding location. There is no denying that it is romantic and full of charm: it has been entirely set up in Japanese style, with peach and cherry trees with pink flowers, Zen corners, pagodas, small stone sculptures and large rectangular wooden arches lacquered in a vibrant red that stands out against the intense green of the dense foliage. If you are visiting Sydney, the Auburn Botanic Garden is worth a look. 15. Westfield Sydney. Westfield Sydney is a huge shopping mall located in Sydney's CBD district. It's a great place for a shopping spree, you won't believe how big it is and how many shops there are. Here you can really find anything from any brand – from mid-range to exclusive. Just to give you an idea, this shopping center is about 92,000 square meters large and even has a valet service. After you've run out of energy looking at shop windows, buying souvenirs and trying on clothes, finish off on a high note by climbing to the top of the Sydney Tower, have a trendy drink and dine seated at the table of the famous "Revolving Restaurant", the restaurant that slowly turns up itself to offer you a 360° view of the city! 16. Warnings. 1. Do not fish west of the Harbor Bridge. Up until the 1970s, it was the custom for the various factories overlooking Sydney Bay to release their waste into the sea, including harmful substances which unfortunately still pollute Sydney Harbor today. 2. Feed the seagulls at the Fish Market. Not only is this unhygienic in a place where you eat, but you risk that in no time at all your table (with you and your food included) will be literally stormed by dozens and dozens of seagulls, pigeons and ibis. 3. Forgetting to put on sunscreen. The sun in Australia is extremely strong and dangerous and the ozone hole is a sad reality. Do not turn up your nose at 50 protection creams (the only alternative is 30). 4. Drink alcohol in public places. Australia is a so-called "nanny state", and as such it has rules and laws to control virtually every aspect of social life. The prohibition of drinking alcohol in many public places is among the many rules envisaged. In particular, on most beaches and city parks, as well as on the streets of the CDB and on public transport, the consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited. 5. Going out too late. Australia is a country that wakes up early and goes to bed early. And Sydney is no different! If it is true that you will find people running, surfing or yoga in the park at dawn, it is equally true that Sydneysiders lock themselves up at sunset or shortly after. If you plan to go out to dinner after 21, know that your choice will be limited only to pubs. 6. Swimming in the bay. Sydney Harbor is one of the most beautiful natural bays in the world and it's only natural to want to swim in its blue waters, especially during the hot summer months. But don't be fooled, because Sydney Harbor is very polluted.

San Francisco is one of the most famous cities in the United States, an unmissable stop on a road trip in wonderful California! Capable of stealing your heart for its incredible location, straddling two hills and overlooking the sea, and wonderful attractions, such as the iconic Golden Gate Bridge! Let's find out together what to see in San Francisco! 1. Golden Gate Bridge. It is probably the symbol of San Francisco. A photo in front of the bridge is definitely a must, even better a photo or video while passing under the bridge on a cruise! Very popular (and affordable) is in fact the Corciera dei due ponti, which passes under the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge. The bridge is so famous for its bright orange colour, which makes it stand out against the blue of the ocean and sky. It is a very long bridge (2,700 m), but above all resistant! In fact, it is designed to withstand the strong gusts of wind that characterize the San Francisco Bay and the frequent earthquakes! Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge you can reach Sausalito, the town on the opposite side of the bay and the bridge, a seaside town also known as America's Portofino. Not to be missed in the warm season. 2. Lombard Street. When one thinks of San Francisco, one of the first images that comes to mind is certainly the famous winding road surrounded by flower beds and houses, visible in numerous films or cartoons set in the city. This is Lombard Street, and if you have rented a car you certainly cannot miss the thrill of walking along it, otherwise you can reach it on foot or by tram. In the latter case, we advise you to get off at the Hyde St & Lombard St stop, reaching its highest point, from which you can admire the whole street and, in the background, the city and the bay. 3. Fisherman's Wharf. San Francisco is also and above all a seaside city, which has based its past on port trade. A visit to Fisherman's Wharf, one of the most famous districts of the city, is certainly not to be missed! In the past it was a seedy port area, quite dangerous. But, thanks to the recovery and redevelopment works, today it has become one of the most characteristic areas of San Francisco. If you're traveling with your family, visit the Aquarium of the Bay, a large aquarium full of marine species, if you love history don't miss the USS Pampanito, an ancient submarine used during the Second World War. Furthermore, here you can admire an entire colony of sea lions: they live around Pier 39 and, guess what, according to the law they have priority over boats! Finally, the area is full of shops, clubs and restaurants, especially specialized in fish-based dishes! 4. Alcatraz. Impossible to leave San Francisco without visiting Alcatraz, probably the most famous maximum security prison in the world, located on the island of the same name and visible in the distance from Fisherman's Wharf. Ferries to reach the island depart from Pier 33 with the company Alcatraz Cruises. Alcatraz has held within its walls some of the worst criminals in the country, such as the famous Mafia boss Al Capone. It also gained even more notoriety following the incredible escape of Frank Morris and brothers John and Clarence Anglin, which also inspired a film starring Clint Eastwood. After their escape, the three men were never found again, despite numerous searches, and to this day it is not known what happened to them. 5. Little Italy. In addition to Chinatown, another of the most characteristic neighborhoods of the Californian city is certainly Little Italy, a small piece of Italy in San Francisco. It is located north of Chinatown in the larger North Beach neighborhood. The best starting point to explore the area is the intersection of Broadway and Columbus Avenue, one of the main places where the Italian community has settled. Here you will find numerous restaurants, shops and clubs: be careful though, if some places have authentic Italian culture and you can order a real espresso, many others are a bit of a tourist trap. In any case, Littly Italy remains one of the most evocative areas of San Francisco, with its elegant and colorful buildings, street art works and small cafes where you can immerse yourself in an all-Italian atmosphere. 6. Coit Tower. San Francisco is a city that continually offers wonderful panoramic views. This is because, given its position, it develops in a continuous up and down. One of the most beautiful viewpoints is certainly the Coit Tower, located in the Telegraph Hill district. This tower represents an important piece of San Francisco history: it was in fact wanted by the rich heiress Lillie Hitchcock Coit and was built as a tribute to the city's Fire Brigade! Furthermore, numerous murals were created inside the tower that depicted some of the daily moments of the inhabitants during the 1930s, following the 1929 crisis that upset America. Today these murals can still be visited. Finally, you can reach the viewing platform at a height of 64 m and admire one of the most beautiful panoramas of San Francisco: the Golden Gate Bridge is also clearly visible in the distance. 7. Chinatown. By now in the city even the neighborhoods have become real attractions: for a moment it almost seems that you are no longer in San Francisco, but in distant places that are completely different in terms of traditions and culture! One of the most characteristic neighborhoods is certainly Chinatown, not far from Union Square and the Ferry Building. Chinatown represents the oldest and most numerous Chinese community in the United States, founded in 1848, and has a truly unique atmosphere: numerous red lanterns hung between the buildings above the streets, typical cuisine restaurants, craft shops, small markets and even several temples ! One of the entry points to the neighborhood is the Chinatown Gate, also known as the Dragon Gate, in the southern part. 8. Ferry Building The Ferry Building, together with the Golden Gate Bridge, is one of the best points from which to start discovering the city. It is now a real symbol and is located in the Embarcadero district, along the east coast of the city, overlooking the bay. The Ferry Building is a historic building in San Francisco, which between the end of the 19th century and the 1930s served as the terminal for ferries departing or arriving in the city. After a few decades of decline in which it was only used to house offices, it was completely recovered in the 1990s. In fact, it remained almost intact after the devastating earthquake of 1989, today it is an emporium for gourmets: here there are numerous restaurants and clubs and the fruit and vegetable market takes place three times a week! 9. Museum of Modern Art. If you've been to New York and loved visiting the MoMa, or more generally you love art, you certainly can't miss the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, or the city's modern art museum, abbreviated to SFMoMa. Just off Union Square, this museum opened in 1935 and houses over 30,000 works of art, including photography, installation art, industrial design, and more. Among the works not to be missed we certainly find the Triple Elvis by Andy Warhol. The purpose of the museum is to bring people closer to modern and contemporary art, promoting activities such as the interpretation of art and exploring fields perhaps more distant from us and from our way of thinking. 10. Union Square and financial district. The real beating heart of San Francisco is Union Square, located in the financial district of the city! The square is surrounded by luxury hotels, monuments, shops and even theaters, and is also crossed by the famous Geary Street. It is a real meeting point for locals and also represents an excellent starting point to discover the city. Surrounded by places of all kinds, if you are a cheesecake lover you certainly cannot miss the Cheesecake Factory on the top floor of Macy's, while if you want to do some shopping you can browse shops such as Victoria's Secret, the large Apple Store, Nike San Francisco or Saks Fifth Avenue Mall! 11. California Academy of Sciences. Inside the Golden Gate Park there are numerous museums, one of these is the California Academy of Science, perfect to visit even with children! It is a small scientific city, inside which there are 10 buildings with exhibitions and activities for everyone, including the Steinhart Aquarium (38,000 marine animals, including the unique albino crocodile), the Morrison Planetarium (the largest largest in the world) and the Kimball Museum of Natural History, one of the oldest natural history museums in America, with a history over 150 years! 12. Golden Gate Park. In addition to the Presidio of San Francisco, the other large green lung of the city is Golden Gate Park, visited by more than 10 million people every year! As with the Presidium, it is a much-loved place to play sports, meet up or enjoy a few hours of relaxation in the midst of nature. Golden Gate Park is also full of wonderful attractions: here you can find several museums such as the California Academy of Science or the De Young Museum, but also many activities to do with the little ones, such as a visit to the Dutch Windmill, a little corner of Holland in the city or a visit to the San Francisco Botanical Garden, a wonderful 22-hectare botanical garden with plants from all over the world 13. DeYoung Museum. Another museum housed within Golden Gate Park is the De Young Museum, located directly across from the California Academy of Science. The two museums are divided by the wonderful Rideout Fountain. It is one of the most beautiful art museums in the city, completely surrounded by greenery and which offers a unique experience to those who visit it. The De Young Museum houses, in fact, a large collection of American, African, Oriental art and art of pre-Columbian civilizations! Inaugurated in 1985, all the collections are organized by geographical area, making a visit simple and convenient. One of the most interesting collections is certainly the African one, with particular objects such as animal-shaped wooden masks! And, at the end of the visit, you can also go up to the Hamon Observation Tower, the observation tower of the museum, from which you can admire a splendid view of the entire Golden Gate Park and its surroundings! 14. Muir Woods National Monument. If you love nature and the great American natural parks, you certainly cannot miss a visit to Muir Woods National Monument, located just 25 km north of downtown San Francisco! To reach it you will also have to cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Muir Woods National Monument was declared a National Monument way back in 1908 by US President Theodore Roosevelt and is the place to see the giant sequoias! An almost surreal but truly unique experience: you will feel very small under these ancient trees. Here you can walk on numerous elevated wooden walkways, built with the purpose of protecting the roots of the redwoods, while above you the trees will rise up to 76m! We advise you to reach the park at opening hours, to better enjoy all its tranquility and beauty. 15. Warnings Wear shorts and flip flops. How do locals recognize tourists? Well, they are the ones who wear shorts and flip flops. It must be quite hot for someone who lives here to want to wear shorts; even then, it's random. The weather changes drastically over the course of a couple of days, so pack lots of layers and add or remove clothes based on the current climate. Also pack an umbrella, just in case. Above all, wear comfortable shoes. San Francisco is the city of hills, and because it's so compact, there's plenty of walking between neighborhoods and points of interest. A pair of comfortable athletic shoes is your best bet. Expect a hot summer. Summer brings to mind warm weather, trips to the beach, and shorts and flip flops. Well, not in San Francisco. Accompanying this cold is something as iconic as the Golden Gate Bridge and Coit Tower: fog. Affectionately called Karl the Fog, he's a blanket of cold fog that can quickly swoop in and turn everything cold, foggy, and gray. Any native will say the best thing to do is dress in layers to be prepared for any weather the city might throw. Forget about being green. San Francisco residents take earth conservation very seriously, and green compost bins and blue recycling bins are everywhere. San Francisco's Mandatory Ordinance requires residents and businesses to separate compostable and recyclable materials from trash. Get recognition points from the San French for not littering, and try to recycle and compost whenever possible. The green movement also encourages consumers to bring their own reusable shopping bags, so be prepared to pay a fee of 0.10 to 0.25 per bag. Pack a bag and use it for all your shopping.

Nature and futuristic buildings, breathtaking views and avant-garde shopping centres. The charm of Hong Kong all lies in the profound contradictions that have made it one of the main cities in the world to visit, the point where east and west meet, where the super modern metropolis intertwines with tradition. There is certainly no shortage of attractions and there are so many things to do in the city! So let's find out together what to see in Hong Kong, the best attractions and things to do! 1. Victoria Peak. The ideal place to enjoy a suggestive panorama of Hong Kong is undoubtedly Victoria Peak! This is the highest peak in the city (554 meters), can be reached via a funicular in 5 minutes. What you need to calculate mainly, however, is the time to board the cable car itself: often the queues are endless! Once at the top, there are two "poles" of interest on the promontory: the Peak Tower and the Lion Kiosk, preferential points from which to draw fabulous cover-worthy panoramas, both by day and by night. 2. Temple Street Night Market. Located on the Kowloon peninsula, the night market along Temple Road, known as Temple Street, is a glimpse into authentic old Hong Kong. Here merchants of all kinds gather, from electronics to clothing, from precious stones to typical food, until you find, along the road, numerous fortune tellers who contribute to making the atmosphere mystical and evocative. The items on sale have prices for all budgets and, after shopping, we recommend stopping to eat in one of the many restaurants to try tropical fruit, shellfish and all the other typical Cantonese dishes. Furthermore, along this road there are also several old clinics where it is possible to be treated using traditional Chinese medicine. 3. A Symphony of Lights. A Guinness show: it is the largest permanent light and sound show in the world and takes place on the Avenue of Star. It is called A Symphony of Lights and is a real "luminous concert" that lights up the entire city of Hong Kong. It begins at 20:00 each evening and lasts 14 minutes, during which 45 buildings along the Hong Kong skyline project lights towards Victoria Harbor in time to the music. It takes place in five phases, each with a different meaning: Awakening, Energy, Heritage, Collaboration and Celebration, all dedicated to the soul of the city. 4. Tian Tan Buddha and Lantau Island. The imposing effigy of Buddha overlooks Ngong Ping, on Lantau Island, the largest and wildest island in Hong Kong, albeit the least densely populated. The statue of Buddha Amoghasiddhi, built in 1993 and located inside the Po Lin Monastery, is actually a 34-metre-high mausoleum and can be reached "only" after climbing a staircase of 268 steps! It represents the symbol of the union between man and nature. Despite the titanic undertaking to be supported, the Tian Tan Buddha is stormed every year by faithful and simply curious. 5. Sky 100 Hong Kong Observation Deck. Among the many things to see and do in Hong Kong, you certainly cannot fail to admire the skyline from above! And for that experience there's the Sky 100 Hong Kong Observation Deck, located in the ICC, the tallest building in the city! The platform is at the 100th! This is the highest viewing platform, where you can enjoy a wonderful 360° view of Hong Kong! To go up you will have to take a high-speed lift, which covers the distance from the ground floor to the 100th floor in just one minute! Get ready to have your ears plugged, but you will surely forget it as soon as you see the panorama from the large windows! 6. Ocean Park. Hong Kong is one of the world capitals of entertainment, thanks to its large water amusement park, where you can drive a bumper car and, at the same time, admire local fauna species, from fish to the famous pandas. The Park is divided into two macro-areas, the Waterfront and the Summit. Adrenaline junkies won't miss the Thrill Mountain area, with at least five jaw-dropping rides, while animal enthusiasts will love the Rainforest area, a rainforest home to dozens of different animal species, guiding visitors discovering biodiversity. Due to its particularity, Ocean Park in Hong Kong is undoubtedly among the most attractive amusement parks in Asia and one of the most visited in the world: the latest rankings, in fact, even place it in twelfth place! 7. Central District. The financial heart of Hong Kong is called Central District, in the local language Chung Wan, and is located in the northwestern part of the island. It owes its name to the "Centrale" underground stop and today it can be considered the "Mecca" of luxury and power of the city: here there are skyscrapers, luxurious shops and several important buildings, such as those that house the various consulates, as well as the government. But here there is also a piece of history: it is precisely in this district that, in fact, by taking the Queen's Road, you will be able to walk along the first street of the city. 8. Lan Kwai Fong (LKF) The full name is Lan Kwai Fong, but it is known by all as LKF: it is the busiest district in Hong Kong, the one completely dedicated to nightlife and nightlife. In this block, in fact, there are hundreds of bars, restaurants and pubs, as well as numerous discos where you can go wild all night long. This characteristic is due to its history, which in the 1980s consecrated the neighborhood as a meeting place for expatriates, who they want to have fun and have fun in the evening. Curiously, it is located at the very end of the Central district, so much so that it can be considered a fraction of it, and so you are in an instant from a luxurious working environment to one of continuous entertainment! 9. The Escalator. Just a few hundred meters from the stop that leads to Victoria Peak is the Central-Mid Levels Escalator, the longest escalator in the world. It runs about 800 meters and can be accessed from every road it crosses. Built in 1994 in order to allow a particular tour of the city of Hong Kong, this escalator connects the Central District with the Western District and has now rightfully become one of the main attractions of the city, a destination for millions of tourists who enjoy a very special 25-minute free ride through the whole city. An unusual way to tour without getting tired! 10. Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and Avenue of Stars. The Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, also known as the Central Harbourfront, is an incredible place in the Hong Kong bay: here, in fact, it seems to live at a different pace than in the central districts of the city. The large and modern shopping centers flank the port where the ferries come and go and, together, frame the imposing colonial clock tower, which certainly projects you into another time. Furthermore, it is a perfect vantage point to admire the financial districts of Hong Kong and Kowloon, as well as the best spot to stop and enjoy the A Symphony of Light show. 11. Hong Kong Museum of History. The Hong Kong Museum of History is the perfect place to learn about the entire history of the city, from prehistoric times to the present day. The Museum, in fact, houses a permanent exhibition and various temporary exhibitions. 12. Lama Island. Hong Kong's green lung, as well as the city's third largest island. The island of Lamma, with its characteristic Chinese "Y" shape, makes ecology and an easy lifestyle its forte. People move on foot and the only means of transport contemplated is the bicycle. A whole other world, which is worth exploring, especially by nature lovers, who will be able to find numerous hiking trails on this island. But the island of Lamma is also a genuine and somewhat naive island, so much so that it is even called the "island of creatives", due to its bohemian atmosphere, accentuated by small craft shops and independent boutiques. The island is free and always accessible and, to reach it, you need to take the ferry from Central Pier 4 to Yung Shue Wan 13. Hong Kong Disneyland. Disneyland Hong Kong is the Asian version of the first and well-known Disneyland Paris. In fact, it is not a copy, but the Chinese headquarters and, therefore, it is almost the same in all respects as the French parent company. It was inaugurated in 2005, representing the fifth opening worldwide. This Park is also divided into seven thematic areas although, in terms of occupied area and number of attractions, Disneyland Hong Kong is smaller than its European cousin; in any case, inside there are Main Street USA, Fantasyland, Adventureland (the largest area of the Park), Tomorrowland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point and Toy Story Land. Its peculiarity, however, lies in the It's a Small World section, which is an attraction that allows you to ideally cross the different continents by boat, in the meantime admiring the puppets in traditional clothes who sing and dance. 14. Hong Kong Unesco Global Geopark. Until now we have imagined Hong Kong as a large ultra-modern centre, where large skyscrapers alternate with markets with innovative technology products. But the city is also home to an incredible area, completely natural and dedicated to landscape and geology enthusiasts: it is the Hong Kong Unesco Global Geopark. It is a portion of territory about an hour away from the center that contains a series of truly unique attractions. They range from hexagonal columns of volcanic rock to mangrove forests; from coral communities to temples revealing ancient cultures. Furthermore, there are several fishing villages that can be reached by renting boats or by boarding the ferries. For those wishing to enjoy a little relaxation, however, it is possible to rent a kayak from Sha Ha Beach and paddle towards one of the many beaches on Sharp Island. 15. Macau. Defined as the capital of gambling, not only in Asia, but throughout the world, it stands out for its very particular urban architecture, with a clear Portuguese reference (as it was a former colony of the European country), for a gastronomy completely opposite to that of Hong Kong and for the very humid tropical climate, influenced by the monsoons. Macau is only an hour by ferry from Hong Kong and, since there are very extended opening hours, from early morning to late evening, it can without a doubt be considered a day trip, during which it is possible to visit many of the city's attractions. Among the most important, the Guia Lighthouse (€0.50), located next to a fortress and the Senate Square (free), also in Portuguese style. If, on the other hand, we want to enjoy a panoramic view of Macao, we cannot fail to climb the Macao Tower, 338 meters high, with its 56 floors that house bars, restaurants and other businesses. 16. Warnings. The myriad things to do in Hong Kong don't make it difficult to spend your time here. Here's what to avoid on holiday in Hong Kong. Do not ride the Peak Tram. First opened in 1888, it was Asia's first funicular. A place full of attractions, long lines are a problem. Unless your goal is to waste a whole day in line, avoid going up. Do not visit the bronze statue of the Big Buddha as it will take up a lot of time and you may not be able to see it once you get there. Don't spend all your time visiting Hong Kong Island, which while full of fun, only shows one side of Hong Kong. Do not take a taxi during rush hour, as you risk being stuck in traffic.

The beating heart of Southern California, Los Angeles is known throughout the world for its glamorous lifestyle, the stars of the international jet set, the beaches, sport and the almost obsessive pursuit of beauty. Headquarters of the cinema industry, in the "City of Angels", however, not everything revolves only around the magical world of cinema, TV, stars and starlets. Hollywood is in fact only a part of this great metropolis. There are many neighborhoods, each one different from the other. Dream villas and designer shops are the undisputed protagonists of Beverly Hills, while skyscrapers and offices make up the skyline of the frenetic Downtown. 1.Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive. Los Angeles' most glamorous shopping street located in the equally glitzy Beverly Hills neighborhood. Frequented by movie stars (for fans we recommend the tour of the movie stars' homes), its windows show off the most prestigious brands. A succession of shops among the most expensive and luxurious on the planet, where you can find the most elegant models of the most prestigious brands. It is one of the streets most immortalized in hundreds of films, from Pretty Woman to Beverly Hills Cop, just to name a few. Along Rodeo Drive are world-renowned brands and design-related names. The boutiques are furnished with styles that clearly identify the brand. So here is Valentino red and Armani black, Jimmy Choo's trendy shoes, Louis Vuitton trunk bags, Madame Chanel's timeless creations, Lacoste T-shirts with the famous crocodile and the timeless jewels of Tiffany and Cartier. And there is even a showcase displaying Porsche cars! 2. Hollywood Blvd and Walk of Fame. Hollywood Boulevard is the most important street in Hollywood and bisects the neighborhood. The best known stretch is certainly the Walk of Fame, the most photographed sidewalk in the world that pays tribute to the most famous artists. Along Hollywood Boulevard there is also the Dolby Theater (where the Oscar ceremony takes place); the Madame Tussaud Wax Museum and many exclusive venues frequented by VIPs and dreamers looking for a chance. 3. Griffith Observatory and Hollywood sign. The immortalized "Hollywood" sign, which stands out on the hill, is clearly visible from here, from the Griffith Observatory. With 1 million visitors a year, it's the most popular attraction in Griffith Park, a large conservation area of mountains and canyons at the tip of the Santa Monica Mountains. It is an Art Deco building which houses large telescopes, various exhibitions and a spectacular planetarium, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. The Hollywood sign has been overlooking Los Angeles since 1923, originally "Hollywoodland". Appearing in countless films and TV series, each letter, made of metal foil, is 15 meters high, and was originally lit by light bulbs. It was born as a billboard for a new real estate development project. The park is immense; there are over 80 km of trails, some of which reach Mount Hollywood which, with its 495 meters high, is the highest point in the area. In Griffith Park there is also a theater, the Greek Theater, and a zoo. 4. Universal Studios. Thematic amusement park where visitors can experience the magic of cinema firsthand. In fact, Universal Studios represents a world of magic and fantasy in which to immerse yourself in your favorite films and TV series. Developed in thematic areas, there are attractions, themed restaurants and tour possibilities like being inside a real set! Among the best known areas, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the most fairy-tale area of the park with the wonderful Hogwards castle in the centre, around which there are various mechanical games. Simposon lovers will be able to visit Springfield and grab a beer at Moe or shop for goods at Apu. The Studio Tour takes visitors around the most famous film sets of the Studios, from Back to the Future to Pirates of the Caribbean, from the homes of the protagonists of Desperate Housewives to the motel of Psycho. Other tours even feature special effects and stunts! The priority entrance ticket is highly recommended in order not to waste the day in the queue and the round-trip transport to arrive in comfort without the stress of parking or transport. 5. Disneyland. The first amusement park opened by the Walt Disney Company and the only one opened in 1955 by Walt Disney himself. Ideal for spending a day of fun, even with children! Like all amusement parks, Disneyland is also divided into thematic areas. Main Street has the look of the classic American town of the early twentieth century, while Tomorrowland, projected into the future, features Star Wars as the main attraction. Magical atmosphere in Fantasyland, inhabited by fairy tale characters. Frontierland is an ode to America of yesteryear: in this area we find the Mark Twain Riverboat and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad that evoke the era of boats and pirates. New Orleans instead boasts all the charm of the French Quarter from which it takes its name; while African and South-East Asian atmospheres are breathed in Adventureland. Strictly in theme with the city, Hollywood Land is the miniature reproduction of a large film set. The typical amusement park rides are at Paradise Pier while fans of the cartoon of the same name cannot fail to visit Cars Land. 6. Venice Beach. The hippie area of Los Angeles has long been known as the eccentric "Mecca of California". A bohemian place that attracts artists, New Agers, vagabonds, wacky types and free spirits. Strolling on the Venice Boardwalk, the wide promenade, means meeting numerous street artists and souvenir sellers, being amazed by the amazing acrobatics performed in the Skate-park, admiring the ubiquitous murals (mainly painted by the famous artist Rip Cronk) and observing -builders train in the Muscle Beach. On the opposite side, a succession of small New Age-style shops and kiosks selling protein products for super fit people. The name is not accidental: Venice represents in fact the dream come true of the builder Abbot Kinney who, in 1905, managed to create the so-called "Venice of America", with a system of artificial canals (30 km) inserted in a pleasant residential and entertainment complex. 7. Santa Monica. The route of the legendary Route 66 begins (or ends) here, but Santa Monica is also famous for being one of the many icons of Los Angeles. In particular, the famous Pier (the pier) has been its symbol since 1908. A bike tour of Santa Monica with stops in the most iconic places is highly recommended. Every day, street artists, street vendors, various street-food kiosks, sweets and ice creams, and rides crowd the famous walkway. And in the background, the unmistakable silhouette of the Ferris wheel. Loved not only by tourists but also by locals, it is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a bite to eat at one of the many stalls and for enjoying the various attractions. And if you want to rest after so much fun, there is a large beach all around to relax! 8. Malibu. Rich coastal town, elegant but relaxed, home to many celebrities. Stretching over 27 miles (43 km) along the Pacific Coast Hwy, it's a succession of natural beauties: coastal rolling hills, pristine coves, wide golden sand beaches and glorious surf. The most beautiful, and probably the most famous beach in Malibu is El Matador. Malibu Pier is where you can stroll, fish without a license (rod rentals available on site), and watch the surfers at work. A bit kitsch, given its location, in Malibu there is also a copy of a Roman villa, the Getty Villa. Malibu is also one of the ideal destinations to visit with children. Recommended to go there during the week when it is not crowded. 9. Bel Air. Known above all thanks to the 90s series with Will Smith and the TV series in which he was the protagonist, "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air", it is one of the most exclusive residential neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Inside, there are some of the most luxurious villas in the city surrounded by huge grounds. Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Aniston, Michael Jackson, Taylor Swift or Ronald Reagan are just some of the celebrities who have decided to settle here. From a tourist point of view there is not much to see. However, many people visit it through organized tours to see the locations of TV series and to try to find the villas of the famous, or even just to take a picture with the entrance sign to the neighborhood. 10. Mulholland Drive. The most evocative panoramic road in all of Los Angeles: uphill, it winds through parks and panoramic points where the sumptuous villas of the wealthy of Hollywood are hidden surrounded by greenery, between flower gardens and shady woods. Here live, or have lived, celebrities such as Madonna, Jack Nicholson, John Lennon, Roman Polanski, Marlon Brando, Demi Moore and Bruce Willis. There is no shortage of ocean views, mountain landscapes and canyons. It's an experience that all lovers of director David Lynch, but not only them, should do! Even if fans of the "Mulholland Drive" film, mindful of the car accident that the initial protagonist has at the beginning of the film on one of these curves, will drive with a touch of anxiety! 11. Warner Bros Studios. Warner Bros. Studios are not the classic cinematic theme park, but real recording studios that are constantly changing according to the needs of the shows and television series that are currently being filmed there. The available tours will take you not only to the backlots (buildings or constructions suitable for a particular shooting) of popular productions ("Casablanca", "Batman", "Friends", ...) but will also allow you to explore the behind the scenes of the successful production that is currently being recorded in the studios. It goes without saying that the tours do not always remain similar to themselves, but often vary, even from month to month, depending on the availability of the structures to visit and above all on what is being done at the moment. For this reason it is strongly recommended to visit the official website to find out what you can see during your tour. 12. Olivera Street. A beautiful street dedicated to the Mexican origins of the city. Los Angeles was in fact founded in 1781 by Spanish religious who settled right in the vicinity of this road. Consisting of 19th century buildings, the street, like the entire neighborhood, is a succession of small folk craft shops and traditional restaurants. Cheerful music, bright colors and spicy scents, these are the ingredients of Olivera Street. And, let's not forget, only Spanish is heard here! Walking peacefully and letting yourself be enchanted by the local atmosphere is the best way to experience the area to the fullest. But to get to know the local history in a little more depth, we point out some of the best and most significant buildings. Avila Adobe is the oldest house in Los Angeles built in 1818, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church is known as "La Placida", Sepulveda House houses a museum commemorating the area's past. Warnings. Don't use public transport. the car, despite the crazy traffic is the best way to get around the city. If you can, don't use public transport but rent a car and take UBER/LYFT. Be careful where you smoke. Considering that cigarettes cost a lot in the USA and you bought them at the duty free of your airport, you have to respect some rules if you want to smoke your cigarette. Before booking the hotel, ask if it has smoking areas, you cannot smoke in the car you have rented, you cannot smoke in the local markets, you cannot smoke just outside the restaurants, you have to move away at least 30 meters. Avoid buying maps on the street Avoid the hawkers of maps pointing the way on the Walk of Fame. Maps are often fake or outdated.

Tokyo is an eclectic city, an incredible mix of imperial palaces, shrines, temples, but also avant-garde neighborhoods full of huge skyscrapers. Tokyo is a symbol of relaxation, thanks to the presence of the well-known Onsen, the typical thermal baths. But at the same time it is also a dynamic city, full of themed bars and seemingly anonymous alleys, which in reality hide its truest soul. Not to mention the karaoke, pachinko and ubiquitous arcades. In short, a city that never sleeps and, above all, with 1,000 facets. A city that can stun and baffle at first glance, so much so that, after "the first time", you either fall in love with it or hate it! 1. Asakusa and Senso-Ji Temple. Compared to modern neighborhoods, Asakusa has an old-world charm, reminiscent of the days when Tokyo was known as Edo. In the heart of the district, and the main reason to visit the district itself, is the famous Sensoji Temple, considered the oldest structure in Tokyo, as well as the main Buddhist sacred place belonging to the Tendai sect. Legend has it that 2 brothers, in 628, fished a statue of the goddess Kannon in the Sumida River. Though they tried to put it back in the river, it always came back to them. That is why the temple dedicated to her was built near the river in 645, making it the oldest temple in Tokyo. To access it, you must pass the thousand-year-old Kaminarimon gate, the very symbol of Asakusa. After the imposing entrance, to get to the temple you have to go along the shopping street, the so-called Nakamise Dori, where you can buy souvenirs and local specialities. Still on the theme of shopping, in this district a stroll in Kappabashi Dori is fun, the street where more than 100 shops selling kitchen utensils are concentrated. Many green areas develop along the Sumida River. A visit to the neighborhood can be considered complete by climbing the Tokyo Skytree observatory, the tallest building in the country, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views over the city. 2. National Museum. Located inside Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum offers the largest collection of Japanese art in the world. There are relics that relate to the history of the nation: from the Jomon period to the Edo period. There are ceramics, masks and paintings. The Japanese gallery, the Asian gallery, the treasure gallery of Hōryū-ji temple, a research center, a garden and various restaurants and shops are also part of the museum complex. It is an obligatory stop to get to know Japanese culture better, from all its sides. This museum has changed its name several times throughout its history. First Imperial Museum, then Tokyo Imperial Household Museum, today it is simply called TMN. In 1923 this building was also heavily damaged during the earthquake that caused at least 100,000 victims in Japan. 3. Ueno Park. The green lung of Tokyo is located in the heart of the district of the same name. It was once part of the Kaneiji Temple, which however was destroyed at the end of the 19th century. Today, inside the park, some remains can still be admired. Here it is possible to do activities in contact with nature and animals, but also to admire small temples and visit museums inside. There are about 8,000 trees and in the center there is an island that houses the sanctuary dedicated to Benzaiten, goddess of fortune. The park and its attractions attract over ten million visitors a year, making it Japan's most popular city park. Unusually, there are a large number of homeless people living within the park. Although wandering is illegal in Japan, here their presence is accepted as inevitable. 4. Shinjuku. The most representative district of Tokyo. The neighborhood that never sleeps, where you are constantly dazed and dazzled by music and neon lights, and where you can find everything. It's also the best neighborhood to look for accommodation, both because it's well connected to all other areas of Tokyo, and because there's no danger of getting bored in the evening! The area of Shinjuku where nightlife and entertainment are concentrated is Kabuki-cho. A red sign identifies the entrance. Here you will find any type of club, even if there is a high concentration of gambling halls, Pachinko, and the various "prostitute" clubs (service not allowed for foreigners). It seems that the interference of the Yakuza, the Japanese mafia, is strong in the neighborhood, but there are no particular dangers. In order not to risk getting lost, especially in the evening, it is better for the first time to opt for a guided evening tour of Shinjuku, among the typical izakaya clubs, red light districts and tastings. 5. Golden Gai. It is located in Kabuki-cho, the Shinjuku district that never sleeps. It is an area characterized by alleys with about 200 tiny bars able to accommodate very few people: from 5 to a maximum of 10 customers each. Here the atmosphere is really friendly and making friends with the few customers present is practically automatic. The Golden Gai restaurant's specialty is yakitori, small skewers of meat (usually chicken). In the past this place was famous as it was very popular with artists, musicians, actors and directors. Very suggestive in the evening when obviously all the places are crowded and the alleys are lit up by lanterns. 6. Meiji Shrine - Meiji Jingu. Immersed in a large park, the Meiji Shrine is a jewel of the Shinto religion that offers visitors an oasis of peace and tranquility, just a few steps away from the busy Harajuku station. It is one of the most symbolic sacred places in Tokyo and most loved by the Japanese as it venerates the figures of the Emperor Meiji and his wife, the Empress Shoken. Emperor Meiji's life is chronicled in the 2003 film "The Last Samurai". In addition to a pleasant and relaxing walk in Yoyogi Park, you can admire the Naien park (main garden), the area with the sacred buildings, which also includes a museum where relics of the imperial family are kept, and finally the external area o Gaien, characterized by the gallery of Meiji paintings, a collection of eighty illustrations depicting key events in the life of the emperor and his wife. It is not uncommon to see Shinto weddings celebrated. The sanctuary is very crowded during the autumn festival and the first days of the year when the faithful go there to pray and make offerings as auspicious for the new year. 7. Harajuku. Sandwiched between Shinjuku and Shibuya, this neighborhood is the heart of youth culture and new trends. The nerve center of the neighborhood develops around Takeshita Dori, a long avenue teeming with clothing and accessory shops, vintage boutiques, fast food and food stalls intent on satisfying the palate of young people (a riot of ice cream parlors and sweets and sweets shops ranging from unacceptable colors!). Harajuku is most famous for the presence of cosplayers who gather in this area on weekends. These are young people who are so passionate about a character that they identify with him, emulating him to the point of dressing up and acting exactly like him. South of Takeshita Dori is the elegant and wide tree-lined Omotesando avenue, nicknamed the "Champs-Elysees of Tokyo", where boutiques of famous brands, restaurants and elegant cafés alternate. In this district, just behind the subway station, is the Meiji Jingu, one of the most important shrines in Tokyo, immersed in the enchanting Yoyogi Park, an oasis of peace and tranquillity. 8. Shibuya. Known for the famous intersection, the busiest in the world, which has become its symbol, Shibuya is the district of young people and new trends. With its lively soul at any time of day, it is an ideal neighborhood for shopping and having fun, discovering strange and curious shops and clubs, bars, karaoke, pubs, discos and pachinko (Japanese gambling). During the night, the alleys acquire a unique charm thanks to the neon lights and the signs of the various shops. And every time the traffic light of the famous intersection turns green, a flood of people pours into the street making the atmosphere even more suggestive. Just outside the station, in the square, there is another famous attraction, the statue of the dog Hachiko. You will recognize it from afar because there is usually a line of people who want to take a selfie in front of the statue. 9. Roppongi. It is an extremely multicultural area of Tokyo, home to various embassies and therefore frequented by expats, but above all it is one of the liveliest districts at night, characterized by a vibrant atmosphere due to the many bars and restaurants present here. It is a redeveloped area, full of luxury hotels, offices, shops and much more. Furthermore, thanks to the presence of some art museums, the district is increasingly becoming an important cultural centre. Among the symbolic skyscrapers of the neighborhood we find the Mori Tower, which houses the offices of major international brands such as Goldmann Sachs, Lehaman Brothers, TV Asahi and Yahoo, and many others. 10. Imperial Palace. It is the main official residence of the Japanese Emperor. The building is located in a small park and is located near the city station. The complex houses various structures, including the Kyūden palace, the private residence of the Imperial Family, and beautiful gardens that can only be visited by booking online. The Palace is open to visitors only twice a year: on 2nd January to welcome the new year, and on 23rd December, on the birthday of the current emperor. On these two occasions, the imperial family shows itself to visitors from the main balcony. The East Gardens, the surrounding gardens, are always open to the public. Developed over an area of 210,000 square meters, in the past they housed the defense buildings of the Edo castle; the walls, the moat and the entrance gates are still present as well as the foundations of the ancient castle tower. They are very nice to visit in the spring during hanami (cherry blossom). Possibility to rent a small boat to navigate the waters of the moat. 11. Kanda. Outside the traditional tourist circuits is Kanda, a residential district located between Tokyo Station and Ueno. Academic center of the capital, here there are historic universities and a good number of temples and shrines of great importance. Don't miss the Kanda-Myojin Shrine, where every year, on New Year's Eve, those who run their own businesses go on pilgrimage to ask for a prosperous year. Instead, students go to the Mausoleum of Confucius to ask for good grades in exams and buy votive pencils. It is also very interesting to stroll through characteristic and thematic streets: via Ochanomizu where there are musical instrument shops and Jimbocho full of bookshops and cafés. For enthusiasts, a visit to the Origami Kaikan is interesting. Area also recommended for gourmets; in fact, in this district there are more than 30 restaurants specializing in curry, a specialty for which a party is even dedicated in the month of November. 12. Akihabara. It is the otaku paradise, young people obsessively dedicated to a particular activity, hobby or interest (specifically comics, cartoons, video games and computers). In fact, here there is a continuous succession of shopping centers that sell electronic products and above all shops related to the manga and anime universe. In addition to the shops of the aforementioned kind, there are also numerous maid cafes and Neko cafes here. In the first courses you will be served, spoiled and pampered by young waitresses dressed as nineteenth-century waitresses, complete with apron and crinolines, who will welcome you inside the restaurant with "Welcome / Welcome back my lord"; in the latter you can sip a coffee cuddling the cat that makes you most tender. The district can be reached with the Yamanote Line, up to the Akhiabara stop. 13. Tsukiji Fish Market. The largest fish market in the world, characterized by an internal area dedicated to wholesalers, famous throughout the world for the tuna auction, and the external area where the fish is processed and sold in retail. Inside are the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo. Waking up very early, here you will be able to attend the famous tuna auction. However, you have to show up early in the morning around 4:30 and be lucky enough to be among the first 120 who show up at "The Fish Information Centre". 14. Ginza. Ginza is the "classy" district of Tokyo, where there are mainly high fashion shops with futuristic architecture, excellent and expensive restaurants, shops of all the biggest fashion houses in the world, such as Chanel, Dior, Hermes and many others. There are also numerous shopping malls. In short, the place to indulge in luxury shopping. For an exclusive experience, we recommend opting for a guided tour of the neighborhood, to discover Ginza through the eyes of a local. During the weekend, the main road is closed to traffic and becomes a pedestrian area, in order to encourage visits and shopping by residents and tourists. Nearby we can admire the Clock Tower (Wako). 15. Tokyo Tower. Used for telecommunications, and with a design reminiscent of the famous Parisian Eiffel Tower, this tower is the symbol of Tokyo. From the terrace at the top of the tower you can enjoy an extraordinary 360° panoramic view of the city. An evening visit is particularly recommended, especially towards sunset. Online ticket recommended to avoid queues at the entrance. Inside there are the FootTown, a four-story shop located at the base, and two observation platforms, the first positioned at a height of 150 meters and the second at 250 meters. In its vicinity, the Roppongi district, within which Roppongi Hills is located, a sort of mini-city within Tokyo. 16. Warnings. Take the trash with you. In the city there are few bins, concentrated in the stations, if you have rubbish take it with you and don't leave it around (or, worse, put it in the can bins near the vending machines, for example). Don't eat while walking. This is strange to understand but even street food is not consumed while walking: either you eat it on the spot or you take it with you to a suitable place (it is instead acceptable on long-distance trains). Do not smoke outside the designated spaces. You do not smoke outdoors, while you can almost always smoke indoors. The alternative is the small smoking areas scattered throughout the cities. Silence on the trains. On the subway, but also on surface trains, one should remain silent: at the most, one speaks in a low voice and does not call. Another thing, take the backpack off your shoulders, especially when the train is crowded.

Bangkok is an extraordinary city, where culture and hectic life coexist, between sky bars, oriental temples and Thai massage centres. It is a glittering metropolis of extraordinary complexity and a thousand contradictions, and it is precisely these peculiarities that make it so attractive and fascinating. To enjoy the Thai capital in the best way, here is a guide on what to see in Bangkok, with the best attractions and things to do! 1. Royal Palace / Wat Phra Kaew. Built in 1782, the year in which Bangkok officially became the country's capital after the fall of the kingdom of Ayutthaya and Thonburi, it lies on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is surrounded by a 1.9 km long wall. The complex is huge: it includes over 100 buildings between palaces and pavilions. The rulers of Thailand, in the past, lived here for many years. Today the king only goes there on the occasion of some official ceremonies. The highlight of the complex is the Wat Phra Kaew chapel, where a suggestive and venerated emerald Buddha statue is kept. It is a particularly suggestive place, both for its religious importance and for its particular architecture: many gold pagodas with orange roofs and statues covered with glittering multicolored glass that stand out in lush gardens that surround the entire area. 2. Wat Arun. Situated on the bank of the Chao Phraya river, overlooks this very particular and easily distinguishable temple also known as the "Temple of Dawn" thanks to the play of light that is created in those hours of the day. With a curious missile shape, its name derives from the Indian divinity of the dawn, Aruna. The centerpiece of Wat Arun is its þrahng, its 82-metre-tall Khmer-style tower completely covered in small porcelain floral patterns. Climbing to the top is quite tiring as the steps are high and narrow. You can help yourself with ropes that descend from above. 3. Wat Pho - Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Of all the temples in Bangkok it is, in all likelihood, the one that most deserves a visit. Not only because it is the largest and oldest temple in the city, but also, and above all, for the presence of the extraordinary Reclining Buddha, 46 meters long (15 meters high) and with the soles of his feet entirely covered in mother-of-pearl, where 108 Buddhist scenes are depicted. the Buddha is represented during the transition to Nirvana, or his death. Also noteworthy are the gardens that develop all around the sacred area. Statues, plants, centuries-old trees and the important Bodhi tree (the ancient sacred fig tree) whose roots derive from the tree where Buddha sat waiting for enlightenment. The place is also important because it is here that the first public school in the country is located. 4. Khao San Rd. Bangkok's nightlife mecca is the lively Khao San Road, ideal for street food enthusiasts, among thousands of luminous signs and strong smells. Hundreds of stalls offer an infinite number of particularly cheap Thai gastronomic specialties, but there are also dozens of restaurants and clubs offering live music. In this area there are the cheapest accommodation in the city and it represents the ideal destination for "backpackers" travellers; on the other hand, it is here that the first backpackers arrived in the 80s. Since 2000, after its appearance in the film The Beach, Khao San has experienced an unstoppable growth in tourism. If you decide to find accommodation in this area, know that you will spend little but you will sleep badly (the chaos is uninterrupted)! 5. Wat Benchamabophit. Known as the Marble Temple and depicted on the 5 baht coin, this temple has great religious significance. The inner prayer hall is built with Carrara marble imported from Italy. Thanks to the white marble and its many architectural facets it is a sight to behold especially when it is hit by the sun's rays. Inside is the bronze statue of the Buddha wrapped in a bright blue background. A canal separates the temple from the monks' quarters. 6. Wat Saket. Reaching this temple is certainly not a walk, more than 300 steps will have to be climbed to reach the top of the Golden Mount but it is really worth it. From the temple you can enjoy a breathtaking view over all of Bangkok and to make everything even more magical there will be the sound of the sacred bells and the crowd of monks and faithful in prayer. Every year during Loy Krathong in early November, Wat Saket hosts a large festival that lasts for an entire week. The celebrations begin with a long candlelit procession. After the devotional rites, the great fair begins with colored lanterns, colored flags, stalls and various entertainment activities throughout the area. 7. Wat Traimit. Small temple particularly known for housing the largest solid gold statue in the world. 3 meters high and weighing over 5 tons, the statue represents the Buddha receiving enlightenment and is among the most revered in the country. According to legend, the statue dates back to the Ayutthaya period and was brought to Bangkok following the Burmese invasion. The golden statue of the Buddha is located on the fourth floor of the temple, it was discovered sixty years ago under a layer of stucco or plaster probably made to hide it from possible raids that took place in the past during one of the city's tense siege periods. 8. Chinatown. Very characteristic, Chinatown is one of the most chaotic districts of Bangkok, a dense network of alleys that branch out like a labyrinth, full of shops, shops, stalls where you can find anything. The feeling is definitely one of disorientation, if you are visiting Bangkok for the first time or maybe you don't speak English well, we recommend a guided tour of Chinatown, for a first approach and... so as not to get lost! The main street is Sampaeng Lane, partially covered and entirely pedestrian, while the side streets are divided by category of products for sale: gold, spices, fabrics and bric-a-brac. The area is a riot of lucky charms, indecipherable spices, street food and restaurants serving shark's fins and swallow's nests! A frenetic bustle of people, hand-drawn carts, a slice of life that seems to belong to another era. A very charming area for a fun and lively evening! 9. Jim Thompson House. The home of the American architect and entrepreneur Jim Thompson, a well-known US silk entrepreneur, lover of art and beautiful things, who decided to build a house mixing Western style and architectural details in a pure Thai mood. Today, Jim Thompson's huge Thai complex has become a house-museum in the suggestive Pathumwan district, an oasis of peace where time seems to stand still. Surrounded by the characteristic khlongs, the canals of Bangkok, it is a complex made up of 6 splendid buildings in teak wood, assembled with traditional techniques without the use of ask. Inside you can admire characteristic Asian memorabilia, a valuable collection of antique furniture, sculptures, porcelain and oriental ceramics; outside a lush garden and wonderful lotus flowers. Beyond the architectural value, Jim Thompson's house-museum is also known for the mystery associated with the entrepreneur's death. In fact, in 1967, when Thompson was at the height of success, he mysteriously disappeared during an excursion in the Malaysian jungle. Despite the use of over 400 men in the search operations, his body was never found. 10. Rooftop Bars. A widespread trend in Bangkok is to spend an evening sipping a cocktail on the Rooftop Bars, bars located on the top floor of skyscrapers. The tallest in Bangkok is the Baiyoke tower with a revolving terrace on the 84th floor that allows for a magnificent panoramic view of the city. We recommend buying tickets in advance as the place is very touristy. However, it is not the only one, there are dozens of them throughout Bangkok such as The Roof which allows a wonderful view of Wat Arun or the Sirocco Restaurant & Sky Bar where a scene from "The Hangover 2" was filmed 11. Bangkok Art & Culture Center (BACC). Art, music, theatre, design, cinema and cultural events of all kinds take place inside the museum, also giving space to cafes, bookshops and design shops. A 9-storey museum born to show the artistic heart of Bangkok and able to please everyone. 12. Siam Square. The most cosmopolitan and commercial soul of Bangkok. Maxi screens, shopping malls and very tall buildings distinguish the area of the city full of traffic and worldliness, where young and sophisticated fashion is all the rage, unfortunately not always within the reach of all budgets. Siam Square, the heart of the country's economy, is not only a tourist destination but also a point of reference and entertainment for locals. Its huge shopping centers are the perfect place for shopping and relaxation with shops of the main international labels and attractions of all kinds such as the aquarium and the Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. On the upper floors of the Malls there are the food areas where it will be possible to taste traditional Thai dishes. 13. Lumpini Park. Big green lung of Bangkok, a destination for residents and tourists, an oasis of relaxation for walking, jogging or simply enjoying its enchanting landscape. It rises in the heart of the city and covers an area of 58 hectares. Originally, the park was an open space owned by King Rama VI; in 1925 it was given to the nation to become the city's first public park. At the southwest entrance to the park is a statue of the king in memory of him. Initially the area was used to host the Siamrath Phiphithapan Trade Fair, a market that had the aim of promoting Thai products: the park was in fact set up to become an exhibition center for Thai crafts and flowers. Despite the intentions for this intended use, the park has over the years become one of the most loved places by Bangkok residents. Its name comes from the birthplace of the Buddha, in Nepal. 14. King Power MahaNakhon SkyWalk. If you want to admire Bangkok from above, we advise you to go to the, a large mirrored skyscraper that includes 78 floors with hotel rooms, shops and a viewing platform: this is the highest observatory in all of Thailand, at 314m high! But that's not all: while you admire the city from above, the more adventurous can also walk on a glass platform, inserted among the largest glass observation decks in the world! A unique experience that will allow you to literally have the city at your feet, but not recommended for those suffering from vertigo! 15. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Pure folklore about 100 km from the centre. Visiting this place is one of the best-selling and most requested excursions. The floating market of Damnoen Saduak has in fact now become a must for every self-respecting tourist. The market is set up on stalls aboard longtail boats. A truly unique experience to photograph, but also to experience by getting involved in bargaining purchases! A real journey through time. 16. Warnings. 1) Avoid any physical contact with Buddhist monks. In Thailand, monks are among the most respected and revered figures. As such, the best thing you can do when you see a monk is to keep your distance. Although the rule of not having any kind of physical contact with the monks is particularly suitable for women, also men should not, out of respect, come into physical contact with the monks (by physical contact we also mean a handshake!). Also, always remember not to put yourself in a position that appears to be taller than a monk. For example, you should not be standing when there is a monk sitting because you will be in a higher position than his posture. 2) Romantic gestures in public. Thailand is an Asian country and just like many in other Asian countries, people rarely show romantic gestures in public. So, respect oriental culture and behave accordingly when in public places. Do your best, essentially, to avoid kissing your partner on the street. In Thailand, even a simple romantic gesture like holding hands is rarely seen. Of course, even while travelling, you will have plenty of time to show your love to your partner...but do it, out of respect, in private. Thus, it will be even more romantic! 3) Dress NOT appropriately when visiting temples. You will find numerous temples when you are in Thailand and like any good traveler, you will certainly want to visit most of them. However, remember to keep in mind that it is not allowed to visit places of worship if you wear revealing or provocative clothes. This is considered very offensive. Therefore, you cannot wear shorts, low cut tops, miniskirts, and tank tops. Much better, it would be better to wear trousers and a top that covers the arms and shoulders.

Part Asia and part Europe, a place where East and West blend harmoniously... We are talking about Istanbul, the ancient Constantinople, a city that has had a strong appeal and great charm for centuries. If you are looking for a holiday where mystery and beauty go hand in hand, where the desire to visit monuments and churches is directly proportional to the inevitable temptation to go shopping in typical shops and markets, then Istanbul is the city for you. The Turkish metropolis preserves all its oriental charm, between dreamy architecture and streets that smell of spices, thanks to the bazaars present in every corner of the city. Here is a guide on what to see in Istanbul, the best attractions and things to do! 1. Blue Mosque. The Turks call it Sultan Ahmet Camii, for the Europeans this evocative and mystical place of prayer is known as the Blue Mosque. The exterior of the building is striking for the harmony and elegance of its forms. Six imposing minarets underline its beauty; the game of domes is ingenious: a central dome flanked by four semi-domes around which other smaller semi-domes push the visitor's gaze towards the sky. But the even more beautiful marvel is yet to come because it is located inside the sacred building. The interior of the religious structure is in fact covered with over 20,000 colored ceramic tiles, whose predominant shades are turquoise and blue (hence the name). This stylistic choice, associated with the play of light created by the numerous small windows on the domes, has made this very important place of prayer into a welcoming and fascinating environment. You enter barefoot and with shoulders and knees strictly covered; women are also required to cover their heads. The show is really worth the price of this little “sacrifice". 2. Aya Sofya. Built between 532 and 537 at the behest of Justinian, valuable materials were used for its construction, including columns from the temples of Diana in Ephesus and Athens in Egypt. Mehemet the Conqueror wanted to transform it into a mosque; hence the presence of minarets, minbars and large circular discs on the walls with Muslim sacred names engraved in Turkish. In 1935 Ataturk, father of the new Turkish Republic, transformed it into a museum. Recently, however, the splendid Basilica has once again been converted into a mosque. The main feature is the immense central dome (831 m in diameter), apparently without supports, which gives the building's interior space a great lightness in contrast to the rather squat and heavy exterior. Inside you can admire stupendous Byzantine mosaics. 3. Basilica cistern. This incredible underground water deposit was built in AD 532 by Emperor Justinian, on the spot where a pagan basilica had originally stood. It has been open to the public since 1987, thanks to walkways that allow visitors to visit it. Going down a staircase, you find yourself inside a large submerged temple, 140 meters long and 70 meters wide, with a ceiling supported by 336 columns. The scenery is really special also thanks to the play of reflections due to the water. To make the setting even more precious are the two large heads of Medusa, positioned in the north-western corner, on which the pedestals of two columns rest. 4. Topkapi Palace. Topkapi Palace was completed in 1478 and was for a long time the residence of the Ottoman sultans. Its location served not only to reaffirm the supremacy of the empire, but also to control the maritime traffic in transit between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. It looks like a citadel, inside which there are kiosks, harems, belvederes, courtyards and lush gardens, where 26 of the 36 sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived. It has been a museum since 1924 and is still open to the public today. The "gems" of the residence (for which a separate ticket and line must be paid!) are the harem and the Imperial Treasury where clothes, weapons and precious items of the sultanate are kept, including the Topkapi Dagger and the 86 carats. 5. Hippodrome. The Hippodrome was the place of sport and aggregation of ancient Byzantium, the name by which Istanbul was called in the Ottoman imperial period. Today, unfortunately, very little remains of the ancient Hippodrome built by Settimio Severo, and subsequently enlarged by Constantine. Although partially devastated by riots and looting, this attraction still preserves some of the most important monuments of the Turkish capital: the legendary Obelisk of Theodosius (dedicated to Emperor Theodosius I); the Serpentine Column from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, Greece; the Column of Constantine, of unknown origin. It is located next to the Blue Mosque, a 5-minute walk from the Hagia Sophia museum road Sultan Ahmet Parki. 6. Grand Bazaar. Surely one of the most peculiar places in the city, as well as the best place to go shopping. The Grand Bazaar, with an area of 31,000 square meters, 18 gates, 60 streets and over 4,000 shops and artisan workshops, the Kapalı Çarşı, is the largest covered market in the world as well as one of the oldest. An intricate maze of narrow streets and passages dominated by frescoed vaults. A great hustle and bustle, these are the elements that best characterize it. Voices, colours, perfumes, noises... and goods of all kinds. The Grand Bazaar is a sort of ancient shopping center where you can buy everything: from old books to carpets, through jewels, traditional clothes, fabrics, spices, and artifacts of various kinds. Shops and stalls are organized by product type, so you will find the street of the goldsmiths, the street of cobblers, and so on. 7. Galata Tower. In the center of the ancient European district of Beyoglu stands the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi), one of the most iconic attractions of the city and a legacy of the Genoese merchants who settled here since 1273. Following the Ottoman conquest, it was used as a prison and later as a fire lookout platform. It measures 66 meters in height, and from its summit (easily reached by lift), it offers a breathtaking view, one of the most suggestive in Istanbul. 8. Archaeological Museum. The Istanbul Archeology Museum is one of the most important of its kind. It was founded by the painter and archaeologist Osman Hamdi in 1891. It houses some world-famous objects and the collection is basically divided into three parts. The most important is that of the sarcophagi, whose main relic is the Alexander sarcophagus (4th century BC). This is followed by the Collection of Oriental Art where Ottoman sepulchres and artifacts from Egyptian, Sumerian and Akkadian cultures are exhibited. The highlight of this collection are some fragments of the Babylonian Ishtar Gate. And finally the collection of ceramics and jewels, located in the tiled kiosk. 9. Dolmabahçe Palace. Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı) is a splendid building that is more reminiscent of Europe than the Middle East in style and characteristics. It was built in the mid-1800s in the Beşiktaş district, commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid I. It has an imposing size, with an extension of almost one km on the Bosphorus. Inside it houses over 285 rooms, 44 reception rooms and 68 bathrooms, and is embellished with baroque, neoclassical and rococo elements. It was for a long time the main administrative center of the Roman Empire, and since the late 1980s it has been a partially open museum. 10. Ortakoy Mosque. It is not as famous or magnificent as Aya Sofya or the Blue Mosque, but this small mosque is very impressive and picturesque due to its location with spectacular view of the Bosphorus. Directly overlooking the water, practically in the shadow of the bridge over the strait, the Ortaköy mosque is simple, and it is extraordinarily beautiful and exciting precisely because of its simplicity. Inside, you can admire pearl-colored walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and numerous crystal chandeliers. Always open, closed only during prayers. 11. Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square. The most modern and most luxurious area of Istanbul. Istiklal Caddesi, which means Avenue of Independence (and until 1923 it was called in French Grande Rue de Péra) is the most famous street in the city, frequented by about a million people every day and one and a half kilometers long. It is a pedestrian street full of shops, restaurants, bookshops, art galleries, cinemas, pubs and night clubs. Historically it is connected to the European presence in the city; for this reason you will find numerous churches, former embassies, consulates, but also "international" shopping shops and, if you are tired of Middle Eastern flavours, western restaurants and bars. Istiklal Caddesi finally flows into Taksim Square, the modern heart of the city, an important commercial district with numerous restaurants, shops and hotels. 12. Church of St Savior in Chora. One of the best examples of Byzantine art in the world. Built between 1316 and 1321, the Church of San Salvatore in Chora boasts Byzantine frescoes and mosaics in excellent condition. Just like Aya Sofia, San Salvatore in Chora was also transformed into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. During this domination, the frescoes and mosaics were covered with plaster, a material that favored the excellent state of conservation which, fortunately, we can still enjoy today! The term "chora" means "outside the city", because the church was built outside the ancient walls of Byzantium. 13. Fatih district. One of the most "conservative" neighborhoods in Istanbul. It is in fact the most observant area from a religious point of view (women wear the burqa), with the monumental complex of the Fatih Mosque in the centre. Strolling through its streets, and especially in the market area, is an experience that cannot leave one indifferent. Today, many immigrants from the far eastern Anatolian areas live here, who also brought with them their sensational regional culinary traditions: this is why Fatih is also considered as the gastronomic center of the city. In fact, it is here that you have to come to try the most authentic flavors of Turkish cuisine. Note the 200-year-old wooden houses from the Ottoman period. A very picturesque glimpse of the city. 14. Suleiman the Magnificent Mosque. The Suleiman Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) is the first imperial mosque in Istanbul. Built around 1550, it is the most important work of the great architect Mimar Sinan, a fundamental figure of Ottoman art, comparable to our Michelangelo and Leonardo. The Suleiman Mosque is located on one of the hills of the city and can only be reached on foot at the end of an uphill stretch. The position overlooking the Golden Horn makes it iconic; from the rear courtyard you can admire a splendid panorama towards Eminönü and Galata. With the Bosphorus in the background, this majestic building is a constant reminder of the splendor and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Furthermore, it can be seen from several points of the city thanks to the unmistakable profile made up of the imposing dome and the 4 minarets. 15. Warnings. Atatürk and the Turkish flag are sacred. Atatürk, literally "The Father of all Turks", is the Turkish hero par excellence. He is the one who brought Turkey into the modern and secular era. Still today the photos of him, his portraits, the statues of him, are scattered in all the buildings, schools or on the streets. I therefore advise you to respect this emblematic figure of Turkey and consequently also of the flag. Do Turks speak Arabic? This is a question I get asked all the time. Are Turks Arabs? Do Turks speak Arabic? Well no. Having religion in common does not make us one ethnic group. It is like saying that a Frenchman, an Italian or an Irishman are the same thing. Never blow your nose in public! This peculiarity will make more than one person smile… In Turkey it is not seen willingly blowing one's nose loudly in public. In fact, you can dry your nose discreetly, but if the need to blow your nose is pressing, you head to a bathroom or an isolated place to clean it properly.

If you have started drawing up the itinerary for your trip to New York, you will have immediately realized that there are so many things to see in New York! Choosing what to visit and what not isn't easy at all, and the time available almost always makes it compulsory to discard something in favor of some other attraction that interests us more. Whether you're staying just for the day or for a much longer vacation, there are New York City's iconic must-see sights and attractions that must be part of your itinerary. They are part of the most touristic New York if you will, but they are also the classic image of the Big Apple that we all have! 1.Empire State Building. One of the best-known buildings in New York, a true symbol of the city, an indispensable attraction among the things not to be missed in New York. Instantly recognizable on the New York skyline, it remained the tallest skyscraper in the world and in the city for a long time, overtaken by the Freedom Tower in recent years. A classic example of the Art Deco style, it was inaugurated in 1931. Since then, hundreds of millions of visitors, including the Queen of England, have admired the city from its observatories. Yes, because there are 2 observation platforms: one on the 86th floor and one on the 102nd floor. The observatory on the 86th floor is located at a height of 320 meters and allows you to enjoy a breathtaking 360° panorama. The one on the 102nd floor, 381 meters high, can be reached with a surcharge and will give you an even wider and deeper New York panorama. Admire the 5th Avenue entrance, with an embossed image of the skyscraper superimposed on a map of New York. Elevators will take you to the 86th floor in 45 seconds. 2. Rockefeller Center. From the Top Of The Rock on Rockefeller Center you can admire a breathtaking 360 ° view of New York and the Empire State Building Rockefeller Center is a complex of gardens, restaurants, shops, offices, works of art: it is a private complex made up of 19 of the largest buildings in the world. It is the heart of Midtown, famous for the huge festively decorated Christmas tree during the holidays and the skating rink set up in front, which in the summer gives way to the tables of the outdoor bars. The Rockefeler Center also houses the NBC Studios, which can be visited by reservation, a shopping gallery in the basement and the legendary Radio City Music Hall, an Art Deco masterpiece. Do not miss the Top of The Rock: the splendid open observatory on the 70th floor. Many prefer it to climbing the Empire, because it is less crowded with tourists, there are no grates that spoil the view and the panorama will include the Empire itself. 3. Statue of Liberty. Lady Liberty, the Statue of Liberty, certainly cannot be missing from the top 10 things to see in New York. The symbol of freedom for millions of approving immigrants in America and today a symbol of New York and all of the United States. The Statue of Liberty dominates the entrance to New York on an island of its own. The imposing structure, inaugurated in 1886, was designed by Gustave Eifell and Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi as a gift from France to the American people. The elegant female figure is made up of a steel armor covered with three hundred shaped copper sheets joined together. The statue holds a golden torch, symbol of the eternal fire of freedom. Ferries to visit depart regularly from Battery Park and are included in the ticket. Access to the crown has been reopened, but to go up you need to book months in advance via the website. Together with the visit to the Statue of Liberty, I suggest you add a visit to Ellis Island, the island where immigrants were kept for medical and legal checks. During your visit, think about when up to 5,000 people passed through here every day. 4. Fifth Ave. Fifth Avenue, 5th avenue, is the most famous street in New York. Walking along this street you can admire some of the most important buildings in the city. You can easily cover it on foot, the most interesting part goes from the Grand Army Plaza, dominated by the Plaza Hotel facing Central Park, up to 34th street. It's about 1.6 kilometers. Fifth Avenue overlooks the New York Public Library, the Gothic St. Patrick's Cathedral and the luxurious Trump Tower. You can't help but notice the succession of shop windows, shops and malls: Fifth Avenue is the real shopping mecca in New York and beyond! Among the most famous shops: Saks, Cartier and the unforgettable Tiffany and Co. 5. Times Square. You can't say you've been to New York without seeing the explosion of neon lights that illuminate Times Square and the Theater District. The most famous square in New York is not to be missed, it is one of the things to see absolutely in New York. It is here that the arrival of the new year is celebrated every year, it is dominated by huge giant screens that broadcast advertising messages, the Nasdaq indexes, news in real time: you will get lost in the midst of all those lights! The MTV studios, Madame Tussaud's and the opulent Broadway theaters also overlook the square: there are so many things you can see in Times Square. 6. 9/11 Memorial. A visit to the 9/11 Memorial is both inspiring and touching. The memorial is located where the twin towers once stood, of which it commemorates the victims of September 11, 2001. Two huge tanks whose black walls are engraved with the names of the 2,749 victims of the attack. The visit is free, while if you want to visit the 9/11 museum, you will find all the information in a dedicated article where you will find all the important information for visiting the 9/11 museum. Now lift your eyes and admire the tallest skyscraper in the city: One World Trade Center, or Freedom Tower. The new Observatory on the 102nd floor offers a new unmissable 360° panoramic view of New York. 7. Central Park. A green oasis among the skyscrapers Even those who don't particularly like parks will be delighted: Central Park is a real attraction not to be missed in New York. 340 hectares of greenery in the heart of one of the most frenetic and urbanized metropolises in the world: Central Park is a magnificent oasis for New Yorkers and beyond. Designed as a place to relax, the park was built over 16 years with more than 500,000 trees and shrubs. There are lakes, hills, skating rinks, playgrounds, a petting zoo, tennis courts and football pitches. It will almost seem as if you are not in the city, even if the skyline of the skyscrapers will remind you that you are still in Manhattan! Among the places to see: the observation deck Bethesda Terrace, which you will remember seeing in many films, Strawberry Fields, with a tribute to the memory of John Lennon and the Statue of Christian Andersen, surrounded by children. 8. Metropolitan Museum of Art. I don't particularly like wasting entire days visiting paintings, statues and archaeological finds, but the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) certainly deserves to be included in this list of things to see in New York. In its galleries it houses a collection of over 5000 years of history, from all over the world. Egyptian art is my favorite area, with the largest collection in the world after Cairo. The spectacular temple of Dendur is faithfully reconstructed inside the museum. Don't miss a visit to the roof garden: a wonderful view of Central Park and New York. 9. Brooklyn Bridge Completed in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the symbols par excellence of the city of New York. As the name reveals, it connects the island of Manhattan to the borough of Brooklyn. Imposing and majestic, even if you have seen it a thousand times on television or in the cinema, it will be a thrill to see it live and be able to cross it. However, remember that the bridge is over a kilometer long… maybe take advantage of a ride by taxi or bus and enjoy the view from the Brooklyn shore of the Manhattan skyline. Even better: rent a bike and cycle across it as the sun sets! 10. High Line. I add this marvel of urban recycling to the list of things not to be missed in New York, which when looked at from the right perspective gives you the idea of how the city is capable of renewing itself. It is a garden 9 meters high, built on the site of a disused railway. Between the Meatpacking District and Chelsea you can walk in the greenery, among some of the most beautiful buildings in the city. 11. MoMa: The Museum of Modern Art. With around 200,000 works of modern and contemporary art since 1929, the year of its foundation, the MoMa in New York is considered the most important museum of modern art in the world, and a must-see for art lovers. The museum houses artistic masterpieces from 1800 to today and the collections are divided into six sections: Painting and sculpture, Drawings, Prints and illustrated books, Photography, Cinema, Architecture and design, representing the artistic currents and their main exponents. The MoMa is also a delight for film buffs, holding 30,000 original films, the largest collection in the United States, including the works of Hitchcock and Francis Ford Coppola, shown in rotation in the ground floor theatre. Any titles? The Birds and Apocalypse Now. 12. Wall Street Last but not least, a walk in the most famous Financial District in the world is a must. Moreover, you visit a historic area not only for New York but for the entire United States. In fact, George Washington was sworn in as the first president of the USA in the Federal Hall located on Wall Street. Warning 1. DO NOT TELL THE TAXI DRIVER WHERE YOU WANT TO GO BEFORE YOU ARE IN THE TAXI. This tip is very important to keep in mind, as the taxi driver may refuse to take you to a place that is too far from where you are or to a place where the fare is fixed (for example the Manhattan – JFK section is at a fixed rate and hardly a taxi driver will accept to take you to the aforementioned airport). Warning 2. DO NOT SMOKE WHERE IT IS NOT ALLOWED. Smoking is prohibited in public places, but not only, because in New York the prohibition also applies in parks, swimming pools, squares, beaches... These rules also apply to electronic cigarettes (and in general to substitutes tobacco). Smoking in non-smoking areas carries an economic penalty. It should also be remembered that in the USA under the age of 21 it is not permitted in any way to buy cigarettes and smoke them. Warning 3. DO NOT WALK IN THE “BIKE LANE” ON THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE. Crossing the Brookly bridge on foot you will notice that it is divided into two areas: an area reserved for pedestrians and a path reserved for bicycles. If you don't want to risk being run over, we advise you not to walk along the bike lane of the bridge, where bikes whizz by that have priority and have no intention of slowing down if they find pedestrians in their trajectory.

Are you ready to leave for your holiday in Dubai but don't know what to do once you arrive at your destination? Here is a list of the 10 most interesting things to do and see in Dubai for you! 1. Burj Khalifa. The Burj Khalifa, "The Center of Now", with its 828 meters, is considered the skyscraper of the records. In addition to being the tallest building in the world, it is also the one with the most floors, with the highest observation point in the world, and with the elevator that travels the longest distance in the world. Located in the heart of the prestigious Downtown Dubai district, a favorite destination for shopping and entertainment lovers, the Burj Khalifa offers its visitors a unique experience: from its At The Top and at The Top SKY, located at 124th, 125th and 148th floor, it offers a breathtaking view of not only the area below, but the entire city. What is the best time to visit it? Definitely at sunset, to admire the sun that caresses Dubai for the last time with its rays, before giving way to the darkness of the night, and to the thousand and one lights that light up one of the world's entertainment capitals. 2. Desert Safaris. If it weren't for the heat, many would probably forget that Dubai is located a stone's throw from the desert. Anyone who wants to experience Dubai at 360° cannot avoid spending a day in the middle of the spectacular sand dunes of the Arabian Desert: get on board an off-road vehicle, a dune buggy, a quad or a camel, and leave at a time of one of the most spectacular adventures of your life! Desert safaris, in fact, include various activities: the more adventurous can try their hand at a session of sand boarding, "surfing on the sand", while romantics will certainly not be able to resist the call of a tour in the desert at sunset, followed by a candlelight dinner in a traditional camp. 3. The Burj Al Arab. This spectacular sail-shaped hotel, which rises 321 meters above sea level from its artificial islet in front of the Jumeirah district, is one of the most famous symbols of the Emirati city. Also known as the most luxurious hotel in the world or the 7-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab is like a capricious lady, who is not easily admired, except from a distance, and does not grant her favors indiscriminately. In short, to see its opulent interiors you have to be a paying customer; pity that not everyone can afford to spend almost 2000 dollars for a night in a hotel. 4. Dubai fountains. Located inside the Dubai Mall, at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, in Burj Lake, the Dancing Fountains of Dubai offer a unique show in the world: the water games made up of five circular fountains and two in the shape of an arc are equipped with powerful jets of water that create very high sprays, colored by special lights that manage to create dozens of different chromatic combinations. To make the experience even more spectacular, the performances of the dancing fountains are accompanied by various musical pieces ranging from classical to contemporary and Arabic music. To better enjoy the show offered by these wonderful fountains, you must stop on the Waterfront Promenade, or you can opt for a cruise on Burj Lake aboard a traditional abra. 5. Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis. Everything in Dubai has been created to amaze and impress, including the small artificial archipelago of Palm Jumeirah, made up of a series of islets which, seen from above, resemble the shape of a giant palm tree. The most interesting part of Palm Jumeirah is found right on its tip: in Atlantis, The Palm, the luxury resort of the archipelago, you can spend hours and hours of absolute fun at Aquaventure Waterpark, admire the species housed in The Lost Chambers aquarium Aquarium and meet the friendly marine mammals that live in Dolphin Bay. 6. Dubai Frame. Located in the heart of Zabeel Park, the Dubai Frame is one of the relatively newest attractions in Dubai, having opened in 2018! This huge monument, 150 meters high, has the shape of a gigantic golden frame, and allows those who decide to go up to the 48th floor to see the city from a privileged point of view: when you are on the central walkway, in fact , the gaze extends both in the direction of the new city and in the direction of the old city. Those who aren't afraid of heights can also choose to look down, because part of the walkway has a glass floor, and watch the world go by below. 7. Dubai Mall. The Dubai Mall is a veritable paradise for shopping and entertainment! If you are looking for a place to buy from the best luxury brands at competitive prices, have fun and have fun, the Dubai Mall, at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, is the right place for you: here you will find 1,200 stores, ranging from fashion to electronics, as well as the Dubai Aquarium, theme parks dedicated to children and the Dubai Ice Rink. The heart of this covered shopping town is Fashion Avenue, where you will find the boutiques of the biggest names in high fashion, from Armani to Stella McCartney, from Burberry to Versace and many more. 8. Skiing at Mall of the Emirates. The Mall of the Emirates is another address that lovers of shopping and entertainment must absolutely mark on their agenda. What makes it an essential destination for anyone who decides to visit Dubai, however, are not only the over 500 boutiques and shops it houses, but its ski slope. Yes, you read that right: a ski slope in a city that has an average annual temperature of around 26°! Ski Dubai is a real high mountain resort, only that it is indoors and in a desert area; the snow, however, is really there, even if it is artificial snow, as there are also real ski slopes, a ski lift and even real penguins. 9. Go shopping in the souks. You can't say you've seen the real Dubai if you haven't visited at least one of its souks. Despite the presence of very tall skyscrapers with futuristic shapes and ultra-modern shopping malls, in fact, even the city of Dubai, with its souks, keeps alive a spark of tradition. At the Dubai Mall you will find a more modern-looking souk, with the products of local artisans; just outside the Dubai Mall is the Souk Al Bahar, where you can find traditional fabrics, incense, clothes and gastronomic products. To fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a real Middle Eastern-style market, however, you have to leave the more glamorous and glossy Dubai, and enter the older areas of the city, in particular Deira and Bur Dubai, near the Dubai Creek. 10. Museum of the future. Dubai is a futuristic city and where else could the Museum of the Future have opened? And to reimagine the future, you need to go there. The museum will take you on a journey to 2071 to discover new ways of living and be a pioneer in the new world and then return to the present and shape a better world. 11. Dubai eye. Another of Dubai's new attractions is the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel, also known as the Dubai Eye, the eye of Dubai like the famous London Eye, even though the one in Dubai is almost 2 times higher. It is the tallest Ferris wheel in the world and is located on Bluewaters Island, a new man-made island in front of the Jumeirah Beach Residence area. Going especially at sunset will give you fantastic views and an unforgettable experience. 12. Dubai Creek Abra Cruise. Everyone should cross Dubai Creek in an abra - it's a truly unique experience! The abra, a type of traditional wooden boat, has been the main means of transport for the city's inhabitants for hundreds of years. Today, motorized or electric abras continue to carry their passengers along the course of Dubai Creek, and are the perfect means of transport for those wishing to discover the oldest part of the city. 13. Warnings Don't drink in public… ever! Drinking alcohol in public is never allowed, not only during Ramadan, and walking around with glasses, cans or bottles in hand is always a despicable behavior, prohibited by law, which will only bring you trouble and fines. Alcohol can be consumed in some clubs and restaurants, but you will not be able to buy it in liquor stores and supermarkets. Furthermore, the minimum age to drink alcohol is set at 21 years. Do not wear inappropriate clothes. Forget shorts, miniskirts, necklines and dresses that make your shapes stand out too much. This dress code concerns women in particular, but it does not spare men either who must maintain a certain decorum and absolutely avoid going around bare-chested or in a bathing suit, outside the specifically equipped bathing areas. The temptation to discover you can be strong, for example, during the hottest hours, that is, when temperatures exceed 40°. Furthermore, not even singlets are allowed to visit holy places and mosques and women must have shoulders, arms and legs, from the knee up, absolutely covered. Don't indulge yourself in public effusions. It is always better to avoid excessive displays of affection in public when you are in a couple, even if it is common kisses and simple hugs. In fact, these behaviors can be interpreted as a symptom of a lack of respect and a desire to show off that can soon border on the indecent and inappropriate. This is even more true if you are not married. Therefore, try to avoid all those behaviors that risk attracting attention and being branded as provocative.

Ancient and modern; local and global; cultured and popular; elite and touristy: Barcelona is a city that thrives on fertile contradictions. Antinomies that have the same course as a karst river: for years they run under the radar, only to emerge impetuously (although not entirely unexpected). One example above all: the diplomatic tensions with Madrid following the declaration of independence by the Catalan separatists. In short, Barcelona is crossed by opposing social forces but, on the other hand, this only increases its charm, at least for those who are not satisfied with visiting places superficially on vacation, but want to capture their genius.

11 Things to do (and some NOT TO DO) in Rome - 2023 Italy Travel Guide We all know the history of Rome, or at least we have heard of it several times. Lastly, the director Paolo Sorrentino took care of it with "The Great Beauty" to show the wonders of the Italian capital to the whole world. Rome, the Eternal City, is so rich in history, art, culture, traditions, gastronomy that drawing up a list of things to do inevitably does it wrong. And yet, given that for Italians - not only for them - visiting Rome at least once in their life is mandatory, some suggestions for not going around in circles are certainly useful, even if not exhaustive. 1. Colosseum 2. Trevi Fountain 3. Basilica di San Pietro 4. Vatican 5. Piazza di Spagna 6. Piazza Navona 7. Pantheon 8. Cinecittà 9. Foro Romano 10. Campidoglio 11. Bocca della Verità WARNINGS: 1. Be careful what you wear to visit museums, there are rules. 2. Do not bath in the fountains. 3. Be aware about the touristic restaurants. ABOUT US: The "TopThingsToKnow" channel offers you an impartial and informative view on the best places to visit, services and current trends. Every week, our team of experts conducts in-depth research to compile the most interesting and up-to-date rankings. From travel to cars, tech to fashion, we make sure to cover a huge range of categories to keep you up-to-date. Subscribe to not miss our TopThings videos!

Describing the French capital comprehensively would require not one, but hundreds of articles. Among the data in support of this thesis, perhaps the most emblematic is that of the museums: there are over 150 and each one deserves a visit. Therefore, in the impossibility of seeing everything at once (unless you have enormous resources of time and money) a choice must be made. A choice which in turn should take into account the unique mix of culture, art, history, entertainment and gastronomy that the city offers in large quantities. Below is our personal list of things to do and see in Paris. 1. Tour Eiffel The story can only start from the Eiffel Tower, the most famous symbol of Paris. Inaugurated in 1889, on the occasion of the X Universal Exhibition (and on the centenary of the French Revolution), this gigantic tower, in the original project, should have been dismantled twenty years after its construction. And instead, not only did it go through the whole of the 20th century, but in the 21st century, thanks above all to the enormous potential of the web, it was definitively consecrated as a global icon, capable of attracting millions of visitors every year. And to think that at the beginning the project was strongly opposed by the Parisian public opinion. There were even those who called it "a threat to French history". Today, on the contrary, anyone wishing to climb to the top, without settling for the classic photo on the Champs de Mars esplanade, must book well in advance. For more information, consult the official website: www.toureiffel.paris/it. Furthermore, not far from the Eiffel Tower, there is the Hotel des Invalides which, in addition to being the largest architectural complex built during the reign of Louis XIV ("Sun King"), houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. To be seen! 2. Arch of Triumph After the Eiffel Tower it is the turn of the Arc de Triomphe, another undisputed symbol of Parisian identity. It is located in Place Charles De Gaulle, formerly Place d'Étoile, at the western end of the legendary Champs Élysées, which we will discuss in more detail in the next point. The Arch was strongly desired by Napoleon Bonaparte who entrusted the architect Jean Chalgrin with its construction. However, the latter died in 1811, five years after the beginning of the work, which thus was inaugurated only in 1836, thirty years after the laying of the first stone. The inspiring motif is the Arch of Titus in Rome, even if the Arch of Triumph, emblem of the grandeur of the Napoleonic empire, exceeds the monument of the Flavian era by almost three times. In 1921 at the base of the Parisian Arch the Unknown Soldier was buried in memory of the deceased across the Alps from the First World War. Since then, the Arc de Triomphe has become the starting point for all the most important state parades. Above all that of July 14, commemoration of the Bastille Day. The Arc de Triomphe is located at the confluence of 12 boulevards. We are therefore talking about one of the busiest areas of the capital by far. Therefore, thinking of getting there simply by crossing the street is very dangerous. An underground passage near the Place Charles De Gaulle Metro Station leads up to the entrance of the monument from which, in turn, you go up to the panoramic terrace with one of the most spectacular views of Paris. Here too, given the huge turnout throughout the year, it is preferable to book admission in advance. 3. Champs Élysées According to many, it is the most beautiful street in the world even if, it must be said, for years now it has been more appreciated and frequented by tourists than by Parisians. The latter flock to the Avenue des Champs Élysées above all on the occasion of official holidays (above all the parade on July 14) and for sporting celebrations involving the city and/or the nation. The road, almost 2 kilometers long, winds its way from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. It was Queen Maria de' Medici who wanted it to be built at the beginning of the 1600s, with the intention of making it a continuation of the beautiful Jardin Des Tuileres (see next point). The tourist and commercial fortunes of the area began in the second half of the 19th century. The upper part of the avenue – the one, so to speak, which has the Arc de Triomphe as its highest point – is now a temple of luxury shopping: Versace, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Jean Paul Gaultier and many others (including Nike and Adidas) have a shop window around here. The lower part, on the other hand, retains a bit of the 19th century Belle Époque atmosphere. Not far away are the Elysee Palace (55 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré), the official residence of the President of the French Republic, and La Madeleine, one of the most beautiful and famous churches in Paris. 4. Tuileries Garden An unmissable stop on a visit to Paris, the Jardin des Tuileries has several "arrows" to its bow. First of all, it is a beautiful place, born in the 16th century from a "whim" of Caterina de' Medici who, after the construction of the Palazzo of the same name, wanted a place of entertainment for ceremonies and banquets. This in the early days, since later - and we come to the second point in favor -, the garden was opened to all social strata of the city and equipped with cafeterias, kiosks, sunbeds and public hygiene services. Finally, the strategic location: located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, this garden represents a real meeting point between two key places in the city, so as to allow the thousands of visitors who visit this part of Paris every day to right relaxation after the "obligatory" visits to museums and monuments. Confirming the centrality of the site, its countless awards. Two above all: a national historic monument since 1914 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not to be missed! 5. Louvre Museum Giotto, Beato Angelico, Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Parmigianino and many others. The Italian art collection would be enough to qualify the Louvre as the most beautiful museum in the world. But that's not all because there are also exhibitions dedicated to oriental, Egyptian and Greco-Roman art. In short, painting, sculpture and archeology make the Muséè du Louvre an unmissable stop on a visit to Paris. There are millions of visitors who venture into this building every year, containing about 30,000 works of art (the estimate is underestimated). It has been calculated that it would take 100 days to see everything, provided, however, that you dedicate a few seconds to each room. And instead, from Leonardo's "Mona Lisa", to the Nike of Samothrace, up to the Museum dedicated to Eugene Delacroix that can be visited with a single ticket (provided the visit takes place on the same day) the cultural stimuli that the Louvre is able to offer are truly many. Given the impossibility of seeing everything, the advice is to plan the visit in detail with the help of the information on the official website of the structure (www.louvre.fr). Not to be missed! 6. D’Orsay Museum From a former royal house (Louvre) to a former railway station (d'Orsay) or, if you prefer, from Leonardo, Michelangelo and Titian to Van Gogh, Gaughin and Cezanne. And yes, because the Musée d'Orsay offers one of the most comprehensive overviews of impressionism and post-impressionism in the world. Not only. Urban planning, architecture, design and cinema are the other themes dealt with in this former railway station converted into a museum in 1986 based on a project by the Italian architect Gae Aulenti. For the rest, what has already been said for the Louvre is valid. Given the turnout, advance booking is recommended. More information on the museum's official website: www.musee-orsay.fr (Italian version available). To be seen! 7. Pompidou Center After the Louvre and the Orsay Museum it is the turn of the Center Pompidou. If the first two, in fact, shed light on the French and European artistic, historical and cultural past, the museum space wanted by the President of the Republic Georges Jean Raymond Pompidou instead illuminates the present and the future of the transalpine nation. Built in the 1970s, this museum has deeply revived Parisian cultural life. Not only for the many works on display (among others, Matisse, Kandinsky, Mirò, Picasso) but precisely because the building as a whole was conceived and built as an element of break with the architecture that had accompanied the urban development of the city. Among other things, and it is an aspect that must also be taken into account, the Center Pompidou is located halfway between the Marais and Les Halle. The former is perhaps the only neighborhood where the medieval Parisian imprint still survives. Once inhabited mainly by Jews, today it is a bohemian area devoted to multiculturalism. Les Halle, on the other hand, is the largest shopping center in the city and is located where the general markets once stood. For more information, consult the website: www.centrepompidou.fr 8. Latin neighborhood The beating heart of Parisian 1968, Le Quartier Latin extends between the 5th and 6th arrondissements of the city. Therefore, despite the name, it is not a real neighborhood, but a larger area with specific characteristics. The first, of a historical nature, refers to the fact that there was a time when academics and students of the Sorbonne (see photo) actually spoke Latin to each other (hence the name). The second is the presence of the Pantheon, the monument commissioned by Louis XV in honor of Saint Genoveffa (Sainte Geneviève, patroness of Paris). Several prominent personalities are buried inside this monument: among others, Jean Jacques Rosseau, Emile Zola and Victor Hugo. Furthermore, from the dome you can see a wonderful panorama, which repays the effort necessary to get to the top. That's not all, because besides the Sorbonne and the Pantheon, there are several other things to see: the churches of Saint Etienne du Mont and St.Severine, the Institute of the Arab World and Place St. Michel, full of cafés, bookshops and places frequented above all by young people and students. To be seen! 9. Notre Dame Along with the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral is the most visited monument in Paris. A majestic church dating back to 1163, the year in which the then bishop Maurice De Sully gave the order to build a building that would also symbolize the status of capital of the city on a religious level. The invitation was accepted over time (it took about 2 centuries to complete the church) by thousands of carpenters, blacksmiths, blacksmiths and artists capable of putting together a masterpiece of Gothic art that still today, at a distance hundreds of years old, it fascinates even those who have no history of art at all. It must be said that the church has undergone various alterations over the centuries, the most serious of which certainly occurred during the tumultuous years of the French Revolution. Only in the 19th century, specifically after the literary fortunes of Victor Hugo's novel of the same name ("Notre Dame de Paris"), did the will take over to put an end to the degradation that for years had taken possession of this majestic temple overlooking Ile de la Cité , one of the two river islands of the Seine (the other is Ile de Saint Louise). It goes without saying, the church has hosted several events that have marked the history of France and Europe. Among others: the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte as emperor and the speech with which General Charles De Gaulle greeted the liberation of France during the Second World War. For more information on the history and visiting hours of Notre Dame Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991) 10. Versailles The Palace of Versailles cannot be missing from the appeal of a trip to Paris. There is perhaps no building in the world capable of evoking the idea of power so eloquently without, however, losing harmony and grace. Suffice it to consider two aspects to better focus on what we are talking about: first of all, the fact that the area where Louis XIV (1638-1715) wanted to build the palace was marshy and surrounded by woods. It is no coincidence that Louis XIII, father of the "Sun King", used it as a hunting reserve. The second aspect to keep in mind is the overcrowding that characterized the palace for several years. Louis XIV demanded that the court move almost entirely to Versailles, further sharpening that sense of power and domination we mentioned at the beginning. There are so many things to see that it would take days to get a complete overview. From the Royal Chapel, to the Opera House, passing through the two outbuildings (Grand and Petit Trianon) refuge, respectively, of Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette (wife of Louis XVI), there is really something to take your breath away in the presence of so much magnificence. Absolutely unmissable is the Gallery of Mirrors, a 73-metre-long room (see photo) famous, among other things, for being the place where the First World War ended with the signing of the famous Treaty of Versailles. For more information on the history, opening hours and how to reach the palace which, let us remember, is about twenty kilometers from Paris, consult the official website: www.chateauversailles.fr. 11. Montmartre Montmartre is another must-see on a visit to Paris. Neighborhood with a strong bohemian soul has long been the refuge of the artistic avant-gardes passing through the city. Not only artists, in truth: the political struggle, combined with a marked intellectual fervor, has always marked the days of this hilly area from which - we recall - the revolt of the Paris Commune started in 1871. For some time, commerce and tourism have replaced artistic experimentation and political passion even if the fascination of locality sui generis, of a real "city within a city", has survived in its inhabitants. There are several things to see: Place du Tertre, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (see photo), the cemetery of the same name (Montmartre), without obviously forgetting the Moulin Rouge and Pigalle. The latter is the libertine neighborhood par excellence with several red light clubs. It goes without saying that a certain caution is required at night. 12. Senna Boat Tour Millions of visitors sail the canals of the Seine every year. On board the characteristic Bateaux Mouches (entirely glazed boats, partly open and partly closed) Paris appears even more beautiful than it normally already is. What makes the difference is not only the unusual perspective from the river, but also the time of day in which the excursion is carried out and, even more so, the chosen formula, since the companies that provide the service provide different alternatives : from lunch, to an aperitif at sunset, to dinner (the latter particularly romantic). 13. Disneyland Paris A list of things to do and see in Paris cannot miss Disneyland Paris, the largest amusement park in Europe (among the top 10 in the world) which since 1992 has attracted millions of visitors a year to the city. To be more precise, a substantial part of these stay in the hotels belonging to the structure; another part, however, combines a visit to the French capital with one or more days dedicated to the park. Park which, despite being in Marne la Vallée, 32 kilometers from the city, is very well connected by underground, bus and shuttle service. Obviously there are many attractions, just think that there are two thematic areas with independent entrances and times. The first, Disneyland Park, is dedicated to Disney fairy tales and characters; the second, however, Walt Disney Studios Park, is dedicated to cinema, animation and special effects. In short, brief hints that, however, already give an idea of how captivating a day at Disneyland Paris can be. It is therefore advisable to plan everything well, relying on the news and advice on the official site: www.disneylandparis.it. Beware of pickpockets Don't walk around with your wallet in plain sight in your back pocket, or feel too safe keeping it thrown in bulk in your backpack (or purse). Pickpockets in Paris are numerous and therefore the observance of the normal precautions is recommended in these cases. In addition to those already mentioned, we can add those not to wear bracelets, watches, chains and earrings of particular value, and not to travel late at night in the suburbs of the city. Watch out for the closing day of the museums At the beginning we mentioned the enormous number of museums in Paris. Here, however, we point out another aspect: pay attention to the closing day. For example, it is good to remember that the Louvre and Center Pompidou are closed on Tuesdays, while the Musée d'Orsay and the Palace of Versailles are closed on Mondays. In general, therefore, it is preferable to consult in advance the opening/closing times and days of the museum you intend to visit. The simplest thing is to inquire from the official website of each structure. Warn you! Do not climb (forcibly) the Eiffel Tower Yes, the Eiffel Tower is one of the must-see things in Paris. And, as we have said, those who are not satisfied with the visit from below, by purchasing the ticket (first), can go up to the top to enjoy a spectacular view of Paris from a height of 300 meters. It must be said, however, that there are several alternatives: one is the Basilica of the Sacré Couer in Montmartre. It's free and the view is just as spectacular.

Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral...there are endless places to visit in London. The British capital is in fact a container of attractions to be discovered. To take you away from the embarrassment of choice, we suggest you 10 places that are really worth seeing in the capital and therefore must not be missing from your itinerary. We are sure you will not be disappointed. They are all very popular places, so we advise you to get your ticket online. You will avoid the queue at the ticket office and you can immediately start enjoying the experience! 1. Saint Paul's Cathedral. Risen from the ashes of the original Cathedral, razed to the ground by the fire that struck London in 1656, St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the city, in total contrast with the modern context of skyscrapers and buildings in which it is inserted . St. Paul's Cathedral has always hosted some of London's most significant events, such as Churchill's funeral or Lady Diana's wedding to Prince Charles. The building is easily recognizable thanks to its wonderful central dome and is characterized by an English Baroque style. To take the perfect photo, admire it from the Millennium Bridge, the famous bridge that also appeared in the Harry Potter saga films. 2. Tower Bridge. Tower Bridge is the most famous drawbridge in the world and connects the Tower of London to the Southwark area. It offers one of the most appreciated and photographed views of the city, especially when it is illuminated. Visitors can walk the glass walkway 42 meters above the Thames that connects the two neo-Gothic towers. When it was built, it had to allow even very bulky ships to pass on the river, which is why it had a hydraulic mechanism that exploited the power of steam. Since the 1970s it has been replaced by a diesel-powered system, although the Victorian Machine Rooms, located in the North tower, can be visited and house the period gears. 3. London Eye. If you love to admire the city from above and have the world under your feet, then you certainly can't miss the London Eye, the famous London Ferris wheel. On the contrary, if you suffer from vertigo or otherwise don't feel comfortable at great heights, we advise you to admire it from below. Also known as the Millennium Wheel, it is in fact one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world: the large cabins reach up to 135 m in height, offering a 360° view of London, you will really have the city and the Thames under your feet! The complete tour takes about 30 minutes and, in addition to the basic ticket, you can also purchase various experiences at a higher price, such as booking an entire cabin just for you. 4. Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Trafalgar Square is an excellent starting point for discovering the city. It is a majestic square that somewhat represents the heart of London, as the main arteries of the city branch off from it, including the Strand, the road that leads to the City, The Mall, the avenue that leads to Buckingham Palace and Whitehall the street leading to the House of Parliament. Nelson's Column stands tall in the center, while on either side it is surrounded by important buildings, such as the National Gallery art museum. The National Gallery is one of the most important museums in London, as well as being one of the most visited. Inside there are more than 2,300 paintings from various periods. With two floors full of rooms and wonderful collections, works ranging from the Middle Ages to post-impressionism and which are representative of the mastery of the greatest interpreters of Western art. Estimate at least 2 hours for the visit, better 3 hours! 5. Big Ben, Westminster. The Palace of Westminster is the building that houses the English Parliament, known in English as the House of Parliament. It is a real show of Gothic architecture and, inside, it is made up of 1,200 rooms and also houses the seats of the two chambers of the English Parliament: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Right next to the Palace of Westminster is what is one of the symbols of London: the famous Big Ben, or the Clock Tower, which houses what is considered the most accurate clock in the world. It is mistakenly believed that Big Ben is the name of the clock, in truth it is the name of the bell, installed by Benjamin Hall, weighing 13 and a half tons. Finally, behind the Palace of Parliament you can find the famous Westminster Abbey, or Westminster Abbey, one of the most beautiful in London. This is where the most important celebrations are held, such as the coronation of kings and queens (since the distant 1066) and royal weddings. Inside, don't miss the Lady Chapel, the most beautiful chapel in the entire Abbey, and the Poets' Corner, where some exponents of English literature rest, including Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare. 6. Buckingham Palace. Buckingham Palace is perhaps the most famous palace in all of the United Kingdom. It is, in fact, the residence of the English monarchy and is located at the end of The Mall, the famous street that connects the building to Trafalgar Square. It is spread over a truly extensive area: the majestic palace has 775 rooms and is surrounded by a large royal park that extends for 20 hectares. At 10:45, make sure you are at Buckingham Palace, you will be able to attend the changing of Her Majesty's Guard, a ritual that has taken place every day since 1660. Pay attention to the number of guards: if there are 4, it means that the Queen is at home. The changing of the guard takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays (weather permitting). 7. Natural History Museum. A few steps from the Victoria & Albert Museum you can visit one of the most beautiful and famous museums in London: the Natural History Museum, or the city's natural history museum. It is a perfect museum to visit even with children, they will surely love it! Built between 1873 and 1880, initially the Natural History Museum was only supposed to house a collection of skeletons, fossils and plants from the British Museum. But, over the years, the museum expanded, also absorbing the Geological Museum which was located nearby, thus becoming one of the most visited attractions in the English capital. The magic begins as soon as you cross the front door: the hall houses the skeletons of some large animals, such as the diplodocus dinosaur and the mastodon. From here begins a wonderful collection dedicated to life on earth through the millennia. 8. Hyde Park. Between one visit and another you certainly cannot miss Hyde Park, the famous park in London. It is the ideal place to take a break between one cultural visit and another, especially on beautiful sunny days, which are not always a guarantee in London. Hyde Park is one of the eight royal parks in London and covers 124 hectares. It is much loved by Londoners, who come here to relax away from the traffic and frenetic life of the city, spending a few hours with their family or playing sports. Enjoy a walk along the large tree-lined avenues, have a picnic by the lake and go to the Lady Diana Memorial, with its beautiful fountain. Don't miss the events organized throughout the year either: in winter you can lose yourself in the magic of the large winter amusement park, in summer you can take part in one of the many festivals and concerts. 9. Piccadilly Circus and Soho. If New York has its Times Square, in London you will find Piccadilly Circus, the most famous crossroads in the English capital. It is located in the heart of the city and is also easily accessible thanks to the metro, which stops right at Piccadilly Circus Station. Today it represents a real meeting place, both for Londoners and tourists, and it is the point of the city that never sleeps: even at night it seems like day due to the gigantic signs and large luminous advertising screens. From here you can also easily reach Soho, one of the most famous districts of London. It is the hub of the city's nightlife, lively both day and night. It also represents the district of the London LGBT scene and is full of clubs of all kinds, including red light venues. Enjoy the evening along the most famous street, Regent St, but Dean St, Frith St, Beak St and Old Compton St are also very lively. Piccadilly Circus is located in the heart of London, an easy walk from Trafalgar Square (500m, 6 min) 10. British Museum. The British Museum is one of the most important museums in London, as well as being one of the most visited. Also in this case, as for many museums, admission is free and allows everyone to be able to approach the world of art and culture. Specifically, the British Museum houses one of the largest and most valuable collections of archaeological finds in the world. Walking in the various exhibition areas it is possible to observe artifacts that bear witness to the origins of our history. The objects preserved here are over 8 million and include the first stone engravings from the prehistoric era, the very first coins, many examples of hieroglyphics but also Chinese ceramics and works of art from the 20th century. The famous "Rosetta stone", the stone that allowed scholars to decipher the ancient writings, is also kept in the British Museum. 11. Camden Market. Camden Town is the hipster and alternative neighborhood of London. Get ready for a truly unique atmosphere: here the premises are housed in old recovered containers, the walls of the buildings have numerous murals and particular sculptures and the streets are full of unique little shops and workshops, which really sell everything, from objects vintage to design products. Enjoy a few hours in this neighborhood, do some shopping in search of the perfect souvenir and don't miss the Camden Market, the wonderful neighborhood market, active every day with lots of stalls. Pay your respects to the famous Amy Winehouse in front of the Amy Winehouse Statue and stop for a drink at The Ice Wharf, one of the neighborhood's most popular pubs. 12. Notting Hill and Portobello. London is a city full of unique neighborhoods, each with its own soul and atmosphere. Notting Hill is one of the most elegant districts of the English capital. Today it is mainly a residential district, with no particular attractions, but it has become famous for being the location of the film of the same name Notting Hill, the 1999 romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. And between a walk through the streets and the colorful houses, you certainly cannot miss Portobello Road, a street full of vintage shops, nice clubs and characterized by a wonderful bohemian charm. Nottingh Hill is located in West London. Portobello Road is within walking distance of Kensington Palace (2km, 25 min)

In the history of Lisbon there are several "before" and "after". The most important event was certainly the earthquake of 1 November 1755 when a series of violent shocks, followed by a tsunami, destroyed a large part of the city. In addition to the enormous political implications for a colonial power such as Portugal in the 18th century, the Lisbon disaster sparked heated debate across Europe. There were even those who interpreted the catastrophe as a divine punishment for the forced evangelization of the Indians in South America. The fact is, however, that from the rubble of the earthquake emerged a city even more beautiful than it was, with a sui generis charm that in the following centuries was an inexhaustible source of inspiration for artists and writers.. The successful democratic transition, in addition to returning the Portuguese nation to Europe, gave Lisbon back the international prestige it deserved, and which still characterizes it today compared to the rest of the country. Now we see together some of the most beautiful things to visit in the city. Good vision. 1 Baixa At the beginning we referred to the earthquake of 1755 and to the fact that the city rose from the rubble more beautiful than before. Given this premise, a visit to Lisbon can only start from La Baixa, by far the district most affected by the earthquake and where traces of the reconstruction carried out by the then Prime Minister Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, Marquis of Pombal. It is no coincidence that the district soon took on the name of "Baixa Pombalina" precisely in deference to the new characteristics with which the architects appointed by the Marquis replaced any residue of medieval Lisbon. More functional and less aesthetic architectural features, but equally able to give a harmonious balance to the whole neighborhood, full of alleys and secondary streets. Do not miss Praça do Comércio ("Commerce Square" in English) in the center of which stands the imposing equestrian statue of Joseph I, the king who entrusted the difficult task of reconstruction to the Marquis of PombaI. Praça Dom Pedro IV, better known as "Rossio", is also very beautiful. 2 Trams 28 Although not a tourist train, the Electrico 28 is one of the best-known postcard images of Lisbon. Therefore, one cannot say that one has visited the city without at least one ride on one of these characteristic yellow vintage trams that go up and down from Praça Martim Moniz and Campo Ourique, the two terminus that cover a journey of about 40 minutes . A journey during which it is advisable to try to stay as close as possible to the windows, to admire the details and glimpses that the city offers in large quantities. According to most, the stretch of line that crosses the Alfama (one of the main districts of Lisbon) is the most evocative of the whole route. The advice is to go up to one of the two terminus to be more likely to find a seat. Tram 28, in fact, is always very crowded and you can really find everything on board, including (sometimes) pickpockets and daredevil kids without a ticket. 3 Santa Justa Elevator There is not only Tram 28 to take. Even the Santa Giusta lift is certainly worth a visit. The "elevadores" are a feature of Lisbon, one of the ways in which the inhabitants of the Portuguese capital have avoided the effort of walking up and down the steep city streets. Compared to the others, however, the Elevador de Santa Justa is a real work of art. Built between 1898 and 1902 by the architect Raul Mesnier, this lift is a liberty jewel, moreover inserted in an equally precious architectural context such as the eighteenth-century "Baixa Pombalina". A spectacular Lisbon skyline awaits you at the top. The only advice is to move early in the morning to avoid the long lines that inevitably dampen the enthusiasm of the discovery. Not to be missed! 4 Alfama If Baixa is the symbolic district of the rebirth of Lisbon, Alfama preserves its popular spirit. In ancient times, the district developed outside the medieval walls, hosting the part of the population excluded from the trades and comforts of the fortified citadel. Even after the Middle Ages this remained the main feature of the area, mainly inhabited by dockers and sailors. From this social mix arose the urban aspect of the neighborhood made up of winding streets, stairways (calcadas in Portuguese), flowered balconies and clothes hanging in the sun. A popular environment, in fact, in which it is wonderful to immerse yourself as soon as you get off that previously mentioned tram 28. In Alfama, among other things, there is really a lot to see: from the Cathedral, to the Castle up to the Roman ruins (Museo do Teatro Romano) a visit to this part of Lisbon will not leave you indifferent. Seeing is believing. 5 Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore Built in 1150 on the site of a previous mosque, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, better known by the abbreviation of "Sé" (sede episcopalis), is the main Catholic place of worship in the whole city. Over the centuries it has undergone various transformations, mostly due to the need to deal with the shocks caused by the earthquakes of the fourteenth century, and above all by the more famous one of 1755. This is briefly explained why the facade is in Romanesque style, while inside we find chapels in Gothic style and the main apse, however, with an unmistakable Baroque style. The imposing crenellated towers warn the visitor of the location of the church. The circular rose window above the entrance portal is also very beautiful. The advice is to go all around the building to admire the sculptures (gargoyles) that decorate the external walls. 6 Castle of San Giorgio In every large city there is a monument which, more than any other, summarizes the history of the entire territory. In Lisbon, it is the Castle of São Jorge, in the Alfama district, that has this characteristic. Built by the Visigoths in the 5th century BC, the fortress was considerably reinforced during the rule of the Moors. In fact, the soldiers who had the task of defending the city (especially the ruling Muslim elite) from the menacing advance of Alfonso Henriques stayed there. A circumstance that actually occurred in 1147, when the king of Portugal managed to expel the Moors from Lisbon with the decisive help of the Anglo-Norman fleet directed to the Holy Land. From the fourteenth century, to be precise from 1371, the dedication to St. George, patron saint of England, wanted by King John I husband of the English noble Philippa of Lancaster. In the eighteenth century, however, although greatly altered, the castle survived the terrible earthquake that struck the Portuguese capital. Since then there have been no significant changes in the history of this fortress which, however, with the advent of tourism, has quickly turned into one of the main attractions of Lisbon. To see, the permanent exhibition with the innumerable finds found in the area over a vast period of time, from the 7th century BC. C. to the post-earthquake of 1755. 7 Convent of Carmo Not far from the Castle of San Giorgio, the Convento do Carmo is another unmissable stop on a visit to Lisbon. The charm of this convent dedicated to "Nossa Senhora do Vencimento do Monte do Carmo" lies in its ruined condition. A condition that has persisted since 1755, the year in which, as we have seen, a terrible earthquake destroyed the city. So almost 300 years of abandonment even if, to tell the truth, it is only the church that has never been restored, while the premises of the Carmelite convent have long since been transformed into a museum by the Portuguese Archaeological Association. The fact remains, without detracting from the Roman, Visigothic and pre-Columbian remains kept in the rooms of the Museo Arqueologico do Carmo, that the arches and pillars of the Gothic church are the most suggestive element for the many tourists who visit the site every day. So be careful not to forget your camera. Like the Tower of Belém which we will discuss later, the light gray of the arches, coats of arms and other pieces of the ruined nave go very well with the blue of the sky. Not to be missed! 8. Bairro Alto After visiting the Convento do Carmo, the most culturally significant site in the whole Bairro Alto, we are going to take a walk through the narrow and uphill alleys of the neighborhood. In this case, the first thing that catches the eye is the rationality with which the streets were designed in opposition to the "spontaneity" of the Alfama. The urban differences reflect those of class, even if the different social composition over time has become decidedly more nuanced, until it disappears completely. To say, in the narrow streets of Cais do Sodrè south of the Bairro, for years the main activity was prostitution. Only recently has there been a radical cleaning up of the area, transforming what was once a degraded corner of the city into the heart of Lisbon's nightlife (this should be extended to the entire neighborhood). Bairro alto, in fact, is the neighborhood where there is the greatest concentration of restaurants, bars and clubs where it is very pleasant to stop and eat, drink and listen to music. Especially the fado, the traditional Portuguese music not surprisingly under UNESCO protection. Absolutely not to be missed is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara, a wonderful panoramic point that can be accessed by funicular (Elevador da Gloria) or on foot. 9 Tower of Belém In Lisbon there is the "Pombaline" and the "Manueline" style. The first, as we have seen, refers to the architectural legacy of the Marquis of Pombal, architect of the reconstruction of the city after the terrible one-two, earthquake plus tidal wave, which destroyed Lisbon on 1 November 1755. With the "Manueline" style, however, we refer to the works created during the reign (1495 -1521) of Manuel I of Portugal (1469 - 1521). Together with the Monastery of San Geronimo (see next paragraph), the Tower of Belém is the most precious testimony of this mix between late Gothic and Renaissance designed to celebrate the colonial power of Portugal. It is no coincidence that the fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site even if, unlike the Monastery of San Geronimo, it is above all the exterior, rich in stone decorations, that bears traces of more sophisticated solutions from an architectural point of view. The interior, on the other hand, leaves less room for creativity, in line with the defensive function of this tower built on the bank of the Tagus River. Ultimately, therefore, the Tower of Belém certainly deserves a visit, bearing in mind however that the greatest suggestions are due to the interaction with the wonderful surrounding context. 10 Monastery of San Girolamo If you need a blue sky or a summer twilight to enhance all the beauty of the Tower of Belém, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (so called because until 1833 it was run by the monks of the order of San Girolamo) needs no details atmospheric conditions to shine. We are in the presence of the most impressive symbol of Portugal's power during the so-called "Age of Discovery". Manuel I had the monastery built on the site of an old hermitage where, in 1502, Vasco da Gama had spent the last night with his fleet before setting sail for the Indies. That expedition ensured Portugal's monopoly on the spice trade, and therefore celebrating the enterprise worthily was an absolutely due act for the King. To do this, he ordered the architect Doigo Boitaca to build this beautiful monastery in which everything - from the church to the southern portal via the cloister - truly has something of a fairytale. Finally a curiosity. In 1985, on the fiftieth anniversary of his disappearance, the remains of Fernando Pessoa (1888 -1935), one of the greatest Portuguese poets and writers of the 20th century were moved inside the monastery near those of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões, universally considered the main Portuguese poet. For more information on timetables, prices and activities that take place inside the monastery (which, we recall, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site). 11 Oceanarium If you like aquariums you should definitely visit the one in Lisbon. Bull sharks, puffer fish, sunfish, puffins, penguins, sea otters and many other species are present in this aquarium which is located inside the Nations Park (Parque das Nações in Portuguese), a residential area of the city in conjunction with EXPO 1998. In terms of size, the Oceanário de Lisboa is second only to the Acquario di Valencia and competes with that of Genoa. In short, truly an opportunity not to be missed, especially if you travel with children in tow. The only precaution is to buy tickets online directly on the aquarium website to avoid the queues at the entrance. Warning 1. Beware of pickpockets It is a topic we have already mentioned when talking about Tram 28, but it also applies to the other lines. Don't worry though. A few simple tricks, such as avoiding keeping your wallet in your back pocket and, more generally, showing off valuables, and there's nothing else to fear. Warning 2. Be careful when choosing a restaurant That of "tourist traps" is a topic that we have already addressed when talking about Rome. The phenomenon is also present in Lisbon, so the advice is to pay due attention to the choice of restaurant. In the case of the Portuguese capital, you would do well to doubt the formulas "food plus fado show", as well as all those places where the classic "buttadentro" is at the door inviting potential patrons to enter. Today, however, it is not difficult to take measures on these aspects, just read the reviews in advance or, if there is a way, ask for advice from someone who has visited the city previously. Better yet, ask someone local for advice. Warning 3. Don't just visit museums and monuments Without detracting from art, culture and local history, Lisbon is also a city where it is nice to be outdoors, discovering its countless architectural details and panoramic views. For this reason we did not dwell too much on museums and other points of interest which would have deserved a mention (above all the Palace of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Obviously nothing prevents you from acting differently, perhaps with the "spirit" invoked just now: letting yourself be guided by the city, without necessarily planning every aspect of your holiday.

Capital cities are often bustling centers of activity, teeming with people, culture, and commerce. Before we get started make sure you subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this! However, there are some capitals around the world that stand in stark contrast – eerily empty, devoid of the vibrant life one might expect. In this exploration, we delve into the mystery of 15 such capitals, examining their populations, unique characteristics, and the reasons behind their sparse inhabitancy. Ngerulmud, Palau. Ngerulmud, the capital of Palau, is one of the smallest capital cities in terms of population. Despite being the administrative center, its population hovers around 400 residents. The primary reason for its low population is its remote location and limited economic opportunities. Palau, consisting of over 300 islands, faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and accessibility, leading many to reside in more developed areas. Vaduz, Liechtenstein. Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, presents an intriguing case. Despite its picturesque setting nestled in the Alps, it remains relatively sparsely populated. With a population of around 5,500, Vaduz is characterized by its small size and limited urban amenities. Many residents prefer to live in neighboring towns with better access to services and employment opportunities. Funafuti, Tuvalu. Funafuti serves as the capital of Tuvalu, a small island nation in the Pacific. Despite being the administrative center, its population stands at around 6,000 people. The main challenges facing Funafuti are related to its vulnerability to rising sea levels and limited land availability. As a result, many residents have migrated to other countries in search of better living conditions. Valletta, Malta. Valletta, nestled on the northeast coast of the island nation of Malta, stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural grandeur. Its cobblestone streets wind through a maze of Baroque buildings and fortified walls, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite its undeniable allure, Valletta's population remains modest, hovering around a mere 6,500 inhabitants. One of the primary factors contributing to Valletta's sparse population is its compact size and limited space within the city walls. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, Valletta was designed as a fortified city, encompassing an area of just 0.3 square kilometers (0.12 square miles). As a result, residential space within the city center is scarce, with narrow alleyways and tightly packed buildings defining the urban landscape. Furthermore, the cost of living in Valletta is notoriously high compared to other parts of Malta. Saint George's, Grenada. Saint George's, the capital of the enchanting Caribbean island nation of Grenada, exudes a unique blend of colonial charm and tropical allure. Nestled on the southwestern coast, this vibrant coastal city draws visitors with its colorful architecture, bustling markets, and panoramic views of the azure Caribbean Sea. Despite its natural beauty and historical significance, Saint George's grapples with a set of challenges that have influenced its population dynamics and urban development. With a population of approximately 7,500 people, Saint George's serves as the economic and cultural nucleus of Grenada. However, its infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the demands of a growing population and tourist influx. Narrow, winding streets originally designed for horse-drawn carriages now contend with modern vehicular traffic, leading to congestion and logistical challenges. Additionally, the city's aging utilities infrastructure, including water and sanitation systems, requires substantial investment and renovation to meet the needs of residents and businesses. Nuku'alofa, Tonga. Nuku'alofa, the capital of Tonga, is home to approximately 24,500 people. Despite its status as the economic and political center of the country, Nuku'alofa struggles with infrastructure challenges and limited job opportunities. Many residents, particularly young people, seek opportunities abroad, leading to a stagnant or declining population. Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadine. Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Saint Vincent, the capital city of Kingstown stands as a vibrant hub of commerce and administration in the island nation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Despite its central role, Kingstown's population of approximately 16,500 residents belies its status as a capital city, with its relatively modest size and population density reflecting a unique set of challenges and characteristics. As the commercial and administrative heart of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Kingstown pulsates with activity, its bustling streets lined with colorful markets, government buildings, and vibrant cultural landmarks. However, beneath this facade of vitality lies a city grappling with economic constraints and spatial limitations. One of the primary factors contributing to Kingstown's modest population is the economic challenges facing Saint Vincent and the Grenadines as a whole. Before we moving forward make sure you subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this! Majuro, Marshall Islands. The Marshall Islands, Majuro stands as a bustling urban center and the capital of this Pacific island nation. With a population of approximately 28,000 residents, Majuro is one of the most populous capitals in the region. However, despite its relative size and importance, Majuro grapples with a unique set of challenges that threaten its long-term sustainability and resilience. One of the foremost issues facing Majuro is overpopulation. As the economic, political, and cultural hub of the Marshall Islands, Majuro serves as a magnet for residents from outer islands seeking better opportunities for education, employment, and healthcare. This influx of migrants has placed tremendous strain on the city's infrastructure, including housing, transportation, and utilities, leading to overcrowding and congestion in many areas. South Tarawa, Kiribati. Nestled on the atoll of Tarawa in the central Pacific Ocean, South Tarawa stands as the bustling capital of the Republic of Kiribati. Boasting a population of approximately 50,000 people, it is the largest urban center in the country. However, despite its relatively large population, South Tarawa grapples with a myriad of challenges that threaten its sustainability and long-term viability. One of the most pressing issues facing South Tarawa is severe overcrowding. With limited land availability and a rapidly growing population, the city's infrastructure struggles to accommodate the needs of its residents. Housing shortages are particularly acute, leading to overcrowded living conditions and informal settlements in vulnerable coastal areas. This overcrowding extends to other essential services, including healthcare, education, and sanitation, further exacerbating the strain on the city's resources. Stanley, Falkland Islands. Stanley stands as the quaint and picturesque capital of the Falkland Islands. With a population of around 2,500 residents, it is one of the smallest capitals in the world, yet it boasts a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and British colonial charm. However, beneath its idyllic facade, Stanley grapples with a set of challenges that have shaped its character and trajectory. One of the foremost challenges facing Stanley is its isolation. Situated over 300 miles east of the South American mainland, the Falkland Islands are remote and geographically isolated, with limited accessibility by air and sea. This isolation presents logistical challenges for residents and businesses alike, impacting everything from transportation and supply chains to healthcare and education. Moreover, the remote location of the Falklands makes it expensive to import goods and services, further exacerbating the cost of living for residents of Stanley. Palikir, Federated States of Micronesia. Nestled amidst the lush tropical landscape of the Federated States of Micronesia, Palikir stands as the administrative and political heart of this Pacific island nation. Despite its significance as the capital, Palikir grapples with a series of challenges that have shaped its character and influenced its population dynamics. With a population of around 6,000 people, Palikir is relatively small compared to other capitals around the world. However, its size belies the complexity of the issues it faces, particularly in terms of infrastructure and economic opportunities. Limited investment in infrastructure development has left Palikir with inadequate roads, utilities, and public services, hindering the city's ability to meet the needs of its residents and businesses. As a result, essential services such as healthcare, education, and sanitation are often lacking or of poor quality, contributing to a sense of dissatisfaction and frustration among the populace. Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Bishkek emerges as the bustling and dynamic capital of Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia's gem. Boasting a population of approximately 1 million people, it stands as one of the largest cities in the region. However, behind its facade of size and vitality, Bishkek grapples with a host of challenges that test its resilience and shape its urban landscape. One of the foremost challenges facing Bishkek is urban sprawl. Rapid population growth, fueled by migration from rural areas and neighboring countries, has led to the expansion of the city's boundaries, resulting in sprawling informal settlements and unplanned development on the outskirts. This unchecked urban sprawl strains infrastructure and services, exacerbates traffic congestion, and fragments communities, posing challenges for sustainable urban management and development. Inadequate infrastructure further compounds Bishkek's challenges, with aging roads, utilities, and public services struggling to meet the needs of a growing population. Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, is home to approximately 300,000 residents. Despite its relatively large population, Port Moresby faces significant challenges such as high crime rates, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to basic services. These factors contribute to its reputation as one of the least livable capital cities in the world, prompting some residents to seek opportunities elsewhere. Bangui, Central African Republic. Nestled along the rugged coastline of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby emerges as a bustling metropolis and the capital city of this diverse Pacific nation. Boasting a population of approximately 300,000 residents, it stands as one of the largest urban centers in the region. However, behind its facade of size and vitality, Port Moresby grapples with a host of challenges that test its resilience and shape its urban landscape. One of the foremost challenges facing Port Moresby is its high crime rates. The city has gained notoriety for its elevated levels of violent crime, including armed robberies, assaults, and carjackings. Gang-related violence and tribal conflicts further contribute to the city's reputation as one of the most dangerous capitals in the world, undermining public safety and deterring investment and tourism. Djibouti City, Djibouti. Djibouti City emerges as a bustling hub of commerce and culture, serving as the capital of the Republic of Djibouti. With a population of approximately 900,000 residents, it stands as one of the largest urban centers in the region. However, behind its facade of size and strategic importance, Djibouti City grapples with a myriad of challenges that test its resilience and shape its urban landscape. One of the foremost challenges facing Djibouti City is high unemployment. Despite its strategic location at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East, the city struggles to provide meaningful employment opportunities for its residents, particularly its youth. Limited economic diversification, coupled with a reliance on traditional industries such as trade, transport, and logistics, contributes to high levels of unemployment and underemployment, particularly among urban youth. This lack of economic opportunities undermines social cohesion and stability, fueling discontent and frustration among the populace. Inadequate infrastructure is another pressing issue facing Djibouti City, with aging roads, utilities, and public services struggling to meet the needs of a growing population. Potholed streets, intermittent electricity, and limited access to clean water are daily realities for many residents, undermining quality of life and hindering economic development. Moreover, inadequate waste management systems contribute to environmental pollution, with garbage littering streets and waterways, posing health risks and detracting from the city's aesthetic appeal. Extreme temperatures further compound Djibouti City's challenges, with scorching heat and arid conditions prevailing throughout much of the year. The city's location in the Horn of Africa exposes it to harsh climatic conditions, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) during the summer months. These extreme temperatures pose risks to public health and well-being, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and outdoor workers. Conclusion. In conclusion, the 15 empty capital cities examined in this exploration share common challenges such as limited economic opportunities, infrastructure deficiencies, and environmental vulnerabilities. While each city has its own unique characteristics and circumstances, these factors contribute to their sparse inhabitancy. Addressing these challenges will be crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability and vitality of these capital cities. Remember to subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this!

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Maui, Hawaii, is a paradise for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and unforgettable adventures. Before we get started make sure you subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this! From the pristine beaches to the lush rainforests and majestic volcanoes, Maui offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top 10 must-do activities in Maui, accompanied by stunning travel videos showcasing the beauty of this enchanting island. Whale Watching in Maui. Embarking on a thrilling whale-watching excursion in Maui is a journey into the realm of giants, where the majestic humpback whales grace the warm Hawaiian waters with their awe-inspiring presence. From December to April, these magnificent marine mammals undertake an epic migration from the frigid feeding grounds of Alaska to the balmy shores of Hawaii, where they breed and nurse their young in the sheltered waters surrounding the islands. As whale-watching enthusiasts set sail on the azure expanse of the Pacific Ocean, anticipation hangs thick in the air, mingling with the salty breeze and the gentle hum of the boat's engines. Eyes scan the horizon, searching for the telltale signs of whale activity—a spout of water, a flick of a tail, or the graceful arc of a breach against the distant sky. Suddenly, the tranquil surface of the ocean erupts in a flurry of activity as a pod of humpback whales breaches the surface, their massive bodies soaring skyward before crashing back into the water with a thunderous splash. Passengers gasp in awe at the spectacle unfolding before them, cameras clicking furiously as they strive to capture the moment for posterity. Road to Hana. This legendary highway, etched along Maui's northeastern coast, weaves through a tapestry of verdant rainforests, where emerald foliage dances in the gentle breeze, and misty waterfalls cascade down moss-covered cliffs like shimmering curtains of liquid silk. The journey may begin with a visit to the enchanting Twin Falls, where crystalline waters tumble from lofty heights, creating a mesmerizing oasis of tranquility amidst the lush greenery. Continuing onwards, adventurers are drawn to the mystical allure of Waianapanapa State Park, where ancient lava caves, rugged sea cliffs, and ebony sand beaches await exploration. Here, the juxtaposition of volcanic landscapes against the azure expanse of the Pacific Ocean creates an otherworldly tableau, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Hawaii's natural wonders. Yet, perhaps the crown jewel of the Road to Hana lies hidden within the verdant embrace of Ohe'o Gulch, home to the legendary Seven Sacred Pools. Here, a series of tiered waterfalls cascade into pristine pools of crystalline waters, inviting weary travelers to linger and rejuvenate beneath the gentle caress of nature's embrace. Whether basking in the sun-dappled serenity of the pools or embarking on a refreshing swim in their azure depths, the Seven Sacred Pools exude an aura of sacredness and serenity that transcends the boundaries of time. Haleakalā National Park. To witness the awe-inspiring sunrise atop the summit of Haleakalā is to embark on a transcendent journey into the heart of Maui's volcanic soul. Standing sentinel at over 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakalā is not merely a mountain—it is a sacred sanctuary where time seems to stand still, and the heavens descend to kiss the earth in a blaze of fiery hues. But it is not merely the celestial spectacle that draws travelers to Haleakalā—it is the unearthly landscapes that unfold before their eyes, reminiscent of a distant world untouched by time or human hands. Here, vast volcanic crater valleys stretch as far as the eye can see, their rugged contours carved by the fiery embrace of ancient eruptions. The terrain, marked by jagged peaks and undulating ridges, bears an uncanny resemblance to the surface of Mars, inviting visitors to explore its otherworldly wonders with a sense of wonder and reverence. Within Haleakalā National Park, a network of hiking trails beckons adventurers to immerse themselves in the park's untamed beauty, weaving through forests of native flora and fauna and past crystalline streams and waterfalls. For the more adventurous souls, biking down the mountain's slopes offers an exhilarating descent into the heart of Maui's wilderness, where the rush of wind and the scent of pine mingle with the echoes of ancient volcanic eruptions. Snorkeling at Molokini Crater. To dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Molokini Crater is to plunge into a world of unparalleled aquatic beauty and biodiversity. Nestled off the coast of Maui, this partially submerged volcanic caldera beckons snorkelers with its promise of vibrant marine life and pristine coral reefs teeming with life. The waters surrounding Molokini Crater are a veritable oasis of marine life, where coral gardens bloom in a kaleidoscope of hues and schools of tropical fish dart and weave through the labyrinthine formations. Here, snorkelers can encounter an array of species, from the graceful arc of sea turtles gliding effortlessly through the water to the intricate dance of clownfish darting amidst the swaying tendrils of anemones. But it is not merely the abundance of marine life that makes Molokini Crater so special—it is the pristine condition of its underwater ecosystems, protected within the confines of a designated marine sanctuary. Here, human impact is minimal, and the delicate balance of nature reigns supreme. As snorkelers drift through the tranquil waters, they are witness to the majesty of a world untouched by the hands of man, where every creature plays a vital role in the intricate web of life. Guided snorkeling tours offer visitors the opportunity to delve deeper into the secrets of Molokini Crater, providing insights into the area's ecological importance and ongoing conservation efforts. Surfing at Ho'okipa Beach. To experience the thrill of surfing at Ho'okipa Beach is to immerse oneself in the heart of Maui's legendary surf culture, where the rhythm of the ocean sets the pace for an unforgettable adventure. Situated along Maui's North Shore, Ho'okipa Beach stands as a beacon for surfers worldwide, renowned for its world-class waves and consistent swells that beckon enthusiasts of all skill levels to test their mettle against the power of the Pacific. As the first light of dawn breaks over the horizon, surfers gather at the water's edge, waxing their boards and scanning the horizon for signs of incoming sets. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a novice eager to ride your first wave, Ho'okipa offers ideal conditions for catching waves year-round, with gentle rollers for beginners and towering walls of water for the more experienced. But it's not just the waves that draw surfers to Ho'okipa—it's the sense of camaraderie and community that permeates the air, as riders share tips, stories, and stoke with one another in between sets. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views, Ho'okipa Beach is not just a surf spot—it's a spectacle unto itself, attracting spectators and photographers eager to capture the action from the shore. Before we moving forward make sure you subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this! Lahaina Historic District. Immerse yourself in Maui's rich history and culture at the Lahaina Historic District, a charming seaside town filled with historic landmarks, shops, and art galleries. Stroll along Front Street, lined with meticulously preserved buildings dating back to the whaling era, and explore attractions such as the Baldwin Home Museum and the Wo Hing Temple. Visitors can also enjoy sunset cruises, live music performances, and traditional Hawaiian cuisine at local restaurants. Road Tripping to Upcountry Maui. Escaping the coastal crowds and venturing into Upcountry Maui unveils a hidden gem of unparalleled beauty and tranquility. This picturesque region, nestled amidst the island's verdant hills and sprawling pastures, offers travelers a glimpse into Maui's rich cultural heritage and agricultural legacy. As visitors wind their way up the scenic slopes of Haleakalā, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation, giving way to rolling hills, lush valleys, and panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Here, amidst the gentle embrace of nature, time seems to slow, and the hustle and bustle of coastal life fade into a distant memory. One of the highlights of Upcountry Maui is the charming town of Makawao, a vibrant hub of artistic expression and cowboy culture. Known as the "Paniolo" (Hawaiian cowboy) capital of the island, Makawao exudes a rustic charm that harkens back to a bygone era, with its historic storefronts, wooden sidewalks, and quaint boutiques showcasing local artisans and craftsmen. Exploring the Iao Valley. Discovering the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Iao Valley is akin to stepping into a realm of timeless enchantment, where emerald peaks pierce the sky and verdant rainforest foliage blankets the landscape in a tapestry of green. Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of Maui's West Maui Mountains, this lush valley holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into Hawaii's rich heritage and natural splendor. At the heart of the valley lies the iconic Iao Needle, a towering volcanic rock formation that rises majestically from the valley floor, shrouded in legend and lore. Revered by native Hawaiians as a sacred site and a symbol of spiritual strength, the Iao Needle serves as a focal point for cultural gatherings and ceremonies, where prayers are offered and traditions upheld in reverence to the land and its guardians. But the beauty of the Iao Valley extends far beyond the towering spire of the Iao Needle. Scenic hiking trails wind their way through the lush rainforest, leading adventurers on a journey of discovery through hidden waterfalls, bubbling streams, and ancient lava formations. Along the way, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the valley below, where emerald peaks stretch as far as the eye can see, and the gentle murmur of the river echoes through the forest. Sunset at Kaanapali Beach. Indulging in a quintessential Maui experience at Kaanapali Beach is like stepping into a postcard-perfect paradise, where the beauty of nature unfolds in all its splendor. Situated along Maui's western coast, Kaanapali Beach stands as a timeless symbol of tropical luxury and relaxation, enticing travelers with its golden sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. As the sun begins its descent towards the horizon, visitors gather along the shore, eager to witness the spectacle of another day's end. Couples stroll hand in hand along the water's edge, while families frolic in the gentle surf, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Against the backdrop of swaying palm trees and the distant silhouette of neighboring islands, the scene is nothing short of magical—a symphony of light and color that captures the essence of Hawaiian beauty. But the allure of Kaanapali Beach extends far beyond its natural splendor. Travelers can indulge in a variety of oceanfront activities, from snorkeling and paddleboarding to parasailing and jet skiing, or simply bask in the sun and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. Hiking the Waihe'e Ridge Trail. Located on the island's verdant north shore, this trail offers hikers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of Maui's rugged landscape while enjoying panoramic views of the coastline and lush valleys below. As hikers set out on the Waihe'e Ridge Trail, they are greeted by the gentle rustle of native forests and the soothing melody of birdsong echoing through the canopy. The trail winds its way through a pristine wilderness of bamboo groves, towering trees, and fragrant wildflowers, offering respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a chance to reconnect with nature in its purest form. Along the way, keen-eyed hikers may catch glimpses of rare bird species flitting through the branches or spy elusive native plants found nowhere else on Earth. From colorful honeycreepers to majestic Hawaiian owls, the trail is alive with the sights and sounds of Maui's vibrant ecosystem, providing a glimpse into the island's rich biodiversity and ecological importance. As the trail climbs higher into the mountains, the scenery unfolds in all its glory, revealing sweeping vistas of the coastline and surrounding mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see. Conclusion. Maui, Hawaii, offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From exploring pristine beaches and lush rainforests to witnessing breathtaking sunsets and engaging in thrilling water sports, Maui's diverse attractions cater to every type of traveler. Whether you're embarking on a road trip along the iconic Road to Hana, snorkeling at Molokini Crater, or hiking through the scenic landscapes of Haleakalā National Park, Maui promises memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover why Maui truly is the ultimate tropical paradise. Remember to subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this!

Illegal immigration is a complex issue that has significant social, economic, and political ramifications. Understanding the origins of illegal immigrants in the United States is crucial for developing effective immigration policies and addressing the root causes of migration. This essay will explore the various countries from which illegal immigrants come to the US, analyzing the reasons behind their emigration and providing data on immigration rates for each country. Mexico. Mexico serves as the primary wellspring of illegal immigrants to the United States, a reality underscored by the staggering numbers of individuals crossing the border illicitly in pursuit of improved economic prospects. The lure of economic advancement acts as a powerful magnet, drawing countless Mexicans to brave the perilous journey northward. Within the intricate tapestry of push factors propelling this mass exodus, pervasive poverty, widespread unemployment, and meager wages emerge as prominent catalysts, compelling individuals to seek greener pastures beyond their national borders. Poverty, an omnipresent specter haunting many Mexican communities, constrains livelihoods and stifles aspirations, leaving swathes of the population grappling with dire socioeconomic conditions. Coupled with limited access to quality education and employment opportunities, this endemic poverty perpetuates a cycle of disenfranchisement, propelling individuals to seek refuge in the promise of a better life across the border. Unemployment further exacerbates the plight of many Mexicans, rendering them susceptible to the siren call of migration in search of gainful employment. With job scarcity plaguing various sectors of the Mexican economy, particularly in rural areas, where agricultural livelihoods face mounting challenges, the allure of steady employment in the US holds undeniable appeal for countless individuals striving to support themselves and their families. Moreover, the pervasive issue of low wages compounds the economic woes afflicting many Mexicans, rendering even those fortunate enough to secure employment susceptible to financial instability and meager living standards. The stark disparity between wages in Mexico and the United States serves as a potent incentive for individuals to risk the arduous journey across the border in pursuit of greater earning potential and the promise of a more prosperous future. Yet, beyond the economic impetus driving Mexican migration, the specter of violence and insecurity looms large, casting a shadow of fear and uncertainty over many communities. Certain regions of Mexico grapple with endemic violence stemming from organized crime, drug trafficking, and internal conflict, rendering them veritable hotbeds of instability and peril. Faced with the daily threat of violence and coercion, individuals and families are left with little choice but to flee in search of sanctuary and security. In light of these formidable challenges, the allure of the United States as a beacon of safety, stability, and opportunity remains irresistible for millions of Mexicans. Despite the perils and uncertainties inherent in the journey, the promise of a better life propels countless individuals to embark on the arduous trek northward, braving inhospitable terrain, harsh climates, and the ever-looming specter of detection and deportation. Thus, it comes as little surprise that recent data affirms Mexico's status as the predominant source of illegal immigrants in the United States, with approximately 47% of undocumented migrants hailing from its shores. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform and targeted interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of migration, from economic disenfranchisement to pervasive violence, in order to forge a more equitable and sustainable future for all. Central America (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador). Countries in Central America, particularly Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, also contribute significantly to illegal immigration to the US. High levels of poverty, gang violence, and political instability push many people to leave their homes and seek refuge in the United States. The Northern Triangle countries, as they are often referred to, have some of the highest homicide rates in the world, prompting many to flee in search of safety. Economic opportunities and family reunification also motivate migration from this region. Combined, these three countries account for approximately 18% of illegal immigrants in the US. China. China stands out as a significant contributor to the tapestry of illegal immigration to the United States, with a steady stream of Chinese nationals traversing borders through various clandestine avenues, including overstaying visas and navigating illicit border crossings. This influx reflects a confluence of factors, spanning economic imperatives, political disillusionment, and aspirations for personal and familial advancement. At the heart of this migration narrative lies a pursuit of economic prosperity, with many Chinese individuals lured by the promise of better job opportunities and higher wages awaiting them in the land of opportunity. China's rapid economic transformation, while marked by unprecedented growth and development, has also engendered stark inequalities and disparities, leaving swathes of the population grappling with limited prospects for upward mobility and financial stability. In the face of mounting economic pressures and constrained livelihoods, the allure of the United States as a bastion of economic opportunity and prosperity looms large, compelling many to embark on the perilous journey in search of a brighter future for themselves and their families. The intertwining dynamics of economic necessity and political disillusionment underscore the complex motivations driving Chinese migration to the United States, with recent data revealing that approximately 19% of illegal immigrants in the US originate from China. Before we moving forward make sure you subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this! India. India emerges as a prominent player in the landscape of illegal immigration to the United States, with a notable contingent of individuals from the subcontinent undertaking clandestine journeys in pursuit of brighter horizons. Against the backdrop of a diverse array of push and pull factors, spanning economic, familial, and educational considerations, Indian migrants navigate complex pathways to seek refuge and opportunity on American shores. Economic imperatives loom large in shaping the migration narrative for many Indians, as pervasive poverty, staggering unemployment rates, and limited job prospects constrain livelihoods and aspirations within the homeland. Despite India's status as a burgeoning economic powerhouse, marked by rapid industrialization and technological innovation, vast segments of the population grapple with systemic inequalities and structural barriers to economic advancement. In the face of stagnant wages, precarious employment opportunities, and entrenched poverty, the allure of the United States as a bastion of economic opportunity and prosperity holds undeniable appeal, propelling many Indians to undertake the arduous journey in search of greener pastures and a shot at realizing their dreams of financial security and upward mobility. Recent estimates indicate that approximately 8% of illegal immigrants in the United States hail from India, underscoring the enduring allure of the American dream and the resilience of individuals determined to seize upon opportunities for a better life. Yet, amid the prevailing narrative of aspiration and opportunity, it is imperative to recognize the underlying challenges and structural injustices driving this migration phenomenon, from economic inequality to bureaucratic barriers, and work towards fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate approach to immigration policy. Other Countries. Beyond the focal points of immigration from Mexico, China, and India, the mosaic of illegal immigrants in the United States extends far and wide, drawing from a rich tapestry of nations spanning continents and cultures. Indeed, approximately 8% of undocumented migrants hail from a diverse array of countries across the globe, reflecting the complex interplay of geopolitical, economic, and environmental factors shaping migration dynamics on a global scale. In Africa, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and beyond, individuals embark on perilous journeys in search of sanctuary and opportunity, propelled by a myriad of push and pull factors. Economic instability serves as a potent catalyst for migration, as individuals grapple with stagnant wages, limited job prospects, and entrenched poverty within their home countries. In regions wracked by political persecution and civil unrest, the specter of violence and coercion compels many to flee in search of safety and security, seeking refuge in countries where the promise of freedom and democracy beckons. Conflict and instability further exacerbate the plight of millions, driving displacement and mass migration on an unprecedented scale. From war-torn regions in the Middle East to fragile states in Sub-Saharan Africa, the ravages of conflict and violence render entire populations vulnerable to displacement, forcing individuals to undertake perilous journeys in search of safety and respite from the chaos and turmoil engulfing their homelands. Moreover, the specter of environmental disasters looms large over many communities, as climate change exacerbates existing vulnerabilities and threatens livelihoods across the globe. From rising sea levels and extreme weather events to desertification and food insecurity, the impacts of climate change compel many to seek refuge in countries where the promise of stability and resilience offers a glimmer of hope amid uncertainty and upheaval. While the percentage of illegal immigrants from each of these countries may be smaller compared to major sources like Mexico and Central America, they collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of illegal immigration in the United States, enriching the cultural fabric and demographic makeup of the nation. Yet, amid the prevailing narrative of aspiration and opportunity, it is imperative to recognize the underlying challenges and structural injustices driving this migration phenomenon, from economic inequality to environmental degradation, and work towards fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate approach to immigration policy. By addressing the root causes of migration and forging pathways to legal status and integration, policymakers can create a more just and humane immigration system that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their country of origin. Conclusion. Illegal immigration to the United States is a multifaceted issue shaped by a combination of economic, political, and social factors. Understanding the countries from which illegal immigrants originate and the reasons behind their emigration is essential for developing comprehensive immigration policies and addressing the root causes of migration. By addressing underlying issues such as poverty, violence, and political instability in countries of origin, policymakers can work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable approach to immigration.

In the vast expanse of the United States, there are certain cities that seem to exert an irresistible gravitational pull, attracting people from all walks of life. These cities have become emblematic of the American urban experience, bustling metropolises teeming with energy, diversity, and opportunity. However, behind the glittering facades and towering skyscrapers lies a common thread: overcrowding. In this exploration, we delve into the phenomenon of overcrowding in 10 prominent U.S cities, examining the factors that have led to their status as magnets for the masses. New York City - Population: Approximately 8.7 million. New York City, often dubbed the "Big Apple," stands as a beacon of ambition and aspiration for millions around the world. From Wall Street titans seeking to conquer the financial world to struggling artists pursuing their creative passions, New York City offers a stage for dreams to unfold, a place where the impossible seems achievable and the extraordinary feels within reach. The average price of a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan, the city's most coveted borough, is well above $3,000 per month, making it one of the most expensive rental markets in the world. Even in the outer boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens, where rents may be relatively lower, the cost of living remains daunting for many residents. Beyond housing, the cost of utilities, groceries, and other necessities also contributes to the high cost of living in New York City. Utility bills for a typical apartment can easily exceed $200 per month, while groceries tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of the country due to higher operating costs for retailers. Additionally, the price of dining out and entertainment in the city can quickly add up, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around $20 to $30 per person and tickets to Broadway shows averaging over $100 each. Los Angeles - Population: Approximately 4.1 million. Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, exerts a magnetic pull on dreamers and strivers alike. With its sprawling metropolis, sun-drenched beaches, and thriving entertainment industry, LA embodies the quintessential American dream. However, the allure of Hollywood glamour comes with a hefty price tag, as skyrocketing housing costs and gridlocked traffic plague the city. The average price of a single-family home in Los Angeles exceeds $800,000, making it one of the most expensive real estate markets in the country. Even renting an apartment in desirable neighborhoods like West Hollywood or Santa Monica can set you back thousands of dollars per month, with one-bedroom units commanding rents upwards of $2,000. Beyond housing, the cost of living in Los Angeles extends to utilities, groceries, and transportation. Utility bills for a typical apartment can easily surpass $150 per month, while groceries tend to be more expensive compared to other regions due to the city's reliance on imported goods. Additionally, the city's infamous traffic congestion can result in long commutes and increased expenses for fuel and vehicle maintenance. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $15 to $25 per person, while upscale dining experiences can easily exceed $100 per person. Similarly, tickets to popular attractions such as Disneyland or Universal Studios can be quite expensive, often ranging from $100 to $200 per person. Chicago - Population: Approximately 2.8 million . Chicago, the Windy City, is a bustling metropolis nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan. From finance professionals navigating the bustling trading floors of the Loop to culinary artists crafting innovative dishes in trendy neighborhoods like Logan Square and Wicker Park, Chicago offers a diverse array of career paths and cultural experiences. However, the city's allure is not without its drawbacks, as rising crime rates and socioeconomic disparities mar its reputation.The average price of a single-family home in Chicago hovers around $300,000, making it relatively more affordable compared to coastal cities like New York and Los Angeles. However, rental prices vary widely depending on location, with luxury apartments in downtown areas commanding rents well above $2,000 per month. In addition to housing costs, residents of Chicago must contend with expenses such as utilities, groceries, and transportation. Utility bills for a typical apartment can range from $100 to $200 per month, while groceries tend to be moderately priced compared to other major cities. The city's extensive public transportation network, including the iconic "L" trains and buses, provides affordable options for getting around, although many residents still rely on cars, especially in the sprawling suburbs. When it comes to dining out and entertainment, Chicago offers a diverse culinary landscape and vibrant nightlife scene. From world-renowned steakhouses like Gibsons and Chicago-style deep-dish pizza joints to trendy rooftop bars and jazz clubs, there's no shortage of options to satisfy every palate and preference. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $15 to $30 per person, while upscale dining experiences can exceed $100 per person. San Francisco - Population: Approximately 1.1 million. San Francisco, the City by the Bay, is synonymous with innovation, creativity, and tech entrepreneurship. At the heart of San Francisco's appeal lies its booming tech industry, which has propelled the city to the forefront of global innovation. From the headquarters of tech giants like Apple, Google, and Facebook in nearby Silicon Valley to the bustling startup scene in neighborhoods like SoMa and the Mission District, San Francisco serves as a magnet for software engineers, entrepreneurs, and venture capitalists seeking to make their mark on the world. However, the city's tech boom has brought with it a housing crisis of unprecedented proportions. Skyrocketing rents and evictions have become all too common, displacing longtime residents and exacerbating income inequality. The average price of a single-family home in San Francisco exceeds $1.5 million, making it one of the most expensive real estate markets in the country. Even renting an apartment in the city can be prohibitively expensive, with one-bedroom units commanding rents upwards of $3,000 per month. Beyond housing, the cost of living in San Francisco extends to utilities, groceries, and transportation. Utility bills for a typical apartment can easily surpass $200 per month, while groceries tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of the country due to the city's high cost of living. Additionally, the city's notoriously steep hills and limited parking make owning a car both impractical and expensive, prompting many residents to rely on public transportation or alternative modes of transportation like biking and ride-sharing. When it comes to dining out and entertainment, San Francisco offers a diverse culinary scene and vibrant cultural landscape. From Michelin-starred restaurants serving up innovative cuisine to quirky cafes and food trucks dishing out local favorites, there's no shortage of options to tantalize the taste buds. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $20 to $40 per person, while upscale dining experiences can easily exceed $100 per person. Houston - Population: Approximately 2.5 million. Houston, the Space City, sprawls across the Texas landscape, earning its nickname from its role as a hub for NASA's space exploration endeavors. Yet, beyond its celestial connections, Houston is renowned for its energy industry, diverse economy, and legendary Southern hospitality. When it comes to housing, Houston offers a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences. The average price of a single-family home in Houston is around $300,000, making homeownership more attainable for many residents compared to cities with higher housing costs. Rental prices are also relatively affordable, with one-bedroom apartments typically ranging from $800 to $1,200 per month, depending on the neighborhood and amenities. In addition to housing costs, the overall cost of living in Houston is relatively low compared to other major cities. Utility bills for a typical apartment can range from $100 to $200 per month, while groceries and dining out expenses are also more affordable, thanks in part to the city's thriving culinary scene and diverse array of dining options. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $10 to $20 per person, making it easier for residents to enjoy dining out without breaking the bank. Miami - Population: Approximately 487,000. Miami, the Magic City, exudes a vibrant energy that reflects its status as a melting pot of cultures and a playground for the rich and famous. Situated along the sun-kissed shores of South Florida, Miami is renowned for its multiculturalism, pulsating nightlife, and tropical climate that beckons visitors from around the globe. However, Miami's rapid gentrification and income inequality have cast a shadow over its sun-drenched streets. As luxury condominiums and upscale developments reshape the city's skyline, many longtime residents find themselves displaced, unable to afford the soaring housing costs and property taxes that accompany Miami's real estate boom. The average price of a single-family home in Miami exceeds $500,000, while rental prices for apartments in desirable neighborhoods like South Beach and Brickell can easily surpass $2,000 per month. In addition to housing costs, the overall cost of living in Miami is higher than the national average, driven in part by the city's reputation as a playground for the wealthy. Utility bills for a typical apartment can range from $150 to $300 per month, while groceries and dining out expenses tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of the country. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $20 to $40 per person, while upscale dining experiences can easily exceed $100 per person. Seattle - Population: Approximately 767,000. Seattle, the Emerald City, stands as a testament to the majesty of the Pacific Northwest, boasting natural beauty that rivals any other metropolis in the world. Yet, beyond its scenic splendor, Seattle is also known for its vibrant tech industry, progressive values, and thriving cultural scene, making it a magnet for those seeking both career advancement and a high quality of life. From software developers coding away in the bustling tech hubs of South Lake Union and Bellevue to outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region's countless parks, trails, and waterways, people from all walks of life flock to Seattle in search of adventure and opportunity. However, Seattle's rapid growth has brought with it a host of challenges, including skyrocketing housing costs, traffic congestion, and homelessness. The average price of a single-family home in Seattle exceeds $800,000, making it one of the most expensive real estate markets in the country. Even renting an apartment in the city can be prohibitively expensive, with one-bedroom units commanding rents upwards of $2,000 per month in desirable neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Queen Anne. In addition to housing costs, the overall cost of living in Seattle is higher than the national average, driven in part by the city's booming economy and affluent population. Utility bills for a typical apartment can range from $100 to $200 per month, while groceries and dining out expenses tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of the country. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $15 to $30 per person, while upscale dining experiences can easily exceed $100 per person. Atlanta - Population: Approximately 536,000. Atlanta, the Gateway to the South, is a bustling metropolis known for its cultural diversity, Southern charm, and burgeoning film industry. With its thriving economy, affordable housing, and warm climate, Atlanta offers a compelling destination for those seeking opportunity and affordability. From aspiring filmmakers to corporate executives, people flock to Atlanta in search of career advancement and a high quality of life. However, the city's rapid growth has led to traffic congestion, urban sprawl, and socioeconomic disparities. Boston - Population: Approximately 724,000. Boston, the Cradle of Liberty, is a historic city known for its intellectualism, innovation, and world-class universities. With its cobblestone streets, prestigious colleges, and thriving healthcare industry, Boston offers a unique blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge technology. From students to biotech professionals, people flock to Boston in search of academic excellence and career opportunities. However, the city's high cost of living and harsh winters pose challenges for many residents. Washington, D.C. - Population: Approximately 752,000. Washington, D.C., the nation's capital, stands as a dynamic metropolis at the intersection of political power, cultural richness, and international influence. From the imposing columns of the Capitol Building to the stately memorials that line the National Mall, D.C. exudes a sense of history and grandeur that is unmatched. From seasoned politicians shaping the course of the nation's future to lobbyists navigating the intricacies of Capitol Hill, Washington is a magnet for those seeking career opportunities and civic engagement. The city's thriving job market encompasses a diverse array of industries, including government, law, finance, and technology, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and advancement. However, the city's high cost of living poses challenges for many residents, particularly those in lower-income brackets. The average price of a single-family home in Washington, D.C. exceeds $700,000, making homeownership a distant dream for many aspiring residents. Rental prices for apartments in popular neighborhoods like Dupont Circle and Georgetown can be equally daunting, with one-bedroom units commanding rents upwards of $2,000 per month. In addition to housing costs, the overall cost of living in Washington is higher than the national average, driven in part by the city's transient population and high demand for goods and services. Utility bills for a typical apartment can range from $150 to $300 per month, while groceries and dining out expenses tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of the country. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $20 to $40 per person, while upscale dining experiences can easily exceed $100 per person. Conclusion. In conclusion, the phenomenon of overcrowding in these 10 U.S cities can be attributed to a combination of factors, including economic opportunities, cultural attractions, and quality of life considerations. While each city has its unique appeal, they all share common challenges such as rising housing costs, traffic congestion, and socioeconomic disparities. Addressing these challenges will require innovative solutions and collaborative efforts from government, businesses, and communities. Nevertheless, the allure of these bustling metropolises continues to draw people from all corners of the country and the world, reaffirming their status as magnets for the masses.

In today's globalized world, the dream of owning a luxurious home is not limited to the elite few. With a budget of $100,000, there are several countries where you can turn this dream into reality. From stunning beachfront villas to charming countryside estates, these countries offer a range of options for buyers seeking affordable luxury. Let's delve into the top 10 countries where you can purchase lavish homes without breaking the bank. Mexico. Mexico stands out as a prime destination for luxury real estate seekers due to its incredibly diverse market offerings. In Mexico City, a metropolis buzzing with energy and culture, $100,000 can secure you a chic and contemporary condominium boasting panoramic skyline views and access to a plethora of urban amenities. However, if you prefer the allure of Mexico's picturesque countryside, you'll find yourself enchanted by the sprawling haciendas that dot the landscape. With $100,000, you can acquire a piece of Mexican heritage, complete with amenities like private pools, outdoor entertaining areas, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside. Venturing towards the coastline, Mexico's renowned beach destinations beckon with their pristine sands and azure waters. Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, and Tulum stand as shining examples, offering a perfect blend of luxury and affordability. In Playa del Carmen, $100,000 opens doors to beachfront condos boasting sweeping ocean views and access to exclusive amenities such as infinity pools, private beach clubs, and world-class spas. Meanwhile, Tulum's bohemian chic vibe and eco-conscious ethos have made it a hotspot for luxury real estate investment. With $100,000, you can indulge in the laid-back lifestyle of this coastal paradise, residing in stylish beachfront villas surrounded by pristine nature reserves and ancient Mayan ruins. Thailand. Thailand, with its mesmerizing tropical landscapes and vibrant culture, stands as a beacon for luxury real estate enthusiasts worldwide. The allure of this Southeast Asian paradise extends from the bustling metropolis of Bangkok to the serene shores of Phuket and the tranquil havens of Koh Samui and Chiang Mai. In the heart of Bangkok, a city pulsating with life and energy, $100,000 presents an opportunity to embrace urban luxury living at its finest. Here, stylish condominiums rise amidst the skyline, offering residents a seamless blend of modernity and comfort. Meanwhile, in Phuket, Thailand's renowned island paradise, luxury living takes on a whole new meaning. With $100,000, you can secure a sleek and sophisticated condominium nestled along the coastline, providing unparalleled access to pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and exclusive resort-style amenities. For those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle, the tranquil beaches of Koh Samui beckon with their pristine sands and swaying palm trees. Here, $100,000 affords you the opportunity to invest in a luxurious villa, complete with private pools, lush gardens, and panoramic ocean views. Whether you're hosting lavish gatherings under the stars or simply unwinding in the serenity of your own tropical oasis, Koh Samui offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Chiang Mai, a city renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking natural landscapes. With $100,000, you can indulge in the ultimate in luxury living by purchasing a lavish villa surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil rice paddies. Portugal. Portugal, with its captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, has emerged as a prime destination for real estate investment. In Lisbon and Porto, two of Portugal's most iconic cities, $100,000 opens doors to a world of stylish urban living. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Portugal while enjoying the convenience of modern amenities. Imagine owning a sleek and contemporary apartment in the heart of Lisbon's historic Alfama district, where winding cobblestone streets lead to charming cafes, boutiques, and cultural landmarks. Or perhaps, opt for a chic loft overlooking Porto's picturesque Douro River, where centuries-old bridges and colorful buildings provide the perfect backdrop for cosmopolitan living. Alternatively, venture south to the Algarve region, renowned for its breathtaking coastline and luxurious resorts. With $100,000, you can invest in a luxurious villa nestled amidst lush greenery, overlooking the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Moreover, Portugal's favorable tax policies, including the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program and the Golden Visa scheme, make it an even more attractive destination for real estate investors. The NHR program offers tax benefits to foreign residents, while the Golden Visa provides residency in exchange for real estate investment, making Portugal a sought-after destination for those seeking to relocate or diversify their investment portfolio. Greece. Greece, steeped in millennia of history and blessed with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, has become a coveted destination for luxury home buyers seeking an unparalleled blend of culture, natural beauty, and affordability. With a budget of $100,000, the opportunity to own a slice of Mediterranean paradise becomes a tangible reality, particularly on the iconic Greek islands of Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos. Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, enchants visitors with its rugged coastline, azure waters, and charming villages steeped in tradition. Here, $100,000 can secure you a charming villa nestled amidst olive groves or overlooking the shimmering Aegean Sea. Meanwhile, Santorini captures the imagination with its iconic whitewashed buildings, cascading down cliffsides overlooking the caldera. Despite its status as one of the world's most sought-after destinations, Santorini remains surprisingly accessible for luxury home buyers with a budget of $100,000. Invest in a cozy cave house or a stylish villa perched on the cliffs, offering unparalleled views of the volcanic landscape and the sapphire waters below. Alternatively, Mykonos beckons with its cosmopolitan charm, vibrant nightlife, and pristine beaches. With $100,000, you can acquire a luxurious villa tucked away in the island's tranquil countryside or nestled along its sun-drenched shores. Turkey. Turkey, strategically positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, beckons luxury home buyers with its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling metropolis of Istanbul to the idyllic coastal resorts of Bodrum, Antalya, and Fethiye, the country offers a myriad of options for those seeking to invest in opulent residences. In Istanbul, a city steeped in history and culture, $100,000 can unlock the doors to a modern apartment boasting panoramic views of the iconic Bosphorus Strait or the historic skyline dotted with minarets and domes. Alternatively, escape to Turkey's breathtaking coastline, where the azure waters of the Mediterranean beckon with their irresistible allure. In Bodrum, known as the "Saint-Tropez of Turkey," $100,000 can secure you a luxurious villa nestled amidst olive groves or overlooking the shimmering Aegean Sea. Further along the coast, the resort city of Antalya enchants visitors with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. Here, $100,000 affords you the opportunity to own a lavish villa surrounded by lush gardens, offering unparalleled views of the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, in Fethiye, a tranquil paradise nestled between mountains and sea, $100,000 can buy you a slice of coastal serenity in the form of a luxurious villa or waterfront property. Belize. Belize, nestled on the eastern coast of Central America, stands as a hidden gem for luxury real estate enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. With its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and relaxed Caribbean lifestyle, Belize offers an idyllic setting for those looking to invest in opulent residences. One of Belize's most sought-after destinations is Ambergris Caye, a picturesque island renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Here, $100,000 can grant you access to a beachfront condo or villa, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and direct access to world-class diving, fishing, and eco-adventures. Similarly, the Placencia Peninsula captivates visitors with its laid-back vibe, pristine beaches, and lush mangrove forests. With $100,000, you can invest in a luxurious beachfront property, complete with amenities like infinity pools, private docks, and tropical gardens. Moreover, Belize's relaxed lifestyle and welcoming community make it a haven for luxury travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're unwinding in a beachfront hammock, sampling Belizean cuisine at a local restaurant, or exploring the country's rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and art, Belize offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and Central American hospitality. Colombia. Colombia, with its burgeoning economy, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, has emerged as a sought-after destination for luxury real estate investment, offering buyers the chance to experience cosmopolitan living with a distinctive Latin flair. With $100,000, the possibilities for acquiring upscale residences are vast, ranging from stylish apartments in bustling cities to luxurious haciendas nestled in the countryside or beachfront estates along the Caribbean coast. In Bogotá and Medellín, two of Colombia's most dynamic cities, $100,000 can grant you access to a stylish apartment in prime locations, providing cosmopolitan living with modern amenities and vibrant nightlife. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the trendy neighborhoods of Medellín, known as the "City of Eternal Spring," where you can find chic apartments nestled amidst lush greenery, offering a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. For those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle, Colombia's coffee region, known as the "Coffee Triangle," beckons with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and affordable property prices. Here, $100,000 can buy you a luxurious hacienda surrounded by lush coffee plantations, offering unparalleled privacy and serenity. Meanwhile, Colombia's Caribbean coast, with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture, provides the perfect setting for luxury living by the sea. In destinations such as Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Barranquilla, $100,000 affords you the opportunity to invest in a beachfront estate or luxurious villa, complete with amenities like private pools, tropical gardens, and stunning ocean views. Malaysia. Malaysia, with its diverse landscapes, thriving economy, and competitive real estate market, has become a prime destination for luxury home buyers seeking to experience Southeast Asian opulence at an affordable price point. With $100,000, the options for acquiring upscale residences are plentiful, ranging from spacious condominiums in bustling cities to luxurious villas nestled amidst pristine natural surroundings. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's vibrant capital city, $100,000 can grant you access to a spacious condominium boasting panoramic skyline views and access to a plethora of modern amenities. Similarly, in Penang, known as the "Pearl of the Orient," $100,000 affords you the opportunity to invest in a luxurious condominium overlooking the picturesque coastline or historic George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle, Malaysia's idyllic islands beckon with their pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and laid-back atmosphere. In Langkawi, a tropical paradise renowned for its natural beauty and duty-free shopping, $100,000 can buy you a luxurious villa nestled amidst swaying palm trees and turquoise waters. Ecuador. Ecuador, nestled along the equator on South America's Pacific coast, has emerged as a top choice for luxury real estate investment, drawing discerning buyers with its natural beauty, affordable living, and vibrant expat community. With $100,000, the opportunities for acquiring upscale residences abound, ranging from spacious condos in historic cities to luxurious beachfront properties along the coast. In Quito and Cuenca, two of Ecuador's most charming colonial cities, $100,000 can grant you access to a spacious condo boasting colonial charm and modern amenities. Alternatively, explore Ecuador's coastal towns, where luxurious beachfront properties offer panoramic ocean views and year-round sunshine. In Salinas, known as the "Little Miami of Ecuador," $100,000 affords you the opportunity to invest in a luxurious condo overlooking the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. In Manta, a bustling port city renowned for its seafood and vibrant culture, $100,000 can buy you a spacious beachfront apartment with direct access to pristine beaches and a plethora of amenities such as infinity pools, tennis courts, and beach clubs. Morocco. Morocco, with its exotic allure, rich history, and diverse landscapes, has become a captivating destination for luxury home buyers seeking a unique blend of North African charm and modern comforts. With $100,000, the possibilities for acquiring upscale residences are abundant, ranging from traditional riads in historic cities to luxurious villas overlooking the Atlantic coastline. In Marrakech, the vibrant cultural hub of Morocco, $100,000 can grant you access to a traditional riad, a historic Moroccan house centered around a lush courtyard oasis. Imagine stepping through intricately carved wooden doors into a tranquil sanctuary adorned with colorful tiles, ornate arches, and trickling fountains. Alternatively, in Casablanca, Morocco's cosmopolitan economic center, $100,000 affords you the opportunity to invest in a luxurious villa overlooking the city skyline or the scenic Atlantic coastline. For those drawn to Morocco's coastal charm, the towns of Essaouira and Agadir beckon with their stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and array of leisure activities. In Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its windswept beaches and artistic ambiance, $100,000 can buy you a luxurious property with views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to world-class amenities such as golf courses, spas, and beach clubs. Similarly, in Agadir, a resort destination famed for its golden sands and year-round sunshine, $100,000 affords you the opportunity to invest in a beachfront villa or apartment, providing the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. Conclusion. Owning a luxury home is no longer a distant dream reserved for the wealthy elite. With a budget of $100,000, you can purchase lavish properties in countries around the world, offering diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and modern amenities. Whether you seek beachfront bliss, urban sophistication, or countryside charm, these top 10 countries provide ample opportunities for affordable luxury living. Take the leap and turn your dream of owning a luxury home into reality today.

Dreaming of owning a beachside retreat without breaking the bank? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 15 enticing destinations where you can find affordable beachside apartments priced at a budget-friendly $150,000. The Sunshine State. Florida With its miles of coastline and diverse real estate market, Florida tops the list as a prime destination for affordable beachside living. From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic, you'll find pockets of affordability in cities like Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, and Panama City Beach. Whether you crave the vibrant nightlife of Miami Beach or the laid-back charm of Sarasota, Florida offers a range of options for budget-conscious buyers. Coastal Carolina. North and South Carolina The Carolinas boast some of the most picturesque beaches on the East Coast, and luckily, they also offer affordable housing options. Places like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Wilmington, North Carolina, provide a mix of sandy shores and affordable condominiums within reach of our $150,000 budget. Gulf Shores. Alabama's Gulf Coast, while often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor to the east, Florida, boasts its own unique charm and allure. Nestled along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, this stretch of coastline offers pristine beaches, warm waters, and a laid-back atmosphere—all without the hefty price tag commonly associated with beachfront living. In particular, towns like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach stand out as hidden gems, where affordability meets coastal beauty. Similarly, Orange Beach, located just a short drive east of Gulf Shores, exudes a charming coastal vibe with its marinas, waterfront restaurants, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Island Living. Puerto Rico For those seeking a taste of Caribbean living without the hefty price tag, Puerto Rico presents an enticing option. From the vibrant culture of San Juan to the laid-back vibes of Rincon, you'll discover affordable beachside apartments with breathtaking ocean views and easy access to pristine beaches. Coastal Texas. Galveston and Corpus Christi, two coastal gems nestled along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico in Texas, may not immediately spring to mind when envisioning beachfront living, but they offer a surprisingly affordable and alluring alternative to more well-known beach destinations. Galveston, with its rich history, charming Victorian architecture, and vibrant waterfront, has long been a beloved retreat for Texans seeking sun, surf, and relaxation. Situated on a barrier island just off the coast of Texas, Galveston boasts miles of sandy beaches, picturesque parks, and a bustling downtown area brimming with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. One of the most appealing aspects of Galveston is its affordability. Compared to other beachfront locales, the cost of living in Galveston is notably lower, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious beach lovers. Similarly, Corpus Christi, located further down the Texas coast, offers its own unique blend of affordability and coastal charm. Both Galveston and Corpus Christi benefit from their warm Gulf waters, making them ideal destinations for swimming, boating, fishing, and a variety of water sports year-round. Mexico's Pacific Coast. Crossing the border into Mexico unveils a realm of tantalizing possibilities for those in search of affordable beachside living, particularly along the enchanting Pacific Coast. Here, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the coastline, lie the captivating destinations of Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, each offering a unique blend of modern comforts, cultural richness, and breathtaking natural wonders—all at prices that are refreshingly accessible. Mazatlán, affectionately known as the "Pearl of the Pacific," beckons with its Old World charm and vibrant energy. Steeped in history and tradition, this coastal gem boasts a picturesque malecón (boardwalk) that stretches for miles along the shimmering shores of the Pacific Ocean. Venture further inland, and you'll discover Mazatlán's historic centro histórico (historic center), where cobblestone streets wind their way past centuries-old churches, charming cafes, and hidden courtyards. But perhaps the crown jewel of Mazatlán is its pristine beaches, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters in a mesmerizing display of natural beauty. From the tranquil shores of Playa Olas Altas to the vibrant atmosphere of Playa Brujas, there's a stretch of sand to suit every mood and inclination. Before we moving forward make sure you subscribe to Top Things To Know so you don't miss out on more videos like this. Central American Charm. Belize, a small yet enchanting country nestled between Mexico and Guatemala on the northeastern coast of Central America, stands as a hidden treasure for those seeking an affordable slice of paradise in the realm of beachfront living. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and a unique blend of cultural influences, Belize beckons to individuals in search of an idyllic tropical retreat without the exorbitant price tag often associated with such locales. One of the most captivating features of Belize is its pristine coastline, which extends along the Caribbean Sea. The beaches, adorned with powdery white sands and gently swaying palms, create a postcard-perfect setting that epitomizes the allure of beachfront living. The Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Mediterranean Magic. Greece, renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, beckons travelers and prospective homeowners alike with its enchanting blend of beachside living and Mediterranean charm. From the picturesque islands of Crete and Corfu to the captivating mainland shores of Halkidiki, Greece offers a diverse array of affordable apartments that promise an unparalleled coastal lifestyle. Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, boasts an irresistible allure with its dramatic coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and quaint villages nestled amidst olive groves and vineyards. Similarly, Corfu, located in the Ionian Sea off the northwest coast of Greece, enchants visitors with its lush landscapes, Venetian architecture, and idyllic beaches. Venturing to the Greek mainland, Halkidiki presents a captivating blend of sandy beaches, verdant forests, and charming seaside towns. Divided into three peninsulas—Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos—Halkidiki offers a diverse range of beachfront apartments that cater to various tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer the bustling beach resorts of Kassandra, the secluded coves of Sithonia, or the spiritual tranquility of Mount Athos, Halkidiki invites you to immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean. Eastern European Escapes. Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, often overlooked in favor of more well-known European beach destinations, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by budget-conscious buyers in search of seaside serenity. Stretching along the eastern coast of Bulgaria, the Black Sea coast is dotted with picturesque towns and villages, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. From the lively resort town of Sunny Beach, with its vibrant nightlife and family-friendly amenities, to the historic port city of Varna, known for its ancient ruins and cultural heritage, the Black Sea coast caters to a diverse range of lifestyles and preferences. One of the most appealing aspects of Bulgaria's Black Sea coast is its affordability. Compared to other European beach destinations, such as the French Riviera or the Amalfi Coast, property prices in Bulgaria are significantly lower, making it an attractive option for buyers on a budget. Southeast Asian Sensations. Thailand's allure as a tropical paradise extends far beyond its stunning beaches, captivating culture, and delectable cuisine. With its warm climate, rich biodiversity, and welcoming atmosphere, Thailand has become a magnet for expatriates and vacationers seeking an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In particular, destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui stand out as prime examples of Thailand's ability to offer affordable beachside living amidst lush landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences. Phuket, Thailand's largest island, has long been a favorite among travelers seeking sun, sea, and sand. With its picturesque beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, Phuket offers a diverse array of attractions and amenities that cater to every taste and budget. From the bustling beaches of Patong to the tranquil shores of Kata and Karon, Phuket boasts a wide range of affordable beachside apartments that provide easy access to the island's natural beauty and recreational activities. Similarly, Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, enchants visitors with its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're drawn to the bustling resort town of Chaweng or the serene beaches of Lamai and Bophut, Koh Samui offers a variety of affordable beachside apartments that allow residents to immerse themselves in the island's tropical splendor and cultural delights. Caribbean Cool. The Dominican Republic, with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beaches, stands as a beacon of affordable beachside living in the Caribbean. Nestled on the eastern side of the island of Hispaniola, the Dominican Republic boasts a diverse range of coastal towns and cities, each offering its own unique blend of charm, affordability, and natural beauty. Punta Cana, perhaps the most well-known destination in the Dominican Republic, captivates visitors with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and world-class resorts. Despite its popularity among tourists, Punta Cana remains surprisingly affordable for those seeking to make it their home. From beachfront condos overlooking the Caribbean Sea to luxurious villas nestled amidst palm groves, Punta Cana offers a variety of affordable real estate options that cater to both full-time residents and part-time vacationers. Meanwhile, Cabarete, located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, offers a more laid-back atmosphere that appeals to those seeking tranquility and relaxation. Known for its world-class kiteboarding and windsurfing conditions, Cabarete attracts adventure enthusiasts from around the globe. Here, affordable beachside apartments and quaint bungalows provide residents with easy access to the town's vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining scene, and pristine beaches perfect for lounging or water sports. Coastal Croatia. Croatia's Adriatic coast, encompassing the regions of Dalmatia and Istria, stands as a veritable gem in Europe's crown, offering an irresistible blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and affordable beachside living options. From the ancient walled cities of Dubrovnik and Split to the charming seaside villages of Rovinj and Poreč, Croatia's coast beckons to travelers and prospective homeowners alike with its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and Mediterranean climate. Dalmatia, located along Croatia's southern coast, is renowned for its stunning scenery, historic sites, and vibrant coastal towns. Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," captivates visitors with its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and panoramic views of the sea. Nearby, the city of Split boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, while the islands of Hvar, Brač, and Vis offer secluded beaches, hidden coves, and a laid-back island vibe. Further north, Istria presents a different but equally enchanting coastal experience. With its rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, Istria exudes a rustic charm that is complemented by its picturesque coastal towns and villages. Rovinj, with its colorful houses and winding alleyways, is a favorite among visitors, while Poreč attracts history buffs with its well-preserved Roman landmarks and Byzantine mosaics. Australian Adventure. While Australia is often associated with a high cost of living, Queensland presents a pleasant surprise with its surprisingly affordable beachside options. Stretching along the northeastern coast of the country, Queensland boasts a wealth of stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and laid-back coastal communities, making it a top destination for those seeking an affordable slice of paradise. The Gold Coast, renowned for its glittering skyline, golden beaches, and world-class surfing, stands out as one of Queensland's most iconic beachside destinations. Further north, the Sunshine Coast offers a more relaxed and laid-back coastal experience, with its pristine beaches, charming seaside villages, and lush subtropical landscapes. From the family-friendly beaches of Noosa and Mooloolaba to the bohemian vibes of Byron Bay, the Sunshine Coast caters to a diverse range of lifestyles and preferences, with affordable apartments dotted along the coastline offering easy access to the region's natural beauty and recreational activities. Philippine Paradise. The Philippines, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and warm hospitality, is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Among its many picturesque destinations, Cebu and Bohol stand out as prime examples of affordable beachside living with a tropical flair. Whether you're seeking the vibrant energy of city life or the serene tranquility of secluded beaches, Cebu and Bohol offer a diverse range of affordable options to suit every taste and budget. Cebu, the bustling metropolis located in the central Visayas region of the Philippines, captivates visitors with its dynamic blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. As one of the country's major economic hubs, Cebu offers a wealth of opportunities for work, education, and entertainment. From the vibrant nightlife of Mango Avenue to the historic charm of Colon Street, Cebu's city life pulsates with energy and excitement. However, Cebu's real allure lies in its stunning beaches and island getaways. Just a short ferry ride from the city center, destinations like Mactan Island and Malapascua Island beckon with their powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Meanwhile, Bohol, located southwest of Cebu, offers a more laid-back and tranquil escape. Known for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique attractions, Bohol invites visitors to unwind amidst its natural beauty and cultural heritage. African Allure. Egypt's Red Sea coast stands as a remarkable destination, where affordability meets the splendor of ancient history and breathtaking natural beauty. Situated along the eastern shores of Egypt, this coastal region offers an array of affordable beachside apartments that provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable seaside escape. Hurghada, one of the most popular resort towns along the Red Sea coast, entices visitors with its vibrant atmosphere, pristine beaches, and world-class diving and snorkeling sites. Here, you'll find a range of affordable accommodation options, from beachfront apartments to luxurious resorts, all offering easy access to the region's crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs. Whether you're exploring the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, embarking on a desert safari into the surrounding wilderness, or simply lounging on the beach with a refreshing drink in hand, Hurghada promises an immersive and affordable beachside experience unlike any other. Further south, Marsa Alam offers a more laid-back and tranquil escape, with its secluded beaches, pristine dive sites, and relaxed vibe. What sets Egypt's Red Sea coast apart is its affordability, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers and expatriates seeking a beachside escape. Compared to other beach destinations around the world, property prices in Egypt are considerably lower, allowing residents to enjoy the benefits of beachside living without breaking the bank. Conclusion. From the sun-soaked shores of Florida to the exotic beaches of Thailand, the world is full of affordable options for beachside living. Whether you're craving Caribbean cool or Mediterranean magic, there's a beachside apartment waiting for you, all priced at a wallet-friendly $150,000. So, why wait? Start your search today and turn your beachside dreams into reality without breaking the bank.