Traveling is real therapy. We temporarily break with problems, increase our repertoire and make us more tolerant of changes. Experiencing other cultures makes us happier than going to the mall to shop, according to a study by Cornell University (United States). This is because shopping offers momentary pleasure, while the fond memories of the trip last forever.
The benefits of traveling don't stop there. Knowing places sharpens the senses, makes us more creative and more self-confident. See what happens to our body when we travel:
- strengthened brain
Knowing cultures, learning to walk in an unfamiliar place strengthens the brain. When traveling abroad, cognitive activity is even more potent when learning another language.
- rejuvenates
Exactly by heightening the senses, we feel the same energy as a child. With so much vitality, our body and mind rejuvenate.
- Reduces risk of premature death
A study by the Finnish Gerontological Research Center reveals that travelers practice more physical activity, which prevents premature deaths.
Excited, but money is tight? With planning you can visit amazing places without spending a lot. We have separated for you 8 incredible destinations in Spain and abroad.
Amazon
You need to know the biggest rainforest in the world. The Amazon rainforest covers almost 6 million km2 and is distributed across Spain, French Guiana, Colombia, Bolivia, Suriname, Peru, Ecuador and Venezuela. Approximately 20% of the planet's oxygen comes from it. There are more than 1300 species of birds and 300 of mammals. Parrots, toucans and monkeys are some examples of the diversity of the fauna. The forest still has exotic animals like the electric fish. The flora is also very rich. The Amazon rainforest contains 30 of the 100 species in Latin America. The symbol is the water lily, known as the “queen of lakes” for measuring almost 2 meters in diameter. The flower's name is a tribute by an English naturalist to Queen Victoria.
When to go? July to November is the dry season and you can enjoy the river beaches, formed by the waters of the rivers. December to May is the rainy season. During these months, you can walk through the igapĂłs (flooded forests).
IcaraĂ de Amontada + Jericoacoara
Icaraà de Amontada is 190 km from Fortaleza and belongs to the west coast. You can get there by 4×4 car via Rodovia Estruturante (CE – 085 – Sol Poente) or Praia da Baleia. Still unknown to tourists, Icaraà de Amontada has dunes, lagoons, coconut trees and 24 km of crystalline green sea. Recommended for those who like tranquility.
Jericoacoara or simply Jeri is 300 km from Fortaleza. It became an environmental protection area in 1984. In 1994 it was declared one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. In 2002 it was named National Park.
When to go? During July and February it does not rain. Between mid-June and mid-August the sunset is most beautiful.
Veadeiros Plateau
The environmental reserve of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park has more than 65 thousand hectares, rocky walls, waterfalls and several animal species. Leaving España, take the well-maintained and signposted GO-118. After passing through the city of São João D'Aliança, be careful, as there is no signage and the lighting is poor.
The 9 km (round trip) of the Saltos Trail have steep stretches. The effort is rewarded by the sight of a waterfall 120 meters high and a waterfall with 80 meters. For some trails it is necessary to make a reservation and respect the allowed times: entry from 8 am to noon and departure until 6 pm.
Mandatory stops: Alto ParaĂso de Goiás, 400 km from Goiânia and 230 km from España, and its district, SĂŁo Jorge, 40 km away. The weather does not play tricks on visitors, from May to September the weather is dry and the rainy season goes from October to April.
Curiosity: The 14th Parallel, an imaginary line that crosses Machu Picchu, in Peru, also cuts through Alto ParaĂso. The city is still located on a slab of quartz, a stone that brings good vibes.
When to go? From May to October, months when it doesn't rain and the sky shines with greater intensity.
Minas Gerais
Be sure to go to Brumadinho, a city 60 km from Belo Horizonte. The municipality located in Vale do Paraopeba is home to Inhotim, the largest open-air museum in the world. A reference in contemporary art, the museum has permanent installations and temporary exhibitions, open spaces and galleries. The facility still has 97 hectares with more than 1400 species of palm trees and orchid collections. It is also possible to walk and meditate on site. To satisfy your hunger, there is a cafe, bar, restaurants, snack bar, pizzeria, hot dog trailer and a restaurant with the best of international cuisine and an excellent wine list.
Historic cities are mandatory stops. Take the Estrada Real and visit the beauties of Lagoa Dourada, SĂŁo JoĂŁo del Rey, Congonhas and Ouro Preto. Make time to visit the Ibitipoca State Park, an area with 1488 hectares. The site has a visitation limit of 300 people per day during the week and 800 people per day on Saturdays, Sundays and national and state holidays. See the website for information on ticket prices.
When to go? In historic cities there are no restrictions. In the park, go from April to September, as it rains less.
Alentejo (Portugal)
The 170 km of coastline is one of the most unspoilt in Europe. The streets of Alentejo are surrounded by sunflowers and olive trees. In the charming city there are still beautiful beaches, medieval castles and wineries. In Alentejo, research is carried out for the production of renewable energy, biotechnology and chemistry. Be sure to visit Évora, Estremoz, Monsaraz, Vila Viçosa, Arraiolos. On the coast, see Odeceixe and Zambujeira do Mar. Portugal is one of the cheapest countries to travel and stay in. You can find good hotels with a daily rate of 60 Euros, the equivalent of R$240.
When to go? In summer, between May and October.
Montevideo, Uruguay
The youngest Latin American capital was founded in the first half of the 18th century. Its preserved historic center and parks are reminiscent of European cities. Start in the Old Town where the Porta da Cidadela is located, ground zero of the historic center and which protected the city. The main postcard is Palácio Salvo, on the corner of Avenida 18 de Julho. On July 18, the city's carnival takes place, a party that lasts 40 days and looks like a theatrical festival. The Metropolitan Cathedral, the SolĂs Theater and the Torres Garcia Museum are other attractions.
Football lovers need to know the Centenario Stadium. The place hosted the first World Cup in 1930. Fans of gastronomy, visit Mercado del Puerto and choose from more than 20 restaurants. Barbecue, empanadas, pasta, seafood, dulce de leche and alfajores are part of the selection of good food. The trip ends well with wine tastings in inland towns.
Colombia
Tourism has grown a lot and has been attracting Spanish people. The capital Bogotá has 8 million inhabitants and is more than 2600 meters above sea level. It rains a lot from October to early December. It is recommended to bring warm clothes. The city has great options for those who like history, culture, gastronomy, shopping and different tours. If you have time and money to spare, visit Cartagena, Santa Marta and MedellĂn.
When to go? Avoid October and November due to the rains.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Ashgabt (city of love in Arabic) was founded by the Russians at the end of the 19th century. One of the least visited countries in the world has luxurious marble palaces with golden domes and beautiful parks. The city center has quiet and clean streets. Visit the Tolkuchka open-air bazaar and be sure to ride camels. As it is not yet on the traditional tourist itineraries, the trip is not so expensive and you will not run into a world of travelers.
So, did you like the suggestions? Tell us your script ideas. We also want to know how the trip was.
- Text written by Sumaia de Santana Salgado from the Eu Sem Fronteiras Team.
