The Most Historic Vacations Offer Intellectual Stimulation As Well as Fun

Going on vacation means different things to different people. Some are strictly interested in calm and relaxation, while others are into excursions and learning opportunities. If you are interested in experiencing some of the historical wonders of the world while vacationing, then there is no shortage of destinations to choose from. Throughout the world, there are places of great significance that would certainly be on anyone's bucket list. If you are someone with these interests, choosing can be difficult. Your interests in history will vary from many other people’s. That being said, there are plenty of different historical vacations and attractions to see. This article will look at some of the most popular and exciting options. 

1 - Machu Picchu (Peru)

Visiting this site requires a bit of determination, but it is well worth the effort. This ancient Incan metropolis that dates back to the 15th century sits on the top of a mountain that you can get to by train, or by embarking on a four day trip up the mountain. It was abandoned by its original occupants when it was invaded by the Spanish, but the ruins were rediscovered in 1911. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, and it has also been named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. In order to preserve this historical site, there is a limit on the number of tourists permitted to visit at one time.

2 - The Taj Mahal (India)

This breathtaking structure in Agra, India was erected in the 1600s as an act of love. Made of ivory white marble, Emperor Shah Jahan had it built. It was designed as a tribute for his wife. It was designed to be a final resting place. The Emporer's wife passed in child birth during child #14. It took over 10 years for it to be completed by 20,000 workers and architects. The Taj Mahal is also a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is open year round, and accessible by railway, but on Fridays it is only open to practicing Muslims who worship at the mosque.

3 - The Great Wall of China (China)

Dating back to the 7th century, the Great Wall of China is a series of walls that were originally erected across the northern border of China as protection from invading countries. Building continued throughout several dynasties, and the most famous and lasting portion of the wall was built during the Ming dynasty from 1368 to 1644. The Great Wall of China is considered one of the most impressive architectural creations in history. Today, it spans 13,171 miles, and can be accessed by public transit from several cities near Beijing.

4 - “The Pyramids” (Egypt)

The Egyptian Pyramids are some of the great mysteries of the world. There are at least 118 that were mostly built 3,000 years ago as final resting places for pharaohs, but no one is certain of how they were built, especially with such precision and alignment with the stars. Inside are chambers that, to this day, people have not been able to open. The Pyramids are the only remaining structures of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the most visited pyramids are in Giza, right outside of Cairo. You can take public transit from Midan Tahrir to the Giza site, and once there, a camel or horse will take you right up to the structures where you can purchase tickets to see them up close. 

5 - Angkor Wat (Cambodia)

Angkor Wat, which means 'City of Temples', is the largest collection of religious structures in the world. It dates back to the 12th century, when it was built by King Suryavarman as the official temple of the Khmer Empire. It has become an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists all over the world, and it is Cambodia's biggest tourist site. Surrounded by a moat, there are so many temples to explore that visitors are encouraged to purchase three or five day passes. Angkor Wat is about 20 minutes from Siem Reap, but keep in mind that the total area is too expansive in size to walk. You can hire a driver or use a bicycle to explore more easily.