Last comes the Oceanographic – a complex of smaller structures that loosely resemble giant seashells, grouped around and across a water reservoir. Oceanographic is a marine park, with thousands of species from all marine ecosystems of the world. The bulk of the complex is actually underground (or, rather, underwater), while the buildings serve as entry points, infrastructure containers and some also display surface ecosystems.

Western Europe is such an ultimate travel destination that anything worth seeing has already been triple-packed. It is practically impossible to find a place that has major attractions yet has retained its innocence. And, out of all countries, Spain – the place where annual tourist head count overtakes that of its residents – is a very unlikely candidate for such location.

Yet, curiously, throughout this process a strong Valencian cultural identity emerged in, once again, the City of Contrasts. The locals see themselves as an ethnic kingdom within Spain. What is spectacular, though, is that here the traditional is still very much in fashion, preserved mainly in music, costumes, customs and fiestas. A good third or so of Valencia proudly sports regional costumes (said to be the most colourful in Spain) and music on even the smallest occasion. That includes a lot of youth. Here, it is still cool to be traditional in the 21st century.

The Azure Window, a table-like rock over the sea, is one of the most amazing natural wonders of the Maltese Islands, and its particularly spectacular during winter when waves crash high inside the arch. The Inland Sea, and Dwejra Bay itself on Gozo, were created millions of years ago when two limestone caves collapsed.

The Megalithic Temples on the islands Malta og Gozo, dating from 5500 years ago, are the oldest free standing stone structures in the world. These temples there are much older than the Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge, and their secrets are still well hidden. Previous year I explored the temples Hagar Qim and Mnajdra on Malta, and now it was time for me to explore the two temples of Ggantij on Gozo.

Antigua is the cultural centre in Guatemala. It’s full of beauty and charm! The richness lies in the creativity of its native population, especially when it comes to their skillful weaving of carpets and traditional costumes. We had a memorable experience admiring the town’s colours and architecture, observing massive volcano peaks, attending the largest festival in Central America - Semana Santa, touring around on endless greens stretches, and enjoying Antigua’s brown treasure, the town’s delicate coffee.

An Israeli archaeologist claim that he has found the tomb of King Herod. He was the Judean ruler in the first century BC. The burial is located outside Bethlehem. Archaeologists have searched for the grave for around 30 years. View the historical site on video where Herod's tomb is believed to be.

The Cesis Castle is surrounded with parks and lakes. This makes the castle incredibly beautiful. The town's people have just let everything grow which gives it a spooky medieval feel. Walking through the ruins this day was just perfect for getting a feeling of an unique atmosphere. We were alone in the castle and the grey wheather gave the castle an even more spooky impression.

When the end comes, not everyone is ready to go! This slogan is from the movie Apocalypto. It`s about the decline of the Mayas. Actual is a fairytale story based on some parts of historical incidents in the Maya culture. It`s definitely not meant to be a documentary even it`s very convincing in both the story and action scenes. The movie started the discussion again about how the Maya culture was and what happen to the Maya Indians when they vanished.

Tatar palaces, Turkish fortresses, magic stalactite caves, lush sub-tropical mountains, miles and miles of beaches, mellow coastal climate… Sounds like Russia?

Nothing changes a country like a war. That which is history books for many nations, is a yesterday’s memory for this one. I realised that all of the things that struck me as unusual about El Salvador have to do with those 12 years.

This article continue from Part 1. Read more about exploration of the amazing ancient Inca city Choquequirao in Peru. It has taken over from over-crowded Machu Picchu as the true Lost City of the Inca.

Out of the way, with nothing extraordinary for the camera, and with a marred reputation, El Salvador remains one of the least travelled Latin American destinations. A perfect place to go off the beaten track?

Trekking from hut to hut in Norway`s pure wilderness is the best way to experience the country. When the snow has melted there are great opportunities for exploring Norway`s breathtaking nature by foot. Here you can walk down to deep valleys, climb high mountains and cross glaciers. DNT - the Norwegian Trekking Association, also called Turistforeningen in Norwegian, are Norway's biggest outdoor organisation for activities. During 135 years the organisation has promoted trekking and improved conditions for all who enjoy the country's broad range of outdoor attractions. For late summer and autumn this year (2006), DNT has some special tour offers which should be interesting for eager trekkers and adventurers.

Hundreds of thousands come back from Peru unaware that just about 100 km or so from Machu Picchu lies another magnificent complex. Choquequirao has taken over from over-crowded Machu Picchu as the true Lost City of the Inca.