Tag: Sites

Move Over Dublin! This Picturesque Town Has No Crowds And Stunning Medieval Sites
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Dublin is typically your gateway into Ireland.

Despite the classic pubs, cobbled streets, and friendly locals, going beyond the city is where the country really shines.

Besides Dublin, travelers can fly directly to multiple airports in Ireland, such as Shannon and Cork.

By doing so, the country’s delightful villages are often overlooked in the midst of being captivated by Ireland’s astounding coastlines and storybook castles.

One such town has been named one of Ireland’s most scenic escapes where the atmosphere is like a ‘movie set‘.

With virtually no crowds and stunning medieval sites, it’s time to wave goodbye to the city life and say hello to the picturesque town of Inistioge.

A Storybook Town Steeped In Fascinating History

Travel anxiety can cause us to overthink where to go; I’m certainly guilty of it.

Heck, I’ve lived in San Diego 10 years and I’m just now visiting local hotspots I’ve shoved aside far too long.

The point is that Ireland is one of those destinations where plans can go out the window.

There are just too many amazing places to cover in a single trip.

That being said, if you want to experience a truly authentic Irish town where welcoming locals are ready to show off their beloved hideaway, then Inistioge is the answer to your unfinished travel plans.

Despite being off travelers’ radar, Inistioge has developed the ‘Heritage Trail’ for anyone ready to give their delightful community a fair shake.

This quaint village goes back deep to prehistoric times to where, as legend has it, the ancient Osraige tribe defeated Olaf Cuaran, King of Dublin, way back in 964.

Today, Inistioge is designated as a National Monument and protected under the National Monuments Act, giving more credence to the intriguing 23-stop Heritage Trail, featuring long-standing castles, landmark homes, and old-world churches.

Find Your Zen In Inistioge’s Beautiful Natural Settings

Dublin is a great city, but finding some of your inner peace amongst always-busy streets is a hard sell.

Sure, you can find a quiet corner of a pub until the ‘auld fellas’ burst into an impromptu sesh of harmonic Irish folk songs.

Well, Inistioge is the anti-Dublin in many aspects. One key reason is the pretty scenery and tranquility.

The Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum is a must-visit while here.

Entry is only $5.50 to gain access to gorgeous gardens, scenic trails, ancient trees, and yes, even flowing waterfalls along a specified trail.

This is also where you’ll find one of the city’s most historic landmarks – the Woodstock House, dating back to the 1700s and still going strong for her age.

You can spend all day perusing the expansive grounds and take advantage of the best views of the entire village and parallel River Nore.

Best of all, you can fuel up or cap off your day at the grounds’ charming tea rooms. But don’t wait too long – tea rooms close October through April!

Receiving high praise across the board, one recent visitors revealed, “Woodstock Gardens is a perfect place to visit with family and friends, even better it’s dog friendly. Really lovely walk around the gardens and into the wood, you can really spend as much as as little time as you’d like.”

Getting Here And Where To Stay

Inistioge is located in Kilkenny County, away from other major cities.

Many of Ireland’s most popular destinations are spread out, working in Inistioge’s favor, as you can conveniently fly into Dublin or Cork.

From Dublin, you can hop aboard a train or bus to Kilkenny, then transfer busses or hail a cab to Inistioge.

Expect train tickets to start around $10 by booking directly through the Irish Rail.

You could rent a car too but know that Ireland does require International Driver’s Licenses for non-European residents.

From Cork, it’s a longer train ride but only about $6 more than Dublin.

The same goes for departures from Shannon, with an additional stop, meaning Dublin is the most feasible overall.

Upon arrival, don’t expect the familiar name-brands and eyesore chain restaurants. Inistioge boasts a sense of real Ireland with traditional pubs and homey Bed & Breakfasts.

These are the top 3 Inistioge stays, according to TripAdvisor:
1. Woodstock Arms Bed & Breakfast
2. Cullintra House
3. Grove Farm House
Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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September 4, 2024
10 Stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites You Can Visit Without Leaving The U.S.

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Tourists seek out UNESCO World Heritage sites when they are traveling on vacation.

From the Taj Mahal to Stonehenge, these incredible attractions have been deemed influential and significant on a global scale.

But that doesn’t mean you have to travel the globe to find them. There are a whole host of stunning attractions you can visit right here in your own backyard. And you won’t even need a passport!

As of January 2023, there are 1,157 UNESCO World Heritage sites spread across the globe. And 24 of these sites are in the United States, with another 17 American sites currently under consideration for UNESCO status.

Here are ten of the most stunning UNESCO World Heritage site you can visit without leaving the U.S:

1. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone national park was granted UNESCO status in 1978: The first of two locations in the country to be given the honor.

The huge park covers an area of nearly 3,500 square miles and spans across three states. Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.

The most famous attraction in Yellowstone is Old Faithful: a cone geyser with an eruption height of between 106 and 185 ft. The geyser erupts between every 44 minutes and two hours, meaning that you’re sure to see this natural phenomenon on your visit.

2. Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona’s Grand Canyon national park is the most visited national park in the United States and was granted UNESCO status in 1979.

The main attraction of this site speaks for itself: the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep in parts. Visitors to the national park can also enjoy beautiful hiking trails and incredible views from every angle.

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3. Independence Hall

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Independence Hall is considered the birthplace of America and was granted UNESCO status in 1979.

The building is the centerpiece of the Independence National Historical Park and is best known for being the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed.

Visitors can take daily guided tours of Independence Hall. As a bonus, Philadelphia is home to a host of other key historical attractions.

4. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

To the untrained eye, Cahokia may look like an array of scattered hills, but this is actually the site of a pre-Columbian Native American city. The largest north of Mexico.

The site occupies approximately 5 square miles and was granted UNESCO status in 1982. When you visit Cahokia Mounds, you can learn more about the religion, culture and trade of the ancient civilization. The location is also popular with hikers.

5. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

The Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico features more than 100 caves. Three of these caves are open to the public. It is considered the most unique national park in the United States and joined the list of UNESCO sites in 1995.

Rare geological formations mean that huge stalactites cling to the roofs of many of the caves, lending them a beautiful, other-worldly feel.

Carlsbad Caverns is one of the most accessible and well-preserved of the world’s cave complexes. Tourists can walk, crawl or climb through the caves here.

6. Chaco Culture National Historical Park

The Chaco Culture National Historical Park is home to a series of culturally significant sites and was granted UNESCO status in 1987.

This heritage site was once home to the Ancestral Puebloans. Within the national park tourists can visit the Aztec Ruins National Moment and several smaller Chaco sites too.

The whole area is rich in heritage. Visitors can explore distinctive architectural remains, as well as the sacred Chaco Canyon.

7. The Statue of Liberty

Considered a symbol of American freedom, the Statue of Liberty is an icon of New York City.

It was granted UNESCO status in 1984 but has sat in New York Harbor for almost 100 years longer than that, having been gifted to the people of America by France in 1886.

The significance of the Statue of Liberty needs very little explanation, but a visit to see it in person is something every American should do at least once in their lifetime.

8. Everglades National Park

Many people head to Florida for the beaches or the theme parks, but if you’re spending your vacation in the State then you should carve out time to visit the Everglades.

Granted UNESCO status in 1979, the Everglades National Park is an endangered ecosystem. Covering an incredible 1.5 million acres, it boasts the largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere.

The Everglades are also a popular location for alligator spotting and is home to thirteen endangered and ten threatened species.

9. Taos Pueblo

Located in the heart of New Mexico, Taos Pueblo was granted UNESCO status in 1992. Visiting this site feels like stepping back in time.

First constructed during the 13^th and 14^th centuries, Taos Pueblo is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities across the United States.

The site exposes visitors to over 1,000 years of Native American tradition. As well as exploring the community, tourists can also purchase art and crafts created by the residents.

10. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a scenic heritage site that forms part of a wider group of four national parks, which were each granted Heritage status at different points.

Glacier Bay was listed in 1979, then Kluane and Wrangell–St. Elias were added in 1992 and Tatshenshini-Alsek in 1994. Only Glacier Bay and Wrangell–St. Elias are located in the United States. Both sites are in Alaska, whilst the other national parks are in Canada.

Glacier Bay is a site of outstanding natural beauty year-round. It covers 3.3 million acres, and tourists can explore mountains, glaciers, and even rainforests here.

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April 26, 2023
Travelers Should Visit These 10 World Heritage Sites Before It Is Too Late
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Imagine a world with no Yellowstone National Park, Stonehenge, Machu Picchu, or Egypt’s Pyramids. While it is easy to take some of these destinations for granted, their survival is not guaranteed. Luckily, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, better known as UNESCO, works to identify, protect, and preserve cultural and natural heritage around the world.

What A UNESCO Designation Means

The idea behind UNESCO is to promote peace and security by increasing intercultural education and understanding of our shared world heritage. In an attempt to safeguard our world heritage for ourselves and for future generations, UNESCO designates certain sites of cultural and natural importance to its World Heritage List. Ideally, sites on the list receive special protection through their recognition, but that is not always the case.

UNESCO World Heritage In Danger

In addition to maintaining the World Heritage List, UNESCO also identifies sites that are in danger. Development, conflict, and natural disasters are all reasons why a World Heritage Site could be in danger. Just this week, UNESCO placed three new sites on the list of World Heritage In Danger.

The Ukranian Port City of Odessa, the Landmarks of the Ancient Kingdom of Saba in Yemen, and the Rachid Karameh International Fair of Tripoli in Lebanon were all simultaneously given UNESCO status and placed on the World Heritage In Danger list. If urgent action is not taken, these important sites could be damaged or lost forever.

Some of the sites on the World Heritage in Danger list are currently not safe for tourists to visit because of political conflict. However, many of the sites are accessible and can be rewarding destinations to visit. We’ve included some of each in hopes that political conflicts will give way to peace so that we can explore all the beautiful sites the world has to offer.

Below is our list of the top 5 Cultural and top 5 Natural World Heritage Sites in Danger to visit before it is too late.

Top 5 Cultural World Heritage Sites In Danger

Historic Center Of Vienna, Austria
- What is it: Vienna’s historic center has been an important location for centuries. Notably, Vienna played an important role in musical history and is home to significant Baroque castles and other architectural gems.
- Why is it in danger: The integrity of Vienna’s Historic Center has been under threat since 2017 because of the development of the close proximity of high-rise buildings and development.
- How to visit: Vienna is best explored on foot, and when visitors are in need of a break, the top things to do are enjoy coffee and people watching at a cafe or listening to some live music at one of the many concert halls.
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The Old City Of Jerusalem And Its Walls
- What is it: Jerusalem is a renowned historical and holy city for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The city contains 220 historic monuments, including the Wailing Wall, which is considered to be the most important religious site in the world for Jewish people.
- Why is it in danger: Jerusalem was placed on the list in 1982 because of deliberate destruction and remains on the list today because of other threats, including deterioration and the impact of archaeological excavations.
- How to visit: The Wailing Wall, also referred to as the Western Wall, is a Jewish site of importance, but even non-Jews will find it to be a spiritual experience. Just be sure to follow all directions and be respectful. Men will need to wear a yarmulke (available on-site if you don’t have one), and women need to cover their legs and shoulders. There are separate areas for men and women to visit, so be sure to follow the signs.
Chan Chan Archaeological Zone, Peru
- What is it: Chan Chan was the capital of the Chimu Kingdom which peaked in the 15^th century before ultimately falling to the Incas. It was the largest city in pre-Columbian America.
- Why is it in danger: Chan Chan is under threat of loss because of the high rate of deterioration due to a lack of conservation and maintenance.
- How to visit: Be sure to stop at the site’s museum to see how people lived at Chan Chan. The archaeological site is extensive and exposed to the elements – so bring sunscreen, a hat, and water if you plan on exploring.
Cultural Landscape And Archaeological Remains Of The Bamiyan Valley, Afghanistan
- What is it: The Bamiyan Valley’s eight archaeological sites include ancient Buddhist monasteries carved into cliffs, cave art, and giant Buddha statues. For many centuries, the Bamiyan Valley was an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
- Why is it in danger: The Bamiyan Valley suffered great losses in 2001 when Taliban bombings deliberately destroyed two giant Buddha statues.
- How to visit: Even though the Buddha statues have been destroyed, the site is still worth a visit. However, given Afghanistan’s current political climate, now is not a safe time to visit.
Timbuktu, Mali
- What is it: Timbuktu dates back to the 5^th century and became an important hub of Islamic education in the 15^th and 16^th centuries. Today three earthen mosques remain along with 16 mausoleums and are terrific examples of traditional earthen architecture and building techniques.
- Why is it in danger: Timbuktu was originally placed on the list because of development and desertification. The site remains in danger because of the ongoing war in Mali and the occupation and intentional destruction of heritage sites by armed groups.
- How to visit: Timbuktu is not a safe destination to visit due to war and terrorist attacks.
Top 5 Natural World Heritage Sites In Danger

Tropical Rainforest Of Sumatra, Indonesia
- What is it: Three national parks make up the Tropical Rainforests site on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. The rainforests have an incredible amount of biodiversity and are home to Sumatran orangutans, tigers, and rhinos, as well as over 10,000 species of plants and the highest volcano in Indonesia.
- Why is it in danger: The rainforests were listed in 2011 because of rampant poaching, illegal logging, and planned infrastructure development in the area.
- How to visit: Animal and nature lovers who want to view wildlife in their natural habitat should hire a local guide for the best chance at finding some. Guided treks are also a great way to learn about the nature, culture, and people of Sumatra.
Islands And Protected Areas Of The Gulf Of California, Mexico
- What is it: With 244 islands, islets, coastal areas, and 39% of the world’s marine mammal species, the Gulf of California’s protected areas are a hub for oceanographic study and have been referred to as the “Aquarium of the World.”
- Why is it in danger: Illegal and unsustainable fishing practices have placed marine life under threat.
- How to visit: The Gulf of California is a large area to explore. Divers who want to have a glimpse of the incredible marine life can use areas like Los Cabos as a base for a diving adventure.
Everglades National Park, Florida
- What is it: The Florida Everglades is a unique wetland ecosystem that includes mangrove forests, marshes, and seagrass. It is home to alligators, manatees, and panthers, as well as a large number of bird species, some of which are endangered.
- Why is it in danger: The Everglades are considered to be in danger because of the threat of storms, pollution, invasive species, and urban developments.
- How to visit: The park has loads of paddling trails where visitors can canoe or kayak through the mangroves. Experienced paddlers can bring their own boat or rent one, while novices might feel more comfortable taking a guided tour.
Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania
- What is it: Tanzania’s incredible Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Africa. It is home to elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, and hippos, to name a few.
- Why is it in danger: The biggest threat to the game reserve is illegal poaching, and it has had a devastating effect on the population of the park’s wildlife. Additional threats come from nearby uranium mines, logging, and the proposed construction of a dam.
- How to visit: The best way to explore Selous is to hire a local guide to take you on a Jeep tour. The guides know the park and its animals well and provide the best chance of seeing wildlife up close.
Rainforests of the Atsinanana, Madagascar
- What is it: The six national parks that make up the Rainforests of the Atsinanana are home to some truly unique plants and animals, all of which depend on the health of the ecosystem for their survival.
- Why is it in danger: Wildfires are a huge risk to the health of the rainforests. There are also problems with poaching, mining, and illegal logging.
- How to visit: If you are traveling to Madagascar to see the beautiful rainforests make sure you give yourself enough time. The parks are enormous, and there is so much to see. It is best to hire a guide and do a multi-day trek.
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January 30, 2023