The clock is ticking and many beautiful places that we see today will not exist in the near future. Some of them are shrinking, eroding, melting and crumbling and we can’t really stop the process. But you can enjoy their beauty while they exist. These are the 10 places you should visit before they disappear.
#1. Seychelles
Various paradise-seekers and honeymooners flock to the islands of Seychelles which are located in the Indian Ocean off the coats of Madagascar. The beautiful beaches are at the danger of vanishing because of beach erosion. Within the next 50 to 100 years, they might completely disappear.
#2. Cerro Rico, Bolivia
Located in Potsoi city of Bolivia, it was once known as the ‘mountain that eats man’. The Rich hill or Cerro Rico was an important source of silver for the Spanish empire. However, the last 500 years of unchecked mining has led to the famed mountain to deterioration.
#3. Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
It is the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere and also a UNESCO world heritage site. It is a perfect adventure destination with its clear blue water, coastal lagoons and the mysterious ‘Great Blue Hole’. However, it is now in the danger list due to abated construction.
#4. Christian ruins of Abu Mena, Egypt
The 1500 year old town will soon disappear from the map. At one point of time it was a renowned Christian pilgrimage centre known for its monastery complex, it might soon sink in the soil.
#5. Patagonia’s Glaciers, Argentina
The massive ice flows of South America have been shrinking due to climate change. Less rain and higher temperatures have taken a toll on these beautiful glaciers.
#6. Maldives
The lowest-lying country and the beautiful island nation could soon be submerged under water in the next 100 years if the sea level keeps on rising. In fact, its government has even started buying lands in other places for displaced people.
#7. The Dead Sea
The salty lake has long healed people but now it is in the need of healing itself. It has been shrinking since the last 40 years and could soon disappear as the neighboring countries continue to draw water from its only water source- the Jordan river.
#8. Athabasca Glacier, Canada
This North-American glacier is a part of the Columbia Icefield that spans six square kilometers. However, it has been melting at a very rapid rate and losing between 6.6 to 9.8 feet a year.
#9. Venice, Italy
The beautiful Italian city, hailed for its romantic charm and canals could be facing ruin in the coming years. The city has long been sinking but the increasing number of floods could leave the city inhabitable in the coming years.
#10. The Alps
The Alps are paradise for any skier. But due to their low altitude, they are at a danger of melting; by 2050 their glaciers could completely melt.