With spring break coming up right around the corner, the idea of taking trips are fresh in our minds and a good time to consider getting out of town this summer to make some wonderful memories. Here are some, fun places to go while enjoying your fantastic vacation.

China

Starting off with a bang, China is one of the most diverse countries in the world. With an approximate 1.4 billion people living in the country, it certainly isn’t lacking culture, especially differing from that of American culture. “Noises while eating are considered polite,” said Jack Rork, a former AAHS student. “Slurping and smacking lips is seen as signs of enjoyment.” It also harbors beauty as far as the eye can see, being the fourth largest country in the world. The history of China is rich, with over 4,000 years of documented records telling the tales of the profound civilization. The country boasts many astounding places to see: pagodas, the Terracotta Army, and of course, the Great Wall of China! It’s capital, Beijing, is full of wondrous architectural structures and bustling streets full of lively people that you could immerse yourself into for days. Be wary of when you visit, however, as at times it can become quite smoggy due to its massive population.

Washington D.C.

If you aren’t looking to travel outside the walls of the country, then you’re in luck. As an American citizen you live in the 3rd largest country in the world, and where better to travel than the most iconic area in the country? D.C.! There are many sites to see within the capital. You can indulge yourself with history in giant history museums, take a tour through the White House, and one of the most impressive structures in America, the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world. According to the LOC website, it houses over 167 million items, including books, magazines, photos, maps, and more. It contains 838 miles of bookshelves, and it’s all free. No payment, reservations, etc. You may simply walk in and immerse yourself in its vast knowledge for days.

Scotland

Scotland is simply breathtaking. It’s as if its inhabitants wanted people to see it as a land of magic, to prove it, their national animal is a unicorn. Scotland is renowned for its history and its love of legends. There are more than 2,000 castles in this country that you may visit and explore. There is also, of course, Loch Ness, which many are familiar with its tale of the monster within the waters of the lake. Scotland is a geographer’s dream come true, as it is home to amazing basalt pillars by the sea.

New Zealand

New Zealand is a beautiful country. “My favorite part of New Zealand was all of the awesome sites,” said Isaac Burton, an Air Academy High School Student. “It’s a gorgeous country, and certainly a memorable trip.” With waterfalls, hills, forests and amazing rock formations that’ll make you believe you must be in a fantasy world. Speaking of which, for any fans of The Hobbit or Lord of the Rings movie trilogies, it should be mentioned that New Zealand is where the films were created. In fact, you can participate in an amazing tour of the Shire’s Hobbiton for less than $100.00!

Germany

Germany is a place of pride and wonder, and some of the most delicious meats in the world. Germany, like Scotland, has many castles, including Frankenstein’s castle, which you can even spend a night in. It is also rich with history dating back hundreds of years, including some melancholy sites, such as the remnants of the Berlin wall or memorials to the victims of the holocaust. Don’t let these bring your spirit down, however. As Germany is a bright country full of beautiful scenery and culture.

There are plenty of places to go, it’s a big world, and you need some stories to tell your grandkids. Where will you go?