Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Kelowna & Okanagan Valley
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Rathaus
For sheer grandness, the Neo-Gothic Rathaus, or Vienna City Hall, steals the Ringstrasse show. Completed in 1883 by Friedrich von Schmidt, it was modeled on Flemish city halls. Its main spire soars to 335 ft (102m) if you include the pennant held by the knight at the top. You're free to wander through the seven inner courtyards but must join a guided tour to see the interior, with its red carpets, gigantic mirrors, and frescoes.
Between the Rathaus and the Ringstrasse is the Rathauspark, with fountains, benches and several statues. It is split in two by Rathausplatz, which is lined with statues of notable people from Vienna's past. Rathausplatz is the sight of some of the city's most frequented events, including the Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market), Musikfilm Festival and the Wiener Eistraum.
Practical Info
Metro line U2 stops at Rathaus. Also trams 1, 2 and D.
Address: Rathausplatz, Vienna 1010, Austria
Hours: Open business hours in public areas, or guided tours (in German) on Mon, Wed, Fri at 1pm
From $ 36
Ramesseum (Mortuary Temple of Ramses II)
While not as well preserved as nearby Medinet Habu, this mortuary temple dedicated to Ramses II, dating to 1258 BC, still has more than enough to interest the visitor. In the inner sanctuary, for example, the majority of the columns in the hypostyle hall are still standing, as are a number of osirid statues standing sentinel at the entrance, albeit mostly without heads.
As is typical with such structures, giant wall reliefs trumpet the pharaoh’s military accomplishments and proclaim his immortality. But also on view are parts of the fallen Colossus of Ramses, which in Shelley’s poem Ozymandias (“Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!”) became a powerful warning against hubris.
Practical Info
The Ramesseum is on the western bank of the Nile, and is best visited in conjunction with the nearby Medinet Habu.
Address: Egypt
Hours: Open daily 6am - 5pm
Admission: 20 L.E.
From $ 35
Raphael's Rooms
Raphael's Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello) are four interconnected halls inside the Vatican Museums, each decorated with sumptuous frescoes by painter Raphael (1483–1520). These High Renaissance masterpieces are second in fame and beauty only to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel in the whole of the enormous Vatican collection.
The Basics
The frescoes adorning Raphael’s Rooms were originally commissioned by Pope Julius II in the early 1500s; Pope Leo X continued the commission after Julius' death in 1513 and, when Raphael died just seven years later, artists from his studio completed the frescoes.
The Vatican Museums, home to the Raphael Rooms, are the most visited attraction in Rome, so booking a guided tour with skip-the-line access in advance is a must. Tickets to the Vatican Museums include entry to Raphael’s Rooms. A small-group tour offering early-morning access before the museums are open to the general public is an excellent way to enjoy Raphael's works in relative peace. Many Vatican tours include Raphael's Rooms, the Sistine Chapel, and other highlights of the Vatican Museums—along with St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Vatican Museums have notoriously long lines; it is imperative that you book tickets in advance. Tickets to the Vatican Museums include entry to Raphael’s Rooms.
- Attire covering shoulders and knees are required to enter certain areas of the Vatican, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica.
- There is a security check to enter the museums, and pocket knives, corkscrews, and umbrellas are banned.
- You can check large backpacks, umbrellas, and luggage in the free cloakroom.
- The Vatican Museums and Raphael’s Rooms are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Vatican Museums complex is in Vatican City. The nearest metro station is Ottaviano along line A, about a 5-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Vatican is busiest in summer, when skip-the-line tickets or a private tour guide are recommended. Though the museums are less crowded during winter, they can still fill up around midday, so join a private tour in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. The museum’s opening hours apply to Raphael’s Rooms.
Raphael’s Rooms by Name
The Room of the Segnatura (Stanza della Segnatura) was the first to be decorated and contains Raphael's most famous painting, The School of Athens. The other rooms, also decorated with scenes inspired by both religious and political history, are known as The Room of Constantine (Stanza di Costantino), Heliodorus (Stanza di Eliodoro), and Fire in the Borgo (Stanza dell'Incendio del Borgo).
Address: Viale Vaticano, Vatican City 00120, Italy
Hours: Open Mon - Sat 9am - 6pm
Admission: Requires ticket to the Vatican Museums
From $ 31
Red Light Secrets
Amsterdam is known for its wide streets, classic museums and colorful canals. It is also known for its coffeehouse culture and open-minded approach to both cannabis and prostitution. Visitors flock to see the city’s Red Light District, where prostitution is legal and very much out in the open. Red Light Secrets, located in the heart of the area, is the world’s only museum dedicated to the risque profession—offering an eye-opening look at its history in Amsterdam.
Housed in a traditional 17th-century canal house, the small museum aims to educate curious visitors without entering a brothel. Travelers can examine full-scale replicas of luxury brothel suites and wardrobe displays, while also getting the chance to listen to interviews with prostitutes about their daily lives and step into a florescent, red-lit window. The building itself was once home to an operating brothel, facilitating an authentic experience.
Practical Info
The museum is open daily from 11 am to midnight. Located at the heart of the Red Light District in the city center, it can be found at Oudezijds Achterburgwal 60 and costs 10 euro for admission. It is a five minute walk from the central train station.
Address: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 60H,, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hours: Daily 11am–midnight
Admission: €10
From $ 10
Red Star Line Museum
Between the late 19th century and World War II, the historic Red Star Line carried more than two million passengers across the Atlantic Ocean to start new lives in the United States, and this compelling museum was opened in September 2013 to tell the story of the migrants and showcase the backstory of the shipping company. Housed in the red-brick former company sheds, washrooms and waiting rooms in Eilandje, north of the city center, the museum buildings themselves are protected monuments. Here medical examinations took place, luggage was disinfected and would-be emigrants were assessed for suitability to enter the US. The museum’s permanent collections include a touching number of letters, faded photos and multimedia presentations of personal interviews, all displayed cleverly against a colorful, well-curated selection of posters, model ships and Red Star Line souvenirs; individuals seeking out family histories can do so in the Warehouse, where the shipping line’s records are computerized and available to all. The newly built lookout tower replaced an earlier chimney that was pulled down in 1936; it has panoramic views across the waters of the River Scheldt and surrounding quays.
Practical Info
Open Tue–Sun 10am–5pm. Admission adults €6; seniors & students aged 12–26 €4; under 12 free. Take bus no. 17 to Rijnkaai. If driving, the Waagnatie paid car park is nearby.
Address: Montevideostraat 3, Antwerp, Flanders 2000, Belgium
Hours: Open Tue–Sun 10am–5pm.
Admission: adults €6; seniors & students aged 12–26 €4; under 12 free
From $ 15
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
The UNESCO World Heritage–listed Red Fort (Lal Qila) traces its roots back to the middle of the 17th century, when Mughal Emperor Shahjahan moved his base from Agra to Delhi. For the two centuries that followed, this gargantuan sandstone complex served as the royal residence of the Mughal Empire. Today, it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions, often visited in tandem with nearby Chandni Chowk.
The Basics
One of the best-preserved architectural sites in Delhi, the Red Fort provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of India’s former Mughal Empire. Highlights of this octagonal complex include the Diwan-i-Aam, where emperors and prime ministers once addressed the public, plus the Mumtaz Mahal, which hosts a Mughal history museum, complete with six halls full of artifacts ranging from old manuscripts to astronomical tools. Don’t miss the Diwan-i-Khas, a small hall full of decorated archways and topped with regal chhatris (domed canopies).
The Red Fort is a highlight on most group and private sightseeing tours of Old and New Delhi, many of which also include stops at the nearby Chandni Chowk market, India Gate, and the Jama Masjid. Evening tours may include admission to the Red Fort sound and light show along with dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Red Fort is huge, spanning over 120 acres (49 hectares). Make sure you set aside at least two hours for your visit.
- The complex is wheelchair accessible, featuring wide pathways and limited steps.
- Wear sunscreen and bring a hat or a parasol, as much of the fort is uncovered and open to the elements.
- The Red Fort is closed on Mondays.
How to Get There
The Red Fort is located in bustling Old Delhi, just north of the Jama Masjid, on the western banks of the Yamuna River. It’s right next to the Lal Qila metro station on the Violet Line of the Delhi Metro and about a 10-minute walk from the Old Delhi Railway Station. Most visitors arrive by car or metro or as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The Red Fort is open throughout the year, Tuesday to Sunday, from sunrise to sunset. The best time to visit is in winter, when the weather is comfortably cool. If your Delhi trip coincides with the sweltering summer season of May and June, consider arriving early in the day when temperatures are at their coolest and crowds are smallest.
Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, New Delhi, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 9
Red Square (Krasnaya Ploschad)
Red Square is the central square in Moscow, sitting just northeast of the famous Kremlin. Once a marketplace, over the years it has been the sight of public ceremonies and proclamations, the occasional coronation and during Soviet times, military parades. Together with the Kremlin, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, one of the first sites in the Soviet Union to receive such designation. Today Red Square also serves as a major concert venue, with Paul McCartney, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Shakira, among stars who have performed in recent years.
The main entrance to Red Square is through the Resurrection Gate, which was rebuilt in 1995 to copy the gate that was originally finished in 1680. At the center of the gateway stands a small chapel housing an icon known as the Iverian Virgin. It’s not uncommon to see crowds of people gathered around the chapel throughout the day.
Just inside the Resurrection Gate you will find the entrance to the State History Museum and Lenin’s Mausoleum, as well as the Kazan Cathedral and GUM – the State Department Store. The iconic St Basil’s Cathedral sits on the opposite end of the square. If you plan to visit Lenin’s Mausoleum, be sure to check your bag and camera at the State History Museum first, as you won’t be allowed to bring them inside.
The main entrance to Red Square is through the Resurrection Gate, which was rebuilt in 1995 to copy the gate that was originally finished in 1680. At the center of the gateway stands a small chapel housing an icon known as the Iverian Virgin. It’s not uncommon to see crowds of people gathered around the chapel throughout the day.
Just inside the Resurrection Gate you will find the entrance to the State History Museum and Lenin’s Mausoleum, as well as the Kazan Cathedral and GUM – the State Department Store. The iconic St Basil’s Cathedral sits on the opposite end of the square. If you plan to visit Lenin’s Mausoleum, be sure to check your bag and camera at the State History Museum first, as you won’t be allowed to bring them inside.
Practical Info
Red Square is in the center of Moscow, most easily accessible from the Ploshchad Revolyutsii or Okhotny Ryad Metro stations. The square is occasionally is closed to the public for concerts or other large events.
Address: Moscow, Russia
From $ 22
Raqch'i
This vast Inca archaeological site is one the Cusco Region’s top attractions, drawing travelers from across the globe that come in search of ancient ruins. Most of the highlights of this historical destination are located inside an old defense wall. Visitors will find a courtyard, lodging house, and several other structures that are worth exploring on a tour of Raqch’i.
Some 220 small storehouses known as qullqas, which surround the area, are another unique feature of this ancient Inca locale. But perhaps the most impressive landmark is the Temple of Wiracoch — a massive two-story building that showcases the incredible craftsmanship of early Inca stonework. Travelers will find old living quarters attached to the temple that are also the perfect place to explore Incan history, culture and traditions.
Practical Info
Raqch’I is located in the Cusco Region of the Canchis Province in Peru’s San Pedro District. It is accessible via a four-hour bus ride from the city of Cusco.
Address: Cusco, Peru
From $ 75
Red October Complex (Krasniy Oktyabr)
Once a chocolate factory producing some of Russia’s most popular chocolate, the Red October Complex was the first industrial site in Moscow to be converted into artistic space. Located on Bolotny Island in the Moscow River, the complex itself dates back to the 19th century. In recent years, it has been transformed into a multi-purpose space featuring art and photo galleries, designers’ studios, television and web media headquarters and a variety of bars and cafes. It is also home to the Strelka Institute for Media, Architecture and Design, which offers workshops, lectures and concerts for the public.
The Red October Complex is especially popular on the weekends with bars and restaurants like Art Akademiya, Dome and Bar Strelka, the latter of which donates its proceeds to the Strelka Institute. It also boasts a lively clubbing scene for those looking to explore Moscow’s famous nightlife. And chocolate lovers can still pick up some of the beloved Red October chocolates from a small shop in the complex.
Practical Info
The Red October Complex is within walking distance from the Kremlin—simply take the bridge across the Moscow River and turn right. Alternatively, take the footbridge to the right of the Christ the Savior Cathedral. The nearest metro station, across from the Christ the Savior Cathedral, is Kropotkinskaya.
Address: Bolotny Island, Moscow, Russia
From $ 30
Rano Raraku
One of Easter Island’s most unforgettable landmarks, the ancient volcano of Rano Raraku is home to the island’s largest and most important archaeological site. Known as the quarry, this was where the island’s iconic moai were carved, using the naturally formed tuff (a soft rock made from solidified volcanic ash), and then distributed around the island.
About 95 percent of all the island’s moai were carved at Rano Raraku, and although the site was abandoned in the late 18th century, it remains littered with a remarkable 396 incomplete moai. Wander through the quarry and you’ll find half-carved statues, sculpted boulders perched high up on the quarry walls and moai half buried in volcanic tuff, leaving just the heads poking out of the ground. Most unique are Moai Tukuturi, a small, round-headed statue on its knees, and El Gigante, the largest known moai, which reaches an incredible 71 feet (21 meters) in height, weighs an estimated 270 tons and remains attached to the rock face.
Practical Info
Rano Raraku is located along the southeast coast of Easter Island, about 30 minutes by car from Hanga Roa. The entrance fee to the Rapa Nui National Park is $60 for all non-Chileans (payable on arrival to the island) and includes entrance to Rano Raraku.
Address: Easter Island, Chile
Admission: Rapa Nui Park: $60 for non-Chileans
From $ 115
Ramses II Statue
Ramses II was a the longest serving pharaoh in Ancient Egypt, reigning from 1279 BC to 1213 BC, a total of 66 years and 2 months. This made him a very powerful and significant man in history and it's not surprising he left behind so many huge statues of himself. One of these is the freestanding red granite statue reaching 36 ft (11 m) in height discovered by Giovanni Battista Caviglia in 1820 in Memphis, the ruined ancient capital city. It was broken into 6 pieces but in 1955 Egyptian President Nasser had it restored and installed in Cairo at Ramses Square. Pollution took its toll on the 3,200 year old sculpture however and in 2006 it was moved to Giza where it will be installed in the new Grand Egyptian Museum when that opens in 2013.
Other statues of Ramses II are found at Abu Simbel and Luxor. The British Museum also has one which was found at Thebes.
Practical Info
The plateau of Giza is the site of the pyramids and the future location of the Grand Egyptian Museum. Until then the statue of Ramses II is undergoing restoration. Giza is best reached by tour bus or taxi.
Address: Giza Plateau, Cairo 12561, Egypt
From $ 34
Ravadinovo Castle
Standing in the middle of a farm field a few kilometers outside of Sozopol, the Ravadinovo Castle might be something out of a Disney fairy tale. Mystical and exotic, the castle made of stone covers about 30,000 square meters, including the grounds. All around the castle grounds, you will find flower gardens and landscaped lawns, as well as a variety of statues, small bridges, fountains and ponds. The castle is best visited in the summer when the castle walls are overgrown with ivy and the gardens are in full bloom. Talkative parrots, colorful peacocks and elegant swans are also prevalent throughout the grounds. Inside the castle you will find an art gallery, wine cellar and several large halls for events.
Practical Info
The castle is located about five kilometers south of Sozopol, just before you reach the village of Ravadinovo. It is hard to miss with its tall steeples and towers. To get there, take a taxi or catch a free shuttle from Sozopol or consider joining a day tour to the castle from nearby Nessebar, Burgas or Sunny Beach.
Address: Ravadinovo, Bulgaria
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 8:30am-10pm
Admission: 4 Euro
From $ 6
Red House (Casa Colorada)
Though Santiago's historical district boast many architecturally outstanding buildings, most were built or refurbished in the early 1900s, well after the Spanish Colonial period. The Red House - or Casa Colorada - is a fine exception.
It's no mystery why this squat stone structure has survived Santiago's tectonic history of earthquakes (and the gas-lamp fires that inevitably followed) intact. Originally completed in 1779 as the home of "Count of the Conquest" Don Mateo de Toro y Zambrano, it has served as a salon for Chile's politicians and VIPs for centuries.
Today, the Casa's thick-walled corridors and sturdy rooms are home to the Museo de Santiago, a solid museum featuring dioramas about key moments in the Chilean history.
Practical Info
The Red House is located in the heart of of the Santiago historic district, half a block east of the Plaza de Armas. The area is not the easiest to navigate in a car, but is well served by the metro. The closest stop is the Plaza de Armas station, on the L5 Green Line.
If you don't mind crowds of happy families, visit on Sunday, when admission is free.
Address: Merced 860, Santiago de Chile, Chile
Hours: Closed Monday
Admission: CH$500. Free on Sun
From $ 38
Ras Al Khaimah National Museum
As the northernmost emirate in the UAE, Ras al Khaimah has a fascinating history that’s displayed at this national museum. Housed in an 18th century fort, the Ras Al Khaimah National Museum was the home of the emirate’s ruling family until 1964, and was opened to the public as a national museum in 1987. Once inside the historic fort, enjoy a casual, self-guided tour of artifacts detailing the early history of peoples inhabiting the desert. You’ll also find ethnological displays, as well as documents and treaties from deals with Britain in the 19th century.
The most prominent feature is the old tower, which rises above the two-story buildings and was once an important lookout point for guarding the royal family. Because the museum doesn’t offer guides, it’s good to visit the museum as part of a half-day tour of town, where the local guides who administer the tour can tell you about the artifacts. Favorites include the ancient weapons that were used to defend the fort, as well as equipment that divers used when diving for pearls offshore.
Practical Info
The museum is located in Old Town Ras al Khaimah.
Did You Know? Though part of the museum is air conditioned, other areas are cooled by a wind tower that funnels breeze into the courtyard.
Address: Ras Al Khaimah National Museum, Al Hisn Road, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Wed-Mon 10am-5pm
Admission: $1.35
From $ 200
Reactor No 4
On April 26 1986, Reactor No 4 of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine exploded, releasing tons of extremely harmful radioactive chemicals into the air. The explosion contaminated dozens of European countries, and elevated radiation levels were also recorded as far away as Canada and the United States.
The town closest to the explosion was Pripyat, situated just a few kilometers away. The residents were forced to evacuate (a little too late) and over the years it has been suggested that thousands of deaths were caused as a result of the explosion. Many more have been left with illnesses brought on by the radioactive chemicals.
The long-term 30-kilometer exclusion zone is still in place today, and Reactor No 4 can only be accessed as part of a short-term organized tour. Most tours include knowledgeable guides and a visit to the ‘ghost town’ of Pripyat, with its abandoned buildings and eerily decaying amusement park.
Practical Info
Organized one- and two-day trips to the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and nearby Pripyat can be arranged from Kiev.
Address: Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Chernobyl, Ukraine
Admission: Varying, depending on tour
From $ 88
Ranville War Cemetery
Located in the heart of Calvados, just a few kilometers from the Channel, stands the Ranville War Cemetery. It contains a majority of British soldiers of the 6th Airborne Division (and also Canadian and German soldiers) that were killed during early stages of the Battle of Normandy in the Second World War. In fact, Ranville was the first village to be liberated by the Allies on the morning of June 6, 1944 – more commonly known as D-Day. Indeed, the village was secured by British and Canadian troops, landed nearby by parachute and glider on a mission to secure the bridge over the Caen Canal. This wasn’t achieved easily, though, as the skies were quite windy on that meaningful day and the area was, in reality, much larger than what had been expected.
Ranville War Cemetery is located by the ancient Ranville Chapel, a graded 10th-century building. It is laid out in a typical French garden design, with immaculately kept landscapes and manicured grounds. Within the cemetery stands a Cross of Sacrifice (designed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is the archetypal British war memorial), an octagonal-shaped, elongated Latin cross with Celtic dimensions carved out of white Portland stone. Ranville War Cemetery contains 2,560 burials, including the grave of Lieutenant Den Brotheridge, considered to be the first Allied death on D-Day.
Practical Info
Ranville War Cemetery is located 20 minutes north of Caen (17 kilometers). It can be reached via route E46, D515 and D514. Entry is free of charge.
Address: Ranville 14860, France
Hours: Daily
From $ 110
Raohe Street Night Market
One of the oldest night markets in Taipei, Raohe Street Night Market offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s street-food scene. Visitors and locals browse 2,000 feet (600 meters) of stalls selling such Taiwanese delicacies as braised pork rice and xiao long bao (steamed pork dumplings).
The Basics
Raohe Street Night Market is one of Taipei’s most food-orientated night markets, so it’s usually included on city tours that focus on local cuisine. Some tours combine a visit to Raohe Street with a soak in the steaming waters of Beitou Hot Springs, while others include a baking class and walking tour. Exploring the area with a guide means you’ll discover the origin of unusual delicacies such as stinky tofu and crepes filled with peanut brittle, ice cream, and coriander.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Raohe Street Night Market is a must-visit for food lovers and culture vultures.
- Try to not to fill up at the first stall you see—Taiwan is famous for its ‘little eats,’ so sample a variety of dishes.
- If you see a long line, join it. It’s a sure sign that the street-food stall is one of the best.
- Taipei is often subject to unexpected rain showers, so be sure to bring an umbrella, especially in fall.
How to Get There
To reach the Raohe Street Night Market by metro, take the green Songshan–Xindian MRT line to Songshan station, then take exit 5 and walk a few minutes to the market. The ornate Ciyou Songshan Temple, beside the market’s neon-lit gates, is a must-see for travelers interested in Buddhism.
When to Get There
During the weekend, the night market can get incredibly crowded, and wait times for stalls can be long. The best time to visit is during the week at around 6pm, when the majority of stalls have opened but locals haven’t yet left the office for dinner.
Weird and Wonderful Dishes at Raohe Street Night Market
Taiwan is famous throughout Asia for cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. If you’re feeling adventurous, try deep-fried prawns topped with pineapple and sprinkles, steamed rice topped with melt-in-the-mouth pig intestines, and pungent fermented tofu.
Address: Raohe Street, Taipei, Taiwan
From $ 90
Ramoji Film City
This 2000-acre film city is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest film complex in the world. It’s been a top attraction for movie and Bollywood buffs who’ve made their way to Hyderabad since 1996. With an amusement park, skating rink, children’s play area and theater there’s plenty to entertain the entire family. Catch a Spirit or Stunt show at the Eureka Theater, or spend a couple of hours shopping the stores full of movie memorabilia. Enjoy complimentary rides like the Twister or Carousel and make the most of a day in Hyderabad’s premier entertainment destination.
Practical Info
Ramoji Film City is open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., with the final entry at 2 p.m. Entry is Rs 1000 for adults and Rs 900 for children 3 to 12 years old. Ramoji Film City operates its own buses between the studio city and major Hyderabad locations. Tickets can be booked in advance.
Address: Anaspur Village, Hayathnagar Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India 501512, India
Admission: Adults: Rs 1000; Children: Rs 900
From $ 16
Red House Theater
Built in 1908 during Japanese rule, the Red House Theater in Taipei’s Ximending neighborhood is a landmark building housing shops, design studios, theaters, and various exhibits. The iconic eight-sided structure was originally a public market before being used as an opera house and performance theater from 1945 onward.
These days, the Red House Theater is a popular destination for tourists and locals, with a small tea house, several shops, and a display on the history of the building on the ground floor. Art lovers should seek out the art and design market in the north square on weekend afternoons, or check out the numerous studios behind the main entrance, which sell artworks from local designers throughout the week.
You can visit the main highlights in this part of Taipei on a private, full-day walking tour, where you can combine a trip to the Red House Theater with sights such as the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Nanmen Market, Longshan Temple, and Tianhou Temple, as well as a traditional (and well-deserved) dinner.
Practical Info
The Red House Theater is located in Taipei’s Ximending neighborhood, just a minute's walk from Exit 1 of the Ximen metro station. The theater is open 11am to 9:30pm from Sunday to Thursday, and 11am to 10pm on Friday and Saturday. The art and design market takes place on weekend afternoons, from 2pm.
Did You Know? Situated at the back of the building, the Riverside Live House was converted into a theater in 2007 and has since become a central part of the gay scene in the neighborhood. It hosts the annual gay New Year’s Eve event, the Mr. Gay World Taiwan pageant, and Taipei Pride.
Address: 10 Chengdu Road, Taipei, Taiwan
Hours: Sun–Thurs: 11am–9:30pm; Fri & Sat: 11am–10pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Ranthambore National Park
One of the biggest national parks in North India, Ranthambore National Park is particularly popular with travelers hoping to spot an elusive tiger in the wild. Although tigers are the main draw here, the reserve is home to other critters—including sambar deer, wild boars, sloth bears, striped hyenas, and hundreds of bird species—and a 10th-century fort.
The Basics
This 150-square-mile (392-square-kilometer) park is best known for its wild tiger population— around three dozen of the big cats live here—and nearly everyone who visits takes part in a 3.5-hour tiger-spotting safari, managed by the government. Both jeep and cantar (open-air 20-seat minibus) safaris are available. If you want to up your chances of seeing a wild tiger, go on a couple of safaris; some multi-day park tours offer the opportunity to partake in both a morning and an afternoon tiger-spotting adventure.
Ranthambore is a popular stop on many Rajasthan itineraries, amongst independent travelers and private and small-group tours alike. Independent travelers can prebook safaris through the Rajasthan Forest Department, though it's much easier to go through a travel agent.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ranthambore National Park is a must for nature lovers, wildlife-watchers, and families with kids.
- Safaris are available every morning and afternoon.
- The government limits safari seats to protect the area, so it’s wise to prebook or join an organized tour. Jeep safaris tend to sell out faster than cantar trips.
- Make sure to bring your passport; all safari participants must carry ID.
How to Get There
Ranthambore National Park is just outside of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. If driving, it’s about eight hours from Delhi (245 miles/395 kilometers), five hours from Agra (158 miles/255 kilometers), or four hours from Jaipur (96 miles/155 kilometers). All three major cities are connected to Sawai Madhopur, by train; most trains from Agra or Delhi take about 4.5 hours, while those from Jaipur do the trip in as few as two hours.
When to Get There
Until 2017, Ranthambore National Park closed annually from July to September (the monsoon season). Now it is open year-round, though the best months for spotting tigers tend to be March and April. Note that May and June can be particularly hot here, though the forest shade and abundance of trees help make temperatures feel less intense.
Tiger Conservation in India
The Bengal tiger is India’s national animal, and tiger conservation is taken very seriously here. At the forefront of the movement is Project Tiger, which launched in 1973 to protect Bengal tigers from extinction. Tiger censuses are carried out every four years, and it’s currently estimated that there are around 3,000 of the animals in the wild.
Address: Sawai Madhopur, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 42