This ancient city of the Nabataeans carved from rose-coloured sandstone cliffs is a staggering, awe-inspiring wonder, looking like something out of an Indiana Jones movie (which is because, well, it is). Described by poet John William Burgon as "a rose-red city half as old as time," the ancient site dating as far back as 312 BCE is a heart of culture, history, and heritage. From the Treasury to the Monastery, Petras elaborate carvings, elegant mosaics, and richly historical architecture are at a scale as humbling as it is breathtaking, that might suggest that the ancient Nabateans were giants. There is a spark of life left in these ancient ruins, a once-thriving caravan city, felt by those who flock to it from around the world to be amazed by the city lost in time.
8. Outer Hebrides, Scotland
The emerald shores that become visible on the horizon as one approaches this scattering of islands off the coast of Scotland are only the beginning of the enchantment of the Outer Hebrides, a diverse range of islands, shrouded in mist and scoured by storms, at once both harsh and transcendent. From faerie glens to magic pools and mystical stone formations (such as the ancient Callanish standing stones), the picturesque landscapes will have anyone believe that a quiet magic remains alive in the Scotland countryside. The islands including Lewis, Barra, Skye and Islay to name a few have a certain allure that captures travelers, with both the ruggedly beautiful landscapes and varied wildlife to the many castles, carvings and sites alive with rich Scottish history and folklore.
Canadian student. Spends probably an unhealthy amount of time enthusing over musicals, unpopular TV shows, and Harry Potter. Main life goal: to become fluent in Elvish.
