The Most Beautiful Lakes in the World

Palawan is a large archipelagic province that acts as a bridge between the islands of Luzon and Visayas. It is known for its extensive coastlines and serves as a major destination for those seeking a tropical environment. The best time to visit is from November through April. During these months, the weather is dry and suitable for boat travel between islands. Be aware that travel between islands can take a full day. Some visitors find the infrastructure in more remote areas to be less developed than expected.

Tromsø is located on the island of Tromsøya in Northern Norway. The city is a hub for arctic culture and sits in a region defined by its surrounding straits and mainland fjords. Visit between October and March to see the area during the winter months. This is when the city is most active with cultural festivals and dark, snowy nights. Travelers should note that daylight hours are extremely limited in mid-winter. It is a cold destination that requires specialized winter clothing.

Cape Town sits at the intersection of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It is a major city known for its harbor and proximity to Table Mountain. Plan your visit from November to March for warm, dry weather. This is the height of the summer season in the southern hemisphere. Popular spots like Cape Point get crowded during the peak of summer. Traffic in the city center can be heavy during morning and evening rush hours.

The Burj Khalifa is a record-breaking skyscraper located in the United Arab Emirates. While it is not a natural lake, it is a primary landmark in a city reclaimed from desert surroundings. Visit from November to March to avoid the extreme heat of the desert summer. Temperatures are much more manageable for walking during these months. Tickets for the observation decks sell out well in advance. Budget for higher costs during weekends and public holidays.

Arenal is a young and active stratovolcano located in north-western Costa Rica. It is a center for outdoor activity and is surrounded by lush terrain. December through April is the best time to visit for dry trails. The weather is generally favorable for hiking near the crater. Some visitors find the area becomes overly commercialized. The volcano is active, so follow all posted safety warnings regarding trail access.

Rotorua is located on the southern shores of Lake Rotorua. The area is famous for its geothermal activity and has been a settlement site since the 14th century. Visit from November to March to enjoy outdoor activities in the summer warmth. This is the most active time for local tourism. The sulfur smell from the geothermal vents is strong and persistent. It can be off-putting for some visitors upon arrival.

Tulum is a historic walled city built by the Maya on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It is one of the most preserved coastal sites in Mexico. November to March offers the best conditions for exploring the ruins. The air is less humid than in the summer months. The site is very popular and draws large bus tours from nearby resorts. Arriving early in the morning is necessary to avoid the worst of the crowds.

Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian city in the Yucatán. It was a major focal point for the Maya people during the Terminal Classic period. November to March is the ideal time to visit because of the mild climate. It is significantly more comfortable than the heat of the rainy season. There is very little shade at the site. Bring ample sun protection and water as prices inside the gates are high.

This park contains the highest parts of the Simien Mountains, including Ras Dashan. It is home to unique wildlife like the gelada baboon. Visit between October and February. This period provides the best visibility and access to the park's roads. The roads are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate. Altitude sickness is a real risk for those who are not prepared.

The Lotus Temple is a house of worship in Delhi designed with a distinctive petal-like structure. It is open to all visitors regardless of religious background. October through February is the best time to visit Delhi. The weather is cool compared to the intense heat of the rest of the year. The temple requires visitors to remove their shoes. Expect long queues to enter the main hall during weekends.