The Roman Colosseum

Rome's, if not Italy's, most enduring icon is undoubtedly its Colosseum. Built between A.D. 70 and 80 A.D., it was in use for some 500 years. The elliptical structure sat nearly 50,000 spectators, who gathered to watch the gladiatorial events as well as other public spectacles, including battle reenactments, animal hunts and executions. Earthquakes and stone-robbers have left the Colosseum in a state of ruin, but portions of the structure remain open to tourists, and its design still influences the construction of modern-day amphitheaters, some 2,000 years later.

The weather in May is very temperate although cool at night, and a very little rain. The problem is that this is a popular month, so your airfare may be more expensive.

Chichen Itza

This powerful city, a trading center for cloth, slaves, honey and salt, flourished from approximately 800 to 1200, and acted as the political and economic hub of the Mayan civilization. The most familiar ruin at the site is El Caracol, a sophisticated astronomical observatory.

The best time for travelers to visit Chichen Itza is during the spring or fall equinox, when thousands gather to witness an amazing play of light and shadow on the steps of El Castillo pyramid.

Macchu Picchu

Machu Picchu, an Incan city of sparkling granite precariously perched between 2 towering Andean peaks, is thought by scholars to have been a sacred archaeological center for the nearby Incan capital of Cusco. Built at the peak of the Incan Empire in the mid-1400s, this mountain citadel was later abandoned by the Incas. The site remained unknown except to locals until 1911, when it was rediscovered by archaeologist Hiram Bingham. The site can only be reached by foot, train or helicopter; most visitors visit by train from nearby Cusco.

Although equatorial South America is known for steamy rainforests, the high altitude of Machu Picchu makes for much milder temperatures. The average temperatures range between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with only slight variations throughout the year. The subtropical region has an annual rainy and dry season, but Machu Picchu is almost always surrounded by fog in any weather. November to April is the rainy season, although daily short showers are common most times of the year. Peak tourist season corresponds with the dry season in July and August when the nights are cool and the days are generally dry. January and February are the rainiest months, and many people visit the area in November and April to avoid the heaviest crowds.

Christ the Redeemer Statue

The Art Deco-style Christ the Redeemer statue has been looming over the Brazilians from upon Corcovado mountain in an awe-inspiring state of eternal blessing since 1931. The 130-foot reinforced concrete-and-soapstone statue was designed by Heitor da Silva Costa and cost approximately $250,000 to build - much of the money was raised through donations. The statue has become an easily recognized icon for Rio and Brazil.

For active tourists wanting to experience the Tijuca forest and climb up the Corcovado on their own two feet, there are several hiking trails up to the monument. RioXtreme offers a two and a half hour hiking tour of Cristo Redentor starting from Parque Lage in Jardin Botanico. The best time to visit Rio is between December and March when the weather is warm and sunny enough to hit the beaches.

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a stone-and-earth fortification created to protect the borders of the Chinese Empire from invading Mongols. The Great Wall is actually a succession of multiple walls making it the world's longest manmade structure. 

In Beijing, all the sections of the Wall are open to tourists all year round. The ideal months for the Great Wall hike fall on spring, early summer, autumn – later March, April, May, June, September, October and early November.
 
If you happen to visit the Wall in summer – later June, July and August, be prepared for heat stroke prevention – sunglasses, sun cream,  sun block, hat, water.
 
Winter Great Wall Hike is a bit challenging mainly due to the frozen weather in later December, January and early early February each year in Beijing. You are advised to dress warmly – winter hat with ear flap, ear warmers, gloves, scarf, warm jackets and ther winter accessories.
 
The Great Wall hike is impossible only because the road access to sections is blocked due to the heavy snow. If you plan to do the hike in winter, we do suggest you check the weather report.