History and tourism education right now? The Middle East’s most easygoing country, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, better known simply as Jordan, has attracted travellers since ancient times. Today, the nation draws over four million visitors each year to its vast desert landscapes, welcoming cities and the extraordinary Dead Sea. Don’t miss these must-visit attractions, including Wadi Rum, The Temple of Hercules and more. Want to experience Jordan without the hassle of having to think about every detail? Join Culture Trip’s epic nine-day trip to ensure you spend more time exploring, and zero time planning. Read extra details on https://www.defineplaces.com/.
The ruins of Al-Mansour’s once grand palace are one of the kasbah area’s most atmospheric sights. The Saadian ruler built the opulent palace, with pavilions set amid a mammoth garden of reflective pools, during his triumphant reign, but it was plundered and destroyed soon after. Now the sparse remnants of mosaic-tiled floors, ruined pavilions, and the high enclosing walls are all that remain. There are excellent views across the medina from the top of the walls, where storks have also built their nests. After viewing the palace, head to the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter of Marrakesh. It was established in the 16th century and is now populated mainly by Muslims. The small synagogue here has been nicely restored and can be visited as can the vast Jewish cemetery.
Dubai’s architectural, cultural, and maritime heritage is showcased at the Heritage and Diving Village, with displays related to pearl diving and dhow building — two of old Dubai’s historic economic mainstays. There are also recreations of traditional Bedouin and coastal village life, with Persian homes, a traditional coffeehouse, and a small souk where potters and weavers practice their handicrafts at the stalls. Local music and dance are performed from October to April, and visitors can get advice from practitioners of traditional medicine. One of the city’s top tourist attractions, the Dubai Aquarium houses 140 species of sea life in the huge suspended tank on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall. As well as free viewing from the mall, if you enter the Underwater Zoo, you can walk through the aquarium tunnels.
The creek of Cala, now home to Sitimar Marina, has welcomed foreign sailors since Phoenician times. You can stroll into Palermo’s historic centre in the time it takes to eat a gelato. Find scores of moorings alongside friendly staff who can source ebike rentals and airport transfers. Book one of 70 or so berths online or call on VHF 74. Portorosa Marina is Sicily’s largest private port with 650 berths. From here it’s a shorter sail across to Vulcano, the closest Aeolian island. Anchor off Spiaggia di Sabbia Nera, a beautiful black-sand beach.
The island of Thirassia is located just in front of Oia. This crocodile-shaped island was separated from Santorini by a huge volcanic eruption. If you want to visit Thirassia, you can choose a 1-day boat trip (the one going to Nea Kameni’s volcano and hot springs also stops there) or take the boat directly from Amoudi Bay. The island is way quieter than Santorini. During your visit, you will enjoy the charming village of Manolas and its good taverns, and enjoy a splendid view of Santorini!
I never like to complete a list of the best things to do in any place without mentioning some great local food to try. You simply can’t leave Panama City without sampling some local dishes. One of the best in Panama, and a super authentic dish loved by almost the entire population, is Ropa Vieja. Ropa Vieja is shredded beef usually served with rice and beans and is commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch. The flavors of the meat are delicious and the entire meal is very hearty and filled with energy for a big day out. Alternatively, if you don’t do the food tour I mentioned above but you love seafood, then head to the seafood market called “Mercado De Marisco Cinta Costera” to get that fresh ceviche I was talking about above! The market is walking distance from the area of Casco Viejo or you can get a taxi for a few dollars. The market opens at 5 am and you should get there early if you want to buy fresh seafood, but if you go for the ceviche, then lunchtime is fine!