Although Alpharetta is not a particularly big city now, experts predict that in about 25 years, Alpharetta will be the geographical center of metro Atlanta, as the area continues to expand North. After driving past many empty fields, or wooded areas, you might find it hard to believe that Alpharetta will really become such a major city. What you probably don't know is that much of Alpharetta's empty land is owned by some of the biggest names in the nation.
Travel through enchanting Kyoto to discover a cultural and spiritual haven in Japan. Once the country’s imperial capital, Kyoto is now home to magnificent shrines, lush botanical gardens and nature parks, and exceptional culinary delights.
Aït Benhaddou, located in southern Morocco along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, is one of the country’s most iconic historic sites. This fortified village, or ksar, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is admired for its striking earthen clay architecture that rises dramatically from the desert landscape.
Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, sits along the banks of the Danube River and has long served as a cultural meeting point in the Balkans. Its centerpiece is Petrovaradin Fortress, a massive 18th-century stronghold nicknamed the "Gibraltar on the Danube." The fortress is known not just for its historic architecture but also for its network of underground tunnels and the iconic clock tower where the hands are reversed, meaning the large hand shows the hour.
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Central Mountain Range, Hualien, Taiwan offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This coastal city is renowned for its proximity to the stunning Taroko Gorge, a marvel of nature where marble canyons and lush vegetation create a dramatic landscape. Visitors can embark on breathtaking hikes along the Swallow Grotto Trail and the Shakadang Trail, each offering spectacular views of waterfalls and unique rock formations.
Photo Credit: Photo by Geoff Gallice from Wikimedia
A tributary of the Amazon, the Napo River (Río Napo) originates in the east Andes mountains. It flows east through Ecuador, then southeast into Peru, where it joins the larger river roughly 50 miles downstream from Iquitos.
Other Popular Destinations in Ecuador
Galapagos Islands
Off the coast of Ecuador, the iconic and biodiverse Galápagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin’s nineteenth-century research expeditions on HMS Beagle, beckon you. This glittering archipelago, surrounded by vivid turquoise waves, abounds with stunning beaches and spectacular wildlife, perfect for the adventurous traveler.
Quito
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you.