Something to Talk About
Will the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) object to a different observance of Earth Hour? Maybe not.
WWF tries to engage the public in various environmental issues, and in the case of Earth Hour, it's the hour-long lights-off event. It began in Sydney, Australia in 2007, which grew to 7,000 cities and towns worldwide a few years later. It was a simple affair, a good way to reflect on the importance of the Earth's resources, of what is left. More lights will be turned off on March 29, the date for Earth Hour 2014. But how about something exciting for a change? A holiday for instance.
For many, March isn't an ideal time to pack up those luggage(s), head to the airport, and worry about itinerary and lack of sleep. But looking at the Earth's natural wonders will make us appreciative of our planet. In turn, it will make us aware of the fragility of Mother Earth, where it is at the mercy of time - and human civilization. Moreover, this is the time for outdoors, being the first days of spring. (If you rather welcome the season in your home, then you can leave any time, at your own convenience.)
So what are the best places to appreciate the beauty of our planet? Here are ten:
Alps. This is the greatest mountain range in Europe, stretching 1,200 kilometers actoss eight countries, from Italy and Monaco in the south, Austria and Slovenia in the east, and Germany and France in the west. This may be the place to go during a skiing holiday, but this part of Europe looks glorious on warmer weather. Moreover, visitors have the chance to witness the culture, all seen on the verdant fields.
Cappadocia. There's more to the rock formation, which draws thousands of tourists from different parts of the world. This part of Turkey is historically significant, from the time of Ancient Persia to the early years of the Eastern Roman Empire.
Grand Canyon. Time plays a part in shaping those escarpments, which look breathtaking on an early morning (or late afternoon). Apart from the Statue of Liberty, this is the iconic figure of America.
Iguazu Falls. It may not be the widest waterfalls, which belongs to Victoria Falls. It's not the tallest either, which Angel Falls boasts of. It's rather a series of falls, somewhere in the Argentinian-Brazilian border, which looks stunning from any angle.
Milford Sound. On a clear day, this fjord on South Island is breathtaking. It doesn't mean that this place is less attractive during a rainy day, as dark clouds and rainfall give it a haunting look. But the sun is a guarantee for a perfect trip, the main attraction of New Zealand.
Mount Fuji. This stratovolcano is one of Japan's Three Holy Mountains, along with Mount Haku and Mount Tate. Symmetrically perfect, this peak inspires artists. Simply put, it embodies Japanese aesthetics.
Niagara Falls. Located between Canada and United States, this waterfalls oozes with charm. When a cold spell hit America last January, the cascades froze, turning it into a setting for a Grimm fairy tale.
Ngorongoro Crater. Volcanic acticity may be long gone, but this fertile region is alive with animals, many of which are endemic in Africa. This may have inspired Michael Crichton to pen “Congo”.
Patagonia. The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world, occupying most of South America's western region. In Patagonia, found in southern Chile and Argentina, the most stunning peaks and volcanoes from Andes are found here, all of which have a spellbinding effect.
The Wave on Hyden Rock. There's no mystery behind this arresting landmark, which the name implies, looks like a wave solidified. It's a product of the Ice Age, which survive the passage of time. Lucky for visitors to see it - and have fun taking photographs.
