Wonders of the World

Pull on your hiking boots and let's get going. There's a great big world out there to see before we kick the bucket. Since the dawn of humanity, mankind has always enjoyed traveling, exploring new places and writing about it. As far back as 456 BC, the ancient Greeks compiled a list of what might have been called The top 7 places to see before you die---otherwise known as the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. Unfortunately, only one of those exotic places still exists: The Great Pyramid at Giza. Milleniums later, another Wonders list came along that named the 7 Wonders of the Medieval World. Stonehenge and the Leaning Tower of Pisa were among the structures listed.

Not to be outdone, 21st century travelers now have their own Wonders list. A few years ago, a Swiss group known as the New 7 Wonders Foundation held a global internet contest to determine the New 7 Manmade Wonders of the World. Millions of people from all over the world responded with suggestions. In 2007, the New 7 Manmade Wonders of the World winners were announced. How many of these amazing manmade achievements have you seen?
1. Great Wall of China
2. Petra in Jordan
3. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
4. Machu Picchu in Peru
5. Roman Colosseum, Italy
6. Taj Mahal, India
7. Pyramid at Chichen Itza, Mexico

But wait---there's more. If you didn't get a chance to vote for the 7 Manmade wonders, you've still got a chance to cast your ballot for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The same Swiss group is in the final stages of yet another poll to choose the 7 greatest natural wonders of the world. In the running are the Grand Canyon, the Great Barrier Reef and the Dead Sea. To see all 28 finalists and to cast your vote, go to: New7Wonders of Nature site.

Whether you participate in the voting or not, isn't it time to get off your keester, leave your comfort zone and go exploring? You may never be a jet setter, but what about rediscovering new sights and sounds in your own city, your own state? Hop in the car, drive for 2 hours and see where you end up. Wherever it may be, make the most of it. Be flexible. Have fun. Then create your own 7 wonders list. Machu Picchu, here I come! Sphere: Related Content