We have seen some beautiful sites during our travels around the world. But don’t take our word for it (although you should; we are experts).
Many of our favorite places are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which means they are “places on Earth that are of outstanding universal value to humanity and as such, have been inscribed on the World Heritage List to be protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.”
Spots that make this list are absolutely stunning. To date, there are 911 sites on the list and we have seen a ton of them. But to make things a tad more manageable, we’ve parred it down to 9 sites that you’ve just got to see. And if you can make it to all 911, then by all means go for it!
Statue of Liberty in New York City
We’re starting local — for us, at least. A beacon of hope for travelers to New York City since it was dedicated in 1886, the Statue of the Liberty is one of the most-recognized and beloved National Monuments in the United States.
Visitors can walk to the top for sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline from the statue’s crown, and many visit Ellis Island at the same time to round out their historical and cultural trip.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton New York Battery Park
As expected of the luxury brand, this Ritz property boasts gorgeous rooms, top-notch service, and a long list of amenities. Some rooms feature views of the Statue of Liberty.
Canal Ring in Amsterdam
It may have celebrated its 400th birthday last year, but Amsterdam’s gorgeous Canal Ring has only been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010.
Creating a semi-circle around Old Center, the Canal Ring is a series of man-made waterways lined by beautiful historic mansions. Though it has expanded over the years, the Canal Ring was first made in the 17th century in order to provide a means of movement for shipping within the city center.
Where to Stay: Hotel Pulitzer, a Luxury Collection
The Hotel Pulitzer is a charming luxury property in the Canal Loop of Amsterdam. The hotel is made up of a block of 25 restored 17th and 18th century canal houses and is full of historic details.
Area de Conservacion Guanacaste in Costa Rica
Covering a massive expanse of land in the northwest region of Costa Rica, the Area de Conservacion Guanacaste has been a natural UNESCO World Heritage Site for 15 years.
With both land and sea, it is home to beautiful rain forests and beaches where a plethora of protected wildlife live; think jaguars, hummingbirds, bats, and sea turtles, just to name a few.
Where to Stay: Reserva Conchal
Located in Guanacaste, Reserva Conchal is comprised of four individual condo villages, each with several buildings clustered around a communal pool.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider