There is no shortage of breathtaking places on this planet, so what makes seven of them truly stand out? Unlike many famous rankings, the New Seven Wonders of the World list was shaped by the voices of ordinary people rather than experts or governments. More than 100 million people took part in the global vote, giving these landmarks a special place in the hearts of travellers worldwide. Let’s explore what makes each one worthy of the title.
The New Seven Wonders of the World List
In 2007, the New7Wonders Foundation officially announced the results of the global poll to name the world’s greatest landmarks. Here is a look at each one:
1. Chichen Itza
Located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza was once the heart of the ancient Maya civilisation. The iconic El Castillo pyramid at its centre is a calendar carved in stone. It has 91 steps on each of its four sides, which equals 364 days of the solar year. When you add the top platform, it totals 365 days.
2. Machu Picchu
The journey to Machu Picchu is just as memorable as the destination itself. Tucked away in the Peruvian Andes, this ancient Incan city is framed by dramatic mountains and vibrant green landscapes that make every moment feel special.
3. Christ the Redeemer
Standing 30 metres tall atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer is as much a symbol of Brazil as it is a feat of engineering. The best time to visit is early morning on a weekday, when the views across the city are clear, and the crowds are thinner.
4. Great Wall of China
Stretching over 21,000 kilometres across northern China, the Great Wall of China is one of the most ambitious construction projects in human history. Among the most accessible sections for visitors are Mutianyu and Badaling, both located a short distance from Beijing.
5. Petra
Carved directly into rose-red sandstone cliffs in southern Jordan, Petra was the ancient capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Its most famous structure, the Treasury, appears at the end of a narrow canyon called the Siq. The walk through is dramatic in the best possible way.
6. Roman Colosseum
The Colosseum in Rome was built nearly 2,000 years ago and could hold anywhere between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators. It remains one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Roman architecture. Book your tickets well in advance to skip the queues, as this is one of the busiest sites on the New Wonders of the World list.
7. Taj Mahal
Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his late wife, the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, is widely recognised as one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. The white marble changes colour with the light, making every time of day a different experience.
Tips for Planning a Trip to the Seven Wonders
Visiting these latest Seven Wonders of the World takes some solid planning. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you go:
- Research the best season to visit each destination, as peak tourist seasons can significantly impact your experience.
- Keep digital and physical copies of your travel documents, including your passport, visa, and bookings.
- Always check local customs and dress codes before visiting religious or culturally significant sites.
Why Is Travel Insurance Important for an International Trip?
You spend weeks planning a dream holiday, so the last thing you want is for an unexpected problem to take away from the experience. That’s where travel insurance comes in handy. It can cover the cost of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings, depending on the terms and conditions of your policy.
Conclusion
The New Seven Wonders of the Modern World span centuries of history and multiple continents, giving you a diverse range of experiences to look forward to. Planning ahead and having overseas travel insurance in place will go a long way in ensuring your trip is one to remember for the right reasons. It can act as a financial safety net, helping you manage unforeseen situations during your trip.
FAQs
1. Can tourists visit all Seven Wonders?
Yes, all seven wonders are open to tourists. Entry requirements and ticket availability vary by location, so checking ahead before you travel is always a good idea.
2. Which of the Seven Wonders is the oldest?
The Great Wall of China, with some sections dating back to the 7th century BC, is the oldest among the seven wonders.
3. Which of the 7 Wonders is most visited?
The Great Wall of China and the Colosseum consistently draw the highest number of visitors each year, though numbers vary by season.
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