Magic and Whimsy in Your Travels
If you are thinking you want to visit a magical place, my advice is to avoid clichéd locations (Sorry Walt!). Here is a peek at a few destinations that are sure to evoke a sense of wonder. I have one man-made marvel that can be found in many parts of the world along with a natural location to enchant you. To top off these two, a castle will help anyone pining for a fairy tale ending.
Man-made Magic in Architecture – Whispering Galleries of the World
There are architectural wonders called whispering galleries that allow people to whisper to each other from opposite sides of a room and hear one another. Many of these oddities are found in churches, cathedrals and libraries because of the nature of these places where speaking quietly is demanded. Whispering galleries need round spaces to work and there’s a bit of science to explain the sorcery, but I’ll spare you the details. The bottom line is that if you find yourself visiting such a place, give it a try with a friend or freak out a stranger! Notable examples are: Grand Central Terminal in New York City; The Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China; and the Salle de Cariatides in the Louvre, Paris, France.
Whispering Gallery info and locations on Wikipedia
Natural Magic – Firefly Watching and Glowing Waters in the Tropics
In Puerto Princesa, Philippines, go firefly watching! Anyone can take this trip to see these little guys light up the night but it’s suggested to go when there’s no moonlight as the glowing effects are enhanced by darkness. The tour requires you to take a boat ride with a small group from Puerto Princesa city to the Iwahig River. Along the way, you may also encounter glowing water, a result of the algae in the water being disturbed by movement such as a hand or a boat. Some tour guides will even prepare a meal for you on the trip back with local ingredients. Flash photography isn’t allowed on this trip but I’m sure that your memory will serve you well without a photo.
Tripadvisor reviews on firefly watching tours
Mont Saint Michel, France – The Castle on the Water
Though technically not a castle as its beginnings are traced to a monastery, it certainly looks the part. Situated on an island off the coast of Normandy, this famous sight appears to have stood the test of time and nature. When the tide goes out, this massive structure appears to be the only thing left on the sands giving it an invincible characteristic. Be wary though because when the tide rolls back in crossing the bay can be dangerous; their website provides the times during the year when high tides occur. If you want to truly experience this place, I suggest booking a tour by horseback, which allows you to gallop in the low-tide waters around the castle.
You can stroll the main street known as Grand Rue and enjoy fine dining such as leg of lamb and locally sourced seafood from the bay. When you’re ready, venture up to the Abbey as you’ll want to check out what’s inside the castle walls. Even when it’s high tide, the island is always accessible via bridge; I suggest you make a wish when you cross it.
Official Mont St. Michel website
Horseback tours of Mont St. Michel