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Masai Mara – The Kingdom of Lions and the Great Migration
Masai Mara is one of the largest reserves in Kenya. The vast plains and savannas found here are renowned for their incredible biodiversity. Its name comes from the Maasai people and the word “Mara,” which in the Maasai language means “spotted.” The park received this name due to the scattered trees and shrubs that dot the landscape. The Maasai people are deeply connected to this land and are arguably the most iconic tribe in Africa. They moved to the highlands of modern-day Kenya in the early 17th century. They led a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving with their cattle during the rainy and dry seasons to prevent overgrazing areas. Unfortunately, like most…
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Abandoned chapel – Girl off the Trail
The chapel was built in the early 20th century. At first glance, its appearance suggests it’s a Catholic, but in reality, it belongs to the Mariavites. Mariavitism emerged from the Roman Catholic Church in 1906 and is closer to Orthodoxy Church. Currently, it’s estimated that around 20,000 people in Poland practise this religion. The chapel looks quite modest, similar to wooden constructions often seen in places like the Bieszczady Mountains. However, its discreetness is actually an advantage, allowing it to remain unnoticed. Although a lot of time has passed, the chapel makes an amazing impression. White and blue wooden walls give it a celestial character. Stained glass windows create a…
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Camel Racing – United Arab Emirates
Camel racing was an event I absolutely wanted to see during my trip to the United Arab Emirates. I must admit that until recently, this wasn’t an attraction I associated with the country. After all, I think most people view the UAE primarily through the lens of modern cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. However, camels are an integral part of the region’s culture. What’s more, I must confess that when heading to this event near Ras Al Khaimah airport, I didn’t do my homework properly. I assumed the race would take place on a traditional track surrounded by grandstands. It turned out that camel racing operates by its own…
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Ras Al-Khaimah – United Arab Emirates alternatively
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. While often overlooked by tourists, in my opinion, it’s one of the most fascinating regions in the UAE. Above all, it’s incredibly diverse. Within a relatively small area, you can find mountains, valleys (wadi), desert landscapes, and the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf. One of the most spectacular spots is the road leading to the summit of Jebel Jais, located in the Al Hajar Mountains, which rises to 1,925 meters above sea level. Although the peak itself belongs to Oman, the road on the UAE side reaches an altitude of 1,910 meters, just 15 meters…
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Oman, Wadi Shab – a gorge between cliffs
Wadi Shab is one of the many incredible places worth visiting in Oman. In Arabic, “wadi” means “valley” or “riverbed,” referring to dry valleys found in desert regions. Wadi Shab translates to “gorge between cliffs,” a name that perfectly suits this location. Crystal-clear water, towering cliffs, palm trees, and lush greenery make this spot truly unique. The main attraction of Wadi Shab is its turquoise pools, where you can cool off during the hike. Wadi Shab is located about 140 km from Muscat, near the town of Tiwi. To get there, you need to exit the highway leading towards Sur and park under a bridge. There’s a small parking area…
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Abandoned psychiatric hospital
The former psychiatric hospital was opened at the beginning of the 20th century. It was established on the initiative of the Warsaw Society for Medical Assistance and Care for the Mentally and Nervously Ill, who purchased and renovated abandoned barracks for this purpose. At that time, it also included a farm that produced vegetables and fruits for the hospital’s needs. Initially, the hospital could accommodate only 24 patients, but over time it expanded to the point where further development was necessary. During World War II, when the siege of Warsaw took place, it was located just on the front line. As a result, it served as a hospital for wounded…
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Southern Albania – a ship in a field and a thousand windows
I start my exploration of southern Albania in quite an unusual way – with a ship docked far from the sea, right in the middle of fields. This extraordinary sight resembles the Titanic in the Atlantic and is an evidence of the boundless Albanian imagination. Berat – “The City of Thousand Windows” In Berat, I stop for a moment to explore the castle ruins. Although little remains of the castle itself, its walls and the surrounding landscape create an incredible atmosphere. However, this is not the end of the attractions in this town. Berat is called “The City of a Thousand Windows,” and the name seems to fit it perfectly.…
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Comino – small is beautiful
Comino is one of the unique places worth visiting when in Malta. It’s a small island located between Malta and Gozo, covering an area of just 3.5 km². This makes it an ideal spot for a day trip. The island is small enough to be explored on foot within a day. A path along the high cliffs guarantees incredible views. The island’s name comes from cumin, which once grew abundantly here. Comino has a rich history dating back to Roman times when it was mainly used for agricultural purposes. The Knights of Malta organized wild boar and rabbit hunts here. Comino was never really inhabited, mainly due to the lack…
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The palace with a hidden treasure
The palace was built in the early 20th century. During World War II, it served as a field hospital, and after the war, a school was located there. Unfortunately, only a blackboard and an abacus remained here. Overall, there are no “artifacts” left in the entire building. Despite the fact that the wind is now practically the only thing moving through the corridors, the palace makes an incredible impression. Decorated staircase is particularly spectacular. The columns, arched windows, and ornate stair railings allow you to imagine what this building was like during its heyday. However, in my opinion, it’s the peeling oil paint that creates the unique atmosphere of this…
