Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Turkey

There is far more to Turkey than the packed holiday resorts. Explore the sites away from the crowds to find ancient architecture and some extraordinary landscapes. From snow-like natural wonders to hippy beach retreats, here is my choice for 20 of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Turkey…

1. Istanbul – the most populous city in Turkey and the country’s economic, cultural and historic centre

One of the most ancient cities in the world, Istanbul at times overshadowed even ancient Rome, serving as capital first to Byzantine and then to the Ottoman Empire.

At every turn in the city you fall over beauty. It teems with Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman palaces, mosques, churches, monasteries, monuments, walls, and ruins. The Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the mosques of Süleymaniye and the Blue Mosque dominate the skyline.

2. Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz – a spectacular lagoon made up of varying shades of turquoise

Few places on earth offer such untouched beauty as the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz. This area of Turkey is what dreams are made of and yes, the water is a spectacular shade of turquoise. Not only is the water the most striking shade of blue, but the lagoon is teeming with sea life.

Snorkeling, Kayaking, and swimming in the lagoon with give you the opportunity to see turtles and sea horses up close, so be sure to bring your gear along with you. Blue Lagoon is located in a protected park, so there is a nominal entrance fee and at times it can get crowded, but no matter how many people are there, you will enjoy a picturesque experience.

3. Cappadocia – a striking semi-arid region known for its distinctive “fairy chimneys”

Cappadocia is a stunning region of rock formations, subterranean churches and underground cities, the scale of which is simply overwhelming. There are hundreds of underground buildings in the region. Two of the most unmissable are Kaymakli, which has eight levels, and Derinkuyu, which descends some 55 metres.

Nevsehir, the capital of Cappadocia, is a great place to base yourself when visiting. The surrounding area is a popular trekking route amid the breathtaking and alien rock formations called Peri Bacalari or ‘Fairy Chimneys’ – easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Turkey.

4. Pamukkale – a town in western Turkey known for the mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down white travertine terraces

Few people can ever say that they’ve seen snow at 40C. A hot spot on the backpacking trail and one of Turkey’s most impressive natural wonders, the Pamukkale mineral spa, translated as ‘cotton castle.’

Stunning white terraces of calcium-rich warm waters spring up from the earth and cascade over low cliffs, forming the crisp, snow-like landscape.

5. Kure Mountains National Park – a beautiful national park is still largely undiscovered by tourism

Natural beauty will envelope you in Kure Mountains National Park. Although the area has only been an official national park since 2000, it has become one of the hottest attractions in Turkey.

With over 129 bird species, 9 amphibian species, and 48 mammals so far documented, there is no limit to what you might see in this beautifully complex national park.

The park’s beauty is not simply a statement made by a few, but something stated by many as Kure Mountains National Park is on the global list of must-see places before you die. Hiking through this area is an exciting and breathtaking experience.

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Scotland

Lonely Planet once mentioned it as one of the must-see countries to visit and if you’re a regular reader of this blog you will know how much we love the place. Yes parts of it can be remote, yes a trip here needs a little planning but Scotland (especially the Highlands) is where you’ll find some of the best natural scenery in Europe, if not the world. From its grand historic capital to its picture-perfect lochs, here are 21 of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland…

1. Glencoe – a jaw-droppingly beautiful valley and one of the best places to visit in Scotland

If you were to pick a place that represents Scotland’s wild natural beauty at its finest then many would choose Glencoe. It’s an ancient volcanic glen with a grim history and breathtakingly beautiful scenery – the valley is flanked by imposing velvety-green peaks so tall that their tops are often shrouded in grey misty clouds.

It was also the site of the infamous Glencoe massacre where in 1692 the MacDonald clan was ruthlessly slaughtered by the government in power at the time. It’s a sixteen-mile drive from Fort William and although it will probably be raining when you arrive, this will only add to its mysterious atmosphere.

2. Isle of Skye – once voted one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world

Once voted the fourth best island in the world (by National Geographic magazine) the tranquil and stunningly beautiful Isle of Skye – part of the Hebridean islands located off the northwest shore of Scotland – offers particularly beguiling scenery.

This is where the waves of the turbulent Atlantic sea crash against the rough and rugged shores, towering sea cliffs, and long sweeping sandy beaches. Inland scenery doesn’t get any less dramatic with formidable mountain ranges, boggy moorland, and vast expanses of barren wilderness punctuated with tiny lochs and pretty villages.

3. Edinburgh – Scotland’s fine and majestic capital

Scotland’s proud and grand capital easily deserves a place on this list. One of the UK’s most visited tourist destinations (after London) this city mixes old-world charm and historic architectural grandeur with a dash of the contemporary thrown in for good measure. It’s orientation probably helps too – Edinburgh’s skyline is dominated by the castle which sits atop a craggy volcano, gazing down over the city.

For other city highlights head for the labyrinthine of beautifully preserved medieval cobbled streets which make up the Old Town, Prince’s Street (Scotland’s most famous shopping street) and the spooky – and supposedly haunted – series of underground chambers otherwise known as the ‘vaults’. If you’re planning a longer stay check out our post on cool and unusual hotels to stay in Edinburgh.

4. Ben Nevis – the highest mountain in the British Isles and a popular beauty spot

Standing at 1,344 metres, Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the United Kingdom and is the mountain that all visiting climbers want to conquer. Many base themselves at nearby town Fort William to give them a few days to explore the imposing peak and its tranquil neighbour, Glen Nevis.

Both places offer scenery of outstanding beauty – Glen Nevis is one of the best examples of a glaciated valley in Scotland with cascading waterfalls, a dramatic gorge and bracken-covered slopes and Ben Nevis, once climbed, offers some the best views in the country. If you are considering tackling the climb just make you go fully prepared, check the weather conditions before you go, and allow for a full day’s climbing.

5. Glenfinnan Viaduct – the scenic railway viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is now one of the most popular places to visit in Scotland thanks to it starring in many a Harry Potter film. Attracting thousands from all over the globe, it’s a beautiful railway viaduct built in 1901 with a curving, 21-arch span, on the West Highland Line in Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire. A Jacobite steam train also runs from here all the way to Fort William and Mallaig in summer months with regular trains available the rest of the year. As well as being visually striking with truly stunning surroundings (the railway overlooks beautiful Loch Shiel), it’s also a special place with a very unique atmosphere!

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Germany

A country of contrasts, Germany is a mix of age-old traditions and forward-thinking ideals. It’s also a land blessed with acres of impossibly beautiful countryside dotted with chocolate-box-pretty villages, thick moody forests, romantic river valleys, vast expanses of vineyards, perfectly preserved half-timbered towns and of course not forgetting the stunning splendor of the Alps. From our many trips to this charming European country over the years, and Berlin aside here is our collective choice for 20 of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Germany…

1. The Black Forest – dense evergreen forests and picturesque villages and a famous beauty spot in Germany

A land of cuckoo clocks and cherry gâteaux, this place is so beautiful and magical it even inspired some of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales. It covers a large area within which you’ll find the spa town of Baden-Baden (otherwise known as the “Jewel of the Black Forest”), Freiburg (a vibrant university city) and Offenburg (the capital of the wine region) as well as many other pretty quaint German villages.

However, the most attractive part of this area can be seen by driving or hiking along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße – a fantastic high road where you can journey through the rolling hills and valleys, thick forests of black fir trees and mist covered lakes. One of the most beautiful lakes in the area is Titisee, try catching the Zapfle-Bahnle train alone the scenic route around the lake or follow the lake road where you can take in the beauty of the tranquil water.

2. Neuschwanstein Castle – the fairytale castle which is one of the most famous places to visit in Germany

This stunning iconic image of Germany is, in fact, the former 19th century home of the late Ludwig II of Bavaria (otherwise known as the mad king!) The gorgeous Romanesque building is so fairy-tale esque it inspired the famous Disney castle. Although it’s often overrun with tourists this doesn’t detract from the awe-inspiring beauty of this castle both inside and out.

The most picturesque view of the magnificent structure is from Mary’s Bridge, a stop halfway up the hill towards the castle. Make sure you also pay a visit to the lovely Hohenschwangau Castle which is located nearby.

3. Lake Königssee – one of Germany’s most beautiful lakes and one of the best places to explore in the country

Located in the southeastern portion of Germany and on the border of Austria, is the stunning Lake Königssee – Germany’s deepest and cleanest lake. It’s also often hailed as Germany’s most beautiful Alpine Lake, which given the competition is quite an accolade!

Bavaria is a particularly scenic place to visit in Germany and this corner of the region has been used for outdoor recreation for centuries – both Bavarian royalty and the local rulers of Berchtesgaden and Salzburg once hunted here. In keeping with its pure and natural surroundings, only electric-powered passenger ships, rowing, and pedal boats have been permitted on the lake since 1909.

4. Sylt – a breathtaking tranquil island in the Frisian archipelago

Often forgotten by foreign travellers, the Island of Sylt (part of the German Frisian Islands) is connected to the mainland by the Hindenburgdamm causeway. With several lovely resorts, 40km of sandy beaches, an unusual shoreline, and plenty of breathtaking nature, Sylt is well worth a visit and because it’s separated from the mainland it has remained relatively untouched.

The houses on the island are built in the delightful Fristian-style and the cliffs lining the coast are slowly eroding which has created an unusual and unique pattern. Fields of flowers, colourful lighthouses, and sparsely populated villages have made this an exclusive hidden gem and playground for the rich and famous.

5. Eibsee – a crystal clear, deep blue lake in Bavaria which is a wonderful beauty spot in Germany

Eibsee, is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Those that are looking to relax on the water enjoy visiting Eibsee Lake. Summers here give visitors the opportunity to enjoy kayaking, fishing, or swimming a the crystal clear waters the Eibsee Lake and the quaint town located at the eastern shores of the lake draw in visitors year after year.

Located in Bavaria, Germany, the lake boasts 177.4 hectares of pristine waters. If you intend on visiting Eibsee, be sure to bring along your camera, however, the pictures will not do justice to the bright blues depicted in real life.

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Brazil

Famous for its love of dancing, fun, festivals, and football, Brazil is one of those bucket list countries most want to visit in their lifetime. It’s a unique land known for its firsts and originality and is home to the world-famous Rio Carnival, Samba, Capoeira, and of course Caipirinha. The country is filled with beautiful people and gorgeous beaches the most famous being Copacabana Beach. The vastness and variations of the landscapes make Brazil a particularly interesting destination and having spent many months traveling around this extraordinary country, here is my choice for the best and most beautiful places to visit in Brazil…

1. Rio de Janeiro – the famously stunning, sunny and fun-loving city 

A list of beautiful places in Brazil would not be complete without Rio de Janeiro. Everyone I know that has visited loves the place.

The city offers something for everyone. Do you want to go hang-gliding? Then do it – the birds-eye view of Rio is hard to beat! Trekking? That is also a possibility. Fancy visiting one of the seven world wonders? Go ahead, but do set a couple of hours aside since the ride up to Christ the Redeemer takes a little while.

Bored of hectic city life? Then take a tour to the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and then finish the day enjoying the nightlife in Lapa, a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro which offers bars and clubs which cater to all tastes.

2. Chapada Diamantina, Bahia – a stunning place to explore in Brazil

The gorgeous National Park Chapada Diamantina takes its name from the steep cliffs in the region as well as to the diamonds that where once found here. 

Visiting the national park you will be provided a smorgasbord of beautiful views of the landscapes from different cliffs. You will see canyons, waterfalls, natural swimming pools, caves, and much more. It’s definitely one of those beautiful places which will stay with you even after you leave.

3. Iguazú Falls, Paraná – the world-famous natural attraction

I don’t think a list of beautiful places in Brazil would be worth the name unless Foz do Iguaçu was part of it. The Iguazú falls consist of more than 270 waterfalls of different sizes which border Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay are a truly amazing spectacle.

If in Brazil (or any of the other bordering countries) do not miss the opportunity to see what is one of Mother Nature´s greatest expression of the beauty in our world.

4. Búzios, Rio de Janeiro – a beautiful Brazilian resort set on an ocean peninsula

A resort town with roughly 34,000 residents, Búzios is the place to go when you want calmness and serenity, and a break from the hustle and bustle of a tourist’s life. A lot of the people who live there are fishermen, and it offers all sorts of water activities, including swimming and surfing.

In fact, you’ll find a little bit of everything in this town, including shopping, restaurants, bars and lounges, art museums, and just about anything else you need to make your vacation unforgettable.

5. Florianópolis, Santa Catarina – home to 60 beaches, sun, sand and waves

Located in the southern part of Brazil, Florianópolis has a total of 60 beaches and is noted for its surfing opportunities. It bases its economy mainly on tourism and information technology, so tourists can find a lot to do there.

Radical sports and nature offer some of the best opportunities for tourists, as well as activities that include mountain climbing, hang-gliding, rowing, and paragliding. It is connected to the continent by three bridges, one of which is the Hercilio Luz Bridge, which is famous but is now closed.  

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Philippines

 There are more than 7,000 reasons to visit the Philippines, with a coastal length twice as that of the United States. The Philippines boasts stunning and practically endless white sandy beaches and an underwater world which is no less spectacular. It also doesn’t hurt that six months out of a year, you will have nothing but sunshine and tan lines. If you come for the culture and cuisine, you won’t be disappointed: There are that 300 years of Spanish occupation, pre-Hispanic trade with the Chinese, Sri-Vijayan escapees from the Malay peninsula, and aboriginal people keeping up with the demands of 21st-century living. So if you are ready to call it a tropical holiday in a country of more than 7,000 islands, here are of the best and most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines…

1. El Nido – one of the most famously beautiful places to visit in the Philippines

This small beach town perched on the edge of Bacuit Bay in northern Palawan is famous for its more than 50 karst limestones rising vertiginously out of cerulean waters teeming with colourful corals and fish. Named at various times by various agencies to be one of the most promising destinations in the world, El Nido, and the province it belongs to, is an ultimate beach lovers’ paradise without the suffocating forest of beachside hotels (yet) ruining the natural view.

Best explored on an island-hopping spree, El Nido islets and islands hide in their bosoms cavernous depths, sumptuous lagoons, uninhabited stretches of powder-fine, dazzling white-sand beaches, and wildlife not found anywhere else in the country. An arduous ferry ride to the north and an equally long bus ride to the south bring the adventurous traveller to the emerald lakes of Coron and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, Puerto Princesa Underground River.

2. Boracay Island – one of the most stunning beauty spots in the world

This dog-bone shaped island epitomizes beach bumming and partying from sundown to sun up. Rightfully the beach capital of the Philippines, Boracay’s crown jewel is the 4-kilometre long White Beach whose powder-fine sands and sumptuous turquoise waters give the Caribbean a run for its money.

As the premiere tropical escape of the country, Boracay has everything you may expect from a major city – international cuisine, five-star hotels, and riotous, booze-induced nightlife. If you’ve had enough of the madness, escape to Puka Beach to the north where solitude, swaying palms, and pounding surf will keep you company. Easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines, if not the world! 

3. Siquijor – the pretty and mystical island to explore in the Philippines

In Filipino folklore, Siquijor enchants with its mystic traditions and equally enchanting native, albeit raw, beauty.

A small island floating between central and southern Philippines, Siquijor was once the stronghold of Catholic missionaries in the region best exemplified by well-preserved 300-year-old churches and a convent, a national treasure and said to be the largest in the archipelago.

4. Sagada – the unique destination to explore in The Philippines

This landlocked town in the aptly named Mountain Province of north-central Philippines is a storehouse of Ifugao culture which remains alive and well to this day.

Coffins hanging by the cliff-side and unbelievably sculpted rice terraces are as natural scenery as the verdant karst mountains spread out on your feet. Sagada, due to its high-altitude location, opens you up into the world of freezing nights and misty mornings while the rest of the country is parched with sweltering heat.

5. Davao City – a popular place to visit in The Philippines

The transport, commercial, economic and educational hub of southern Philippines, Davao is a delightful mix of “colorful life, wildlife and city life.” Here, you have a city ruled with an iron fist, which means petty thievery is next to non-existent, clean streets are the norm, and the comforts of civilization – shopping malls, WiFi connection, cafes, universities – are all within arm’s reach.

Davao is an expatriates favorite because it is a liveable city within close distance to a wealth of satellite attractions and cultural heritage that the Spanish conquistadores did not manage to subsume. Join the throng of Kadayawan Festival and witness the “lumad” (indigenous peoples) in their traditional thanksgiving celebrations as they beseech divine guidance and express their gratitude with a bountiful harvest and native dancing at the foot of the Philippine’s highest peak, Mount Apo.

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in China

As the world’s oldest civilization and combined with huge areas of gorgeous unspoiled natural beauty (and the more recent leaps into modernity), China is one seriously interesting travel destination. Its gigantic size makes a condensed list a very tall order, but here is my choice for the best and most beautiful places to visit in China…

1. Yangtze River – the longest and most beautiful river in Asia

The longest river in Asia holds great historical, economic, and cultural importance to the country. It accommodates the controversial Three Gorges Dam which is the largest hydro-electric power station in the world.

It also thought by many to divide Northern and Southern China; both areas are immensely different in terms of climate, culture, economics, folk customs, and landscape. Along the river, there are many areas of historical interest, as well as much natural beauty.

Because of its vast size, one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the river is by taking a cruise or a tour of the area. Independent Asia specialists Exotissimo offers a cruise that includes stops at the mysterious Fengdu Ghost City and the precious stone fortress, Shibaozhai.

2. Zhangye Danxia Landform – one of the most stunning places to explore in China

This is also known as the painted mountains of Danxia and consists of a part of the Gobi Desert with layers of different rock formations that took centuries to form, all of which come in many different colors and textures.

If you step back and view it, you can see numerous stripes of different widths and colors, making the scenery appear to be a puzzle that was put together to look just right. It is gorgeous and hilly, and when you look at it, you quickly realize that only nature could create something so unique and beautiful.

3. Guilin City – a picturesque place to visit in China which is known for its dramatic landscape of limestone karst hills

Guilin is a prefecture-level city in the northeast of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The combination of natural beauty and historic treasures make Guilin a popular tourist spot.

Crystal clear waters, attractively formed karsts covered in lush bamboos and the deep caves also make the surrounding area a place not to be missed.

4. The Great Wall of China – one of the world’s most iconic and beautiful attractions

Easily one of the most famous landmarks in the world, The Great Wall of China winds through a huge array of scenery, taking in deserts, plateaus, mountains, and grasslands.

Although it’s not just the beautiful views that make The Great Wall a must-see site in China. The historical connotations and impressive architecture mean it is certainly worth a visit. Although some sections are in ruins or have been removed altogether, this purely reminds you of its history that spans well over 2000 years.

5. Guanyin Statue – an interesting place to visit in China

Known as the Chinese Buddhist goddess of mercy, Guanyin now has her own statue at the Nanshan Temple Complex and it is nothing short of spectacular. It is an eye-catching statue that stands at 354 feet, so it towers over the area and definitely demands attention. The statue has three faces; one faces the land and the other two face the South China Sea.

The best part is that you can walk the pier leading to the statue and get very close to it, which is, in fact, the best way to realize just how amazing it truly is.

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in South Korea

While some travelers may think that South Korea is all dense metropolis and contentious borders, this country in East Asia is actually a spectacularly diverse destination that you shouldn’t overlook. Whether you’re a diehard foodie or a fan of history or you love getting into the outdoors and hiking, travel in South Korea can take whatever form you want it to. We’ve put together this collection of the best places to visit in South Korea to show you just how entertaining and varied this country can be. We’re sure you’ll add at least a few of these places to your bucketlist in no time.

1. Busan

One of the best cities in South Korea to visit is Busan, a port city that provides a nice contrast to many of the other popular city destinations. The main focus for many visitors to Busan is the city’s gorgeous beaches, with Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach the two best known. But there are plenty of cultural attractions in Busan as well, from the ancient Beomeosa Temple to the increasingly famous Gamcheon Culture Village, an electric and colorful neighborhood that was once a city slum. The other side of Busan worth exploring is the hiking trails through the nearby mountains such as Geumjeongsan, with its peaceful scenery.

2. Suwon

The South Korean city of Suwon often gets overshadowed by places like Seoul and Gyeongju, but it’s well worth a visit for its impressive scenery. With centuries of history to its name, Suwon is full of immense landmarks that are sure to impress. The most well-known place is the imposing UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hwaseong Fortress. Between its massive walls, you’ll see Haenggung Palace, Hwahongmun Gate, and Paldalmun Gate, each of which goes toward making it such a special place. As the birthplace of tech powerhouse Samsung Electronics, Suwon has a modern side to it as well, and with a visit to the Samsung Innovation Museum, you can find out about the company’s story.

3. Seoraksan National Park

To explore some of the best natural scenery in the country, travelers should make a beeline to Seoraksan National Park. Home to the nation’s third highest mountain peak, Daecheongbong, this national park is a must-see in South Korea. With impressive rocky ridges and lush flora, it’s a far cry from the urban spaces most travelers first experience upon arrival in the country. It shouldn’t be a surprise that hiking is the most popular activity in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, thanks to its running ridgelines and jagged peaks. One of the most iconic spots in Seoraksan is the so-called “Dinosaur Ridge,” a.k.a. Gongnyong Ridge, whose stone peaks really do earn it its name.

4. Boseong Green Tea Fields

A great way to take a trip out to the Korean countryside is with a visit to the gorgeous tea fields of Boseong. Home to rolling fields of tea plantations, Boseong supplies around 40% of all the tea produced in Korea. While admiring the endless rows of tea leaves is a great way to spend time here, visitors can also indulge in all manner of green-tea flavored treats, from green tea ice cream to a green tea take on the classic Korean dish, bibimbap. Come during May and you may be able to experience the area’s green tea festival, while wintertime sees tiny lights bring some cheer to the landscape.

5. Naejangsan National Park

Another great destination if you’re interested in South Korea’s natural side is Naejangsan National Park. Centered on Naejangsan Mountain, this national park is known for its autumn foliage, waterfalls, and many temples. While the colors in autumn really delight visitors, Naejangsan National Park can be visited year round, although taking to its hiking trails can be tricky when the mountains are covered with winter snow. Other attractions include Dodeok Falls, Geumseon Falls, and Naejangsa Temple, which is a standout due to the pretty trees that lead up to it.