Are you looking for some of the best vacation ideas that will take you around the world? If so, you should consider UNESCO world heritage sites!
These sites are recognized by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, and scientific significance.
From ancient ruins to modern wonders, these incredible sites are perfect for luxury travelers who want an authentic experience, learn about the culture, and take amazing photos. Here are 5 UNESCO world heritage sites that should be on your travel bucket list and why.
1) The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is undoubtedly one of the most iconic UNESCO world heritage sites that should be on every traveler's bucket list. This ancient wall was built to protect the Chinese empire from invasion and stretches over 13,000 miles, making it the world's longest wall.
Fun fact: Did you know that the Great Wall is not just one continuous wall but several walls built in different periods?
According to recent statistics, over 10 million travelers visit the Great Wall of China annually. It's not surprising why so many people flock to this destination – the panoramic views of the lush mountains and the grandeur of the wall are breathtaking.
The construction of the Great Wall of China dates back over 2,000 years, making it one of the world's oldest structures.
The wall was built by hand using locally available materials such as brick, tamped earth, and stone.
Pro tip for visiting the Great Wall: When planning your travel itinerary, it's best to avoid visiting during peak season (June to August) to avoid crowds.
If you're up for a challenge, consider hiking along the unrestored sections of the wall, which offer a more authentic experience and incredible photo opportunities.
2) The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most iconic structures in the world. This breathtaking mausoleum was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.
Fun Fact: Did you know the Taj Mahal changes colors throughout the day? At sunrise, it appears pinkish-orange, glows bright white during midday, and takes on a golden hue at sunset.
Travelers from all over the world flock to the Taj Mahal to marvel at its grandeur. In fact, according to India's tourism department, the site attracts over 7 million visitors every year.
The historical background of the Taj Mahal is rich and fascinating. Construction of this magnificent mausoleum began in 1632 and took over 20 years.
The entire complex, which includes a mosque and a guest house, was constructed using white marble and inlaid with precious gems and stones.
PRO TIPS
1. Visiting the Taj Mahal can be overwhelming due to the crowds and heat, but with proper travel planning, you can make the most of your trip. We recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
2. Also, hire a guide (we can organize that for you) who can share the history and significance of the Taj Mahal with you.
3. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay cool during your visit.
3) The Colosseum
The Colosseum in Rome is one of the world's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites, attracting millions of travelers every year.
Did you know it was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, named after the Flavian Dynasty who built it?
Fun fact alert!
In 2019 alone, more than 7.5 million people visited the Colosseum, making it one of the most visited landmarks in Italy.
It's easy to understand why: the history and culture surrounding this ancient amphitheater are fascinating.
Emperor Vespasian commissioned the Colosseum in AD 72, and took almost a decade to complete. Before it was abandoned, it was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles for over 400 years.
It's truly amazing to think about all the different types of entertainment that occurred here over the centuries.
PRO TIP
Book a guided tour (we can select a reputable one) to learn more about the history of this site. There's so much to discover, from the different types of gladiators to the elaborate construction techniques used by the Romans.
4) Machu Picchu
If you are seeking an experience of a lifetime, look no further than Machu Picchu. This UNESCO world heritage site is not only one of Peru's most famous destinations but also one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.
Built during the 15th century by the Inca Empire, Machu Picchu was abandoned by its inhabitants during the Spanish conquest in the 16th century.
It wasn't until 1911 that an American historian named Hiram Bingham rediscovered the site and brought it to the world's attention.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the exact purpose of Machu Picchu remains a mystery? It is still unknown whether it was used as a fortress, a retreat for the Inca Emperor, or a religious site.
It is no surprise that Machu Picchu is a popular destination for tourists. Over one million people visit Machu Picchu every year.
It is important to note that you need to plan and book your visit well in advance due to its popularity. We can take care of the planning from start to finish.
PRO TIPS
To fully experience Machu Picchu, we recommend arriving early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Also, don't miss out on the opportunity to hike to the top of Huayna Picchu, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the site. It is important to note that only 400 people can hike daily, so book your tickets in advance.
5) Petra
Another must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be on every luxury traveler's bucket list is the ancient city of Petra, located in Jordan. Known as the "Rose City" due to the reddish color of the rocks, Petra is a fascinating destination that transports you back in time.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the Treasury, one of Petra's most iconic buildings, was featured in the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade?
According to the Jordan Tourism Board, more than one million travelers visit Petra annually.
This shows how popular and sought-after this destination is among travelers worldwide.
Petra has a rich history that dates back to 312 BC when it was established as the capital city of the Nabataean Kingdom.
It was an important trade center for silk, spices, and incense. Later on, Petra fell under the control of the Romans, who continued to develop the city.
One of the most impressive structures in Petra is the Treasury, a temple-like building carved out of rock that stands 40 meters high.
The Treasury was believed to be used as a tomb for the Nabataean king, Aretas III. Other notable structures in Petra include the Monastery, the Roman Theater, and the Temple of Qasr Al Bint.
PRO TIP
If you want to avoid the crowds and get the best photos of Petra, plan to arrive early in the morning before the site opens to the public.
We can book a private guided tour allowing you to explore Petra at your own pace and learn about its rich history from a local expert.
Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as the site is vast and requires a fair amount of walking.
Why you need to book this type of a vacation with a professional travel advisor
While the UNESCO World Heritage sites we've mentioned in this post are certainly bucket list destinations, planning a luxury trip to these sites can be overwhelming. That's why we recommend booking with a professional travel advisor, like us!
Here are a few reasons why working with a travel agency is worth the investment
1. Insider Knowledge: Professional travel advisors have in-depth knowledge of the destinations and sites they recommend. They have visited these sites and know the best times to go, where to stay, and how to get around.
2. Customized Itineraries: Working with a travel advisor allows you to customize your itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Whether you want to stay in a luxury hotel, experience local cuisine, or participate in unique cultural activities, a travel advisor can create a personalized itinerary.
3. Stress-Free Planning: Planning a luxury trip to UNESCO World Heritage sites can be time-consuming and stressful. A professional travel advisor can handle all the logistics, from booking flights to securing entrance tickets and arranging private tours. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the experience.
4. Exclusive Access: Professional travel advisors often have access to exclusive experiences and perks that you can't get on your own. This could include VIP access to popular attractions, private tours, or behind-the-scenes experiences.
5. 24/7 Support: If something goes wrong during your trip, a travel advisor is just a phone call away. They can help you with everything from lost luggage to emergency medical situations.
In short, working with a professional travel advisor takes the stress out of planning a luxury trip to UNESCO World Heritage sites. It allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience of a lifetime.
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