Travel and culture information by defineplaces.com

History and travel advices 2022? A revered Christian pilgrimage site, Al-Maghtas translates as “the place of baptism” and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The spot lies on the east bank of the River Jordan, 8km (5mi) north of the Dead Sea, and is believed to be the location where John The Baptist baptised Jesus of Nazareth. The archaeological site now includes more than 20 points of interest including caves, a monastery and baptism pools. Read extra info at Define Places.

Marrakesh is a city that sums up all of Morocco’s exotic North African charm. The city’s name provided the root for the name of the country itself, spelling out this town’s importance through the ages. Within the hustle of the medina, you’ll find the city’s main points of interest in a dizzying meld of ancient and new. Just soaking up the atmosphere here tops the things to do list, with snake charmers and smooth shop touts both competing for your attention amid a noisy, colorful bustle that encapsulates Morocco’s vibrant soul.

Jumeirah Mosque is considered by many to be the most beautiful of Dubai’s mosques. An exact copy of Cairo’s Al-Azhar Mosque, which is eight times its size, the Jumeirah Mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture. This stone structure is built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, with two minarets that display the subtle details in the stonework. It is particularly attractive in the evening when lit with floodlights. The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding (which also runs a program of tours, lectures, Arabic classes, and cultural meals) organizes guided tours of the mosque designed to try to foster a better understanding of the Muslim faith. Tours begin at 10am daily, except Fridays.

From April to October, Sicily enjoys one long Mediterranean summer, which means low rainfall, northwesterly breezes, and temperatures hitting 30C (86F) in July and August. It rarely gets hotter at sea. Winds pick up in mid-summer to a regular 10 knots and frequently tail off each evening. Novice sailors should avoid the far windier Straits of Messina between Sicily and mainland Italy. Especially as there’s so much to see in northern Sicily and the Aeolian islands. Sicily has two equally busy airports. Aeroporto di Palermo Falcone e Borsellino is a 30-minute cab ride to Palermo’s marinas via the ritzy seaside resort of Mondello. Aeroporto di Catania–Fontanarossa sits under the shadow of Mount Etna in eastern Sicily, serving the northeastern marinas closest to the Aeolian islands.

Santorini’s best known and most popular beach lies on the southeast coast, between the villages of Perissa and Perivolos. A six-kilometer-long stretch of fine, black volcanic sand, it is backed by tamarisk trees and overlooked by a string of seafood tavernas and cafes. There are sunbeds and umbrellas to rent, plus water sports facilities. It is approximately 12 kilometers from Fira. At the base of the cliffs rising to the town of Oia, the port of Ammoudi Bay glistens above sparkling turquoise waters. Descend the 200 or so steps down from Oia, and you are in the picture-perfect setting that is Ammoudi, known for quaint Greek tavernas serving the catch of the day just inches from the waves, and isolated coves ideal for swimming. Another popular activity is cliff diving if that’s what gets your adrenaline pumping.

Most people have heard of the San Blas Islands, but what they don’t know is that there are lots of other amazing islands to explore from Panama City. In fact, most are much closer which makes them more convenient to visit. Below are the best nearby islands you can do amazing day or multi-day trips to: Taboga Island is one of the closest islands to Pamana City and only takes 30 minutes by ferry to reach. Once on the island, you can either stay for the day or stay at one of the hotels on the island and turn this adventure into a relaxing getaway. The ferry leaves from the Amador Causeway and costs $20 USD for an adult. If you want an even better experience then this all-inclusive half-day catamaran tour is a great option.