Out of all the things I’ve done with my life, visiting all of the 7 Wonders of the World is my crowning achievement. I consider many factors like degree of difficulty, where humanity was in its development, and overall WOW factor when ranking! I hope you enjoy my insights and it helps you decide on your next travel adventure!
1. The Petra, Jordan
Also known as “Rose City” and created over 2,000 years by the Nabateans, Petra is my hands down favorite. What impressed me so much about this was that this was created so long ago and with such simple tools. Hammer, chisel, ladders, ropes, and their imagination were all they had. No mechanized cranes or other modern equipment were used but just simple willpower and determination. The Petra is a shining example of humanity that shows our best attributes and makes you pause to what we can accomplish as a species. Another interesting fact is that when Petra was being carved in to the mountains they started from top to bottom rather than bottom to top! Just like everyone else, I’m sure the first time you saw this was in the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. If you plan to visit the Petra, stay at least 2 days since you will need that amount of time to see everything.
2. Machu Picchu, Peru
Located in the Andes Mountains near Cusco, this citadel was created by the Incans somewhere in the 15th century. The scenery is stunning and due to the altitude, it just might take your breath away too! What I found so amazing about this place was the intricacy of watering system they used to cultivate the terraces. You immediately notice the numerous terraces along the entire side of the mountain that look like big steps. Just looking at it you have to appreciate the amount of labor it took to transport the amount of stones to that elevation. When looking at Machu Picchu you can’t miss the mountain in the background and not notice that the outline of the mountain appears to resemble the face of a person lying down and looking straight at the sky. It appears almost mythical and that you can reach out and touch it. If you plan to visit Machu Picchu, stay two days so you can experience an early sunrise and late sunset among the mountains and clouds.
3. Taj Mahal, India
The world’s most famous mausoleum and symbol of the Mughal Empire, it was built by Shah Jahan to honor his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal in the 17th century. Located near Agra and running along the Yamuna River you notice the white marble and perfect symmetry immediately. A testament to how inspiring love can be, the Taj Mahal took nearly two decades to construct and used over 20,000 builders and artists. Once you walk along and inside the attention to detail stands out. The carvings, jewels, use of geometry, and calligraphy demand notice and then you realize how much effort went into this. If you plan to visit the Taj Mahal, you can see everything in one day. This is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world so expect large crowds and be patient and a photo opportunity will arise.
4. The Colosseum, Italy
When in Rome, it would be a crime not to witness the symbol of Western history’s most famous empire. An engineering marvel and a place of spectacle for the masses its construction was completed in the 1st century. The size and grandeur is immediately felt and it’s easy to imagine what it would be like to be in the stands as a Roman citizen or as a slave awaiting the end. Walking in the corridors is like walking through a time machine as many recovered items are on display and artworks showing daily life in that era. If you plan to visit the Colosseum you can see everything in one day. This is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world so expect large crowds and long lines.
5. Chichen Itza, Mexico
One of the largest Mayan cities in the Yucatan Peninsula, “the mouth of the well of the Itza” was built in the 10th century. Surrounded by nothing but jungle, the city of stone jumps out at you with “El Castillo”, the famous pyramid and iconic landmark of Chichen Itza that demands your attention. The coolest thing that stood out was the staircase running alongside the walls. The base is shaped with a serpent’s head and during the Spring and Autumn Equinox the sunset light will leave an imprint and give the appearance of a snake running down the side. The other sites like the cenotes, Great Ball Court, and El Caracol Observatory are within a short walking distance and the carvings are quite detailed. Watch your step since iguanas are running around all over the place. What I found so amazing with this place was this culture was able to come out of the jungles and create spectacular cities without the use of metal. The ability to construct such detailed structures with just simple techniques is evidence of their ingenuity. If you plan to visit Chichen Itza you can see everything in one day.
6. The Great Wall, China
Needing no introduction and one of humanity’s most iconic engineering marvel, the Great Wall began its construction in the 3rd century B.C.E. and finished in the 17th century. Although bankrupting various dynasties, enslaving tens of thousands, and most importantly, not keeping invaders out, the Great Wall stands as a timeless monument of will, endurance, and determination. If you plan to visit the Great Wall there are many different sections that are safe for the public to enjoy and after you seen once section, you seen them all.
7. Christ the Redeemer, Brasil
Located on Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janiero, this iconic statue was completed in 1930s and lovingly watches over the citizens below. A heartfelt example of the faith by the Brasilian Catholic community this 98 foot (30 meter) high statue stands with its arms wide open. If you plan to visit Christ the Redeemer you can see it in half a day. If you can afford it, take advantage of the quick helicopter tour to see the entire bay and the birds-eye view from the statue’s perspective.
