by pankaj | Apr 4, 2024 | Blog, international, Latest Post
Mankind’s love for ascending in height stems from the distant past. From the rich spires of old-world cathedrals to the supermodern architectural structures of today, skyscrapers symbolize aspirations, innovation, and progress. We are going to climb up the elevator shaft and discover the top 11 tallest buildings in the world with interesting construction backgrounds.
- Burj Khalifa, Dubai (828 meters)
The absolute boss of the buildings is the Burj Khalifa, revealed in 2010. This architectural wonder in Dubai boasts an amazing 163 floors and holds various records, including the tallest building, single floor structure, and highest outdoor observation deck. The construction started in 2004, and the concrete core was raised at the average rate of one floor per three days. The project employed more than 33,000 workers and used enough concrete to build 20 Empire State Buildings!
- Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur (678.9 meters)
The newly finished Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur (2022) is now the world’s second tallest building. The construction commenced in 2014 with the incorporation of such sustainable features as rainwater harvesting and double-skin facade in order to decrease energy consumption. The design, which imitates Islamic motifs including geometric patterns, is a tribute to the country’s roots.
- Shanghai Tower, Shanghai (632 meters)
This twisted skyscraper (completed in 2015) in the Shanghai skyline is a perfect masterpiece of modern engineering. The clever, slanting construction means less wind resistance and more sights. Construction used new techniques of building a prefabricated wall of steel and concrete for faster erecting.
- Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, Mecca (601 meters)
Standing next to the sacred place of Islam’s Kaaba, the Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower (completed in 2012) is simply a glorious mix of religious meaning into modern architecture. The complex involves the world’s biggest clock face and a five-star hotel. According to the construction regulations, the holy site and its surroundings were respectfully built with many details and thoroughgoing commitment.
- Ping An Finance Centre, Shenzhen (599.1 meters)
The Ping An Finance Centre in Shenzhen was completed in 2017 and it is a good example of this country’s booming architectural industry. The facade displays a sophisticated grid of diagonal trusses, making the design both visually stunning and functionally strong. Construction involved the use of high-strength concrete and modular steel components that helped it to attain its immense height.
- Lotte World Tower, Seoul (555.7 meters)
The Lotte World Tower, which is South Korea’s tallest building (completed in 2017), is a multifunctional complex that comprises offices, hotels, condominiums, and an aquarium. The design puts safety first, using a tuned mass damper to get rid of the wind energy and stop the excessive swaying. The construction process entailed careful planning to ensure the tower would not lean due to a soft soil foundation.
- One World Trade Center, New York City (541.3 meters)
Standing bravely on the site of the former World Trade Center towers that were destroyed in 2001, One World Trade Center (completed in 2014) is a symbol of resilience and hope. The design not only repeats the elements of the old towers but also looks into the future. The construction team had to develop numerous engineering solutions in order to refurbish on a fragile ground which was also significant historically.
- Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre, Guangzhou (530 meters)
The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre, one of the masterpieces of Chinese architecture, was completed in 2010. This three-lobed building was inspired by the nearby Pearl River Delta. The construction process evolved by using the latest type of building information modeling (BIM) software to guarantee the seamless cooperation among different construction groups.
- Tianjin CTF Finance Centre, Tianjin (530 meters)
The Tianjin CTF Finance Centre like Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre has a three-lobed design but a different crown is the only difference between these two (completed in 2019). Building the second station provided an opportunity to apply the knowledge gained from the first, which led to a quicker completion.
- China Zun, Beijing (528 meters)
This building, which has been nicknamed “The China Zun” for its similarity to a Chinese imperial crown ornament, blends traditional Chinese features with the latest in skyscraper design (completed in 2018). The construction process entailed a complex steel diagrid structure that served as both a design element and as a structural support.
- Taipei 101, Taipei (509.2 meters)
Taipei 101, the world’s tallest building at the time of its completion in 2004, stands for Taiwan’s leading position in technology and cultural sophistication. The design uses the shape of the traditional pagoda as a symbol of respect for the country’s history. The construction used a tuned mass damper, a giant pendulum that helps the tower to sway gently in strong winds, an important factor in Taiwan where typhoons frequently occur.
These super high buildings are not just engineering marvels; they are monuments to human achievement, creativity, and our urge to explore the limits of what can be done. As technology and design keep improving, the future of skyscrapers will be awe-inspiring with unimaginably tall buildings that reach even higher into the sky.
by pankaj | Mar 30, 2024 | Blog, international, Latest Post
Dams, mighty evidences of human creativity, have formed landscapes and tamed water flow for thousands of years. From producing electricity to providing water for irrigation, these giants play different roles. Today, we move to the top of the superlative world, studying the top 10 dams on our planet, which is the result of human knowledge and ambition.
- Jinping-I Dam (China)
On the top is the Jinping-I Dam in China with an overwhelming height of 305 m (1,001 ft). This amazing architectural structure depends on a strong arch design to prevent the flooding of the Yalong River. The dam’s horseshoe-shaped arch arches above the valley below, creating a beautiful silhouette. Its 13.5 kilometers (8.4 miles) long ridge is broad enough to take a multi-lane highway. The Jinping-I Dam not only impressed us with its height but demonstrates China’s devotion to innovation and the development of infrastructure.
- Nurek Dam (Tajikistan)
The Nurek Dam, located in Tajikistan, comes in second at 300 meters (984 ft). This giant is known as an embankment dam, which is a symbol of the vast scale of earthworks that are typical of modern engineering. The construction of the dam required moving a whopping 56 million cubic meters of rock and soil where an army of workers unceasingly toiled and bore the fruits. The Nurek Dam is not only an architectural miracle but also represents the will of the Tajik people to utilize their natural resources for economic development.
- Grande Dixence Dam (Switzerland)
The crown for the highest gravity dam is taken by the Grande Dixence Dam in Switzerland. Standing an impressive 285 meters (935 ft) tall, this concrete colossus casts up the power of Dixence River. The construction of the dam requires special funicular railways designed for the transportation of materials to the site, remote and chaotic, that cannot be reached by usual means of transportation. The Grande Dixence Dam is not only a source of clean energy but also confirms Switzerland’s reputation as a leader in engineering and environmental conscience.
- Rogun Dam (Tajikistan)
One more Tajikistani treasure adorns the list – the Rogun Dam. Even though it’s still under construction, it’s expected to reach a height of 335 meters (1,100 ft), following up on its mission of being a competitor for the top spot. The dam will be the world’s highest upon completion of its building, and its construction is thrashing the limits of engineering. The Rogun Dam represents Tajikistan’s desire for being a regional leader in energy production and confronting the hurdles of funding and technical know-how.
- Guyuan Dam (China)
Another China’s appearance matches the Guyan Dam with a height of 272 meters (892 ft). This arch dam of modern Chinese engineering is a marvel of the modern era. The dam’s operation took advantage of modern technologies such as 3D computer modeling that guaranteed its structural stability and safety in the earthquake zone of the area. The construction of the Guyuan Dam shows both China’s advantages in dam construction and the sustainable development in the face of challenges of geological conditions.
- Vajont Dam (Italy)
The Vajont Dam in Italy, at 262 m high (860 feet), is a poignant lesson on the natural power. A tragic landslide in 1963 left the dam underwater, thus emphasizing on the careful environmental factors during construction of the dam. The Vajont Dam was a lesson and basically an awakening to the need of complete geological studies and risk assessment before embarking on such big massive projects. The tragedy of the Vajont Dam is a symbol of Italy’s engineering ingenuity and the wisdom of the mistakes of the past.
- Xiaowan Dam (China)
China occupies another place with the Xiaowan Dam at a height of 292 meters (958 ft). This double-curvature arch dam is not only challenging to construct but also a wonder of aesthetic complexity. The dam’s distinctive curved shape gives it the ability to endure high water pressure thus becoming ideal for the stretch and steepness of the river valley it impounds. The Xiaowan Dam illustrates China’s professionalism in the field of building strong structures that are capable of withstanding the natural forces but still meeting the growing water and energy needs respectively.
- Nourek Dam (Iran)
The largest dam in the Middle East, the Nourek Dam in Iran, extends to a height of 255 meters (837 ft). This dam with two arches is a highly valuable resource for the area providing both water and hydroelectric power. The dam does not only generate electricity but also stabilize the flow of the Hari River which reduces the risk of flooding and maintains a steady flow of water for irrigation. The Nourek Dam reflects Iran’s commitment to increasing infrastructure to close the infrastructural gap, along with their efforts to face water management issues in a semi-arid region.
- Longtan Dam (China)
China also takes the ninth position with Longtan Dam’s height of 277m (909 ft). This is another example of Chinese leadership in dam building. The Longtan Dam is integral for both flood prevention and electric power production in the economy-booming eastern provinces of China. With the progression of urbanization and industrialization, the Longtan Dam suggests China’s dedication to sustainable development and the protection of environmental conditions via wise water resource utilization.
- Sardoba Dam (Tajikistan)
This rounds up the list with the trinity of Tajikistani dams including the Sardoba Dam, which is 265 meters (870 ft) high. This dam serves as a pivotal part in the management of water as well as hydropower production. The dam collapse of 2010 resulted in widespread damage, which brings to attention the need for appropriate maintenance and security procedures. The Sardoba Dam is not only a testimony of threats associated with large-scale infrastructure projects but also emphasis on maintaining the high safety standards and on-going monitoring to prevent huge failures.
These giants of civil engineering, with their gleaming charisma, speak of the spirit of human determination and ingenuity. They play very important roles as the major sources of water, irrigation, and electricity, thus transforming landscapes and the lives of numerous people on earth. While this can be true, we need to bear in mind that building a dam can also cause environmental and social problems. From disturbing the ecosystem to migrating the communities, these consequences must be sensitively reconsidered and mitigated. While we endeavor to take advantage of the potential of water we have to do it in a balanced and sustainable way, a situation which guarantees the future of both environment and humanity.
by pankaj | Feb 29, 2024 | Blog, City/State Tour, international, International Destinations, Latest Post, Tips
The world is full of different cultures and stunning landscapes which always attract tourists with their allure but mostly the challenge is to move through crowds. If you crave authentic experiences and serene exploration, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden path and discovering the charm of these 10 less-crowded cities.
- Valletta, Malta
Get yourself immersed in the fantastic history about the Knights of St. John in this fortified city. Get yourself lost in the winding streets decorated with baroque architecture, and absorb the sun’s warmth as you walk along the harbor walls. Alongside historical sights, Valletta also offers a diverse cultural scene that features modern art galleries, open-air performances, and vibrant festivals, which take place throughout the year.
- Luang Prabang, Laos
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a window to the tranquil world of Buddhist monks. Take part in the dawn procession of saffron-robed monks as they go about collecting alms and see how numerous the temples are in every corner of the city. In the name of adventure, kayak down the Mekong river, trek through the surrounding mountains or visit the stunning Kuang Si Falls, the pièce de résistance in a cascading marvel surrounded by abundant jungle.
- Asunción, Paraguay
Get acquainted with the rich culture and colonial heritage of Paraguay in Asuncion, its capital. Stroll through the Palacio de López, attend the vibrant Mercado Central, and witness the fiery dynamism of a local football (soccer) game. Asunción has an interesting variety of green areas as well, including the Botanical Gardens and the Independence Park, which are great options for a break from the city hustle and a chance to relax by having a lunch picnic.
- Ljubljana, Slovenia
The Julian Alps housing the exciting mix of nature and city life definitely belong to Ljubljana. Walk along the Ljubljanica Riverbank, immerse yourself in the Vibrant Central Market, and go on a day tour to the 14th-century Predjama Castle which is literally a cave castle. If you need some thrill, go for a hike or bike through the park of Tivol, or try a boat cruise on Lake Bled, a beautiful glacial lake surrounded by mountains and a famous church on an island.
- Marrakesh, Morocco
Take a dip into the colorful Medina: a buzzing, multi-level maze filled with spices, clothes, and crafted jewelry and more. Don’t lose an opportunity to become a partaker of the tranquility of a conventional hammam (bathhouse). Leave the noisy Medina to discover the Stunning-Bahia Palace, a Moroccan architectural masterpiece or even take a break with the majestic and colorful Majorelle Garden which was designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle.
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The glamorous city of Kuala Lumpur has both skyscraping buildings such as the Petronas Twin Towers and older sites of history, such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Find the exciting street food, and experience the rich cultural mosaic of Southeast Asian metropolis. Opt-out of the city center and journey to explore the Batu Caves, a complex Hindu cave temple, on your way to the top by climbing 272 stairs decorated with colors, or visit the Perdana Botanical Gardens, a peaceful sanctuary showcasing a plethora of plants.
- Tallinn, Estonia
Step into the past in the fairy-tale medieval Old Town of Tallinn which is a UNESCO Bronze Age Site. Wander the stone-paved streets offered with multicolored structures, go to the stately Toompea Castle, and have a relaxed walk in the tranquil Kadriorg Park. If you want something extraordinary, check out the Lennusadam Maritime Museum, which is held in an old seaplane hangar. Go and spend a day on the island of Naissaar too, a car-free paradise with some of the finest beaches and historical landmarks.
- Winnipeg, Canada
Sample the warm Midwestern hospitality in Winnipeg called the “Gateway to the West.” Walk through the historical Forks National Historic Site, a meeting place for Indigenous peoples in the past, with many museums, shops and restaurants now. Take a walk on the Assiniboine River, and enjoy the diversity of the arts and culture in the city, by visiting numerous museums, theaters, and the ballet.
- Lecce, Italy
Find a difference in southern Italy by going to Lecce, also known as the “South Florence”. Enjoy the detailed Baroque architecture, especially the Lecce Cathedral, stroll along the picturesque squares like Piazza Sant’Oronzo and taste the regional cuisine, such as fresh seafood and orecchiette pasta. Beyond city, you can also get to Salento Peninsula, a well-known place with beautiful beaches, typical villages, and colorful festivals.
- Ushuaia, Argentina
Referred to as “The End of the World”, Ushuaia provides a special access to the spectacular nature of Tierra del Fuego National Park. Trek through rocky mountains, cruise the Beagle Channel, and enjoy a variety of fauna such as penguins and sea lions. For an adventure that will surpass your wildest imagination, walk to Antarctica, the coldest, windiest, and driest continent and behold its incredible glaciers and special wildlife.
Let this list be a launchpad for your global venture. The sheer number of undiscovered nuggets is amazing, with each one presenting an opportunity to get out of the usual tourist path, bond with the local people and create memories that will last forever. Well, take your bags, throw caution in the wind, and go on a trip to see the beauty of these underrated places.
by pankaj | Feb 21, 2024 | Australia, Blog, international, International Destinations, Latest Post
Australia glows like an opal, each facet reflecting some aspect of its mesmerizing appeal. Apart from the popular landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House radiating under the morning sun and the Great Barrier Reef teeming with underwater splendor, lies a continent oozing multiple unique landscapes, multi-cultural settings, and hidden treasures waiting to be found.
With this expanded guide you have the opportunity to develop your journey to carry your spirit, traversing the unknown beyond the beaten path into the deepest heart of Australia’s untamed wild.
Nature’s Tapestry
For the adventurous explorer Australia offers a dazzling mosaic of ecosystem. Trek across the windswept plains of Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, where ancient pines keep secrets above sparkling lakes, amidst the jagged peak’s piercing skies. The waters of the Jervis Bay Marine Park are bio luminescent which you will experience while kayaking and spotting playful dolphins and migrating humpback whales against a shimmery skyline.
Plunge into the green arms of Daintree Rainforest, the oldest on the planet, its leaves pulsating with the songs of exotic birds and the movement of unknown animals. View the unbridled wilderness at Kakadu National Park, where old sandstone cliffs out of the crocodile-haunted floodplains, the hymns of the Dreamtime echoing in them.
Cultural Mosaic:
Australia shimmers with rich cultural frequencies. Take part in the kaleidoscope of the Vivid Festival in Sydney, where light installations change focal points into the fascinating exhibits, and the city is filled with creative energy. Go to the deepest part of the Red Centre, where Aboriginal nations have dwelled for thousands of years. Experience their relationship with the land during immersive events, traditional dances, and the deep, resonating sounds of the didgeridoo.
Relive history at Fremantle Prison in Western Australia through a guided tour and an audio compilation which is chilling enough. Delve into the multi-cultural texture of Melbourne where the lanes swarm with street art, the hidden bars groove with live music and the markets hum with the sounds of different cuisines.
Culinary Symphony
Foodies, rejoice! Australia delivers an explosion of tastes that perfectly depicts its landscapes and culture. Set off on a culinary journey at the vibrant “Queen Victoria Market” in Melbourne, with the market exhibiting a myriad of colors, scenting the air with tantalizing aromas and story telling with the local rhythm of the people. In Margaret River, soak in world-class wines amongst rolling vineyards and countryside cellar doors, with every sip embodying this sun-rich region.
Enjoy the ocean-fresh seafood platters on the waterfront in Cairns, the tropical gateway to Great Barrier Reef, where the flavors do the dance on your tongue together with the amazing views of coral reefs. To create a truly intriguing experience, combine a handcrafted didgeridoo and damper cooking class in the Outback to appreciate the ancient Aboriginal cuisine and harmonize with the land through food.
Hidden Gems
Go beyond the usual tourist route and explore Australia’s secret paradises. Wade around with the turquoise waters of Lake Mckenzie on Fraser Island, the biggest sand island in the world, where the tall dunes sing about shipwrecks and ancient forests. Cruise the Whitsunday Islands in a sailboat each morning with the sun rising over deserted beaches, and in the afternoon there will be snorkelling in coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.
Travel to the Kimberley Region, this otherworldly wilderness that was shaped by long ago rivers and features cascading waterfalls, hidden gorges and Aboriginal rock paintings telling tales of the Dreaming. If you are searching for a real adventurous experience, hike the Flinders Ranges for a few days where the peaks and the old gorges keep astonishing you as you travel further, revealing the hidden stories of the harsh land.
Embrace the Unexpected
Remember the magic is in how Australia surprises you. Create a connection with a local at a country pub, whose stories will give you an insight into what “true blue” Australian spirit means. Take part in the colourful event of the community festival, letting yourself enjoy the celebrating life freely as Aussies.
Watch the stars in the Outback as the Milky Way spreads across the pitch-black background like a dream, giving you a glimpse of the universe’s endless size, evoking awe. Bring along your taste of adventure, a sprinkle of disorder, and an open heart. Australia is awaiting, all prepared to intrigue you with its undiscovered beauties and to leave you with the deepest imprints in your heart.
This is merely a beginning of your Australian journey. For every step you take, a new view emerges, a particular encounter is yet to be revealed, and a deeper bond with this remarkable place is formed. Therefore, get moving, roam around, and let this country make you feel like you were born under its stars.The adventure awaits!
by pankaj | Feb 19, 2024 | Blog, City/State Tour, international, International Destinations, Latest Post
Exploring Poland is, in fact, about finding stylish and colorful cities with abundant stories, culture, and beauty. Following the collapse of communism, Poland gained its independence and became known for its beautiful scenery and rich culture. From Gdańsk to Warsaw, there is a different thing about each city.
Poland provides a great variety of outdoor adventures, from calm sea to high mountains. Don’t let this opportunity slip away to experience Polish gastronomy & its Jewish legacy. Join us as we explore the cities of Poland, each holding something unique to be explored.
- Warsaw
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, standing in the Mazovia plain, combines old and new in its architecture. It is well-known for its skyscrapers, being listed among the world’s skylines, together with Paris, Frankfurt, London, and Barcelona in the EU. Warsaw shocks its guests with the fusion of modern skyscrapers and old-world atmosphere. Tourists rush to the Jablonowski Palace and the Old Town Market Square.
The Warsaw Mermaid statue represents the heart of Warsaw. Warsaw is a city that is rich in culture and history with galleries, palaces, and museums to explore, where you can choose to go deeper into its past and present.
- Krakow
Krakow, one of Poland’s oldest and biggest cities, is a perfect place for a budget weekend break from Germany. Strolling around through the free walking tours in the old town is a must-do to see famous spots like St. Mary’s Basilica, Rynek Glowny, the old university, John Paul II sites, and Wawel Castle.
The charm of Krakow comes from its extraordinary buildings and magical aura that mix time together. It is like Budapest and Prague. The must-see places are Wawel Royal Castle, Rynek Glowny, Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Cloth Hall. Renting a car helps you to go beyond the city limits exploring the Royal Wawel Castle where you can travel through the world of Polish monarchy by the well-kept state rooms and private apartments.
- Katowice
So what’s next? Katowice, the next part of our journey to Poland. Katowice was once an industrial city, but now it’s famous for its culture. One of its main draws is the Silesian Museum, which was a coal mine. It is drunk with Polish art and historical things, combining the old industrial history with modern art.
Not only Katowice is about visual art, but it is also a music center. The Spodek concert hall, with its one-of-a-kind design, hosts concerts from all over the world and thus draws music lovers from every place in the world.
And if you need a break from the city noise, the Katowice has the Valley of Three Ponds, a tranquil park with nature and calm waters, ideal for spending some peaceful time or having a picnic. An interesting place to discover is Katowice with its industrial past and lively culture.
- Karpacz
Karpacz, a lovely town in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship of Poland, is treasured for its spectacular mountain scenery and a variety of outdoor activities. Located in the Karkonosze Mountains, there are good trails for hiking, biking, and skiing in the adjacent Karkonosze National Park. Visitors have an opportunity to visit local attractions like the Museum of Skiing, the Amusement Park, Szrenica Mountain, and the Karpacz Ski Jump.
The main charm of Karpacz is its stunning scenery with the majestic mountains and dense forests which makes it the best place for nature lovers. Cultural sites consist of the John Paul II Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Church of St. Anne. Karpacz is perfect for both summer and winter activities like hiking, biking, camping, skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. Despite that, it gets too crowded during peak seasons and the weather can change rapidly, so one has to dress appropriately. Compliance with local laws and regulations guarantees a pleasant trip to this charming place.
- Poznan
Poznan, our last Polish city, offers a unique and engaging mix of big-city vibe and small-town coziness. The city marries its past with the present, thus creating a vibrant environment for tourists. While walking the streets of Poznan, you will come across its Renaissance buildings in different colors which are an ornament for the town. The Poznan Cathedral is one of the most attractive landmarks that is sure to appeal to history and art buffs.
Another key feature is the Stary Browar Shopping Center which is more than shopping as it also serves as an art gallery. It is a place where you shop and at the same time, you experience the culture. Don’t leave without trying the world-known St. Martin’s Croissant.
by pankaj | Feb 15, 2024 | Blog, City/State Tour, international, International Destinations, Latest Post, Travel Tips, vacations, Vacations & Leisure
For a New Yorker, it is a lot of adrenaline, but for a guest, it can be both pleasant and overwhelming. The city is a colorful mosaic of history, culture, and awesome energy, but efficient use of streets and attractions can be a big challenge. Here are some advice and the best places we have listed for you.
Before you go
- Choose the right time
Think of the seasons you are partial to. Fresh air and fewer crowds in spring and autumn are just a few benefits of them. There is a sign of vibrant and heat in summer while it also has a cold and snowy winter.
- Book your stay early
The hotels in New York City are the first to run out of rooms, especially, when it`s peak season. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you’ll have a place to stay, regardless of your budget situation.
- Consider a travel pass
If you are likely to visit many of them such as the iconic attractions, buy a pass like the CityPASS. It can facilitate you with saving money as well as time by providing access to a number of attractions and sites.
- Plan your itinerary
When you find yourself overwhelmed with all the places you want to visit and the activities you want to take part in, it is most helpful to know what your priorities are. Make certain that you have a good idea of the places you really want to go to and all the activities you wish to engage in.
Upon arrival
- Get familiar with the subway
Probably, a subway will be the fastest way to travel in NYC. You’ll need a Metro Card, which can be bought at any station on the subway line.
- Prepare for crowds
New York City is full of people, particularly in popular and cultural places which are prominent places of attraction.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help
New Yorkers, as a general rule, are hospitable persons; they are ready to give directions and recommendations.
- Take it all in
Sit back and relax with the city’s atmosphere. Lose yourself into the thrill and variation of NYC.
Additional tips
- Wear comfortable shoes
You will be walking a lot, therefore, ensure your boots are up for it.
- Stay aware of your surroundings
Although NYC is principally a safe place, be sure to pay attention to your belongings so as to prevent them from being stolen.
- Stay hydrated
Take a water bottle that can be reused with you so that you can remain replenished during the whole day.
- Be adventurous
New York City is a city of infinite opportunities. Don’t be hesitant about eating new foods, visiting new neighborhoods, and being a part of the urban culture that is so dynamic and diverse.
Take a moment to appreciate your stay in the Big Apple and the unpredictable nature of living in this great city.
Here’s an overview of 15 must-visit destinations in New York City.
- Central Park: Stretching over the 843-acre expanse, this metropolitan refuge teems with different attractions, including peaceful gardens, gorgeous lakes, and prominent monuments such as the Belvedere castle and the Loeb boathouse. Whether it’s through strolling down the curved paths, renting a bike, or just having a picnic on the Great Lawn, Central Park has something for everyone to enjoy.
Location: Central Manhattan
Highlights: Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, Strawberry Fields, Sheep Meadow, The Mall, and Wollman Rink.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): The Met primordially owns about two million artworks gathered across civilizations and epochs, trying to maintain its status among the world’s leading museums. Be it those of Egyptian antiquity, European masters, Islamic art, or otherwise, it is a cultural ‘decathlon’ to explore.
Location: Upper East Side
Highlights: The Egyptian Tomb Room, John Paul Getty Museum, The Charles Engelhard Court of European Decorative Arts, Arms and Armor, and The Costume Institute.
- The Statue of Liberty: Representing liberty and cheerfulness, Lady Liberty is standing at top of the Liberty Island. Come aboard the ferry to get close to her splendour and explore the vast history and culture.
Location: Liberty Island
Highlights: Ferry, the skyline of Manhattan, historical moment.
- Times Square: A bright hub full of sparkling lights, Broadway Theaters together with the hustle and bustle of crowds, Times Square stands for the city’s energy and life. Fully entering its life, take some pictures either in the shade of high billboards or while the artists entertain you with their amazing acts.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: The Broadway theaters, Madame Tussauds’s Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, The Shops at Columbus Circle.
- The Empire State Building: As a distinguished feature of the city’s skyline, this stylish Art Deco structure draws bystanders to its 86th and 102nd-floor lookouts where they get to enjoy magnificent views of the metropolitan area.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: The observation deck, displays the building’s history, and State Bar & Grill.
- The High Line: The High Line, which was originally an old freight line and now turned into a public park hanging in the air, has become the local green area in the jungle city, where you can enjoy panoramic views and various kinds of decorations.
Location: Chelsea and Meatpacking District
Highlights: The Spur, The Vessel, The Chelsea Market, Hudson Yards.
- The 9/11 Memorial & Museum: In this piece of memorial art and museum, the victims of the September 11th attacks are well honored as their names are inscribed on the pools with mirrors alongside the visual of some artifacts from the terrible incident.
Location: Lower Manhattan
Highlights: Immense fountains, manifestations of the September 11th attacks, and the power of resilience.
- Grand Central Terminal: Apart from playing a pivotal role as a bustling transportation center, Grand Central Terminal astounds with its amazing architecture through the breathtaking celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse and the mystical whispering gallery.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: Starry Ceiling, Nouvelle Vague, (whispering gallery).
- Brooklyn Bridge: Spanning from the East River is the historic suspension bridge that helps pedestrians and cyclists transverse its arches while they take in the amazing skyline view of Manhattan and the Brooklyn waterfront.
Location: Linking up Manhattan with Brooklyn
Highlights: One can catch iconic skyline views and pedestrian walkways.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): An abode for modern and contemporary art connoisseurs, MoMA is a treasure trove of masterpieces made by the giants of art such as Picasso, Van Gogh, Warhol among others, representing different schools of arts.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: Picasso, Van Gogh, Warhol, artistic movements of the XXth and XXIst centuries.
- Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Located at the heart of Rockefeller Center, this observation point from where visitors can witness panoramic views of the imposing city skyline including Central Park and the Empire State Building, and enjoy a visual treat for the eyes.
Location: Rockefeller Center
Highlights: 360 views of the entire city, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
- Bryant Park: Deep in the flurry of Midtown Manhattan, the sanctuary of Bryant Park is an oasis amidst lush greenery. The park turns into a fairy where one can skate on ice or browse through the holiday market.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: Peaceful environment, ice skating rink, Christmas market.
- Chinatown: Chinatown, New York’s lively collage of sights, sounds, and tastes, reflects the Grandeur and color with a riot of markets, authentic restaurants, and ornate temples.
Location: Lower Manhattan
Highlights: Colourful markets, fascinating cuisine, and ornamental temples.
14. The Frick Collection: The intimate experience of great European masterpieces housed in a mansion from the Gilded Age permeates the entire Frick collection, including the palace interiors and peaceful gardens.
Location: Upper East Side
Highlights: European art, townhouses, garden greenery.
15. Museum of Natural History: Discover the beauty of mother nature at this world-class museum which has iconic exhibits of dinosaur fossils, mummies from ancient times, and exhibitions on how man evolved and about space travel.
Location: Upper West Side
Highlights: Dinosaur skeletons, mummies, exhibits on humans’ evolution, space exploration.
Experience New York by visiting the different areas of the city each with a unique character of the city. No matter what you’re looking for, whether a museum, well-known buildings, or lively communities, consider your trip a time to fuel your curiosity.
