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Краткое описание: The Yucatan peninsula sometimes seems a country altogether separate from Mexico. That’s partly a legacy of the Maya’s determined, centuries-long resistance to being scooped up as part of Spain’s booty, and you still feel more than a hint of "in it, but not of it” to the present-day Yucatan. The other-ness goes beyond history, though; the very earth is a mystery, an impossibly flat, porous limestone slab whose rivers run below rather than above the surface and grudgingly yield their contents through sporadic breaches in the stone ceilings.

Краткое описание: The Canadian tourism industry is dealing with something of a triple whammy these days: In addition to new U.S. passport requirements, the strength of the loonie has sent Canadian tourists out of the country and kept foreign visitors from spending as freely as they have in the past. Plus, the federal Visitor Rebate Program that allowed nonresident guests to recoup taxes they paid on purchases and lodging was eliminated in 2007. The following offers additional hints of new developments awaiting travelers to Canada.

Краткое описание: The countries of Cambodia and Laos immediately conjure up many images: ancient temples in the mist; colorfully dressed ethnic hill tribes working terraced rice paddies up steep hillsides; weathered colonial charm; remote river journeys with breathtaking sunsets; religious ceremonies reflecting centuries of cultural complexity; and busy markets, fantastic food, and natural riches. Robustly emerging from an era of conflict, these two countries once again offer those who visit all these things and more.

Краткое описание: There’s more - a lot more - to California that isn’t scripted, sanitized, and broadcasted to the world ’s millions of mesmerized masses. Beyond the Hollywood glitter is a wondrously diverse state that, if it ever seceded from the Union, would be one of the most productive, powerful nations in the world. We’ve got it all: misty redwood forests, an exceptionally verdant Central Valley teeming with agriculture, the mighty Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, eerily fascinating deserts, a host of world-renowned cities, and, of course, hundreds of miles of stunning coastline.

Краткое описание: Buenos Aires has become one of the hottest destinations in the world. After yet another economic crisis and currency devaluation made it almost absurdly cheap for non-Argentines, visitors rushed in to discover the most European-looking of South American capitals. And with it, Porteños’ (as the locals are called) penchant for massive steaks, fine malbec wines, old cafes, and chic boutiques - and a resurgent national dance, the tango. The following are some of my favorite experiences in the Argentine capital.

Краткое описание: A country’s tragedy has become a tourist’s opportunity, and in between the two is hope for an improved economy for all of Buenos Aires, the glamorous capital of Argentina. Many on the South American tourist crawl avoided this sophisticated and beautiful city altogether, staying in the cheaper capitals of the countries that surrounded it. But now that the peso, once on par with the U.S. dollar, has fallen to a third of its former value and stabilized there, tourists from all over the world are flocking to this city, often called the Paris of South America.

Краткое описание: Budapest is a destination packed with impressive sights, including myriad buildings from the last great expansion phase of the Habsburg Empire, but many of my favorite moments are spent exploring the nooks and crannies that lie between the great edifices. From bathing in atmospheric thermal baths, drinking unique wines in funky bars in disused townhouse courtyards to exploring the city’s Communist past, Budapest has many magic moments to savor.

Краткое описание: Budapest continues to attract many Europe-bound travelers, all while feeling the pinch in recent years from competition from the scenic coasts of Croatia and the price-friendly seaside of Bulgaria. Meanwhile, airlines are offering some incredibly low fares for European travelers. The nightlife here continues to thrive, and we suggest that you talk to as many Hungarians as you can about the latest fashionable beer gardens (they’re difficult to list, as they appear and disappear in the blink of an eye).

Краткое описание: This is a tale of two cities - and of two more, for good measure. Any country of the size and with the population of Belgium, which covers about the same area as Maryland and has 10 million inhabitants, would be proud to possess two cities of the character of Brussels and Bruges. Both are famed around the world for their wealth of historical attractions, art, culture, and cuisine. It is equally interesting to note that Ghent and Antwerp are scarcely behind their two better-known cousins in these respects, if behind at all, which their own residents would certainly dispute.