The Great Wall was definitely magnificent and grand and it was a journey. Traveling to China will require you to get a visa and being someone with six jobs, it can be a process. The Chinese embassy requires all documents be printed and filled out nothing electronically. You must have proof of stay, flight in and out. Also I would recommend ordering currency in advance as many Chinese banks do not accept American debit cards. You can order currency online or from your local bank.
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Once I landed in Beijing, the language barrier hit in before I met my best friend, Mayling on her side of the world. I recommend picking up key phrases in Mandarin, to ease your journey. Especially, as a Muslim, knowing the phrases like does this contain pork are vital. We arranged a tour to the wall and once you arrive you have the option to participate in a variety of activities. You can take the chair skylift where you have an awesome view of the World Wonder. You can also slide down the World Wonder once you finish exploring as well.
Petra
Petra is normally paired with a visit to Wadi Rum, where you can slide down sand dunes, ride camels and of course eat food with the indigenous who use the heat of the land to cook meals. Petra is very hot so stay hydrated, but it is magnificent and gigantic. It will take at least 5 hours to fully see the impact of the site. You can ride donkeys up to the chapel, which can ease the journey up. Buy products/gifts from indigenous as this is the way they can make a living.
Machu Picchu
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I was originally in Peru to work in an orphanage, as it is my dream to open my own. I always want to gain more experience and insight. I was working in an orphanage for sexually abused youth in Cusco. It is important to acknowledge as many countries are facing a water crisis, the city where the World Wonder is located is also experiencing a water shortage as well. Peru, really allowed me to explore ecofeminism and analyze the damages are doing to our Earth, a place that provides us sustenance but vitality, livelihood, and knowledge for indigenous communities.
Macchu Picchu is a work of art, which sheds light on the intelligence and capabilities of the non-Western World and their histories. It is amazing to see indigenous tour guides explain their history and culture. However, Macchu Picchu is no joke. Train yourself, for the elevation and the hiking. Climbing up takes around to hours and walking to the main site through train tracks will take you another two. It is chilly so bring a coat. Nonetheless it is a gem and truly deserves the title of World Wonder.
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Christ the Redeemer
I have traveled to nearly 30 countries and see many cities in the world but by far my favorite city has to be Rio. From the beaches, mountains, people, food it offers you more than you are able to handle. Don’t be foolish and think that crime does not exist, but you need to know how to maneuver yourself and stay alert. Don’t be obnoxious,learn some Portugese, and have fun. When I was doing my Fulbright many loved ones came to visit and without a doubt I had to take them to Rio. I definitely recommend taking a helicopter ride over the city and going scuba diving. Be aware that Cristo Redentor is one of the highest points in Rio and clouds, can and will block your picture.
Chichen Itza
Your easiest option is to fly into Cancun and then reserve a tour. However, staying outside of Cancun may be preferable because you have a chance to see the less commercialized side of the city. You also have an opportunity to eat local food, which stimulates the local economy. I went here with my best friend, Raul which was incredible. It highlights indigenous Mayan culture which was authentic since we had an indigenous tour guide.
Colosseum
The Colosseum was another world wonder that I had the chance to see with my best friend,Raul. He works for an airline so once we finally had the chance to go (schedules finally cooperated), we were on our way. Although we were both rusty when it comes to our Italian, we were still able to make it work using our other Romance languages. It is easy to get to , however, when we went it was under construction. Don’t talk to strangers and be alert.
Taj Mahal
Humbling experience working in India in an all girls orphanage. Poverty is rampage and really makes you question our global sense of humanity and compassion. While visiting I was able to pray in the adjacent mosque which is where the ancient Mughal emperors used to pray. The infrastructure is colossal and distinct. The Mughals build this to preserve their legacy and it truly does.
