microsoft-visualstudio
This Highland Park is home to the only volcano in Panama and offers a completely different wildlife experience from the lowland forests. Cloud forests cover the slopes and cooler temperatures support unique species that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. This is one of the best places to spot bright quetzal, especially during the breeding season. You’ll also find signs of hummingbirds, tapirs, and even pumas in more remote areas.
Travel to the summit of Vulcan Baru with a steep overnight trail that rewards you with views of both oceans on a clear morning. But you don’t need to summit to enjoy the park. Short trails around the west side provide access to bird life and orchids without elevation. Base yourself in a boquet or sero punta for easy access. This is where the wild clouds of Panama meet.
Megalithic stone jars are scattered throughout Jiang Khoang Province in Laos in groups ranging from one to one hundred. A working theory is that huge cylindrical jars were used in ancient funeral ceremonies, although according to local legend the jars were used to make rice wine for giants.
Northern Laos was the subject of a massive air bombardment by the United States, and it has been relatively recently cleared of some areas and declared safe for visitors.
Spotted Lake has long been revered by the local Okanagan (Silox) people, and it’s easy to understand why they consider it sacred. In the summer, the water of the lake evaporates and leaves behind small mineral pools, each colored different in color from the other. The unique lake can be seen on Highway 3 northwest of the small town of Osois, although visitors are told not to trespass on tribal lands.
Since it’s not the easiest place to reach, Spotted Lake is a great example of how custom travel planning can help you go beyond the usual stops, adding lesser-known, culturally important sites to your itinerary without guessing.