The world is filled with beautiful places. Well known, highly documented locations draw visitors from around the world while lesser known areas are discovered by only the strongest of adventure seekers. Many will say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Getting to these locations may not always be easy, but there are many cheap holiday packages available for those who wish to try. Here are my top ten most beautiful places in the world; at least, as this author sees it.

The Skardu Valley in Pakistan is surrounded by rugged, seemingly impenetrable mountains.  This valley was once a part of the Silk Road and saw very active trading. The Skardu Valley has provided archeological evidence dating back as far as the ice age giving historians a peek into the lives and lifestyles of the indigenous people.

In India, there is not another location as beautiful as the Taj Mahal. Built by Shah Jahan as a testament to his love for his wife, the Taj Mahal is made of white marble and stands as one of the eight wonders of the world. Beautiful to look at and beautiful in its sentiment, the Taj Mahal stands as a symbol of love, honor, and faith.

The island nation of Australia has its share of beautiful locations. The Great Barrier Reef, located just off the coast, has fascinated and inspired people for generations. Listed as a world heritage site the Great Barrier Reef is comprised of over 3000 different reef systems and is home to hundreds of different species. This impressive natural wonder is even visible from space.

The Grand Canyon, located in the Southwestern United States, is known for its natural beauty. Over a mile deep, this canyon has been in the making for centuries. The Colorado River has carefully dug this beautiful gorge giving visitors and locals a fantastic backdrop for all occasions. Find cheap holiday packages and hike the rim, take a donkey ride to the bottom, or simply feel dwarfed by its awesome size.

Just to the north of the Grand Canyon lie the Canadian Rockies. These towering peaks offer beauty and challenges to all who visit. A skiing hotspot during the winter and an outdoorsman’s dream during the summer, these awe-inspiring mountains have something for everyone.

Turnagain Arm and Cook’s inlet in Alaska has a beautiful story to match its beautiful scenery. An inlet connecting the interiors of the Alaskan Wilderness with the Pacific Ocean, Turnagain arm is known for an incredible change in tidal depth. At high tide, a boat can easily maneuver the area. When the tide flows out and at low tide, the barrenness of the inlet floor lies exposed to the world.

South America has its share of beautiful locations. Macchu Picchu, the archeological wonder of the Incan Empire, stands as a testament to the strength of this great nation. This well-preserved wonder gives understanding and insight into the lives of this great nation, and it’s in a beautiful location.

Also in South America, the Iguazu Falls have inspired visitors with their natural beauty. A geologic fault line where the Iguazu River and the Parana River meet, this natural wonder is so powerful it creates a permanent fog, giving this location an eerie, yet beautiful look.

A slightly less well-known area is the region of Cappadocia in central Turkey. Known for its fairy chimneys and ancient monasteries, deep and beautiful valleys, and a history that blends the Ottoman with the Christian and the Turk, Cappadocia is an area unlike any other.  The natural beauty of this area creates a destination worth visiting.

One of the most well-known archeological sites in the world is Petra. Located in Jordan, this city in a cliff creates an ambience of mystery and wonder. The rose-colored walls and the undeniable power exuded by this place make visitors feel small and insignificant, yet inspired by its natural beauty.

Our world holds many beautiful locations. From deep canyons to towering mountains to underwater wonders and surprising waterways, we live in a beautiful world. Wtih many cheap holiday packages, it is easy to enjoy these beautiful locations and so many more.