Beauty Of Nature

The reflective surface of  the world's largest salt mine  is like something from the imagination of Salvador Dali—although we're happy it actually exists in real life. Salar de Uyuni is part of the Altiplano of Bolivia in South America. The Altiplano is a high plateau, which was formed during uplift of the Andes mountains. The plateau includes fresh and saltwater lakes as well as salt flats and is surrounded by mountains with no drainage outlets. [9] The geological history of the Salar is associated with a sequential transformation between several vast lakes. Some 30 000 to 42 000 years ago, the area was part of a giant prehistoric lake,  Lake Minchin . Its age was estimated from  radiocarbon dating  of shells from outcropping  sediments  and  carbonate reefs  and varies between reported studies. Lake Minchin (named after Juan B. Minchin of Oruro [10] ) later transformed into  Paleo Lake Tauca  hav...

Cappadocia, an area in Turkey where entire cities have been carved into rock, is pretty incredible on its own. But whenever hot-air balloons pepper the sky, its beauty level simply skyrockets. http://destyy.com/wGLtcd

Holland is known around the world for its rainbow-hued fields of tulips, especially those located in and around Keukenhof. Millions of bulbs are planted in the park each year—visit in mid-April to see the flowers during their peak season.

The ultra rare Melanistic Black Whitetail Deer is, along with the Albino deer, the most beautiful of the species. While their birth is a genetic anomaly that happens about once in every 8 million, it is sadly true that they have no protections, and are often tracked and hunted for their ornamental black antlers and fur when located in an area making them even more rare.

Not much is known about the Coastal Peacock spider except they make their home in the lush vegetation of the coastal sand dunes of Western Australia. Their are seen at their greatest display when attempting to draw a potential mate, raising their arms into the air to attract nearby females with their vibrant colors.

Most people think of Dolphins as gentle creatures swimming in schools far out in the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, however, in the case of the Pink Dolphin, whose true name is the “Amazon River Dolphin” actually make their homes in the deepest part of the Amazon River Basin. The adults take on a subtle pink color, with the males producing even more vibrant pink skin.

The Jewel Beetle, otherwise known formally as Buprestidae, make their homes in India and Thailand, but those far off locations have not stopped the world from recognizing their iridescent beauty. In fact, for centuries, royal families from England to Egypt have been so mystified by the Jewel Beetle that they have commissioned jewelry, including broaches, necklaces and hairpins to capture their beauty.

Praying Mantis species boast some of the most majestic colors of any other insect. Not typically aggressive, nor a threat, there is a growing number of Mantis collectors who admire them for the diversity of their unusual, almost alien beauty. Although native to southeast Asia, currently, most Mantis species are sold all over the world, including some of the most in-demand species like The Flower Mantic, and it’s cousin….The Orchid Mantis.

Names after Queen Victoria herself, The Victoria Crowned Pigeon is another fanciful bird found in New Guinea. They prefer to make their homes in the forests some 3,000 feet above sea level in the nearby mountains, taking daily flights to the ocean where they forage for food in the shallows of the water.

Brazil boasts some of the most beautiful birds in the world, much in thanks to their lush, but endangered jungles. The Green Headed Tanager is one of those remarkable birds that traverses the canopies and visits local Bird enthusiasts where they are happy to take bird seed from the feeders set out for them.

Luna moths, or Actias luna, are one of the largest moth species in North America, with a wingspan of nearly 5 inches although Males have been known to grow as wide as 7 inches.

As the name suggestions, the Japanese spider crab inhabits the waters surrounding Japan. In many parts of Japan, this crab can be considered a delicacy but can be considerably difficult to catch. The Japanese spider crab can grow to 12 feet long from claw to claw. There is only one sea creature-- amongst similar species (aka crustaceans)-- that beats the weight of a Japanese spider crab: the American Lobster.

The fossa is a carnivorous animal located in Madagascar. Despite having many traits similar to cats, it is more closely related to the Mongoose. The fossa is only found in forest habitats and can hunt in either daytime or night. Over 50 percent of its diet happens to be lemurs.

The maned wolf is often found in the grasslands of south, central-west, and southeastern parts of Brazil. It is neither related to wolves nor foxes despite its appearance and name, but is actually closer to dogs. The maned wolf hunts alone and primarily eats both meat and plants (about 50% of its diet).

These little dragon-like creatures are often only about a few inches long and can be found in the Indian Pacific Oceans. The blue dragon floats upside down in order to blend the blue side of them with the water, and the silver side with the surface of the ocean. This tiny dragon feeds on creatures like the man o' war and can even deliver a sting similar to it.

Steeped in an intoxicating culture, the island of  Bali  is a feast for the senses. Incense wafts from Hindu temples, rice paddies glow in electric greens, and the food jolts the taste buds. Surfing, swimming, shopping, and sunbathing are the prime pursuits on this exotic isle, as well as sightseeing in the lush countryside. Soak up the spiritual side of Bali in  Ubud , see  Seminyak , and family-friendly  Sanur , feel the pumping pulse of touristy  Kuta,  or explore the attractions on the neighboring volcanic island of  Lombok . Bali's enchanting spirit will wash over you like a warm, tropical wave.

If you've ever dreamed of being a castaway in the South Pacific, the  Cook Islands  are for you. Strung between French Polynesia and Samoa but with strong ties to  New Zealand , the archipelago's 15 islands are known for their enticing aquamarine lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, and volcanic peaks. Best of all, the locals are among the friendliest in the South Pacific.  Rarotonga  is the main tourist hub, with its many resorts, lush peaks, and plentiful beaches.  Aitutaki  boasts the beauty of Bora Bora, without the price tag. Hibiscus-laced villages snuggle on the hillsides, and along its heavenly lagoon lie 21 motus or small islets, many within kayak distance of the resorts. Ensconce yourself here in an over-the-water bungalow or hole up in a rustic beach shack on a remote out island and live your Robinson Crusoe fantasies.

Encircling a sea-filled caldera, spectacular  Santorini  scores top points for dramatic beauty. Bleached white villas tumble down volcanic cliffs. Blue-domed churches rise against the sparkling sea, and bright sprays of bougainvillea add to the eye-popping canvas of color. Perched atop the black lava cliffs, the settlements of  Firá  and  Oia  are the island's most picturesque, and pricey, destinations, and  Oia  ranks among the most photographed locations in the world. Other highlights of the island include  Akrotíri Archaeological Site, Ancient Thira,  the black sand beach of  Perissa,  and of course, the sublime sunsets. Sailing into this stunning caldera surrounded by soaring sea cliffs makes an unforgettable first impression.

Pristine and picture-perfect, the  Seychelles  are worth traveling for. East of  Kenya , this relatively unspoiled archipelago of 115 coral and granite islands feature UNESCO-listed jungles; thriving coral reefs; and palm-lined, powdery beaches flanked by giant boulders. Almost half the total land area of these equatorial isles is protected, and many of the islands lie within fish-rich marine sanctuaries with excellent diving and snorkeling. The Seychelles also feature some of the planet's richest fishing grounds, making this a top destination for anglers. Add some spicy Créole cuisine into the mix as well as the plush resorts of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, and it's easy to understand the Seychelles' allure.

Palawan is the Philippine's answer to paradise. This island province stretches southwest to Borneo with lush limestone peaks rising from a jewel-like sea so clear, that you can almost see the expressions on the fish from above the surface. Slivers of gleaming white sand fringed with rustling palms rim many of these jungle-clad islands, while under the water, coral reefs flourish with an impressive diversity of tropical fish, offering some of the best diving in the world. Other attractions include the islands' unique wildlife, emerald lakes, and quaint fishing villages.  Coron  is home to plush resorts, and  El Nido  drips with natural beauty and is one of the most alluring islands in the chain. From here, you can island hop around the spectacular  Bacuit archipelago . One of Palawan's top attractions is the World Heritage-listed  Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park,  an impressive limestone cave system with a long underground river.

Wanna-be Robinson Crusoes love this exclusive back-to-nature eco-resort, nestled between soaring granitic peaks on a remote island in the  Seychelles , but with the bevy of attentive staff here, you'll never feel stranded. "Barefoot luxury" is the island's slogan, and conservation is key. The owner's mission is to restore the island back to its natural state, and guests are welcome to participate in the conservation programs and learn about the unique ecology of this far-flung isle. You can choose from two different picture-perfect beaches, where turtles nest on the shores. Constructed of local materials harvested during the island's ongoing restoration, the eleven private open-plan villas rim a beautiful stretch of beach that bristles with coconut palms. Sophisticated beachy chic best describes the decor, which incorporates plenty of textural elements and natural materials. Plunge pools in large decks, netted beds, and deep soaking tubs are typical feat...

Surrounded by a world of water in mesmerising shades of blue, Lily Beach Resort & Spa offers over-the-water luxury and family-friendly fun. The resort lies on Huvahendhoo island in the Maldives, a coral island ringed by thriving coral reefs and some of the best dive sites in the world. Perched over the water or strung along the beach, the air-conditioned villas come with sleek contemporary furnishings and modern conveniences like home theater systems, flat-screen satellite TVs, and outdoor bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs. Beach villas snuggle amid palm trees along a beautiful stretch of powder-white sand, while the water villas offer more privacy and direct access to the hypnotic sea. If you're traveling with children, the family villas, with interconnecting rooms, are perfect. Deluxe over-the-water villas boast glass floor areas, so you can peer into the crystal-clear sea below, and the sunset suites also come with private plunge pools and 24-hour butler service. Guests can ...

Home to the only over-the-water bungalows in  Fiji , adults-only Likuliku, on Malolo Island in the sublime Mamanuca Islands, is known for its warm and friendly Fijian hospitality. Local materials such as thatch, wood, and stone feature prominently in the bungalows (or bures), giving the resort an authentic island feel that feels totally at one with its lush, tropical surroundings. Forget TVs and telephones. Instead, guests here tune into the relaxing pace of island life, snorkeling over kaleidoscopic reefs and chatting with the friendly staff. Honeymooners love the ten light-filled over-the-water bures, with large outdoor decks, separate bathing pavilions, air-conditioning, and lagoon views from egg-shaped soaking tubs. Many guests also like the beachfront bures, with their cheaper price point, plunge pools, large daybeds, and private outdoor showers. These bures also offer direct access to the ocean, which is sometimes not available from the over-the-water bures when the tid...

Blending beautifully with the sloping sea cliffs on  Kangaroo Island  at the edge of  South Australia , Southern Ocean Lodge lets nature do the talking. Wild ocean vistas welcome you through walls of glass in this curvaceous contemporary building, and light streams into all the spaces. The 21 guestrooms drink in sea views through floor-to-ceiling windows, and the decor is decidedly "eco-chic," featuring recycled wood accents, local art, sandblasted limestone floors, and crisp white fabrics. Other typical features include sunken sitting areas; heated floors; and outdoor terraces with daybeds, so you can relax and soak up those hypnotic views. Some rooms also add EcoSmart fireplaces as well as TVs and DVD players. Sophisticated and fresh, the food includes many island specialities, including Ligurian honey, local cheeses, and fresh-caught seafood. Another big bonus at this resort is the daily schedule of guided island excursions included in the rates. Coastal treks ...

St. Lucia is known for its dramatically beautiful scenery, and adults-only Jade Mountain Resort capitalizes on it with spectacular views of the ocean and St. Lucia's twin volcanic peaks, the Pitons. Clinging to a cliffside, the resort encompassess a series of open-sided rooms and common areas that embrace these breathtaking vistas, so you always feel like a part of your surroundings. Despite their sweeping views, the suites offer total privacy making this a favorite hideaway for honeymooners. Called "sanctuaries," the 24 open-sided guest rooms here feel spacious and airy, with 15-foot-high ceilings, large living rooms, and plenty of local stone and tropical hardwoods. Typical features include private infinity pools, four-poster beds, Frette bathrobes and towels, 24-hour butlers ("Major Domos"), and jalousie louvers so the tropical breezes can flow freely. Five SKY jacuzzi suites come with hot tubs instead of the private pools. Wi-Fi is available at the res...

On a palm-studded private island in  Antigua  rimmed by dazzling beaches, Jumby Bay is tropical elegance at its best. The entire island is car-free, but you can explore it on a bike and soak up the relaxed pace of life. In particular, Jumby Bay is known for its doting staff, who provide five-star service with a warm smile. World-class cuisine infused with tropical flavors stars at the fine-dining Estate House, but you can also dine by the pool and beach. Despite the relaxing atmosphere, you can still stay connected to the Outside World. The 40 air-conditioned luxury guest rooms and villas come with all the modern conveniences, including large flat screen TVs, Bose sound systems, Nespresso coffee makers, and Wi-Fi, but they also have timeless romantic features such as four-poster beds dressed in Italian linens, wrap-around terraces, and private outdoor gardens with rain showers. Red-roofed villas and houses add extra luxuries, like private chefs, personal butlers, and s...

If you're dreaming of a Tahitian tropical paradise with an eco-sensitive, low-impact approach, look no further than The Brando. Set on a pristine private island embracing a three-mile lagoon, this carbon-neutral resort is the ultimate in laid-back luxury. The resort was established by screen legend Marlon Brando to preserve the island's beauty and biodiversity and serve as a model of sustainability - solar power, seawater air-conditioning systems, and other renewable energy technologies power the entire island. Not surprisingly, nature lovers will be in heaven here. Flourishing coral reefs shimmer in the lagoon, birds flock to the shores, whales swim by on their annual migrations, and sea turtles nest on the bone-white beaches. Set back from the beach, the thatched villas peek out unobtrusively from clusters of pandanus and palms. Modern furnishings and fixtures mix effortlessly with recycled and local building materials like thatch, stone, and wood. Features include priv...

The Maldives are home to some of the world's most ravishing islands, but it's the sea, which truly makes these islands shine. Luminous aquamarine waters with a crystal clarity lap upon these dazzling white shores, which barely peek above the Indian Ocean. Consisting of 26 natural atolls, the Maldives archipelago is the planet's lowest lying nation, rising no more than three meters above the sea at its highest point, a measurement that shrinks every year. Beneath the mesmerizing waters, coral reefs flourish, luring divers and snorkelers from around the world. Surfers also flock here to ride the uncrowded breaks. Back on land, luxury resorts provide the perfect launching points for adventures focused upon the sea, the archipelago's greatest asset, but also, as the planet's climate changes, its single greatest threat.

The Madagascan sunset moth ( Chrysiridia rhipheus)  is a uniquely colorful lepidopteran that is sought after by collectors. Its often asymmetrical pattern of colors is caused by the optical interference and scattering of light by curved, partially reflective scales on the moth's wings. Sunset moths have a wingspan up to 11 cm and are often mistaken for butterflies due to their color, tails, and habit of resting with their wings vertical. Their bright aposematic colors warn predators of their toxicity. In contrast, the moth's chrysalis looks like a covered corpse and the Malagasy people believe the emergent moth represents the risen soul of their dead ancestors. There are many beautiful animals that didn't make the list. These include the snow leopard, peacock, polar bear, ladybird, sea turtle, giant tortoise, penguin, emperor tamarin, fiery billed aracari, and the harpy eagle.

The tiger ( Panthera tigris)  is the largest and most eye-catching of the big cats. They can grow up to 3.3 meters in length and weigh over 300 kg. Tigers have a lifespan up to 26 years, though all 6 subspecies (Bengal, Siberian, Sumatran, Malayan, Indochinese and South China tigers) are endangered, with a total population of less than 4,000. The Bengal tiger is the most common and the Siberian is the largest. They live in India, southeast Asia, and the far east of Russia (Siberia). Their striped fur serves as camouflage in their natural habitat of long grasses and wooded areas. Underneath the fur, their skin is striped in the same pattern.

The poison dart frog (pictured:  Dendrobates azureus)  lives in Central and South American rainforests, growing to between 1.5 and 6 cm in length. Indigenous people used the frog's toxic secretions to poison the tips of blow-darts, giving the frog its name. The secretions, which are being studied in medical trials, might also be used as muscle relaxants, appetite suppressants, and heart stimulants. Their bright colors form `aposematic patterns', which serve to ward off predators by suggesting an unpalatable toxicity. There are around 175 closely related species of poison dart frog which vary in size and coloration. The most colorful are the 5 within the dendrobates genus.

The swallow-tailed hummingbird ( Eupetomena macroura)  lives in east and central South America. It prefers semi-open areas, sparse woodland, coastal regions, and gardens, but will avoid dense rainforest. It has a long forked tail that comprises half of the bird's 16 cm length. Its plumage is a mixture of green, blue, and purple, and its wings flap at approximately 20 beats per second, allowing it to hover while feeding on flower nectar. They are aggressive towards other birds and will `dive-bomb' or pester birds as large as hawks!

The caracal ( Felis caracal)  gets its name from the Turkish words  kara kulak , meaning `black ear'. It has a number of  adaptations  that allow it to live in a diverse range of habitats. These include its long, tufted, and highly flexible ears that help it hear the smallest of sounds, and powerful hind legs that allow it to leap several meters into the air to catch birds. They also eat small mammals, gazelles, and reptiles. The caracal lives in Africa and the Middle East and can grow up to a meter long, plus a 30 cm tail.

The Zanzibar red colobus ( Procolobus kirkii)  is a monkey that lives only on Zanzibar, an island off the coast of Tanzania. They are an endangered species with no more than 3000 left in the wild. The people of Zanzibar hold negative views of the animal and call them `poison monkey' because of their unusual smell. They live in groups of up to 50 individuals, with a 1:2 ratio of males to females. The red colobus eats leaves, seeds, and flowers that it finds in forests, coastal areas, and swamps. They also eat unripe fruit because they cannot break down the sugars in ripe fruit. They are known to eat charcoal to aid digestion

The mandarin fish (S ynchiropus splendidus)  swims in the south-west Pacific Ocean close to Australia, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Its array of color is similar to that of the robes worn by an Imperial Chinese mandarin or bureaucrat. The blue color comes from a cellular pigment that is unique to the species. The mandarin fish is only 6 cm long. It dwells in secluded lagoons and reefs, eating small crustaceans.

The fennec fox ( Vulpes zerda)  lives in North Africa and the Sahara. Its huge ears can grow up to 15 cm long. They radiate heat away from the animal and allow it to locate subterranean prey. The fennec fox is a predominantly nocturnal animal, hunting small mammals, birds, and insects at night. It can live up to 14 years and reach a size of 40 cm, not including its 30 cm tail. They can bark, purr, and snarl, and their natural predator is the eagle owl. 'Fennec' is the Arabic word for fox, and it is the national animal of Algeria

The black backed kingfisher ( Ceyx erithaca)  is approximately 13 cm in length. It lives in southeast Asia and India close to streams and rivers in well-shaded, wooded areas. These kingfishers eat insects and snails as well as small lizards, frogs, and crabs by the riverside. They build tunnel-like nests in the riverbanks that can be up to a meter long. These nests can take more than a week to dig.