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In 2023, UNESCO expanded this esteemed list by adding 42 new sites, which encompass ancient stone monuments, acclaimed scientific institutions, and mesmerizing natural wonders. While all these additions hold immense significance, we have chosen a few that particularly stand out. Below are 3 recently designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites that have piqued our interest. Join us in uncovering their wonders side by side!
So what should we pay attention to when selecting the newest UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore?
1. Andrefana Dry Forests – Madagascar
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The Andrefana Dry Forests were initially recognized as a World Heritage site in 1990, but their boundaries were significantly expanded in 2023. Comprising six protected areas in western Madagascar, this entry showcases the exceptional biodiversity and unique landscape of the island country off the coast of Africa.
The notable feature of these forests are the towering limestone peaks, resembling needle-like formations, that create a breathtaking panorama stretching as far as the eye can see. Additionally, there is an abundance of vibrant vegetation, including the endemic baobab tree with its unusually wide trunk. Within the Andrefana Dry Forests, one can find a specific lemur species and a lineage of birds called Mesitornithiformes, which have existed for a remarkable 54 million years.
2. Eisinga Planetarium – Netherlands
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Constructed from 1774 to 1781, the Eisinga Planetarium was not the product of a wealthy scientific institution, but rather the work of an ordinary citizen named Eise Eisinga. Eisinga, who had a deep fascination for astronomy, built an astonishing functional planetarium on the ceiling and wall of his living room in Franeker, Netherlands. Today, it holds the distinction of being recognized as the oldest continuously operating planetarium in existence.
Eisinga's working model accurately depicts the ever-changing positions of the sun, moon, Earth, and the five known planets of the late 18th century. It's truly remarkable that during that era, Eisinga was able to construct such a complex scientific device; even more impressive is the fact that it remains operational to this day. Its continued functionality can be attributed, in large part, to the meticulous maintenance instructions that Eisinga left behind, which its caretakers rigorously follow.
3. Viking-Age Ring Fortresses – Denmark
Source: Google Search
The Viking-Age Ring Fortresses in Denmark, constructed towards the end of the 10th century CE, are a series of five locations. Originally serving as defensive strongholds and possibly training grounds for Viking warriors, these fortresses were designed in distinctive circular shapes surrounded by concentric ditches, with roads extending in all four cardinal directions. Aggersborg, the largest of the five, boasts an internal diameter of nearly 800 feet.
These fortresses stand out for their unique geometric layout, making them some of the most specifically designed fortifications worldwide. Unlike many other Viking fortresses that have succumbed to urbanization and rural development, these structures have been closely preserved for over a thousand years. They have provided valuable insights into the history and culture of the Viking era to researchers.
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Along with our ultimate travel guide, we would like to share an additional valuable suggestion. This advice will prove beneficial for individuals who opt for air travel.
If you get to the airport by car, you always need to find a good parking space for your vehicle to leave for the period of a trip. In most cases, airports have special on-site parking for that purpose. However, such a parking lot is pretty costly most of the time, and people aren't ready to spend a lot of money at the beginning of a trip. So is there any solution?
The best way to solve this problem is to choose off-site parking. Why, you may ask? We will explain.
There are many reasons which can prove the benefit of this parking type. Here are some of them:
- Affordable Rates. Depending on the duration of your trip, you can choose between short-term and long-term airport parking. Anyway, an off-site airport is much cheaper, so you can save your money and spend the most considerable amount on things you really want to see or try while traveling.
- Fast Service. In contrast with on-site airport parking, which can take quite a long time, off-site parking offers you the convenience of driving directly to the entrance and having a staff member pull your luggage out of your vehicle and load it into the shuttle. Then they will park your car for you. After your baggage is loaded, you can take your seat in the shuttle, which will bring you and your bags to the airport. It's a hassle-free option that is usually faster.
- Convenience. When people travel, they may be stressed about making it to the airport on time. If you use off-site parking, you will definitely make your travel experience more convenient, as you use the service of a private company. Even though you may be able to park on-site at the airport in a short-term or long-term airport parking lot, consider using an off-site parking lot service.
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We are glad to say that our booking platform, ParkingNearAirports.io, offers travelers online reservations for parking just outside airports that are convenient and affordable. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing travelers parking options at over 100 airports in the US and Canada. The app allows customers to search and compare parking rates at up to 70 percent savings compared to the cost of on-site parking at all major airports.
With our platform, it only takes a few clicks in the app to reserve a parking spot. Guests receive a booking confirmation and a guaranteed parking space upon arrival at the off-airport parking. In addition, the app helps customers locate the most convenient lots to the airport. Cancellations are easy if plans change with hassle-free, refundable cancellations.
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Now let's take a good example. Imagine that you're planning a trip to Netherlands. So if you're flying from Baltimore, Maryland, USA, you can use cheap parking near BWI Airport with shuttle. If you're coming from Chicago, Illinois, you can choose affordable long-term parking ORD. It just depends on the place you're flying from.
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