Sure, at US$13 per person Topkapi Palace is more expensive than most other sites in Istanbul. And no, that entrance fee doesn't cover everything. But on the other hand? Sometimes it's just awesome to see gorgeous examples of architecture and history and culture.

When a travel book is reviewed on Amazon.com as being "a great choice for a traveling grandpa" or renamed "1,000 Places To See For Boring Millionaires" than you'd probably skip over it. Right? Think again.

While walking around the streets of La Candelaria it's hard not to notice Monserrate. Peeking over the tops of multi-colored buildings and red roofs, its green canopy seems luscious and inviting. The white church located at the very top of the mountain gleams in the sunlight. And the Fallen Christ glows when lit from below at night.

India was never on our "must see" travel list. Speaking to other backpackers confirmed our instincts: for every backpacker who said they loved India, we'd meet three who couldn't stand it. Travelers always seem divided between loving and hating the country, and sometimes both at the same time.

When you fly out of a country, you generally have to pay an "exit tax" for the privilege. (If you never knew this, it's because the US, the UK, and a number of other countries have arranged with the airlines to include it in with the cost of your ticket.) But why on earth would you do it if you don't have to?