Exotic Travel Destinations
From LoveToKnow Travel
Exotic travel destinations may appeal to those travelers who want something more than just a beach vacation. They are as varied as the globe, but most have in common an undeveloped beauty and sense of adventure. Below are some of the most currently popular exotic travel destinations.
Galapagos Islands
Located about 600 miles west of Ecuador, this archipelago of 19 volcanic islands and over 100 rocks and inlets is best known for its variety of unique animal species. It was a visit to the Galapagos Islands that led Charles Darwin to form his theory of evolution and to write his "Origins of the Species." Among the many creatures found on the islands and the waters surrounding them are several species of iguanas, green turtles, sea cucumbers, and the giant Galapagos tortoise.
The entire Galapagos Islands archipelago is a protected wildlife preserve and World Heritage Site. Five of the islands are inhabited, with most of the hotels, restaurants, and tourist services located on Santa Cruz. The airport is located just north of Santa Cruz on the tiny island of Baltra.
The Galapagos Islands are accessible by air from Quito, Ecuador or via sea by a number of cruises that leave from Ecuador. Cruises are available in many price ranges, from deluxe to modest.
Antarctica
The southern tip of the world is the globe's least explored territory. Intrepid visitors can journey there from Chile on one of several cruises that ply the icy Antarctic waters. Among the cruise operators that offer cruises to Antarctica are Lindblad Cruises and Hanseatic Cruises. Most voyages are 11 to 15 days and travelers are treated to the haunts of early 20th century explorers, such as Elephant Island and Deception Point, and have an opportunity to see unique wildlife, such as baby brown penguins and blue-eyed cormorants, and the eerily beautiful, icy terrain.
Bulgaria and Romania
These two new members of the European Economic Union are welcoming visitors with open arms – and low prices. No longer do you have to stop and show your passport at borders and by 2012, both countries will be using the Euro as currency.
In anticipation of the two countries' new status, additional flights have been added to Bulgaria's Sofia airport and Romania's Bucharest airport. New hotels are in the works and a sports complex, complete with pools, tennis courts, a luxury hotel, and shopping is under construction just outside of the Bulgarian capital of Sofia.
Both countries have a wealth of history, culture, and cuisine to offer visitors, including historic castles including the legendary Vlad Castle (home of Dracula), scenic mountains, hot springs and spas, and fine restaurants.
Booking Exotic Travel Destinations
It is wise to enlist the aid of a travel agent or tour operator who specializes in your desired area when making plans to travel to an exotic travel destination. Look for agent recommendations from friends or acquaintances that have traveled to the area as well as from the area's tourist board.
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