Hidden Gems Exploring Underrated Destinations on an ANA Round-the-World Ticket
Hidden Gems Exploring Underrated Destinations on an ANA Round-the-World Ticket - Exploring Nature's Wonders - Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park, a hidden gem in northern California, offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse volcanic landscape.
From observing bubbling thermal springs to summiting volcanic peaks and enjoying the park's vibrant flora and fauna, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a true natural wonder.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to over 700 plant species, including the rare and endemic Lassen paintbrush, which can only be found within the park's boundaries.
Visitors to the park can enjoy exceptional stargazing opportunities due to the park's remote location and minimal light pollution, providing a stunning view of the night sky and the Milky Way.
Hidden Gems Exploring Underrated Destinations on an ANA Round-the-World Ticket - Culinary Delights in Unexpected Places - Oklahoma City and Peach Springs
Oklahoma City's culinary scene is remarkably diverse, offering a global dining experience in the heart of America.
From authentic Mexican and Ethiopian cuisine to tiki-themed restaurants and classic Route 66 burger joints, the city's eateries showcase a wide range of international flavors.
For food enthusiasts, the city's culinary landscape extends well beyond the typical, promising unique gastronomic experiences that are sure to delight.
Oklahoma City is home to the world's largest collection of Smithsonian-quality Western art, with over 3,000 pieces displayed at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
Peach Springs, located on Route 66, is the original home of the iconic Arizona-based brand Bearizona Wildlife Park, which first opened its doors in 2010 as a drive-through wildlife park.
The historic Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner's mistress, who reportedly still roams the hallways and interacts with guests.
Peach Springs is the gateway to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass-bottomed bridge that extends 70 feet over the edge of the Grand Canyon, offering breathtaking views of the natural wonder.
Oklahoma City's Bricktown district is home to the world's tallest Ferris wheel outside of Las Vegas, standing at an impressive height of 179 feet.
The town of Peach Springs is the birthplace of famed Route 66 musician and singer-songwriter, Roger Miller, known for hits like "King of the Road" and "Dang Me."
The Milk Bottle Building in Oklahoma City, a quirky roadside attraction, was originally constructed in 1930 as a functioning dairy store and is now home to a unique eatery serving up local favorites.
Hidden Gems Exploring Underrated Destinations on an ANA Round-the-World Ticket - Bosnia and Herzegovina - Europe's Undiscovered Treasure
Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, remains an undiscovered treasure in the heart of Europe.
From the medieval town of Jajce to the stunning Kravica Waterfall, this hidden gem provides a diverse range of attractions that challenge the typical European tourist circuit.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to the European continent's deepest river canyon, the Vrbas River Canyon, which reaches depths of up to 1,200 meters (3,900 feet).
The Lukomir village, situated at an altitude of 1,495 meters (4,908 feet), is considered one of the highest and most isolated permanent settlements in Europe, with a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
The Blagaj Tekke, a Dervish monastery built into the side of a cliff, is an architectural marvel that blends Islamic and Mediterranean influences, and is powered entirely by a nearby natural spring.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to the Vrelo Bune, one of the largest and most powerful karstic springs in Europe, which produces an average of 30,000 liters (7,900 gallons) of water per second.
The Stari Most, or "Old Bridge," in Mostar was originally constructed in the 16th century, but was destroyed during the Bosnian War in The bridge was later rebuilt using the original design and materials, and has become a symbol of the city's resilience.
Hidden Gems Exploring Underrated Destinations on an ANA Round-the-World Ticket - Oenophile's Paradise - Portugal's Douro Valley and Utrecht's Charms
The Douro Valley in Portugal is a true haven for oenophiles, offering a picturesque landscape and a rich winemaking tradition.
The Douro Valley in Portugal is home to the world's oldest demarcated wine region, established in 1756, predating even the famous Bordeaux region of France.
The steep, terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley were originally cultivated by hand, using centuries-old techniques that have been passed down through generations of winemakers.
The Douro Valley's unique microclimate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters, is ideal for producing the region's rich, full-bodied port wines.
The Dom Tower in Utrecht, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands at 112 meters (367 feet), was built in the 14th century and offers visitors panoramic views of the city.
The Oudegracht, or Old Canal, in Utrecht is a unique feature of the city, with its lower-level quays and upper-level streets, creating a picturesque and atmospheric waterway.
The Rietveld Schröder House in Utrecht, designed by architect Gerrit Rietveld in 1924, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of the De Stijl movement in modern architecture.
The Miffy Museum in Utrecht, dedicated to the beloved children's book character created by Dutch artist Dick Bruna, attracts visitors from around the world with its interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Hidden Gems Exploring Underrated Destinations on an ANA Round-the-World Ticket - Island Escapes - Tenerife and Malta, Mediterranean Jewels
Tenerife and Malta are two hidden gems in the Mediterranean that offer unique experiences for travelers.
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and volcanic landscapes.
Both islands are underrated destinations that are worth exploring for their natural beauty, cultural attractions, and opportunities to discover secluded spots away from the crowds.
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is home to the third-largest volcanic structure in the world, the massive volcano of Mount Teide, which rises 3,718 meters (12,198 feet) above sea level.
The Caldera de Taburiente in Tenerife is a massive erosional crater that is approximately 9 kilometers (6 miles) wide and over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) deep, making it one of the largest erosional craters on Earth.
The Cueva del Viento in Tenerife is the longest lava tube system in Europe, extending over 18 kilometers (11 miles) underground and offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's volcanic past.
Malta is home to the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, an ancient underground necropolis dating back to 3300-3000 BCE, making it one of the oldest known subterranean structures in the world.
The city of Valletta in Malta, founded in the 16th century, is known for its geometric street plan, which was designed to maximize airflow and provide shade, making it an early example of urban planning principles.
The Megalithic Temples of Malta, such as the Ġgantija Temples in Gozo, are some of the oldest free-standing structures on Earth, predating the pyramids of Egypt by over a millennium.
Tenerife's Mount Teide is a shield volcano, meaning it has a broad, gentle slope, unlike the steep, pointed profile of stratovolcanoes like those found in the Cascade Range of the western United States.
The Maltese islands are home to a unique species of dwarf elephant, the Palaeoloxodon falconeri, which stood only 1 meter (3 feet) tall and went extinct around 4,000 years ago.
The Laurisilva, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient laurel forest that covers much of the northern slopes of Tenerife, is considered one of the best-preserved examples of this unique ecosystem in the world.
Malta's Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, which were built around 3600-3200 BCE, are aligned with the summer solstice sunrise, demonstrating the advanced astronomical knowledge of their builders.
Hidden Gems Exploring Underrated Destinations on an ANA Round-the-World Ticket - Uncovering Mexico's Coastal Gem - Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
With its challenging waves, stunning sunsets, and vibrant local gastronomy, the town has become a popular destination, attracting both vacationers and digital nomads.
The town's infrastructure has been developed to cater to its growing popularity, while preserving its natural charm and laid-back atmosphere.
Puerto Escondido is home to the Playa Zicatela, known as one of the most challenging surf spots in the world, attracting professional surfers from around the globe.
The town's unique microclimate, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) year-round, makes it an ideal destination for water sports and outdoor activities.
Puerto Escondido's coastline is part of the Oaxacan Corridor, a critical nesting ground for several species of endangered sea turtles, including the leatherback, olive ridley, and green turtle.
The town's nickname, "the Mexican Pipeline," is a nod to the powerful waves that have been compared to the iconic surf break on Oahu's North Shore in Hawaii.
Puerto Escondido hosts an annual surfing competition, the Billabong Pro, which draws the world's best surfers and attracts thousands of spectators.
The local cuisine features a unique fusion of indigenous Oaxacan and coastal Mexican flavors, with dishes like tlayudas, mezcal-based cocktails, and fresh seafood ceviche.
Puerto Escondido is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds found in the nearby Laguna de Manialtepec, including the rare and elusive ocellated turkey.
Puerto Escondido is home to a thriving community of digital nomads and remote workers, drawn to the town's laid-back atmosphere and affordable cost of living.