Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in The Whitsundays & Hamilton Island
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Colosseum
The Colosseum has been a symbol of Rome since 80 AD, and today it’s a top monument in Italy. Some 50,000 spectators once gathered in the amphitheater’s tiered seats to watch gladiatorial games, and though parts of its original marble facade were pilfered over the years to build the likes of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum remains remarkably intact 2,000 years later.
The Basics
As the second most popular attraction in Italy after only the Vatican, the Colosseum hosts some 4 million annual visitors, meaning that long lines are nearly inevitable without a skip-the-line tour. Choose from a number of tours suited to any age or interest, such as a Colosseum underground tour that heads beneath the arena floor to explore a network of passages; a small-group guided tour of the third tier; or a night tour that offers an eery experience and relief from the daytime heat. Consider group tours, self-guided audio tours, or private tours to gain an understanding of this well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater and its historical importance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It's best to purchase Colosseum tickets in advance to avoid long entry lines.
- The Colosseum is well-suited for families with kids.
- This is an open-air amphitheater, so bring a hat and sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes and attire.
- You may also see the Colosseum referred to as the Flavian Amphitheatre or the Coliseum.
How to Get to the Colosseum
Alongside the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the Colosseum is in the center of Rome, just across the street from the Colosseo station on Line B of the city's underground metro system, which also stops at the main Termini train station.
When to Get There
Since the Colosseum is most crowded during the middle of the day, begin or end your Rome tour with a visit first thing in the morning or just before last entry (which is an hour before closing time) in the late afternoon. Alternatively, choose a night tour for a unique, less crowded experience. Summer is the most popular time of year to visit, while the site receives fewer crowds in November through February, aside from the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Colosseum in Numbers
The Colosseum is the world's largest amphitheater, has 76 entrances, and measures 615 feet (189 meters) long by 510 feet (156 meters) wide. The total area of the stadium covers six acres (24,000 square meters), and its highest tier reaches 157 feet (48 meters). It was built in under 10 years and was used for games and hunting for over four centuries.
Address: Piazza del Colosseo, Rome 00184, Italy
Admission: €12
From $ 2
Altino Arantes Building (Banespa Tower)
An enduring symbol of São Paulo’s 20th-century race to modernity, the Edifício Altino Arantes—more commonly known as the Banespa Tower or Banespão—remains one of the most notable landmarks on the city’s exhaustive skyline. Originally built as the headquarters of the State Bank of São Paulo (Banespa) and named for one of the bank’s first presidents, the tower rose over an eight-year period, crowning the city as its tallest building in 1947, a title held for the next 18 years. At completion, the 528-foot tower also held the title of tallest reinforced concrete structure and tallest building outside of the United States. Inspired by New York City’s Empire State Building, the tower exhibits Art Deco styling both inside and out.
Despite being the third-tallest building in the city, the Banespa is situated on the highest point in downtown São Paulo, giving it the appearance of being even taller than the Mirante do Vale, today the tallest building in Brazil at 558 feet. Panoramic, 360-degree views of the city from the 35th-floor observation deck extend to over 25 miles, encompassing all of downtown and even the verdant Serra da Cantareira mountain range to the city’s north. The observation deck and the first-floor building museum is free to visitors and open Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 10am to 5pm.
Despite being the third-tallest building in the city, the Banespa is situated on the highest point in downtown São Paulo, giving it the appearance of being even taller than the Mirante do Vale, today the tallest building in Brazil at 558 feet. Panoramic, 360-degree views of the city from the 35th-floor observation deck extend to over 25 miles, encompassing all of downtown and even the verdant Serra da Cantareira mountain range to the city’s north. The observation deck and the first-floor building museum is free to visitors and open Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 10am to 5pm.
Address: Rua João Brícola, 24 - Sé, Sao Paolo 01014-010, Brazil
From $ 165
Colchagua Valley
If you’re interested in tasting some of the best wines Chile has to offer, you’ll want to spend some time in the Colchagua Valley. Nearly two dozen area wineries are open to the public in what has become the country’s most prominent wine region, where the dry climate, plentiful sunshine and loamy soil create ideal conditions for producing red—Cabernet Savignon, Carmenere and Merlot for the most part.
The town of Santa Cruz sits at the heart of the region and is the most popular jumping off spot for wine tours in the surrounding valley. Such tours come in a variety of forms, like bike rides through a vineyard or a ride on the Santa Cruz Wine Train.
The valley isn’t just about wine, however. The second symbol of the area is the huaso, or Chilean cowboy, and the culture surrounding them. A great way to enjoy the scenery of the valley is from the saddle of a horse, stopping for lunch in an old-fashioned hacienda.
Practical Info
The Colchagua Valley is located in Chile’s central valley, and the summer months may be the best times to visit. The city of Santa Cruz serves as the area’s hub.
Address: Colchagua Valley, Chile
From $ 276
Colca Canyon (Canon del Colca)
Plunging 13,650 feet (4,160 meters) down, Peru’s Colca Canyon is officially one of the world’s deepest canyons—with a breadth of activities to match. Visitors opt to visit this off-the-beaten-track attraction for its opportunities for adventure in a stunning natural environment, its large population of Andean condors, and its pre-Inca historical sites.
The Basics
Most Colca Canyon tours start in Arequipa, which doubles as a basecamp for 3-day treks through the Andes Mountains (be sure to go with a guide for safety reasons) and for overnight horseback riding or bus tours to the canyon. Upon arrival at the Andean valley, a plethora of options for tours and outdoor activities await: Hike to overlooks such as La Cruz del Condor, bike through the Colca Valley, or kayak or raft down the Colca River.
No matter what sights and activities you choose, guided tours are generally the easiest and most convenient way to travel, as most provide round-trip transportation from Arequipa. But if you’re seeking an independent sightseeing experience, you can book a bus transfer from Arequipa with stops at scenic viewpoints and attractions along the way.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Multi-day Colca Canyon tours often include visits to nearby attractions in the Arequipa region, such as Puno on Lake Titicaca or the Pampa Canahuas Reserve, famous for its wild vicunas.
- Day trips from Arequipa to the canyon can last up to 14 hours.
- Stave off altitude sickness by allowing yourself a couple days to acclimate in Arequipa before attempting any activities.
How to Get There
The closest city to Colca Canyon is Arequipa, roughly 100 miles (161 kilometers) southeast. From there you can book a bus or shuttle directly to the canyon, or take public transportation to Chivay or Cabanaconde on either end of the canyon. Chivay is the more popular choice, as it is home to relaxing hot springs. If you have the time and energy, you can make the 3-day hike. You can also reach the canyon via Cusco, though it is a longer journey.
When to Get There
May through September is the driest time of the year in Peru, and therefore it’s the best for hiking and other outdoor activities. December through February is the low season, which promises fewer crowds.
History and Andean Condors in Colca Canyon
Historical attractions—such as pre-Hispanic settlements, the pre-Inca Chimpa fortress, and the caves of Mollepunko above Callalli, where 6,000-year-old rock art shows the domestication of the alpaca—are plentiful in the canyon. Andean Condors are another draw as some of the world’s largest flying birds, with bodies up to four feet (1.2 meters) tall and wingspans of up to 10.5 feet (3.2 meters). Because of their size, they live in windy areas that can help them get off the ground.
Address: Arequipa, Peru
From $ 35
Altes Museum
The Altes Museum, or Old Museum, is the oldest structure on Berlin’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed Museum Island. The neoclassical building was built in 1830 to resemble the Pantheon in Rome, and today its 18 Ionic columns welcome visitors to experience its collection, featuring artifacts from the ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan eras.
The Basics
In addition to its stunning classical antiquities—including the largest collection of Etruscan art outside of Italy—the Altes Museum is one of Berlin’s finest pieces of architecture and is highlighted on many tours of the city center. If you want to dive deep into the art history of the city, book a private tour to learn more about the fascinating works of the Altes Museum and the other buildings on Museum Island. To get a comprehensive overview of Berlin’s cultural heritage, you can purchase the Museum Pass Berlin, which includes admission to more than 30 exhibitions and museums. Alternatively, a 2- or 3-day Berlin Pass gets you into the Altes Museum and more than 50 other city attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Altes Museum is a must-visit for lovers of ancient art and art history.
- There is a free cloakroom for storing personal items as well as those not permitted in the museum, including large bags and backpacks, tripods, and umbrellas.
- Visitors under the age of 18 receive free admission.
- The museum is suitable for those with hearing loss or impairment, learning disabilities, and limited mobility.
How to Get There
The Altes Museum is located in Berlin Mitte on Museum Island. There is no parking available so take the S-Bahn to Hackescher Markt, or tram M1 or 12 to Georgenstr./Am Kupfergraben.
When to Get There
The Altes Museum is open from 10am to 6pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and until 8pm on Thursday (when there are fewer visitors); check the website for holiday hours. It is advised to visit the museum outside of the summer months when Berlin is less crowded.
A German Monument That Stood the Test of Time
In the 1800s King Friedrich Wilhelm IV commissioned the Altes Museum to house some of Germany’s most beautiful and ancient art and artifacts. Upon completion, he designated the northern part of Spree Island—known today as Museum Island (Museumsinsel) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—to house even more pieces from around the world. Despite the bombings of World War II and the harsh communist government during the Cold War, most of the buildings survived and subsequently lovingly repaired to reflect Germany’s passion for preserving art and history.
Address: Am Lustgarten, Berlin 10178, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Colombian National Museum (Museo Nacional de Colombia)
This massive stone-and-brick structure—built originally as a prison—houses Colombia’s first museum, founded in 1823. The imposing structure is now home to more than 20,000 objects that represent the Colombian experience, displayed in revolving exhibits that fill 17 permanent galleries where there were once only cells.
An excellent exhibit of aesthetically and archaeologically important pre-Colombian artifacts, tells the story of ancient Colombia. But it is the Spanish Colonial collection, featuring everyday objects and impressive works of art, which really dazzles. Oil paintings, beautifully constructed furniture, religious icons and other well-preserved pieces offer insight into a bygone era.
An immense art gallery features the most famous works of Colombian artists past and present, with an emphasis on the experimental and modern. An impressive Afro-Caribbean collection illuminates the culture of Colombia’s coasts. Special exhibitions, musical performances, videos, seminars and other events take place regularly.
Address: Carrera 7 no. 28-66, Bogotá, Cundinamarca, Colombia
Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm
Admission: 3,000 pesos
From $ 39
Alto Vista Chapel
With the blue Caribbean sky and calm sea as its backdrop, the Alto Vista Chapel, or “Pilgrims Church,” is one of the most photographed attractions on the island of Aruba. This bright yellow chapel, which also hosts weekly religious services, is visited by Christians and non-Christians alike and is a popular stop for small-group tours.
The Basics
Built by Spanish missionaries in 1750, the Alto Vista Chapel is said to be the oldest continuously operating church in the Caribbean. After falling into disrepair after a plague hit the island, it was rebuilt in 1952. A winding path lined with white crosses leads through the desert landscape to the small, unassuming church. The chapel is included in most small-group tours of Aruba and is considered a must-see attraction.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Services are held Tuesday evenings at 5:30pm.
- Outside the chapel lies the “peace labyrinth,” which is used by pilgrims for prayer and meditation; there is no right or wrong way to walk through the maze.
- Because the chapel is quite small, you may need to wait to enter if there are crowds.
How to Get There
The Alto Vista Chapel is located in Boca Noord, Aruba, on the eastern side of the northwestern tip of the island, off Alto Vista Road. It is accessible via taxi or car. From the Aruba Cruise Terminal, it’s about a 20-minute drive to the chapel; follow Route 2 to Alto Vista in Noord.
When to Get There
To avoid the crush of crowds, visit the chapel early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Mass is held on Tuesdays at 5:30pm, and is conducted in the local language of Papiamento. Also, every year on Good Friday, local Catholics make a pilgrimage on foot from Oranjestad to Alto Vista Chapel.
Nearby California Lighthouse
Another striking landmark in Aruba is this stone lighthouse, which was built between 1914 and 1916 and is located at Hudishibana near Arashi Beach. Named after the S.S. California, the lighthouse measures 100 feet tall (35 meters), so it offers expansive views of the coastline and is arguably the best place to catch the sunset on Aruba.
Address: Alto Vista, Noord, Aruba
From $ 41
Column of Marcus Aurelius
Standing an impressive 100 feet high, the Column of Marcus Aurelius was built as a Roman victory monument and stands in what is now called the Piazza Colonna, situated in what would have been the northern boundary of Ancient Rome.
The original date of construction is unknown, but there are inscriptions of the column throughout the region that promote the idea that the construction was completed, at the very latest, by 193 AD. Most scholars believe that the construction of the column may have started directly after the Roman victories over a number of their northern rivals.
Parallel to this idea are the intricate carvings on the column that work in a spiral fashion and tlel the stories of victories, war and conquest. The details show images of men, horses, women and the destruction of certain villages. By the 15th century, the statue of Marcus Aurelius atop the column had already deteriorated. Thus, in 1589, a restoration was done by Domenico Fontana, placing nearly 10 feet of it underground. The remodeling also meant that a bronze statue of St Paul was placed where Marcus Aurelius once stood.
Practical Info
The Column of Marcus Aurelius is in the Piazza Colonna on the northern end of Ancient Rome along Via del Corso. The plaza isn't directly served by the metro, but the Barberini stop is nearby. There are also a number of buses that serve the area, such as the N6, N25, 81 and 117.
Address: Piazza Colonna, Rome, Italy
From $ 35
Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colón)
Like much of this capital city, Faro a Colon, a bold and imposing cross-shaped structure, serves as a tribute to one of the world’s most famous explorers. Built in a style that’s more urban office building than coastal treasure, this mausoleum and museum does have one distinct feature that’s responsible for its namesake. Columbus Lighthouse projects a unique cross-shaped beam with a light so bright it can be seen from the shores of Puerto Rico.
Travelers who venture to this concrete structure can explore a vast collection of Columbian jewelry, an ancient boat from Cuba and what locals say are the remains of Christopher Columbus.
Practical Info
Faro a Colon is located in a park in Santo Domingo between Avenida Mirador del Este and Avenida Faro a Colon.
Address: Between Avenida Mirador del Este and Avenida Faro a Colon., Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
From $ 50
Colossus of Ramses II
The massive limestone statue of Pharaoh Ramses II is 33 feet (10 m) long and that's without having any legs! Ramses II was the longest serving pharaoh in Ancient Egypt, reigning from 1279 BC to 1213 BC. The statue was found in 1820 by an Italian traveller, Giovanni Caviglia. It is another example of the supreme craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians which baffles artists and historians today.
It is housed in the Memphis Museum in a small village on the site of what was once Memphis, the capital of ancient Egypt. There is not much to see aside from the Colossus and a few other sculptures. There are ongoing excavations in the area but to the untrained eye it just looks like digging in river mud.
Practical Info:
The Memphis Museum which houses the Colussus of Ramses II is in the modern town of Mit Rahina, south of Cairo on the west bank of the Nile. It is only about ten minutes away from Saqqara and the pyramid of Djoser so it is worth a quick detour to see but not a trip on its own. There is no public transport there from Cairo and the best way to get there is by guided tour or by hiring a private car.
Address: Mit Rahina Village, Cairo, Egypt
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 100
Colaba
At the southernmost tip of Mumbai, Colaba is a charming old neighborhood filled with colonial-era buildings, busy cafés, vibrant markets, and hotels for all budgets. It's one of the best parts of town to go for a stroll, and the craft stalls that line the main road ensure that most travelers won't leave empty-handed.
The Basics
Before a massive land reclamation project that unified the former islands of Bombay, Colaba was an island unto itself. It was held under Portuguese rule from 1534 through 1762 when the island was handed over to the British, who built many of the stately old buildings. Quite a few of the historic structures remain, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel (c. 1903) and the clubhouse of the Royal Bombay Yacht Club, built in 1881.
Colaba can be enjoyed as part of a special walking tour of this charming neighborhood, or as part of a larger exploration of Mumbai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and carry water, particularly if you’re strolling around during the heat of midday.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for plenty of walking.
- Remember to bargain hard when shopping at roadside stalls, but note that regular shops usually have fixed prices.
How to Get There
Colaba is located in South Mumbai, close to the southernmost tip. It’s about an hour’s drive from the airport or a 10-minute drive from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. The area is walkable, and if you plan to explore the market, it’s a good idea to ask your taxi or auto-rickshaw driver to drop you off near the Gateway of India, so you can walk the rest of the way.
When to Get There
Colaba is busy throughout the year, though outdoor attractions in Mumbai are better avoided during the hot months of April to June and during the monsoon season of July and August. The market is open well into the evening every day, and travelers who come to shop first thing in the morning can often get "lucky first customer" deals.
Parsi Cafés
Mumbai is well-known for its Parsi cafés, Persian-style eateries run by Zoroastrian people from Iran. These cafés were in their heyday in the 1950s, particularly in Mumbai and Hyderabad, but those that survive today are still popular with foodies and anyone with a sense of nostalgia. One of the most famous is Leopold Cafe and Bar (on Colaba Causeway), which dates back to 1871.
Address: India
From $ 38
A-Ma Temple (Ma Kok Miu)
One of the oldest temples in Macau, A-Ma temple was built in 1488 and commemorates A-Ma, goddess of the sea (also known as Mazu and Tin Hau). Featuring multiple prayer pavilions set on different levels of a hill overlooking the Inner Harbour, A-Ma Temple forms part of the Historic Centre of Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Basics
The temple comprises six main parts: Gate Pavilion, Memorial Arch, Prayer Hall, Hall of Benevolence, Hall of Guanyin, and Zhengjiao Chanlin. The number of pavilions at the temple that are dedicated to different deities is representative of the influence of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, as well as various folk beliefs that are held in Macau. As you wind your way through the temple, notice the stone lion guardians, the poems engraved in rock, distinctive red walls, and the roofs decorated with porcelain. Don’t miss the views overlooking the water, particularly from the uppermost pavilion, dedicated to Kun Iam.
Most sightseeing tours of Macau will feature a stop at A-Ma Temple, along with other top attractions, such as the Ruins of St. Paul and Macau Tower. Day-trips from Hong Kong and Shenzhen are also available. Or visit on a hop-on hop-off bus to explore at your leisure.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A-Ma Temple is a must for first-time visitors to Macau.
- This is a place of worship, so visitors should be quiet and respectful.
- The temple is free to enter, but donations are accepted.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, as there are a lot of steps at the temple.
- Day tours from Hong Kong can last upward of 11 hours.
How to Get There
A-Ma Temple is located near Barra Square, in the southwest part of Macau Peninsula. It’s about 20 minutes’ walk from Senado Square. Bus routes 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 11, 18, 21A, 28B, 55, MT4, and N3 also stop near the temple.
When to Get There
The temple is open year-round. The most festive times to visit are during Lunar New Year celebrations, and during the A-Ma Festival, which honors A-Ma’s birthday on the 23rd of the lunar third month. Most tour groups tend to stop in the mornings; visit during the afternoon to avoid these crowds.
How Macau Got Its Name
Legend has it that when the Portuguese first arrived in Macau, they landed at a promontory near A-Ma Temple. They asked local villagers for the name of the land, and the villagers replied, “A-Ma-Gau,” meaning Bay of A-Ma, which was later changed to Macau.
Address: Barra Square, Macau, China
From $ 72
Colombo National Museum
Some of the galleries in this stunning white museum date as far back as the late 1800s, and as a result travelers who pass through what is undoubtedly the nation’s top cultural attraction may feel like they are actually traveling back in time.
Visitors will find iconic art, ancient history and deeply rooted traditions just beyond the stone Buddha that sits at the entry of Colombo National Museum. Whether it’s well-preserved swords, ornate masks or hand-carved furniture, Sri Lanka’s largest museum exhibits some of the most striking pieces of both its past and present.
Practical Info
The Colombo National Museum is located at Albert Cres Col 7 and it open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily. Entrance fees are Rs 250 for adults and Rs 150 for children.
Address: Albert Cres Col 7, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Hours: Open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily
Admission: Adults: Rs 250; Children: Rs 150
From $ 7
Colossi of Memnon
Little remains of the once impressive Amenhotep’s memorial temple. But the two imposing statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, erected to guard the ancient entrance, still stand watch some 3,400 years later. Today, travelers can venture to the shores of the Nile, just across from the city of Luxor, and revel at the giant manmade sculptures.
In addition to these impressive twin statues, travelers can check out two smaller figures of the Pharaoh’s wife, Tiy, and mother, Mutemwia. Visitors can also get an up close look at the sandstone panel carvings that showcase images of the Nile god Hapy. Even if most of the Colossi has been lost to weather an the ages, travelers can still get a sense of the wonder this site once held.
Practical Info
The Colossi of Memnon is located in Thebes, just west of Tarik Al Sheikh Agwa.
Address: Luxor, Egypt
From $ 20
Altun Ha
Altun Ha, site of the ruins of an ancient Mayan city, covers about 3 square miles (8 square kilometers) of Belizean countryside. The central area has more than 500 historic structures, mostly built during the Maya Classic era (AD 200 to 900). Join a private or group tour to learn how the city’s 10,000 inhabitants lived.
The Basics
Located about 31 miles (50 kilometers) north of Belize City, Altun Ha is divided into two main clusters, Plaza A and Plaza B, each with its own special attractions. Plaza A features the mysterious Temple of the Green Tomb, where jade, jewelry, flints, and other artifacts were found.
Plaza B is home to the biggest structure on the site, the Temple of Masonry Altar, which rises more than 60 feet (18 meters) above the plaza. Thought to be the main religious center of the civilization, the temple houses the famous head of Kinich Ahau: a 10-pound (5-kilogram) jade stone carved into the head of the Mayan sun god; this national treasure is depicted on the local currency. Guided tours are available from Belize City, and many combine a trip to the ruins with other nearby attractions and activities.
Things to Know Before You Go
- No one is allowed to climb the steps of the actual ruins, but there is a walkway to reach the top.
- Remember to bring insect repellent and water.
- Restrooms, souvenirs, and food and drink are available on-site.
How to Get There
Located near Rockstone Pond Village, Altun Ha is very difficult to reach without a car, as the area is not served by public transportation. The easiest way to get there is by joining a tour in Belize City, Crooked Tree, or another nearby city. Visitors can also walk 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the village of Lucky Strike.
When to Get There
Altun Ha does not usually attract large crowds, but it can get very hot, especially in the summer months. To beat the heat, plan to arrive early in the day, or schedule your trip for some time between late November and mid-April; this is Belize’s dry season and its peak season, which means better weather and more tourists. Altun Ha is open from 8am to 5pm daily.
Cave Tubing
After visiting Altun Ha, many guided tours make a stop to go cave tubing in Caves Branch River in Blue Hole National Park. Designed for almost any age and fitness level, the tubing adventure takes you along the river, floating through an underground world filled with enormous chambers and cathedral-sized rooms decorated with crystal formations and stalactites.
Address: Altun Ha, Belize
From $ 94
Columbia Reef
Columbia Reef is famous for its complex architecture of caves, arches, and coral spires. Here you can find schools of snapper, barracudas, sea turtles, scorpion fish, and even the rare passing nurse shark. With both shallow coral gardens and deep ocean-floor caverns, the reef is accessible to snorkelers and scuba divers alike.
The Basics
Depths rarely exceed 40 feet (12 meters) in the Columbia Shallows, making this portion of the reef ideal for snorkelers, photographers, and novice divers. Columbia Deep, with an impressive drop-off of 80 feet (24 meters) is better suited for experienced divers looking to explore caves and tunnels.
Because of its proximity to Cozumel, Columbia Reef is best explored on a snorkeling or diving tour from the island’s downtown marina. Most excursions visit Columbia Reef along with Palancar Reef and El Cielo Marine Park, and sometimes include hotel pickup and drop-off.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Columbia Reef is a must-see attraction for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water. It’s also a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard to protect your skin from rough coral and jellyfish.
- Evidence of scuba diving certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife.
- To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife, minimize your motions and let the fish come to you.
How to Get There
Columbia Reef is located off the southern coast of Cozumel, near Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. You can get there by guided tour or private charter boat—although the reef may be hard to locate on your own.
When to Get There
You can visit Columbia Reef year-round, but it’s busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
Cozumel’s Coral Reefs
Cozumel’s expansive coral reefs are some of the largest in the world. Paradise Reef and Palancar Gardens are ideal spots for novice divers and snorkelers due to their shallow depth, and offer a chance to glimpse sea turtles, colorful fish, towering coral spires, and gently waving sea fans. The Palancar Caves are probably the most famous dive site, with huge brain corals and swim-through tunnels. Palancar Horseshoe, a natural underwater amphitheater made entirely of coral, is another must-see.
Address: Cozumel, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 55
Columbus Park (Parque Colon)
In a diverse city with streets that vary from colonial cobblestone to well-worn dirt paths, the bustling square of Columbus Park proves iconic, with an energy that unifies old world Santo Domingo with contemporary Dominican Republic.
Once known as Plaza Mayor, the square was renamed after its towering sculpture of Christopher Columbus in the late 1800s. The historic park is a popular gathering place for travelers looking to people watch and locals looking for a bit of relaxation come mid-afternoon. Columbus Park’s close proximity to landmarks like the Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor, the Municipal Palace and the old commercial district known as Calle del Conde, make it the perfect place to kick off a day in the city’s old Colonial Zone.
Practical Info
Columbus Park is located on the west side of Rio Ozama between Calle Isabel La Catolica and Calle Arzobispo Merino, across the street from Catedral Primada de America.
Address: Calle Isabel La Católica, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
From $ 85
Columbus Park
Legendary explorer Christopher Columbus first trod upon Jamaican soil at Discovery Bay, where he landed in 1494. Columbus Park commemorates that momentous day in history with a museum that explores the history and impact of that landing, along with the pre-colonial history of Jamaica’s indigenous people.
From Arawak canoes to sugarcane milling, nautical relics and cannons, the open-air museum overlooking the harbor at Discovery Bay is littered with fascinating artifacts from Jamaica's past.
Practical Info
Columbus Park is in Discovery Bay in the Parish of St. Ann, west of Ocho Rios along the A1 highway.
Address: A1 Highway, St. Ann JMCAN10, Jamaica
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Admission: Free
From $ 66
Altos de Chavón
If you’re wondering what it was like several centuries ago on the island of the Dominican Republic, then you should head to Altos de Chavón, a recreated 16th-century village built in La Romana near the Chavón River. Sculpted in stone, the site is an impressive example of what a Mediterranean-inspired village would have looked like on the island long ago.
Construction began in 1976 with the goal of having Altos de Chavón serve as a center for Dominican Republic culture. The site was created using the local handiwork of the people of the island; much of the stonework and metal carvings seen here were handcrafted by local artisans, which continues to draw attention to the craftwork that was once so prominent in island life. Much of Altos de Chavón is made of stone, and its coastal location provides a dramatic and inspiring backdrop. Visitors to Altos de Chavón will find restaurants, shops and even a 5,000-seat amphitheater where concerts and other performances are held.
Altos de Chavón still focuses on the cultural and artistic elements of the island, making it a great spot for visitors to explore.
Practical Info
Entrance to Altos de Chavón costs $25 per person.
Address: Altos de Chavon, La Romana, Dominican Republic
Admission: $25
From $ 45
Colonia del Sacramento
The oldest town in Uruguay, this southwestern city on the Rio de la Plata – just a short ferry ride away from Buenos Aires in Argentina -- is famed for its historic quarter, where the jumbled, sprawling streets and mix of architecture represents two centuries’ worth of Spanish, Portuguese and Uruguayan history.
Its strategic location made it a source of longtime struggle between the Portuguese and Spanish, who both sought to control trade of Peruvian silver and Brazilian produce; between 1680 and 1828, Colonia was conquered multiple times by each country’s naval forces. The Portuguese ultimately won control of the town, but it would be only six years before the outbreak of the Brazilian-Argentine Cisplatine War, when battles fought within the historic quarter resulted in widespread damage to the city’s defenses and finest buildings.
By the time reconstruction efforts began, the Uruguayan base of power had shifted to its capital, Montevideo. Historic preservation efforts in Colonia began in earnest in 1924 and continued for the next several decades, and today, a steady stream of ferry-bound tourists from Buenos Aires come to see its well-tended Portuguese basilica, Spanish-Uruguyan history museum and bullring, 17th-century convent ruins and more.
Its strategic location made it a source of longtime struggle between the Portuguese and Spanish, who both sought to control trade of Peruvian silver and Brazilian produce; between 1680 and 1828, Colonia was conquered multiple times by each country’s naval forces. The Portuguese ultimately won control of the town, but it would be only six years before the outbreak of the Brazilian-Argentine Cisplatine War, when battles fought within the historic quarter resulted in widespread damage to the city’s defenses and finest buildings.
By the time reconstruction efforts began, the Uruguayan base of power had shifted to its capital, Montevideo. Historic preservation efforts in Colonia began in earnest in 1924 and continued for the next several decades, and today, a steady stream of ferry-bound tourists from Buenos Aires come to see its well-tended Portuguese basilica, Spanish-Uruguyan history museum and bullring, 17th-century convent ruins and more.
Address: Uruguay
From $ 79