mytouristmaps.com, Author at mytouristmaps.com

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo eternal flame — photo © mytouristmaps

The peculiarity of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is the multi-ethnicity and the coexistence among the various religions settled during his history: Muslims, Jews, Catholic-Orthodox and Christians live together with tolerance.
Among the most important places of worship, there are four mosques, a cathedral and two Orthodox churches, a cathedral and two Christian churches and two Jewish synagogues.

One of the most significant monuments, the eternal flame of Sarajevo, commemorates the liberation from the Nazis and the victims of World War II.

If you plan a visit in Sarajevo, make sure you don’t miss the Baščaršija and the Tunnel of Hope:

Baščaršija, meaning “main market,” was established in the 15th century and flourished under Ottoman rule: a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with traditional shops, cafes, and mosques.

The Tunnel of Hope is a poignant reminder of the siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War. This underground network, stretching for over 800 meters, was a lifeline for the city, providing a crucial route for food, medicine, and ammunition.

Dug by hand beneath the city streets, the tunnel was a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the Sarajevan people. It allowed them to evade the constant shelling and sniper fire, and provided a glimmer of hope during the darkest days of the siege.

Today, the Tunnel of Hope stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and human spirit. Visitors can explore the tunnel and learn about the harrowing experiences of those who lived through the siege. It’s a sobering reminder of the horrors of war and a tribute to the indomitable human spirit.

Sahara desert, Morocco

In the Sahara Desert, you can meet the nomadic people who still live in one of the most inhospitable areas of the planet. Today there are about one million nomads who live in the North of Africa.
Brahim, our Berber guide at the Chegaga Erg (Morocco), lived in the desert until the age of fifteen years, now he lives and works in the “city” of Mhamid; he says that he will return to live in the desert … a nomad can’t live without the sensation of freedom that only the infinity of the desert can give.

If you’re looking to experience the majestic dunes of the Moroccan Sahara, there are two main destinations to consider: Erg Chegaga and Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Both offer breathtaking landscapes, but each provides a different desert experience.

Erg Chegaga, located near Mhamid, is the more remote and untamed option. The journey to Chegaga begins in Marrakech, with a drive of about nine hours through the High Atlas Mountains and the Draa Valley, passing through stunning oases and ancient kasbahs before reaching Mhamid. From Mhamid, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain for an additional two hours to reach the dunes and camps. The effort is rewarded with vast, untouched sandscapes where the dunes stretch endlessly, and the camps are far removed from civilization. This remoteness offers a profound sense of isolation and the purest desert experience, making it the perfect choice for those seeking authenticity and tranquility.

Erg Chebbi, near Merzouga, is more accessible and well-known. From Marrakech, it’s an eight-hour drive to Merzouga, often broken up with an overnight stay in the towns of Ouarzazate or Erfoud. The dunes of Erg Chebbi are spectacular, rising up to 150 meters, and are the most photographed in Morocco. However, the proximity of the village of Merzouga to the dunes means the area is more developed and receives more tourists. While this offers conveniences such as hotels and easier access, it can detract from the feeling of being truly immersed in the desert.

Having experienced both, we found Chegaga more enchanting. Its remoteness and untouched beauty gave us the sensation of being in a true desert wilderness. At Chegaga, sitting atop a dune at sunset or gazing at the unpolluted starry sky felt like stepping into a different world, far from the noise and distractions of modern life.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Frank Zappa Statue — photo © Mirco Consoli

In Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, there is a statue dedicated to Frank Zappa: American composer, guitarist and singer, genius. He is referred to as the father of modern music. While Zappa had no direct connection to Lithuania, the statue symbolizes artistic freedom.

“A country is really a country when it has an airline and a beer. And in the end is a good beer that you need most”. Frank Zappa.

The Old Town of Vilnius is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Europe and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its cobblestone streets and Baroque architecture make it a delight for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Vilnius proudly claims to be near the geographical centre of Europe, a point marked by a monument just 26 kilometres north of the city.

Within Vilnius, you’ll find the bohemian “Republic of Ůžupis,” a self-declared independent state with its own flag, anthem, and even a quirky constitution that includes articles like “Everyone has the right to make mistakes.”

Just 28 kilometers west of Vilnius, Trakai is a must-visit destination that captivates visitors with its scenic beauty and historical significance.

Trakai Island Castle: The star attraction, this 14th-century castle sits on an island in Lake Galvė. Restored to its former glory, the castle now houses a museum where you can learn about the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Karaim Culture: Trakai is home to Lithuania’s Karaim community, a Turkic ethnic group with roots in Crimea. Don’t miss trying kibinai, their traditional pastry filled with meat or vegetables.

Water Activities: Surrounded by lakes, Trakai is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Rent a boat, go kayaking, or take a scenic cruise around Lake Galvė.

Varnikai Cognitive Trail: Nature lovers will enjoy this well-maintained trail, which winds through forests and wetlands, offering opportunities for birdwatching and tranquillity.

The best time to explore Vilnius and Trakai is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. However, winter brings its own charm, with snow-covered streets and festive markets creating a magical atmosphere.

Corcovado Nat. Park, Costa Rica

Corcovado Costa Rica — *photo © mytouristmaps*

One of the most dangerous snakes of Costa Rica is the viper Fer- de-Lance … according to Tom, our guide in Matapalo… “after it bites you, you only have time for a cigarette…”

Matapalo is located ten kilometers from Corcovado (Osa Peninsula), a national park that conserves the largest primary forest on the American Pacific coast and it’s one of the best areas in the world for biodiversity.

Corcovado is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts, often referred to as the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s national parks. Covering nearly 424 square kilometres, it is home to an astonishing 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity.

The region supports an incredible variety of wildlife. Corcovado is one of the only places in the Americas where you can find all four species of Costa Rican monkeys: the howler monkey, spider monkey, white-faced capuchin, and the endangered squirrel monkey. Alongside these playful primates, the elusive jaguar and the puma roam the dense forests, while the Baird’s tapir, Central America’s largest land mammal, can often be spotted near riverbanks.

The vibrant birdlife is another highlight, with the scarlet macaw stealing the show. These striking birds, with their bold red, yellow, and blue plumage, are a common sight in Matapalo and Corcovado, making the area one of the best places to see them in their natural habitat. The harpy eagle, one of the most powerful birds of prey, also calls this forest home, a testament to the park’s thriving ecosystem.

In addition to its terrestrial wonders, the Osa Peninsula’s coastal waters teem with life. Humpback whales and dolphins are frequently seen in the Pacific Ocean near Corcovado, while sea turtles nest along the sandy beaches. Matapalo, with its proximity to this biodiverse treasure trove, serves as a gateway to unparalleled wildlife encounters, blending adventure with the tranquillity of its lush surroundings.

Whether trekking through Corcovado’s rugged trails or simply relaxing in Matapalo’s serene setting, the Osa Peninsula offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.