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WORLD'S DESTINATIONS AND HERITAGES

Major Attractions and Festivals (Donessa & Aragon, 2023)
The world is full of attractions scattered all over the continents. These attractions are why a tourist would
want to visit a particular destination. These attractions may be man-made (malls and buildings) or natural
(beaches, mountains, forests, and rivers), and a destination country's cultural heritage may be classified into
tangible (a monument, physical artifact, or compilation of objects produced or maintained to preserve them
for generations) and intangible (the traditions inherited from the ancestors and passed on to their
descendants, such as performing arts, rituals, festive events, and knowledge and skills to produce traditional
crafts). Below are some of the attractions and cultural heritage found in major destination countries of the
world:
NORTH AMERICA
Canada
Canada, the second largest country in the world, is home to vibrant and culturally rich cities. It is a country
with much to offer visitors, from island sights to scenic mountain waterfalls. Stretching from the Atlantic to
the Pacific coasts, this former French and British colony has a rich heritage from the North Coast Indians of
British Columbia to the French explorers of Quebec. The main attractions of Canada are the following (Austin,
2023):
• Niagara Falls is a group of three (3) distinct waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, also known as the Canadian
Falls, contains the largest volume of water; Bridal Veil Falls is the smallest; and American Falls has the
highest position, but less water moves over. It is found on the southern end of the Niagara Gorge,
which crosses the boundary between New York and Ontario. It is known for its beauty and as a
powerful hydroelectric power source.
• Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Alberta's Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks and is a
UNESCO (United Nations, Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Site. It is
the home to Mount Forbes, the highest mountain in the park, and Banff, the highest town in Canada
(UNESCO, n.d.).
• Canadian National (CN) Tower is Toronto's most famous broadcast and telecommunications tower.
It features observation decks, a revolving restaurant, and an entertainment complex popular with
tourists. It is also known for the Edge Walk, which allows tourists to walk hands-free around the
tower's circumference and enjoy the magnificent views (Brittanica, 2023).
• Old Quebec City is a famous historic walled city in the country that served as a defense during the
colonial wars. It is made up of two (2) parts: Upper Town, known for its fortified ramparts (defensive
wall of a walled city), citadel, and other defensive structures, and Lower Town, which includes
landmarks such as the Place Royale (a picturesque town square with historic stone buildings and
cobblestone streets) and harbor facilities. It is an exceptional example of North America's well-
preserved, integrated, and fortified colonial town (UNESCO, n.d.).
• Victoria's Inner Harbor, located in Victoria, British Columbia, is one of the most beautiful harbors in
the world. Some of the most famous attractions in the harbor include the Robert Bateman Gallery (a
nature-inspired gallery overlooking the harbor), The Empress Hotel (a luxury waterfront hotel with a
cafe known for serving different kinds of teas), and Government Street (a street full of restaurant, and
souvenir shops where tourist can experience the local cuisine of the country).
• Ottawa Winterlude Festival is celebrated by Canadians over the first three (3) weekends in February.
During winter, the Rideau Canal becomes the world's largest skating rink and is used as a means of

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transportation. There is usually live music and other entertainment in outdoor and indoor venues
throughout the festival (Gupta, 2023).
• Quebec Winter Carnival is the largest winter carnival in the world and is celebrated annually during
the last week of January into February. The notable tradition for this festival is the Palace of
Bonhomme, the snowman mascot with a red sash. Other features include night parades, snow
sculptures, skating, and canoe races on the Saint Lawrence River (Quebec Cite, n.d.).
• The Calgary Stampede is a ten-day annual rodeo, exhibition, and summer festival celebrated in July.
It is touted as "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth". It features one of the world's largest rodeos,
stage shows, concerts, and agricultural competitions, attracting millions of tourists worldwide (Gupta,
2023).
• Celebration of Light, Vancouver, is the largest fireworks competition in the world that is held over
three (3) nights from July to August. It is the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the
world, where experts in the industry judge the design, artistry, synchronicity, and originality of the
displays together with their respective music (Gupta, 2023).
• Canada Day is the biggest celebration since this marks Canada's birth as a country. The Canadians
proudly wear red and white attire throughout the country while waving their maple leaf flags and
enjoying the fireworks and local cuisine (Gupta, 2023).

United States
The United States has some of the most iconic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes. This country brings a
wide array of beautiful attractions in almost every state, from entertainment galore in places like the Las Vegas
Strip and Times Square in New York to relaxing cabins and the sights of the impressive wilderness area
available. Some of the major attractions of this country are the following (Jain, 2023):
• Times Square New York is a major commercial intersection, neighborhood, entertainment hub, and
tourist destination in Midtown Manhattan in New York City. It is the center of the Theatre District and
is formed by the junction of Seventh Avenue, 42nd Street, and Broadway. Different events and shows
are held in this place every year, including the famous ball drop on New Year's Eve.
• Statue of Liberty, New York, formally Liberty Enlightening the World, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
of a colossal statue on Liberty Island commemorating the friendship of the United States and France.
It represents a woman holding a tablet containing the adoption date of the Declaration of
Independence (July 4, 1776) in her left and a torch in her raised right hand.
• Las Vegas Strip, Nevada, is a 4.2-mile street full of famous hotels, casinos, entertainment venues,
shows, and resorts, such as MGM Grand, Caesars Palace, and The Palazzo at the Venetian Resort. It is
one of the most popular attractions that tourists visit yearly to gamble, go to big-name shows, and eat
at various restaurants.
• Golden Gate Bridge, San Franciso, California, is a suspension bridge that crosses the Golden Gate
Strait, a channel between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. It was named as one of the
Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Its international orange color was originally meant only to be a
sealant for the steel. However, since it complements the surrounding hills and enhances the bridge's
visibility in fog, its unique color has been maintained.
• Grand Canyon, Arizona, is an immense canyon cut by the Colorado River known for its fantastic shapes
and coloration. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a National Park, and one of the Seven Natural
Wonders of the World. It is a natural structure characterized by layered bands of red rock, which
exposes millions of years of cross-sectional geological history.
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota, is a national memorial centered on a colossal
sculpture carved into the granite featuring the four (4) American presidents: George Washington,

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Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. A walkway, called Avenue of Flags,
leading toward the mountain, is lined on both sides with the flags of the United States of America.
• New Orleans Mardi Gras is a festival where people dress in costumes in the colors gold, purple, and
green (to signify power, justice, and faith) and parade around the city. Its purpose is to have a good
time eating and socializing before starting Lent. It is held every February and lasts two (2) weeks, just
before Ash Wednesday (Trip 101, 2021).
• Aloha Festivals, Hawaii, is the largest Hawaiian cultural celebration in the U.S. that aims to foster the
Aloha Spirit (coordination of mind and heart within each person) through preserving the Hawaiian
culture and celebrating the diverse customs and traditions of the state. It was previously a week-long
celebration called "Aloha Week" until it became a statewide celebration on the island of Oahu from
September to October (Aloha Festivals, 2023).
Mexico
Tourists travel to Mexico more often in search of the country's seemingly never-ending sunlight, breathtaking
landscapes, and gorgeous sandy beaches—not to mention its remarkably rich cultural legacy. The highlight of
tours is the nation's rich culture, where Aztec and Mayan (Maya, a civilization of indigenous people in Central
America) culture can be witnessed and a unique fusion of Spanish colonial influences and indigenous people
that can be seen in everything from the food to the vivid dance and music customs. Some of the famous
attractions and festivals of Mexico include (Drillinger & Dearsley, 2022):
• Chichen Itza, Yucatán is a ruined ancient Mayan city previously an urban center and regional trade
hub. The most recognizable structure is the Temple of Kukulcan/El Castillo, a four-sided pyramid with
a rectangular temple on the top that served as a place of worship to the feathered serpent God
Kukulcan.
• Copper Canyon, Chihuahua, is a series of six (6) separate canyons known for their spectacular
landscapes and opportunities for outdoor adventure. It is part of the American Cordillera Mountain
chain that stretches from North America to South America and is known as the backdrop to the most
scenic train ride in the world called El Chepe.
• Catedral Metropolitana, Mexico City, is Latin America's oldest and largest church. It was built as a
symbol of colonial and religious power of the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire,
which fell at the hands of the Spanish conquistadors. It presents a mixture of Renaissance, Baroque,
and Neoclassical architectural styles predominant during the colonial period.
• Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a festival celebrated on November 1 and 2 to honor dead
relatives and make peace with the eventuality of death by treating it familiarly. Festival goers wear
funky makeup and costumes such as skulls and skeletons, hold parades and parties, and make
offerings to lost loved ones (National Geographic, n.d.).
• Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe (Our Lady of Guadalupe) is the annual feast day on December 12. The
religious festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe pays respect to the appearance of the Virgin Mary in front
of Juan Diego, asking the bishop to build a shrine for her on Tepeyac Hill. The bishop demanded proof
of the vision, so he returned to the hill where roses were blooming even though it was almost winter
and showed the flowers to the bishop, which formed an image of the Blessed Mother, resulting in the
bishop giving his blessing to build the chapel on the hill (National Shrine, 2020).
Cuba
Cuba is brimming with culture, history, and intrigue. Its colonial cities are home to stunning ancient structures
that give the feeling of a country stuck in time. Live music permeates the cobblestone squares of the UNESCO
World Heritage Site of Old Havana. Vintage cars continue to cruise the streets. Natural beauty may be seen all
around Cuba, where coral reefs shimmer in the azure oceans. At the same time, Cuba's verdant countryside

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and magnificent islands have welcomed presidents, given sanctuary to rebels, and inspired authors worldwide.
The main attractions of Cuba are the following (Hastings, 2023):
• Habana Vieja (Old Havana) is a UNESCO World Heritage site where buildings are patterned from
Neoclassical and Baroque that were preserved from Cuban history. Attractions inside the historic city
include Catedral de San Cristobal (a cathedral with two [2] unequal towers framed by a baroque façade
where the remains of Christopher Columbus were kept before being moved to Seville, Spain), La
Bodeguita del Medio (resto-bar claiming to be the birthplace of the Mojito cocktail), and Castillo de la
Real Fuerza (a castle constructed to defend against pirate attacks).
• Varadero (Spanish term for "dry dock), located on the Hicacos Peninsula, is one of the largest and
most visited beach destinations in the Caribbean, known for its beautiful scenery and spotless white
sand beaches. Other popular activities include deep-sea fishing, golf, skydiving, and day trips to
cultural attractions such as Parque Josone (home to abundant flower gardens, a restaurant, and a
small lake) and Varadero Ecological Park (a protected natural reserve with an assortment of plants,
such as cactus and orchids, a lagoon, and a huge fauna of insects and lizards).
• Viñales Valley, Sierra de los Organos, is an outstanding karst (area of land made up of limestone)
landscape surrounded by mountains and dotted with beautiful dome-like limestone outcrops. The
area is significant for its traditional agricultural practices for growing tobacco, fruit, and vegetables.
• Festival of Fire, Santiago de Cuba, is a three-day festival featuring Cuban music, street dancing,
exhibitions, and night parties. It happens annually at the start of July. The main event consists of
burning a huge effigy of the Devil during the festival's final evening, hence the Festival of Fire (Cuban
Adventures, n.d.).
• Habano Festival, Havana, Cuba, is the world's most famous event for premium cigars. Tourists can
visit the best tobacco plantations and factories, attend conferences by industry experts, and witness
exclusive news and cigar product launches. It is a five-day event focused on introducing new cigars
under iconic brand labels and is usually held during the last week of February (Habanos, n.d.).
Panama
Known as the "Crossroads of the Americas," Panama is where North America meets South America. It is also
where the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans meet, known as the Panama Canal. The country is known for its miles
of coastlines and beaches, active volcanoes, tropical jungles, cascading waterfalls, and mountainous highlands.
The country also provides various activities and things to see, making it an ideal vacation spot for all travelers.
The main attractions of Panama are the following (Touropia, 2023):
• Panama Canal is one of the world's most iconic waterways. It divides North and South America and
connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through locks that allow ships to pass between them.
• Casco Viejo, Panama City, is an old Spanish colonial town home to iconic churches and cathedrals
such as San Francisco de Asis Church, Iglesia El Carmen Church, and La Merced Church. It is also known
for its 15th-century Siete Calles (Seven Streets), which originally constituted the city's commercial
center and river port but now consists of lively cafes, bars, and boutiques.
• Barú Volcano, Chiriqui, is the 12th-highest peak in Central America and the only place in the world
where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans can be seen simultaneously. The hike to the top of the volcano
can take up to eight (8) hours, wherein several trails can be hiked to see its different seven (7) craters
on the way to the peak (Tourism Panama, n.d.).
• Emberá Indigenous Village, Darien Rainforest, is the home of the indigenous people of Panama called
Emberá. Tourists can experience the tribes' traditions and culture by personally interacting with them,
participating in their dances and ceremonies, or going on nature trekking with them as a guide in the
rainforest (Tourism Panama, n.d.).

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• Coffee Tasting Tour, Boquete. Boquete is a mountainous town in Panama where dozens of plantations
and farms harvest coffee beans. Each coffee farm has its unique tour that includes tasting and hands-
on experience in trying out the different types of coffee, especially the Panama geisha coffee, which
gives an aromatic taste with subtle flavors of tropical fruit, peach, and bergamot (Ephanov, 2023).
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is known for its postcard-perfect beaches, luxury resorts, and a solid tourism
infrastructure. Its lush forests, mountains, and semi-desert attractions create unique opportunities for
travelers who want more than a simple beach vacation. Things to do in the country include exploring
waterfalls, hiking, visiting mountain villages, or wandering historical city centers. The main attractions of the
Dominican Republic are the following (Law & Law, 2023):
• Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, is in the capital of the Dominican Republic. It is home to many
important buildings, such as the first cathedral, monastery, university, and hospital in the "New World
(a term used to describe the continents of North and South America)." It is the city where Christopher
Columbus first landed in America.
• Whale Watching at Samana Bay. Samana is known as the "Sanctuary of the Humpback Whales"."
These whales are known for their magical songs that travel great distances through the world's oceans.
Every year, between December and March, about 2,000 humpback whales come to reproduce in the
warm waters near the shore so tourists can watch them.
• Dunas de Bani, Salinas, is a dune facing the Caribbean Sea made of volcanic rock and gray sand. These
are the tallest dunes in the Caribbean, formed by the deposits of the Bahía Stream and the Nizao River.
• Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve, Punta Cana, is a protected reserve filled with different
endangered and rare species of animals, such as the Ridgway Hawk. The place is also home to 12
freshwater lagoons and is abundant with various local species of flora and fauna (Adventure & Sunsets,
2022).
• Santo Domingo Merengue Festival. Merengue is a type of music and dance with a catchy rhythm,
created by an accordion, bass, traditional güira (a Dominican percussion instrument), and a drum that
originated in the Dominican Republic. It is the most popular festival held in the country annually in the
summer, around July or August (Adventure & Sunsets, 2022).
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is full of astonishing national parks with natural wonders such as volcanoes, waterfalls, and mystical
cloud forests that form at the top of tree canopies. The country's rich and varied culture can be seen through
monuments and museums in its capital. The main attractions of Costa Rica are the following (Kendrick, 2023):
• The Petroglyphs of Cacao, Guanacaste are drawings that cover the Cacao volcano made by the people
who lived in Costa Rica over 1500 years ago. It is a preserved site because new petroglyphs are still
being discovered, and it is believed to have been done by the Mayan communities migrating from the
north to the south countries and vice versa, depicting their ancient way of life.
• Ecotermales Hot Springs, La Fortuna de San Carlos, is a magnesium-rich hot spring heated by the
natural energy of Arenal volcano. Its natural water refreshes itself every 45 minutes because the water
is constantly moving. It also has cool water pools and a waterfall perfect for hydro massage.
• Manuel Antonio National Park, Puntarenas, is Costa Rica's smallest protected rainforest with
untamed beaches, secluded coves with coral reefs, nature trails, and thick rainforests. The national
park shelters many monkey species, rare birds, camouflaged iguanas, and purple and orange crabs.
• The National Theater in San Jose is the most beautiful building that features a classical Renaissance
columned façade topped by statues symbolizing dance, music, and fame. Its pink marble foyer

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features allegorical figures of comedy and tragedy and painted murals depicting Costa Rican Life
themes.
• Palmares Fiestas is the most famous festival in Costa Rica, held for two (2) weeks in January. It is a
celebration with various events such as concerts, stand-up comedy, sporting events, fireworks,
bullfighting, and horse parades (Go Visit Costa Rica, n.d.).
The Bahamas
The Bahamas offers many vacation experiences, such as gorgeous beaches, historic attractions, and bustling
marketplaces. Its capital attracts most tourists, wherein resorts, shops, restaurants, and entertainment
complexes can be found. Other islands offer fun activities such as fishing and visiting pink sand beaches to
bonefish.
The main attractions of the Bahamas are the following (Henson, 2023):
• Andros Island is the Bahamas' largest landmass and the home to the third-largest barrier reef in the
world. It is often called the "Bonefish Capital of the World" because its habitat and wetlands make it
ideal for fishing and boating.
• Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a protected area and the most successful marine park in the world.
The Land and Sea Park is where many divers and snorkelers in the Bahamas explore abundant marine
life and clear blue waters. It is also the home to the Bahamas' popular swimming pigs.
• Dean's Blue Hole, Long Island, is the deepest blue hole and the second-largest underwater chamber
in the world. It is a popular snorkeling and scuba diving spot that attracts many free divers due to the
lack of currents and the water's brilliant visibility.
• Pirates of Nassau Museum is a wax museum dedicated to the life and times of the Pirates in the
Bahamas and those who fought to protect the country against them. The self-guided tours allow
tourist to absorb the aspects of the lives of pirates, their battles, the weaponry used, and their living
quarters.
• Junkanoo Festival, Nassau, is the national festival of the Bahamas where goers wear their costumes
and masks made up of crepe paper, feathers, and cardboard while using homemade goatskin drums,
cowbells, and musical instruments, and dance in the streets. This bi-annual cultural highlight is held
during the early morning hours of Boxing Day (the day after Christmas) and New Year's morning from
1:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. (Bahamas Government, n.d.).
Honduras
Honduras is a tropical paradise that attracts many tourists because of its gorgeous islands, lush rainforests,
and picturesque mountains. The country has a collection of biosphere reserves, national parks, and marine
reserves. It is rich in culture because it is home to the archeological treasures of Copán, one of the finest Maya
sites in the world. Other adventures include dolphin encounters, birding tours, rafting trips, and the chance to
swim with gentle whale sharks. The main attractions of Honduras are the following (Pierce & Gambetta, 2023):
• Copan Ruins Archaeological Site is the most studied Mayan City in the world. The site is famous for
the altars scattered around the plaza, the Hieroglyphic Stairway, which holds the longest known
Mayan text, and the Acropolis, which features carved reliefs of the 16 kings of Copan.
• Comayagua Street Carpets is celebrated during the week between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday,
where huge carpets made with layers of sawdust and natural materials such as rice and flower petals
are elaborately designed to depict Biblical figures and events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus
Christ.
• Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve, Mosquito Coast, is one of Central America's few remaining tropical
rainforests. The reserve is a mosaic of lowland tropical rainforest, coastal lagoons, undisturbed

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beaches, mangroves, grasslands, and patches of pine savannah. It also harbors a rich diversity of
wildlife, such as howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, toucans, and tapirs.
• Museum of National Identity, Tegucigalpa, displays a collection of Honduran and international art
that unveils Honduras's history, from pre-Hispanic times to the present. Among the highlights found
in the museum is a virtual tour of the Mayan ruins of Copan, which tells the story of their gods and
kings and the Sala de los Próceres Hondureños, where busts (a sculpture that features the upper part
of the human body) of Honduran heroes can be found.
• Lempira Festival, Gracias is a celebration commemorated on July 20th, which marks the indigenous
leader Lempira's resistance against the colonization of the Spaniards. This vibrant festival is an
elaborate parade filled with colorful costumes and traditional dances to a vibrant display of local crafts
and culinary delights that showcase the depth of Honduran culture (National Today, n.d.).
Jamaica
Known as the "birthplace of reggae," Jamaica offers a treasure trove of African vibes and colorful natural
attractions. Its attractions range from hidden waterfalls and white-sand beaches to historical architecture,
great food, and unique ecosystems. The main attractions of Jamaica are the following (Hastings, 2023):
• Fort Charles, Port Royal, is Jamaica's oldest and best-preserved fortification that the British built to
defend against the Spanish invaders. It is a red-bricked asymmetrical fortress built in the shape of a
ship with well-preserved rows of semi-circular gun ports and adjacently lined cannons.
• Hope Botanical Gardens, St. Andrew, is the largest public green space in the Kingston metropolitan
region where various rare and beautiful species of tropical plants and trees, such as the national tree
of Jamaica called blue mahoe (a small spreading tree with flowers that open in primrose color in the
morning and orange and deep red as the day advances) can be found.
• Devon House Mansion, St. Andrew, is the home of Jamaica's first black millionaire, George Stiebel. It
features a beautiful blend of Caribbean and Georgian architecture, furnished with various curated
collections of Jamaican, English, and French antique pieces and reproductions.
• Reggae Sumfest, Montego Bay, is Jamaica's largest music festival, held annually in mid-July. Reggae
is a music style with a strong accent subsidiary beat, which became popular through the works of Bob
Marley, one of the pioneers of this music genre (Jamaica Experience, 2023).
• Portland Jerk Festival, Port Antonio, is the largest food and jerk (a style of cooking in Jamaica where
meat, vegetables, or seafood are coated in allspice and habanero and cooked over a grill) festival that
usually takes place on the first Sunday in July (Jamaica Scene, n.d.).
SOUTH AMERICA
Argentina
Argentina's distinct geography, encompassing bright deserts, tropical jungles, long ocean beaches, and
mounting rivers, is one of its main attractions. Its cultural, artistic, and architectural heritage is just as diverse,
drawing upon influences from around the world. The main attractions of Argentina are the following (Dearsley,
2022):
• Los Glaciares National Park, Santa Cruz, is the largest national park in Argentina and is home to
marvelous glaciers, glacial lakes, and mountains. This park is notable for experiencing the process of
glaciation (movement of glaciers across a landscape resulting in alteration of the terrain and carving
out unique formations).
• Teatro Colón, Buenos Aires, is one of the best buildings for opera in the world. It is internationally
renowned for its acoustics and its heritage value that showcases the influence of French and Italian
cultural architecture in Argentina.

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• Talampaya National Park, La Rioja, is a large desert preserve noteworthy for its various petroglyphs
and sightings of animals such as condors, guanacos, maras, and foxes.
• Buenos Aires Tango Festival is held during August, where dancing couples from all over the world may
participate in the Tango competition. Tango is a style of music that originated in Argentina and was
influenced by regional folk music and European classical dance music (Amigo Energy, 2023).
• Wine Tasting and Tours, Mendoza. Mendoza is a city in Argentina abundant in vineyards and wineries
that supply the whole county with excellent Malbec (purple grape used in making red wine). This
annual event takes place every March to celebrate the grape's transformation into exquisite wine after
a long harvest (Mendoza Wine Tours, n.d.).
Brazil
Brazil is a tropical paradise and an exciting cultural destination with attractions for all tastes, from glorious
beach holidays and jungle discoveries to world-class art museums and the pulsing rhythms of Rio's Carnival.
The largest country in South America, it occupies almost half the continent. It is the home to tropical and vast
stretches of rainforest filled with exotic plants and wildlife. The main attractions of Brazil are the following
(Rogers, 2022):
• Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro, is the home of the massive sculpture of Christ the Redeemer that
sits on top of Corcovado Mountain within the park. It is the largest park in Rio de Janeiro, abundant
with various wildlife such as ocelots and howler monkeys.
• Pelourinho, Salvador, is the historic city center of Brazil. Its cobblestoned streets and vibrant buildings
exemplify how indigenous African and European cultures are combined. It is where Salvador's most
beautiful churches and monasteries, such as Sao Francisco, known for its intricate carvings covered in
gold, can be found.
• Escadaria Selaron, Rio de Janeiro, is a long staircase covered with a mosaic of colorful ceramics and
glass fragments based on the colors of the Brazilian flag (blue, green, and yellow) made by the Chilean
artist Jorge Selaron. He considered this work as a tribute to the Brazilian people.
• Carnival, Rio de Janeiro is the largest, oldest, and most popular Brazil festival that showcases colorful
street parades, samba parade dances by the locals in flashy attires, and street parties. It is a week-
long event that takes place before Lent to rejoice and celebrate before they fast and abstain (Rio
Carnaval, n.d.).
• Festival de Cachaça, Paraty is the celebration dedicated to Brazil's national sugar cane liquor,
Cachaça, held during August. This festival allows goers to taste the different varieties of liquor,
experience the forro (the most popular genre of music and dance in Northeastern Brazil), and eat
some of their national dishes (Leisure Crew, 2022).
Chile
Chile has become a popular travel destination among nature lovers and adventure seekers. Travelers will find
many stunning sightseeing opportunities, from the tall peaks of mountains and endless beaches to lush
temperate forests, ancient volcanoes, and a dramatic coastline. The main attractions of Chile are the following
(Dearsley, 2021):
• Easter Island is a remote island and special territory of Chile where the famous monumental statues
called Moai were carved by the Rapa Nui people (indigenous tribes in Easter Island famous for their
stone or wood carvings and pieces of jewelry made from corals and seashells) centuries ago can be
found. The monolithic figures are made from volcanic rocks with disproportionately large heads, broad
noses, and strong lines projected out from the rest of their body.

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• Marble Caves, Patagonia, is an intricate cave system carved from solid marble over a thousand years
of glacial water erosion that shaped those curved walls. It is in General Carrera Lake, the biggest lake
in the country, which reflects its azure waters onto its marble walls.
• Torres del Paine National Park is the most visited attraction in Chile, known for its crystal lakes, snow-
capped mountains, and icy glaciers. It is named a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. It is considered the
8th natural wonder because of its huge steppes (grassland plains), jagged peaks, diverse flora and
fauna, and trails perfect for connecting with the park's heritage.
• Fiestas Patrias is the most important festival and the country's national holiday, celebrated on
September 18 and 19. It commemorates the first government assembly, which marked the
Independence Day of Chile from Spain. The festivities include dancing the country's national dance
(Cueca), showcasing rodeo skills, and locals dressing up in traditional clothing while carrying the
country's flag (Chile Today, 2020).
• Tapati is a celebration of ancient culture on Easter Island, held in February. Local people paint their
bodies with mythical images and symbols to recount the legends of their ancestors. Different
competitions are also held, such as canoeing, swimming, and haka pei – where contestants sled down
a steep mountain on banana tree trunks (Chile Today, 2020).
Peru
Peru is one of the great centers of ancient civilization. It is the home of the Inca civilization, a group of South
American Indians that exploited landscapes in diverse settings such as mountains, deserts, and tropical jungles.
They are famed for their unique art and architecture, which are evident in the natural landscapes and
attractions with terracing and mountaintop settlements they have built. The main attractions of Peru are the
following (Leasca, 2023):
• Machu Picchu (old mountain) is tangible evidence of the ancient Inca Empire and one of the World's
Seven Wonders. Also known as the "Lost City of the Incas," the site is on Andes Mountain. It is known
for its intricate stonework, impressive architectural and engineering features, and well-preserved
stone structures.
• Oasis Town of Huacachina is the home to the biggest dunes in South America and is famous for its
sandboarding activities and buggy tours. The oasis is formed by the underground water current
generated by the growth of plants and trees in the middle of the Ica Desert, a desert near the Pacific
coast of southern Peru. It creates a cooler climate compared to usual inland deserts.
• Ballestas Islands is the most popular natural attraction in Peru that serves as a sanctuary for the
country's delicate and protected species, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans, turkey
vultures, and endangered turtles.
• Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) is an ancient festival in Peru on June 24 to honor Inti, the sun god,
considered the Incan ancestor and supreme deity. This festival was initially celebrated with animal
sacrifices, dances, music, and offerings at Cusco's main square (the Inca Empire's former capital). The
festival is now a theatrical reenactment where the emperor (Sapa Inca) invokes and praises Inti,
followed by a colorful procession on the main square. The emperor delivers a speech, a symbolic llama
sacrifice is made, and a prediction for the coming year is announced (Peruvian Blog, 2023).
• Santurantikuy (The Festival of Crafts) is an annual craft fair that takes place on December 24th in the
main square in Cusco where locally made unique souvenirs such as Retablos (wooden boxes with
miniature scenes), Ayacuchanos (clay figurines), and Niño Manuelitos (baby Jesus dolls) are sold
(Peruvian Blog, 2023).

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Colombia
Colombia has a rich culture, passion, and wealthy natural landscapes. The entertainment in the country is
buzzing with life, where salsa dancing is celebrated as a part of its culture, and the nightlife is celebrated until
the early morning. As one of the biggest producers of coffee on the planet, Colombia is praised for its high-
quality coffee because its land is an ideal environment for growing and harvesting coffee beans. The main
attractions of Colombia are the following (Austin & McCrea, 2023):
• Cartagena's Old Town is the crown jewel of Colombia and one of the best-preserved historic walled
cities in the Americas. It is famous for its bougainvillea-covered balconies along the maze-like,
cobblestoned streets, which offer an exquisite experience in the era of pirates and Spanish
colonization.
• Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is an underground Catholic church constructed within the tunnels of a salt
mine. Inside the cathedral is a carved rock with tunnels that houses the Stations of the Cross and three
(3) naves (central part of the church building, from the main entrance to the part near the altar) that
represent Jesus' birth and baptism, his life and death, and his resurrection, with each part having one
(1) altar.
• Tayrona National Park is known for its palm-shaded coves and crystal-clear lagoons, such as Cabo San
Juan and La Piscina, making it a good place to snorkel and hike to see wild animals in their natural
habitat.
• Botero Museum, Bogota, houses unique paintings featuring Boterismo. Boterismo is a unique painting
style meant to critique or satirize prominent figures by exaggerating their proportions. The most
notable painting in this museum is a version of the Mona Lisa in Boterismo style, attracting tourists
worldwide.
• The Flower Festival in Medellin is held during the first two (2) weeks of August and focuses on showing
the different flowers grown around the city. The famous part of this festival is a parade involving the
silleteros (flower cultivators) who create beautiful flower arrangements and carry them on their backs
to display their creativity to the public (Elizalde, 2023).
Paraguay
Paraguay offers untamed natural beauty, scorching summers, and a fascinating colonial story. The country's
best destinations include national parks rich in giant animals, brilliantly colored birds, and a water reserve that
supplies electricity to the country. The main attractions of Paraguay are the following (Culture Trip, 2023):
• Palacio de los Lopez, Asuncion, is the official workplace of the President of Paraguay and one of the
capital's cultural heritage treasures. It is a two-story building shaped like the letter U, with a tower
with four (4) floors on which the flag of the Republic stands.
• Itaipu Dam, Paraná River is the third-largest hydroelectric dam in the world. A tour, called Panoramic
Tour, is available where tourists can learn about the story of the dam's construction and visit the
observation viewpoints, different points of view of its construction, and the view of the lake itself.
• Nacunday National Park is one of the last untouched places to enjoy nature in the country and the
home of Nacunday Falls, known as the "Niagara Falls of Paraguay." The park offers an interaction with
the Guaraní Mbya /ba-ya/ (indigenous people in South America) who still live in the area and can be
seen collecting resources and performing traditional ceremonies on occasion.
• Nanduti Festival, Itagua, is a celebration that showcases the country's art, crafts, food, and music. It
is held during the last weekend of July. It is a festival dedicated to demonstrating and displaying the
various designs the locals made using nanduti (a style of traditional lace crafted in the region). The
performers carry them while they dance along with the country's regional music (Visit Paraguay, n.d.).

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• Dia de San Blas is a celebration in honor of the patron saint of Paraguay, Saint Blaise, on February 3.
This festival dates to the eighteenth century when the saint allegedly appeared to the family of Siete
Aguas and healed their son, who was about to die (Visit Paraguay, n.d.).
EUROPE
United Kingdom (UK)
The United Kingdom is an influential country with fascinating history, exciting cities, and rich cultural
traditions. Historic sites can be found anywhere from prehistoric megaliths and ancient Roman sites to
centuries-old castles and town centers dating back to the Middle Ages. The main attractions of the UK are the
following (Dearsley, 2023):
• Stonehenge, Wiltshire, is a prehistoric stone circle monument, archaeological site, and cemetery on
the Salisbury Plain. It was presumably a religious site and an expression of the power and wealth of
the chieftains, aristocrats, and priests who had it built. It stands as an icon for all that is mysterious
and awe-inspiring about humanity's prehistoric past.
• The Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster (Big Ben) at Elizabeth Tower is London's most
popular tourist attraction because of its iconic chimes that can be heard across the city. It chimes every
hour, and smaller bells around it chime every 15 minutes to mark each quarter hour. The chimes may
be delayed if the clock mechanism malfunctions or if there are special occasions such as Remembrance
Day or New Year's Eve.
• Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands is a large lake of fresh water in the United Kingdom. The attraction
became famous because it was said that an aquatic monster inhabited it. The Ruins Urquhart Castle is
also one of the most popular stops along the area, which was formerly a site of battles, banquets, and
other historical events that now serve as a photo area with the lake as a backdrop.
• Hogmanay Festival, Scotland, is the most famous celebration in the country, where music concerts,
games, carnivals, fireballs, and torchlight processions to the Lomond Hills (a range of hills known for
its dome-like summit) are held on December 31. The important element of this celebration is to
welcome friends and strangers into their homes with warm hospitality and give them good luck for
the new year (Sen, 2023).
• The Jorvik Viking Festival is a celebration of the locals, who rejoice in the Viking army's arrival and
conquest of England. The different activities involved in the festival include combat performances,
guided tours to historical Viking displays, and feasting like a king held in February (Sen, 2023).
Germany
Germany is fascinating because of its stunning mountains, lakes, valleys, and forests. The country's small towns
and villages display impressive castles and cathedrals that offer unique experiences. The gastronomy and beer
in every town and city will delight tourists' taste buds. The main attractions of Germany are the following
(Dearsley, 2022):
• Cologne Cathedral is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, making it the best pilgrim destination. It
is the home of the relic called the Shrine of the Magi, a gold-painted sarcophagus (coffin carved in
stone) believed to hold the remains of the Three Wise Men (Three Kings in the Bible).
• Brandenburg Gate in Berlin is a historical monument made up of sandstone that stood as a symbol of
the country's unity, resilience, and triumph for centuries. It has been used as a site for numerous
political events and speeches and is popular with tourists, where they learn about the history and
significance of the gate through a guided tour.
• Zugspitze /zooh-spit-suh/ is the highest mountain in Germany in the Bavarian Alps near the border
with Austria. The peak is noted for its scenic beauty and winter and climbing activities.

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• Oktoberfest, Munich /myoo-nik/ is the most famous traditional German festival that originally started
as a royal wedding celebration. It is a celebration of Bavarian beer that takes place around mid-
September to the first Sunday of October (Dogra, 2023).
• Wurstmarkt /wurst-markt/, Bad Dürkheim /doo-erk-hahym/ is the world's largest wine festival that
allows tourists to interact with the locals and indulge in tasting different kinds of wine, such as Riesling,
Pinot, and Gewurtztraminer /guh-voorts-truh-mee-nur/ (a kind of rose wine) (Dogra, 2023).
France
France, known for its famous history, delicious cuisine, and splendid landscapes, is home to several famed
places that captivate tourists worldwide. It is known for its power-ridden architecture, magnificent
monuments, green gardens, beautiful shimmering nights, vibrant days, and advanced city life with cultural
variation. The main attractions of France are the following (Gambetta, 2023):
• Eiffel Tower, Paris, is an elegant observation tower and one of France's most famous tourist
attractions. Gustave Eiffel previously built it to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French
Revolution. It is now a symbol of romance where couples worldwide come to the tower to propose or
take wedding photos.
• Louvre /louv-vruh/ Museum, Paris, is the world's largest museum designed in the Baroque style,
originally constructed as a fortress for the royal family. It houses famous works, including the Mona
Lisa (a painting of a smiling seated woman with an imaginary landscape of a winding road and bridge)
by Leonardo da Vinci, the Wedding Feast at Cana (a painting that recounts how Jesus, his mother,
and his disciples are invited to a wedding) by Veronese, and the Venus de Milo (an ancient Greek
statue of the Goddess Aphrodite famous because of its missing hands and symbol of female beauty)
sculpture.
• Verdon Gorge, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur /pro-vanz-alp-kot-dazur/ is a river canyon created by the
Verdon River and one of Europe's deepest gorges that was carved. This part of France was previously
underwater, but due to the geological movement of plates and the glaciers shifting and melting from
the Alps, this river canyon was formed.
• Cannes Film Festival is the world's famous movie festival, usually held in May, that previews new films
of various genres and documentaries worldwide. This festival is celebrated to honor and elevate the
importance of international cinema and raise its profile (Anand, 2018).
• Lemon Festival, Menton is a tribute to the city's production of lemons and other citrus fruits. Floats
and sculptures made from citrus fruits are paraded throughout the city. It is usually held for two (2)
weeks during February (Anand, 2018).
Italy
Italy is the birthplace of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance. High art and monuments are to be found
everywhere around the country. Its great cities of art, like Rome, Venice, and Florence, are world-famous and
have been attracting visitors for centuries. The main attractions of Italy are the following (Rogers, 2023):
• Colosseum, Rome is an amphitheater built in Rome under the Flavian Dynasty's emperors. It is an
elliptical structure made of stone, concrete, and tuff and stands four (4) stories tall at its highest point.
It is estimated to hold as many as 50,000 spectators and was famously used for gladiator combat.
• The Grand Canal, Venice, is the main waterway of Venice, Italy, that cuts a wide S-shaped route
through the city. These waterways carry most of Venetian transportation, as automobiles are banned
throughout the city. Traditional poled gondolas are a tourist favorite but are now vastly outnumbered
by motorized public transit water buses (vaporetti) and private water taxis.
• Stair of the Turks, Sicily, is a tiered rocky white cliff in southern Sicily. Made up of soft limestone rock
and white marble, this stretch of coastline has withstood millennia of lapping ocean waves and salty

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breezes that have created the remarkable natural terraces that give the formation its name. It is also
named for Turkish pirates who invaded Sicily numerous times over the centuries.
• Battle of the Oranges, Ivrea is celebrated on the Sunday before the beginning of the Catholic Lent
season. This battle commemorates the fall of an oppressive ruler who controlled the city during the
Middle Ages. When the despised leader was overthrown, locals pelted stones at his castle, which led
to its destruction. This event has been commemorated in Ivrea for years, and since the 1800s, oranges
have symbolized the stones thrown during the reenactment (Jordan, 2019).
• Saint Ursus Fair, Aosta is a fair in honor of Saint Ursus, an Irish monk who distributed clothes and
traditional wooden shoes (sabots) to people experiencing poverty during the Middle Ages. This
celebration is focused on displaying arts and crafts such as soapstone, wrought iron, leather works,
and weaving of drap (a traditional woolen fabric), lace, and wicker (Jordan, 2019).
Russia
Russia, the largest country in the world, offers a wide array of travel experiences, such as treks up the slopes
of glacier-capped mountains to strolls along the shoreline of Earth's oldest lake. The main attractions of Russia
are the following (Touropia, 2023):
• Lake Baikal is the oldest freshwater lake and Earth's deepest continental body of water. It is also
considered one of the clearest lakes in the world, where it is possible to see up to 40 meters down
into the water.
• Hermitage Museum, Petersburg, is a massive museum of art and culture founded by Catherine the
Great that showcases a collection of over three (3) million items from all over the world. The
collections occupy a large complex of six historic buildings, including the Winter Palace, a former
residence of Russian emperors.
• Saint Basil's Cathedral, Moscow, has nine (9) small individual chapels aligned to point on the compass,
four (4) raised to designate their position between heaven and Earth. The chapels are dedicated to
the Protecting Veil of Mary, the Entry into Jerusalem, Saints Cyprian and Justina, the Holy Trinity, St.
Nicholas Velikoretsky, St. Gregory of Armenia, St. Barlaam Khutyn, St. Alexander Svirsky, and the Three
Patriarchs. The ninth chapel was added in honor of Saint Basil.
• Maslenitsa Festival (Pancake Week) is a festival celebrated in the last week before Lent that lasts
seven (7) days and is considered the last week that Orthodox Russians can eat dairy before fasting and
abstinence. Pancakes, butter, and various delicious toppings are served every day of the event as
Russians enjoy excess food and drink, sledding, and snowball fights to welcome spring (Expatica,
2023).
• Moscow Golden Mask Festival is celebrated during March and April to improve the artistic value of
theatre art amongst the people. It is also regarded as a cultural institution because, during the event,
it presents a complex of strategic tasks of theatre art covering all genres, from drama to modern dance
and puppet theater (Expatica, 2023).
Spain
Spain is a dream destination for travelers. It features majestic palaces, sunny Mediterranean beaches, and the
stamp of a flamenco dancer's heels. These tourist experiences represent the country's rich history, fascinating
culture, and enchanting natural beauty. The main attractions of Spain are the following (Law et al., 2023):
• Alhambra, Granada, is the Muslim's largest and richest legacy and one of Spain's most visited palaces.
It is notable for the intricate stone carvings, delicate filigrees, magnificent tile-lined ceilings, graceful
arches, and serene courtyards of the palace. Its name means red in Arabic, which refers to the color
of the sun-dried bricks used in its outer walls.

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• Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, is the unfinished Roman Catholic Basilica designed by Spanish/Catalan
architect Antoni Gaudí. It is an atonable temple, a place made to commemorate the reparation of sins
made against God or the church's laws. The church is directly financed by donations made by the
visitors and the public, which is one of the reasons for its slow construction progress.
• Rio Tinto (Dark Red River), Huelva is a river tinted with deep red and orange, derived from the
concentration of acids and heavy metals that cut through the landscape. It is believed that the area
was volcanic, resulting in a large amount of sulfide ore deposits formed in the soil around the nearby
mines, which then came into contact with the water and oxygen, creating an acidic substance that
paints the water red and orange.
• La Tomatina (Battle of the Tomato), Buñol is an annual event involving thousands of people throwing
tomatoes for an hour on the last Wednesday of August. The food fight starts at 11 a.m., where a
booming water cannon signals the kickoff and huge trucks loaded with tomatoes dump the fruit into
the streets. The only rule is that the tomatoes should be squashed before throwing them at other
festivalgoers to reduce the impact and avoid hurting them. The end of the event is marked with
another boom, then the firefighters will hose down the streets, and the tomato-soaked crowds will
shower off. The party continues throughout the afternoon, with live music, dancing, and plenty of
sangria being served in plazas around the town (Spain Guides. n.d.).
• The Festival of Saint Fermin, Pamplona, is held at noon on July 6 and ends at midnight on July 14. It
honors the city's first bishop and patron saint, Saint Fermin. The famous part of the festival is the
running of the bulls (encierro), wherein from July 7 to July 14, the bulls to be used in the daily bullfights
are run through the streets of the town to the bullring (Spain Guides, n.d.).
Greece
Greece is home to the world's most important historical sites. Its natural beauty, fascinating culture, ancient
archaeological sites, cliffs towards the sparkling blue water, sand and pebble beaches, and a balmy
Mediterranean climate make the country a world-class tourist destination. The main attractions of Greece are
the following (Law & Foster, 2023):
• The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and is located on
a limestone hill. Some of the most iconic structures on the site are the following: The Parthenon (a
symbol of Athenian democracy featuring the statue of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war), The
Propylaea (a monumental entryway to the Acropolis that includes a central building and two (2)
wings), The Temple of Athena Nike (a small classical-style temple built as a shrine to Athena Nike to
rejuvenate and glorify the Athens after the war), The Erechtheion /ih-rek-thee-uh-m/ (a sacred
classical temple made of marble which honored Athena and other gods, best known for its porch
supported by stone carved maiden statues), and The Statue of Athena Promachos (a gigantic bronze
statue of Athena).
• Meteora Monasteries, Trikala, features a collection of rock formations and is the home of medieval
monasteries, some of which are still in operation. To reach each monastery, travelers must climb
several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks.
• Mount Olympus is the famous home of the god Zeus, which consists of hiking trails that may take one
to two (2) nights to reach its summit. It towers over the surrounding countryside and is a top recreation
destination in the summer because of its cool climate, which is best for canyoning, trekking, and hiking.
• The Kalymnos Climbing Festival is an annual event for climbing enthusiasts that attracts thousands of
climbers worldwide to the rocky island of Kalymnos. The festival features climbing competitions and
workshops, Greek dance lessons, and music performances to entertain the festivalgoers
(Dilouambaka, 2017).

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• Sani Gourmet Festival is an annual gastronomic event where the finest awarded chefs across Greece
and around the world come together to create unique dishes. It is a chance for new chefs to surprise
and impress participants. It usually lasts 10 days, and cooking workshops and wine tastings can be
experienced (Dilouambaka, 2017).
Switzerland
Switzerland is a small European country home to towering, snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes,
storybook villages, and vibrant cities. The country offers winter sports, including skiing, hiking, biking, climbing,
hang-gliding, and other temptations for physically active tourists. The main attractions of Switzerland are the
following (Heath, 2020):
• Matterhorn is one of the famous mountains and highest peaks in the Alps, notable for its almost
perfect pyramid shape with four-sided rocky peak towers. It lies on the border between Switzerland
and Italy and is one of the deadliest peaks in the Alps since it is steep and only small patches of snow
and ice cling to it with occasional avalanches. Its name is derived from the German words matte,
meaning meadow, and horn, meaning peak.
• The Chapel Bridge, Lucerne, is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe that was designed to help
protect the city from attacks. 17th-century paintings are inside the attraction, depicting events from
Lucerne's history.
• Zytglogge /zi-klok/ (Clock Tower), Bern, is a landmark clocktower that has previously served as a guard
tower, a lookout, and a fire observation tower. It is famous for tourists because of the clock tower's
outstanding mini performance of mechanical figures, such as a parade of bears, a jester, a golden
rooster, and Chronos (God of Time) that starts every four (4) to five (5) minutes before it strikes to an
hour, operated by the intricate mechanism inside the tower.
• The Carnival of Basel is the largest carnival festival in the country and the only Protestant festival in
the world that lasts three (3) days on the Monday after Ash Wednesday. Basel becomes a magical
place with colorful costumes, marching bands, and world-famous fife and drum formations resembling
military tattoos (Expatica, 2023).
• Winegrowers Festival, Vevey, is a festival that takes place only once in a generation. It is a wine festival
focusing on the festivities of the story of a year in the life of a winegrower. It lasts for three (3) days,
where different kinds of performers dance, sing, or recite poetry and stories (Expatica, 2023).
Denmark
Denmark boasts glorious beaches, beautiful fairy-tale castles, lush forests, a temperate climate, and friendly
citizens among its many attractions. It was once the seat of the Viking raiders and is considered a maritime
nation because the Baltic and the North Sea border it. The main attractions of Denmark are the following
(Gambietta, 2023):
• Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, is the second-oldest amusement park and the inspiration for the Disney
theme parks, where many attractions such as roller coasters, roundabouts, puppet theaters,
restaurants, and Moorish-styled concert halls can be found.
• LEGO House, Billund, is the birthplace of the iconic LEGO brick and is famous for its miniature display
of many world-famous buildings and places, a build-up of more than 50 million LEGO bricks.
• Stevns Klint, Zealand, is a globally exceptional testimony to the impact of meteorite impact on the
history of life on Earth. The property provides evidence of a meteorite impact that took place million
years ago and is widely believed to have caused the end of the Age of the Dinosaurs.
• Aarhus Festival is a 10-day arts and culture festival in Aarhus every year from the last week of August
to early September. It is a festival organized by private citizens and patronized by the royal family as
a celebration of the local culture and rich heritage where they can foster cultural exchange, fostering

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dialogue and understanding between artists, audiences, and the communities to create an
atmosphere of growth and openness (Ghangas, 2023).
• Roskilde /ros-kild/ Festival was the country's first music-oriented festival created for hippies that
featured bands from all contemporary genres. It is usually held four (4) days from the first Wednesday
in July or the last Wednesday in June (Ghangas, 2023).
Sweden
Sweden is a traveler's paradise and a photographer's dream because of the thousands of acres of unspoiled
forests and majestic lakes to explore, not to mention infinite archipelagos along its coasts. The Nordic country
of Sweden is a rich cultural destination with breathtaking scenery and provides a progressive and peaceful
history with incredible landmarks, architecture, and museums to choose from. The main attractions of Sweden
are the following (Holmes, 2023):
• The Royal Domain of Drottningholm, Lovön, is one of Sweden's prized Royal Palaces and is considered
the finest example of an 18th-century North European royal residence inspired by the Palace of
Versailles /ver-sai/ (the former royal residence of the French monarch and now a historical museum
showcasing the history of France). It includes the following attractions:
o Drottningholm Palace was created with strong references to 17th-century Italian and French
architecture. The interiors reflect Sweden's ambitions as one of the most powerful nations of
17th-century Europe from both cultural and political viewpoints.
o Palace Theatre is the only surviving 18th-century theatre where the original machinery is still
regularly used, and the original stage sets are preserved.
o Chinese Pavilion is a Chinese-inspired decorative building in a large garden ornamented with
dragon heads, which was originally a birthday present from a king to his queen.
o Canton Village is where former buildings used for raising silkworms to make silk and living
quarters for royal court members can be found.
• Vasa Museum, Stockholm, is Sweden's most popular museum that displays the almost fully intact
17th-century ship that has ever been salvaged, the 64-gun warship Vasa. Other highlights in the
museum include a small replica of the Vasa warship, the long lion figurehead of the ship, and the
dioramas of the life aboard, sinking, and the salvaging of the ship.
• Ale's Stones, Ystad is an ancient formation of standing stones erected in the shape of a boat. According
to legend, King Ale the Strone, a figure from Swedish myth, is buried under the henge.
• Walpurgisnacht /wal-pur-gis-nat/ Festival celebrates the arrival of the spring season. It is celebrated
by building huge bonfires and dancing around them energetically to ward off evil energies (Anand,
2023).
• Midsommar (Midsummer) Festival is a celebration focused on fertility that falls on a Friday between
June 19th and 25th. Festivities include dancing, singing, drinking, lighting bonfires near the maypole,
and collecting flowers to create flower crowns to wear during the festival (Anand, 2023).

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Austin, C. (2023) 10 top tourist attractions in Canada. Retrieved 26 September 2023, from https://www.touropia.com/tourist-
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