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The UNESCO Map: Some of the Most Beautiful Spots on our Planet

Here is a continuation of our comprehensive list of the world´s most beautiful places that have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. We include some known and others less known, scattered across globe. Countries with history, unimaginable scenery and buildings from another era. Here are some examples: Angkor in Cambodia, the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, Venice, or the Australian Great Barrier Reef. If you want more examples, just keep reading to find out.

Venice, Italy

There are 118 islands and hundreds of bridges that connect this floating World Heritage Site. There is so much to see there that it is best to plan staying at least 2 or 3 nights in order to really get to know the authentic bohemian side of Venice, away from the usual tourism. Accommodations in Venice, not in the Lido, are best. It is reached by water bus from the airport or by water taxi. And once there, of course, you must take a gondola ride down the Grand Canal and other smaller channels to truly experience the city.

 

venezia

Flickr: archer10 (Dennis)

The Temples of Angkor in Cambodia

These have been secreted away in the jungle since their construction, some of which was in the twelfth century, until they were found relatively recently. For centuries they remained hidden from the world, which might be why this place exudes such a special energy, something you can only experience if you decide to visit Angkor. The best known are those of Ta Prohm, Bayon and Angkor Wat. These architectonic wonders are located just 20 minutes by tuk-tuk from the town of Siem Reap.

 

Templi Angkor_ Mike BehnkenFlickr: Mike Behnken

Acropolis of Athens, Greece

This spot is part of the history of world culture. The very advanced Greeks created this magnificent city, including the Acropolis, which is located in the middle of the capital. When you stand before and see the Parthenon rising before you, I assure you it is worth the trip. It is much more impressive than what you have seen in any photograph. As for the location, it is very easy to get to because you can view it from most of the city.

AcropolisFlickr: Dan Cross

The Great Barrier Reef of Australia

We´re talking more than 2,000 kilometers of reefs filled with colorful fish, turtles, starfish and especially coral, a lot of coral. It´s a true gem for divers and an almost unique opportunity for snorkelers, who will view a spectacle of marine life not far below the surface. The first European to reach the Great Barrier was Captain Cook, who discovered it after running aground there in 1770. Boats leave from Cairns and Port Douglas. The outer barrier, the furthest away, is about an hour and a half’s journey out.

barriera corallina _ Kyle TaylorFlickr: Kyle Taylor

 

 

Galapagos Islands in Ecuador

The archipelago consists of 13 islands, and the sum of them all doesn’t even add up to more than 10 square kilometers. And, of course, don’t be surprised if you find giant tortoises there, since that is after all where the archipelago gets its name. They are perfectly integrated into the environment. The white sandy beaches and crystalline water are quite simply luxurious. If you want to see this in person, you’ll find them in the Pacific about 1,000 kilometers from the coast of Ecuador. The only flights are from Quito or Guayaquil. You can also go by boat, but the ride is quite a bit more taxing.

galapagos_pantxoramaFlickr: pantxorama

 

Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

Both sides are awesome, but if I had to opt for one would say that I prefer the Argentine side because of the Garganta del Diablo. It seems that this huge hole is going to swallow the Earth. And the falls can give you vertigo. They’re both located in the northern part of the two countries. However, you cannot cross from one side to the other in the park. Instead, you have to cross the border to re-enter and pay another entrance fee. All the same, these falls make it worthwhile.

Iguazu _ Santiago RichardFlickr: Santiago Richard