With coastlines on the Caribbean and the Pacific, Costa Rica is a true traveller’s paradise in Central America. There is something interesting about this rugged and rain forested country that reflects a beautiful ecological story unified into the history of a beautiful, family-oriented culture. Here are some of the top reasons making Costa Rica one of the top tourist destinations of the world:

The Beaches

Costa Rica beaches are known all over the world; and a number of beach lovers visit here every year to experience the best of sun, sand and surf in Central America. The best thing about this place is you get an opportunity to enjoy the Pacific as well as Caribbean beaches. While the vivid turquoise waters and palm-tree lined white-sand beaches to the Pacific side of the country appeal to all, the Rastifari culture and laid back vibes to the Caribbean side draw a large number of visitors from all around.

The Wildlife

Costa Rica is counted among the topmost countries of America that are popular for eco-tourism. With the highest biodiversity and over 500,000 species which is about 4% of the world’s total species, the country attracts thousands of wildlife enthusiasts from all around. You would love to discover here the rainforest trails and spot a variety of howler monkeys, white-faced monkeys, a few sloths and several varieties of birds. There is also a chance to see different types of amphibians and reptiles including huge spiders, glass frogs, and venomous and non-venomous snakes during night hikes.

The Volcanoes

With more than 200 identifiable volcanic formations dating back over 65 million years, Costa Rica is a paradise of volcanoes. The country is home to six active volcanoes including the Arenal Volcano in the Northern zone, Poas Volcano in the Central Valley and Rincon de la Vieja Volcano in the Guanacaste region – the major ones. A large number of tourists visit here not just to discover the beauty of the volcanoes but also to enjoy the hot springs created by their heat. The

Rivers

Another thing that makes Costa Rica popular all over the world is its rushing rivers. It is called the white water capital with a number of famed, pristine rivers offering activities and views for people of all ages. Visitors love to enjoy swimming and hanging out by the rivers and can also discover here a number of calmer rivers by foot. Celeste River, Pacuare River and Savegre River are some of the most prominent rivers of the country that are always crowded with many holiday-makers from all over the world.

The Adventure Activities

With miles of coastline, Costa Rica is known to be an adventure haven offering an array of options. Be it zip-lining through the rainforest or surfing along the Pacific coast, you are sure to be amazed by world-class water sports opportunities here. While zip lining is one of the best adventures in the country, visitors will have canopy tours, canyoning, surfing, hiking, white water rafting, fishing and snorkelling to choose from.

Flanked by the Caribbean Sea on one side and dense jungles on the other, Belize is among the world’s most loved tourist destinations! If you haven’t been to this pint-sized country yet, here’s our list of wonderful reasons that’ll encourage you to fly down to Belize.

Maya Ruins

One of the world’s most enigmatic civilisations, Maya Ruins are Belize’s topmost tourist attraction drawing history lovers from all over the world. Belize is known as the epicentre of the ancient Maya World with dozens of ruins scattered all around the country. This ancient civilisation flourished here for almost 3000 years; and the towering temples are a tribute to their god-like ancestors. Xunantunich, Caracol, Altun Ha, Cahal Pech and Lamanai are some of these spectacular sites you can explore.

Beaches

Belize beaches are loved world over for their incredible beauty and pristine locations. With a stunning coastline hugging the Caribbean Sea and over 200 offshore islands, the country has many beaches appealing with their crystal-clear turquoise coloured waters, golden and white sands and thrilling water sports opportunities. Silk Caye, Laughing Bird Caye, Half Moon Caye and Tobacco Caye are some of the most popular beaches to discover in Belize.

Wildlife

Belize is one of Central America’s famous spots for eco-tourism. The bush and tropical rainforest cover half the country. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot the most amazing wildlife on earth here, from jaguars to crocodiles to tapir. Be it a stroll through the Belize Zoo or the wildlife camping in the Chiquibul Jungle, you are certain to have an amazing wildlife experience here. Besides, Payne’s Creek National Park, Sarstoon Temash National Park and Cockscomb Basin National Park are some other major wildlife parks you can explore in the country.

The Great Blue Hole

A couple miles off the coast of Belize, the Great Blue Hole is a giant marine sinkhole, about half a mile in diameter. The largest sea hole in the world, it is a world-class destination for recreational scuba divers. Day trips to the Great Blue Hole are offered from the coastal communities. Scuba divers love to dive in the crystal clear waters of this natural wonder and to discover myriad species of marine life including tropical fish and mesmerising coral formations.

Adventure

Miles of coastline make Belize a true haven for adventure seekers. Tropical rainforest, mountain ranges, rivers and caves – all are a treat for the sore eyes and present wonderful adventure opportunities including birding, hiking, spelunking, racing river rapids and more. Those who are travelling with families can take canoe trips down the Macal, Sittee and Belize Rivers for a relaxing holiday experience whereas those seeking thrill can take delight in water sports on the beaches and hiking tours to remote jungles where they can catch a glimpse of a passing tapir or jaguar.

There’s much more to Florida than just theme parks and beaches! This time visit this sunny US state to enjoy the cultural experiences across its incredible historical, architectural and natural sites.

Here are some of the top cultural experiences of Florida:

Explore the Salvador Dali Museum

Situated in St. Petersburg and dedicated to the works of Salvador Dali, the renowned artist, the art museum houses eight of the 18 famous “Masterworks “of Dali, considered to be the most comprehensive collection outside of Europe. Here you can spend an entire day with your family wandering through the awe-inspiring building and gazing at the colourful, though-provoking creations.

Take a stroll through Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is a contemplative garden and a bird sanctuary set among the rolling hills of Lake Wales. With a huge garden and a 205-foot tall Singing Tower, this place offers breathtaking views along with a peaceful environ. With a history dating back to 1929, the gardens are a National Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Families as well as honeymooners can enjoy long strolls soaking up the views of citrus trees and subtropical gardens and listening to the amazing sounds of the Singing Tower carillon.

Treat your eyes to fine art in the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens

Situated in Jacksonville, Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is a place of interest for kids as well as history enthusiasts. Boasting nearly 5,000 objects in its permanent collection, one of the finest art collections in the region, the museum takes you back to 2100 BC. The museum has 5 acres of historic gardens with early 20th century garden design, and features like reflecting pools, fountains, antique ornaments, and sculptures.

Enjoy a performance of the Miami City Ballet

There’s no end to entertainment in Florida and Miami City Ballet is one of the charming attractions of the state. With over 50 dancers and 100 ballets, it is among the largest professional ballet companies in the USA treating visitors to lovely performances all throughout the year. The Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami, Kravis Center in West Palm Beach and Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale are the top venues to catch a performance.

Take delight in the beautiful foliage in Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Internationally recognised for its rich history and nature preservation, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a huge waterfront property in Miami, perfect for a beautiful day out. While the architecturally rich mansion grounds here are a wonderful treat to explore, visitors can enjoy strolls through the lush manicured gardens and take delight in the beauty of around 2,000 orchids. If you want to escape the hustle of Miami, you can head to this enchanting place and relax amidst the beautiful and peaceful natural landscape.

Home to a large population of birds and animals including many endangered ones, a holiday in the USA is incomplete without exploring its famous national parks and protected areas. So, here’s our list of the must visit national parks in the country.

Yellowstone National Park

Initially inhabited by Native Americans, Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the country. Founded in 1872, this park is famed for its surreal surroundings and is one of the finest megafauna (comprising of giant or large animals) habitats. Gray wolf, coyote, threatened Canadian lynx, grizzly bears, bison, elk, mule-deer, pronghorn and cougar are among the animals that can be spotted here. There are 9 visitor centres and a few museums in and around the park. Camping, horseback riding and other recreational activities can also be enjoyed here.

Yosemite National Park

Established in 1890, Yosemite National Park is home to a large population of native birds and animals including a few endangered ones as well. Black bear, coyote, raccoon, Gilbert’s skink, white-headed woodpecker, river otter, gray fox, red fox, yellow-bellied marmot, white-tailed jackrabbit and brown creeper are some of the animals and birds spotted here. Besides, you can enjoy hiking and trekking around the park.

Grand Canyon National Park

A perfect spot to enjoy the picturesque views of the Grand Canyon (layered bands of red rocks) and the beautiful Colorado River, Grand Canyon National Park is a major attraction in the USA. Comprising several ecosystems and housing a large population of animals and birds, the park, expectedly, is loved by nature lovers. Coyote willow, western honey mesquite, catclaw acacia and exotic tamarisk (saltcedar), canyon tree frog, red-spotted toad, and Woodhouse’s Rocky Mountain toad can all be spotted here.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Home to around 200 species of birds, 39 different types of reptiles and 43 varieties of amphibians, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the key national parks in the country. Established in 1934, the park is an ideal place to spot a variety of wild animals in their natural habitat. About 1500 black bears call this park their home.

Grand Teton National Park

Featuring the famous 40-mile long Teton Range, Grand Teton National Park remains popular among the nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts in the USA. Found in 1929, the park is home to American black beer, snowshoe hare, porcupine, bison, pronghorn, ungulates, least chipmunk, river otter and badger. Boating and fishing can also be enjoyed in the area. Cross-country skiing is one of most popular activities here.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is among the oldest national parks in the country. Featuring nine beautiful formations and offering picturesque views, the park is a popular attraction among nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Around 79 mammals, 28 reptiles and 289 species of birds can be found in the park. Mule deer, pinyon jays, whiptail, collared lizards, desert cottontails, jackrabbits, cougars, bobcats, coyotes, badgers and gray foxes can be spotted here. Moreover, you can enjoy camping, hiking and trekking in the park.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a well-known attraction in the country. Home to over a thousand species of birds and animals including a few native and endangered ones, a visit to this beautiful national park could be an unforgettable experience. Moose, elk, skunk, bobcat, cougar, and big horn sheep can all be spotted at this park. Grizzly bear and Canadian lynx are the famous but threatened species which call Glacier National Park their home.