Buzz
The Caribbean region isn't just famous for blockbuster movies about pirates; it also boasts impressive natural landscapes on beautiful islands.
Embark on a 13-day tour to explore the Caribbean coast, offering you experiences of Mexico's rich history with majestic landmarks, the allure of the Panama Canal, the traditional cultural heritage, and the musical rhythms of Cuba.
SPEND 3 DAYS EXPLORING MEXICO
Mexico, in the fascinating American region, boasts enchanting paradise-like beaches, captivating natural wonders, ancient architectural marvels, historic cities, and awe-inspiring natural wonders, showcasing the rich cultural and historical tapestry of this intriguing country.
Ancient City of Teotihuacan
When it comes to pyramids, most people often think of ancient Egypt. However, the second and third largest pyramids globally are located in the beautiful country of Mexico, in the city of Teotihuacan. Situated approximately 48 km northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacan is home to some of Mexico's most remarkable pyramids, leaving every visitor in awe. All that modern science knows is that the name Teotihuacan was given by the Aztecs after they pilgrimage to this area, meaning 'The Place Where the Gods Were Created.' At Teotihuacan, visitors can marvel at the three main pyramids—the Moon Pyramid, the Sun Pyramid, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza, an ancient city belonging to the Mayan civilization, was built from the 5th to the 13th century. The city thrived until around 1200 AD, before joining a political alliance with the Mayan cities of Mayapan and Uxmal. Chichen Itza was abandoned when the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, and archaeological excavations only began in the early 19th century. The city is a magnificent testament to Mayan civilization's advancements in science and astronomy, featuring religious temples that showcase their intellectual and celestial achievements.
Cenote Ik Kil Lake
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Cenote Ik Kil Lake offers unforgettable experiences for travelers. This freshwater lake is the result of geological processes spanning millions of years and is considered a sacred site for the ancient Maya. The landscape exudes an ancient charm, with green moss covering the surroundings. Ik Kil Cenote resembles an open skylight, with a 26-meter gap between the ground and the water's surface, creating the appearance of a celestial bathing pool.
Palacio Nacional National Palace
Visitors can admire beautiful oil paintings depicting the history of the Mexican people on the walls of the National Palace, located east of Zocalo Square. Every year on Mexico's Independence Day, the President waves the national flag and rings the independence bell from the balcony of the National Palace. Experiencing the festive atmosphere on Independence Day in Zocalo Square is a must-attend activity when visiting this country.
El Templo Mayor
Templo Mayor is an area with two large pyramids and several smaller structures containing the spiritual heart of the Aztec Empire. The Aztecs built Templo Mayor in the 14th century, and it was almost entirely destroyed during the Spanish conquest. Lost and forgotten, it was rediscovered in 1978 in the heart of Mexico City. When in Mexico City, visitors cannot overlook these archaeological sites to learn about the history, people, and culture of beautiful Mexico.
Palacio De Bellas Artes Art Palace
Located in the heart of Mexico City, the Palace of Fine Arts, with its front built of white marble, transports visitors to the romantic streets of Spain or Italy. Here, you'll have the opportunity to admire artworks or enjoy traditional Mexican music performances.
5 DAYS EXPLORING CUBA, VIBRANT COLOR PALETTES
Cuba has long been praised for its tourism potential, boasting numerous beautiful islands in the Caribbean Sea. The country harmoniously blends European, African, and Latin American cultures. Cuba preserves a unique art treasure, showcasing the distinctive art of the Caribbean region. It is known for traditional world-renowned products like rum, cigars, and many other fascinating elements. All encapsulated in the famous words of explorer C. Columbus when he set foot here in 1492: 'The most beautiful land human eyes have ever seen.'
The Capital Havana
The captivating capital Havana exudes a rich historical imprint and diverse cultural heritage, complemented by varied architectural styles and vibrant urban life. Here, you'll easily spot vintage Buicks and Chevrolets over 50 years old parked outside modern shopping districts.
Especially upon entering the city center, it seems like each street carries a story to tell. Every neighborhood in Havana symbolizes a period in the city's development. For instance, what existed in the 17th century now lingers in the unique charm of the Habana Vieja harbor, the historic tourist center of the capital.
Centro Habana
The impoverished and dilapidated suburban area adjacent to Habana Vieja is often overlooked by tourists in favor of the more touristy Malecon promenade. Along Malecon, next to Centro Habana, lies Vedado, the center of Plaza district, an attractive, lush neighborhood with a sociable community, featuring numerous theaters, nightclubs, and cinemas.
From here, you can walk a few kilometers to reach the Plaza de la Revolución square, where giant monuments of Che Guevara and José Martí stand tall, erected to commemorate two liberation icons of the Cuban people.
Writer Hemingway once lived in the old streets of Havana. So, if you're here, take at least a few days to freely explore art workshops or savor a type of drink somewhere the American literary giant once frequented.
Vinales
Vinales stands as one of Cuba's most breathtaking natural landscapes, a lush valley where rural life unfolds slowly amid sugarcane and banana plantations. Scattered throughout the valley, pine-lined fences intertwine with limestone cliffs resembling stacks of dry hay built on tobacco farms.
This 5km wide and 11km long valley, nestled amid the Organos Mountains, earned national recognition in 1979 and UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999 for its stunning natural scenery harmonized with indigenous architecture evident in farms and traditional villages.
Exploring Vinales, visitors have the opportunity to hike, mountain climb, and horseback ride along the scenic routes. Additionally, Vinales boasts top-notch hotels and the finest casas particulares (translated as private homes) in Cuba.
Despite attracting many tourists, the area, thanks to well-preserved natural landscapes, manages to avoid crowds prevalent in other bustling tourist spots. Instead, the atmosphere within and around the valley remains peaceful and refreshing.
Trinidad Town
Often called a 'fold in time,' Trinidad, located in central Cuba, makes one feel like they're living in the past.
The first sounds of early morning are the clip-clop of horse hooves on cobblestone roads, following the chant of bicycle-borne bread sellers. Opening your eyes to the wooden ceiling of a 200-year-old room from the colonial era, many tourists find themselves mentally transported to the 21st century.
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1988, Trinidad quickly became a renowned tourist destination. Fortunately, tourism development has had little impact on Trinidad's gentle and serene ambiance.
For nature enthusiasts, head south 20 km to discover the most beautiful southern coastal beach, Playa Ancon, with its shimmering silver sands. Alternatively, venture north 18 km to explore the deep purple Escambray mountain range.
Malecon Boulevard
Malecon, an 8km-long coastal boulevard in Havana, stands as Cuba's most charming, romantic, and enchanting thoroughfare. Over time, it has become a meeting point for lovers, philosophers, poets, tourists, and even seaside fishermen.
The most mesmerizing view of Malecon unveils itself at sunset when the soft golden light from Vedado, resembling dim torches, slants across the Centro Habana buildings, imparting an unusually refined beauty to the crumbling facades.
Heading west from Vedado, across the Rio Almendares, lies the Miramar district, a mid-20th-century replica of Miami. Miramar reveals a new scene with intricately designed restaurants, lavishly adorned storefronts, and vibrant music venues scattered along its verdant streets.
4 DAYS TO EXPLORE PANAMA'S TOURIST PARADISE
Panama is not only an attractive tourist destination, renowned for the Panama Canal, but also boasts numerous breathtaking natural landscapes, along with fascinating culture and history. Spend at least 4 days to fully appreciate the beauty of this place.
Relaxation in Boquete
Voted as one of the world's best retirement destinations, Boquete is a charming small village nestled next to the Caldera River in Panama and the mountains of the Chiriquí Highlands. The majority of the area's landscape is dotted with coffee plantations that have been built and revitalized.
Moreover, this town is home to one of the top three private gardens globally, 'Mi Jardin es Su Jardin.' When visiting this village, you'll be impressed not only by its rustic and poetic beauty but also as a fantastic place to have interesting experiences while exploring traditional architectured homes.
Explore Casco Viejo
Located just outside Panama City, Casco Viejo exudes the allure of the oldest city in the Americas. Nowadays, the city's streets are paved with red bricks. Following the 'Westernization' architecture of Spain, Casco Viejo still maintains a historical beauty that has withstood the test of time. In 1998, the city was UNESCO recognized as a World Heritage Site.
Bike along Amadour Road
Amadour Causeway is a 6km-long highway made from excavated rocks during the construction of the Panama Canal. When visiting Panama, you can experience the thrill of cycling along the road, enjoying the scenery with one side overlooking the canal and the other side extending towards the city. This is undoubtedly a fascinating experience when setting foot in this beautiful Panama City for the first time.
Visit Bocas del Toro
Enveloped by an incredibly lush vegetation carpet and home to the La Amistad International Park, one of the highly protected areas in Central America, Bocas del Toro rightfully earns the nickname the 'green province' of Panama. Particularly, the islands, like gemstones, adorn Bocas del Toro, making it a paradise for many global travelers.
EXPLORE LOS ANGELES IN 1 DAY, USA
Los Angeles is a dream destination with the enchanting allure of Hollywood, unique architecture, and sun-drenched beaches. Exploring Los Angeles in 1 day may not be enough to cover all the fascinating aspects of this 'Entertainment Capital of the World,' but it will be an exciting experience for the final leg of your 13-day journey!
Griffith Park
Spanning over 4,107 acres, it is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, blessed with abundant sunshine and a pleasant atmosphere throughout the year. Today, Griffith Park is a favorite spot for golf enthusiasts and an ideal location for photographers capturing breathtaking moments.
Los Angeles Natural History Museum
As one of America's largest natural history museums, the Los Angeles Natural History Museum takes pride in its extensive historical collections catering to the curiosity of visitors and the research endeavors of scientists. Here, you will be amazed not only by the vastness of the collections but also by the museum's exquisite interior structure.
Venice Beach
Venice is a favorite destination for many renowned artists and acrobats. It is considered one of the finest places in Los Angeles, where visitors, at any given time, can immerse themselves in the vibrant and captivating atmosphere of Venice Beach.
Explore the Los Angeles Shopping District
The Los Angeles shopping district offers a plethora of attractions, hailed by CQ magazine as the 'most fascinating commercial district in the United States.' From iconic architecture like Walt Disney Concert Hall and Bradbury Building to cultural institutions like the Los Angeles Natural History Museum and the California Science Center, this area is a diverse blend of history and innovation.
Energize your walking tour through the neighborhood with a variety of culinary delights representing different cultures, including French sandwiches, barbecue, Italian hot pot, and more. You can find it all in this vibrant district.
By Nhu Nguyen (Wiki Travel)
Posted by: Dinh Chau
Keywords: 13-day journey exploring North America, Central America along the Caribbean coast
