The United Nations certainly has its share of missteps and mistakes, but there are many wonderful things the organization does as well. My personal favorite is their UNESCO program. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is most notably known for their World Heritage sites. UNESCO has identified and helps protect 812 “properties” around the world that “forms part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value.” This includes “628 cultural, 160 natural and 24 mixed properties.”
In short, UNESCO World Heritage Sites are those which simply cannot be missed while traveling. Thankfully, a handy UNESCO website categorizes such gems by the countries in which they are located. Clicking on each listing takes you to a wealth of information about the site and why it deserves such an honor.
So, next time you travel, pop on over to the webpage to see which World Heritage Sites you can add to your itinerary. I’ve seen dozens and not a single one has ever been disappointing.