Places to visit [if only its just to be able say you've been there!]

Good nowhere, good everywhere

From here to Timbuktu
This picture of Timbuktu is perfect, it looks like the shadow of a city.  When you're lost, outside of a metropolitan area, chances are you're either in BFE or Timbuktu.  Built in a once logical geographic area heavy with trade from caravan routes and nomadic passages, it became the center for theology, culture and enlightenment, and is home to 3 important mosques and arguably the world's first university.  Now it is under threat of desertification: Get there before its gone!!

Good solace, good view
Machu Picchu
We all owe this amazing site to the Spanish Conquistadors, and the Incas not wanting to be very social with them.  It is a spiritual haven, and holds many mysteries.  It is also included in the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  But it is now under concern of being ruined by mudslides, so, once again, get there before it no longer exists!

Good lore, good gore
Transylvania, Romania
In Latin, Transylvania can mean either "the other side of the woods," or "beyond the woods;" to most of us, Transylvania evokes images of blood-sucking horror and a mystical world full of mystery and shrouded in  folklore.  This place has seen its fair share bloodshed, and landlords, including the Celts, the Roman Empire, & the Huns.  Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, this region became highly sought after as a strong hold, controlling trade routes and passage through the mountains.  One of the fortresses that held a strategic position, was none other than Bran Castle, also known as Dracula's castle [because of Bram Stoker's famous novel].  Vlad the Impaler did pass through a few times and used it like a summer home from time to time, although it was not his permanent residence.  Whether or not you consider it a home to the dark spirit of Dracula, or just want to take in some rich history and culture, a visit here will certainly make for good conversation, and probably the first slide show your friends and neighbors stay awake through.