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Divers and snorkelers will find an abundance of marine life at Glover’s Atoll, a protected reef system and the southernmost and smallest of Belize’s 3 atolls. Divers frequently encounter dolphins, turtles, sharks and manta rays there.
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Catch a glimpse of the largest fish in the world – the whale shark – from Placencia, Belize. The gentle (believe it or not) creatures are typically found within only 20 feet of the water’s surface, and congregate in Belize each year to feed on fish eggs.
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Belize has the highest concentration of Mayan sites of all the countries in Central America, and archeologists suggest that Carocol, believed to have been one of the most important political centers of the Mayan civilization, was home to more than double the number of people that currently live in Belize City, the country’s largest metropolitan area.
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A stingray is one of the impressive creatures you may come across on a snorkeling trip in Belize. Be careful not to walk along the ocean floor -- you wouldn’t want to step on one!
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Actun Tunichil Muknal -- one of Belize’s many Mayan archaeological sites -- houses the skeleton of a teenage girl, dubbed “The Crystal Maiden” because of the sparkling, crystalized appearance of her bones. To reach the cave, visitors must embark on a 45-minute hike, followed by a swim to the inside of the cave. Visitors can also get a look at the remains of the 13 other humans that now share the cave with the Crystal Maiden.
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Belize is home to one of the world’s most endangered marine species, the sea turtle. Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles can all be found between the coast and the barrier reef.
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The aptly named “Blue Hole” is a large collapsed sinkhole near the center of Lighthouse Reef. Explorer Jacques Cousteau named the hole one of the top scuba diving sites in the world.
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Antillean manatees can be found in the rivers, lagoons and coastal areas of Belize. Because of their slow metabolisms, they prefer shallow, warm water, and can be spotted in water only a few yards deep.
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The Beauty of Belize 14 Photos
There may be nothing more delicious to start your trip to Nashville than a tall stack of biscuits from the Loveless Cafe.
Kick back and enjoy some local wine from Arrington Vineyards, which is owned by country-music star Kix Brooks and lies 30 miles from Nashville.
Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co. has been making delicious chocolates since 2009 and has quickly become a Nashville institution.
Robert’s Western World is your home for some good old honky-tonk and traditional country music.
The Hatch Show Print shop has been turning out colorful and informative show posters since the late 19th century and is a landmark of Nashville.
The Barista Parlor makes up for its stripped-down décor with its top-shelf coffee and teas.
Nashville’s City House restaurant puts a Southern spin on traditional Italian cuisine.
Cumberland Park provides a great venue for both tourists and locals to get out and enjoy the outdoors, as well as amazing views of downtown Nashville.
Pinewood Social is one of the more unusual spots in Nashville. Billed as “a place to meet,” the venue has a bistro, a dining room, a full bar and, of course, a bowling alley.
A Weekend in Nashville 11 Photos
The iconic exterior of Luke Skywalker’s home (aka: the Lars Homestead) from Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope was filmed in the desert of Chott el Djerid, Tunisia. George Lucas returned to this location to film new scenes for Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, 28 years later.
By Stefan Krasowski (Flickr: Algeria Tunisia Libya 042) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Matmata in southern Tunisia is home to a distinctive style of underground dwellings called troglodytes. One of these structures, The Hotel Sidi Driss, which was used as the interior for the home of Luke Skywalker on the planet Tatooine in Episode IV.
Bernard Gagnon [GFDL or CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
To add some depth to Tatooine, George Lucas shot several different scenes in Death Valley National Park, including R2D2’s run-in with the Jawas in Episode IV and exteriors of Jabba’s Palace in Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. The majority of locations can be found off of Route 190 through the California section of the park.
"Twenty Mule Team Canyon" by RoadTripWarrior - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikipedia.
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back used this spectacular glacier to portray the ice planet Hoth. The 6th largest glacier in Norway, its highest point can sometimes only be accessed by skiers due to heavy snowfall.
Steven8 [GFDL or CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Used to portray the evergreen planet of Endor (home of the Ewoks) in Episode VI, the Redwood National and State Parks have become synonymous with epic speeder-bike chases for Star Wars fans everywhere. With over 133,000 acres to explore, its easy to get lost on your own interstellar-inspired journey.
Visit California/Carol Highsmith
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Palace of Caserta served as the filming location for Queen Amidala’s royal palace on Naboo in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, as well as Queen Jamilia’s palace in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Built in the 18th century in the beautiful style of the Baroque, it has affectionately become known as the Versailles of Italy.
Livioandronico2013 [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
The Plaza de Espana in Seville, Spain was used as the backdrop for Theed, the capital of Naboo (and home of Luke and Leia’s mother, Padmé Amidala). Featured prominently in both Episode I and Episode II, the plaza was built in 1928 and heavily influenced by the Renaissance Revival style of Spanish Architecture, bringing an ancient and elegant feel to Theed.
Gregory Zeier [GFDL or CC BY 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
The site of Padmé Amidala and Anakin Skywalker’s clandestine wedding in Episode II, Villa del Balbianello is located on Lake Como in the comune of Lenno, Italy. Lake Como has always been an admired retreat for the wealthy and elite, with ornate villas dating back since Roman times.
Deror_avi [GFDL or CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
While no physical filming with actors was done in the snowy alps of Grindelwald, Switzerland, footage of mountain scenery was later composited into the backdrop of the planet Alderaan, home-world of Princess Leia, in Episode III.
Zacharie Grossen [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Aerial footage of the limestone karst mountains at Phang Nga Bay in Thailand were used in Episode III as a backdrop for the approach over the Battle of Kashyyyk, one of the last few battles fought in the Clone Wars before the fall of the Republic and the rise of the Empire.
Diego Delso [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
The plot of Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens has been kept tightly under wraps but there have been confirmed reports of new locations used for filming, including Skelling Michael in Ireland (pictured), the desert of the UAE emirate of Abu Dhabi, Scotland and Iceland. Add these new locations to your Star Wars travel itinerary as they will surely be as memorable as the last!
Niki.L [GFDL or CC BY 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
The Force of Travel is With You 11 Photos
“Moraine Lake – known as one of the most photographed places in Canada – is a glacially-fed lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. I took this photo during a production shoot for a Shaw TV segment where I chatted with them about my passion for the Great Outdoors.”
Dax Justin
“Moraine Lake reflects a very distinct shade of blue because of the refraction of light off the rock flour that is continuously deposited in the lake.”
Dax Justin
Lake Minnewanka, which means ‘water of the spirits,’ is a glacial lake and is the longest in the mountain parks of the Canadian Rockies.
Dax Justin
“Located in Banff National Park, Two Jack Lake is my favorite place in Alberta to capture the vast number of colors seen along the horizon at sunrise.”
Dax Justin
“With Mount Rundle as its backdrop, Vermillion Lakes offer some of the most picturesque views in all of Alberta. It is a short jaunt from my home town of Calgary.”
Dax Justin
“This photo was taken at Johnson Canyon – one of the most popular places for ice climbers in the winter.”
Dax Justin
“When the water began freezing at Johnson Canyon, I was able to capture some of the most spectacular views the Canadian Rockies.”
Dax Justin
“I learned that there’s nothing better than a serene kayaking experience on the calm waters of Patricia Lake.”
Dax Justin
“I've heard about the mind-blowing the beauty of Athabasca Falls, but seeing it in person is better than I expected. I have a very deep respect for this place.”
Dax Justin
“A rainbow breaks through the clouds just as I got to the top of Whistlers Mountain. Jasper National Park has the SkyTram that takes visitors up – approximately 4278 feet – to see the entire countryside, which includes the town of Jasper.”
Dax Justin
“While on the Columbia Icefield, I hiked to the Athabasca Glacier to see my first ice cave. Due to warmer temperatures over the past decade, the glacier is melting, which meant visiting the ice cave was on the top of my must-see list.”
Dax Justin
In Jasper National Park, Maligne Lake is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking.
Dax Justin
“While on my Badlands Expedition during the past summer (2015), I had the opportunity to visit Waterton Lake and I felt like I was in Jurassic Park.”
Dax Justin
Built in the late 1920s, the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel is overlooks the Waterton Lake. Named after the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), the hotel was built to lure American tourists north of the border during the prohibition era.
Dax Justin
“One day I drove past Lake Louise and randomly stumbled upon this stunning reflection on Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park.”
Dax Justin
"On my Columbia Valley Expedition, I skied off the summit of 8,000-foot-tall Panorama Mountain and para-glided down to the base. This was one of the best moments of my life and the snow-dusted trees below were a sight I will never forget."
Dax Justin
Canada's 5 Must-See National Parks 17 Photos
One of two Four Seasons properties in the Maldives, Landaa Giraavaru occupies an entire 18-acre island, complete with pristine white sand beaches and traditional over water huts.
Andrew Shiva [CC BY-SA 3.0 or Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons
Located on the North Nilandhe Atoll, Filitheyo Island Resort offers over 100 villas, beautiful surroundings and pristine waters.
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Whether you're soaking in your oversize plunge pool or catching a glimpse of the Maldives’ famous yellow fin tuna through the glass-bottom floors, the W Retreat & Spa offers all the amenities you could ever ask for.
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As its name implies, the Taj Exotica offers its guests a day in Paradise. Set on over 50 acres, this award-winning private resort is the perfect place to catch your breath and escape from reality.
Like a page out of Robinson Crusoe, Soneva Fushi is located on a no-shoes-required, remote island in the Maldives that is filled with intrigue, discovery and tropical excitement.
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Just 40 minutes by seaplane from the capital city of Malé sits the PER AQUUM Resort Niyama, an overwater paradise fit not just for honeymooners, but for families too. Niyama also plays home to Subsix, the world's first underwater nightclub.
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Located on one of the largest islands in the Maldives’s North Male Atoll, One&Only Reethi Rah has 130 private villas, some set on the Indian Ocean or a serene lagoon, and others secluded in lush jungle surroundings.
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Stay at the cozy Four Seasons' Maldives at Kuda Huraa, a relaxed island retreat, with over-the-lagoon bungalows and beachside, thatched-roof cottages.
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Cocoa Island by COMO is composed of 33 thatched-roof bungalows that perch like tropical birds on the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Wanderlusters seeking paradise will be plenty pleased by this luxury resort in the Maldives, where powdery white sand gives way to astonishingly clear water and thatched-roof bungalows perch like tropical birds above the surf.
The Dusit Thani, a Thai luxury hotel, has expanded into the Maldives, so now you can get a big taste of Thailand amid the islands of the Indian Ocean.
Just about everything is over the azure Indian Ocean waters at the PER AQUUM Huvafen Fushi resort in the Maldives, save for a few beach bungalows and the windowed underwater LIME spa.
Velassaru is on a private coral island, a 25-minute speedboat ride from the Maldive’s Malé airport. However, with 5 restaurants, 2 bars, a spa, and amazing amenities, you definitely won't be roughing it.
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Gorgeous Places to Stay in the Maldives 13 Photos
Go fish! Serious anglers know that Miami fishing is some of the best in the world. Go deep-sea fishing off the coast of this warm weather destination where anglers have been known to catch a variety of fish, including grouper, red snapper and amberjacks, weighing more than 50 pounds.
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Go shopping on Lincoln Road. This pedestrian walkway is lined with dozens of stores, including designer boutiques like Astoria Couture, Guess by Marciano, Scotch & Soda, U-Rock Couture and Vogue Italia. And while on your shopping spree, grab a bite to eat from one of the many restaurants along the way.
Vanessa Mack
Eat local at this farm-to-table restaurant located on Lenox Avenue in Miami. Yardbird Southern Table and Bar offers patrons classic Southern cooking with farm-fresh ingredients. We recommend guests try their brunch on Saturdays and Sundays with tasty food like the macaroni & cheese, fried green tomato BLT, fresh fruit with homemade granola, shrimp n’ grits and the big ol’ waffle with fresh Florida strawberries, whipped cream and Bourbon maple syrup.
Tracey-Ann Jarrett
Enjoy the great outdoors and go jet skiing along Miami’s beautiful white-sand coastline. Hop on a wave runner to catch a glimpse of dolphins playing or go bayside sightseeing to gaze at Star Island, home to Miami’s rich and famous.
Peter Bischoff / PB Archive / Getty Images
South Beach in known for its vibrant nightlife. And after the sun sets, dozens of people flock to Ocean Drive to grab a drink and socialize at popular bars and enjoy the nightlife along this vibrant street. Some hot spots include the bars at the Clevelander Hotel, Mango’s Tropical Café, Nikki Beach Club and the GLBT-favorite, Palace Bar.
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Relax and rejuvenate at the Four Seasons Miami, equipped with 2 outdoor pools and a 50,000-square-foot workout space. Get a massage or relaxing spa treatment poolside in a luxe cabana or in the sanctuary of your room or suite. Guests will definitely enjoy the amazing hotel views of beautiful Biscayne Bay.
Four Season Hotel Miami
At Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, the menu changes daily based on the food and ingredients that arrive from local farmers, fishermen, ranchers and artisans. Head here for dinner; we recommend the beet & heirloom tomato salad (pictured), wood oven pizza, roasted zucchini or wood oven roasted whole snapper.
Muy Yum, Flickr
It’s not surprising that windsurfing is a popular watersport in Miami. Throw caution to the wind and let a professional instructor teach you a few windsurfing techniques in an hour lesson.
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Celebrating its 100th anniversary, Joe’s Stone Crab has served Miami natives and tourists alongside celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Muhammad Ali, Dan Marino and Jennifer Lopez. Although a variety of seafood is available, we recommend ordering Joe’s tasty Stone Crab Claws.
Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant
Explore Miami’s tropical landscape and visit Jungle Island to see animals from around the globe. Thousands of people visit this 75-year-old, contemporary theme park each year, which features rare twin orangutans, the liger (the world’s largest cat), and more than 300 birds.
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Escape the Cold for Sunny Miami 12 Photos
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