Seven Wonders of the World

The Great Wall of China, which was started more than 2,000 years ago to keep invaders from crossing its northern border, is actually a series of walls and fortifications. Over the years, erosion and flooding have caused substantial damage. There are, however, a few restored sections, including Mutianyu, outside of Beijing, which includes 23 watchtowers and crenellated parapets on both sides of the 3-mile-long stone wall.

Another new wonder of the world is Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan fortress in Peru. Set in a remote location in the Andes, the sprawling complex of intricate stone buildings was encountered by American explorer Hiram Bingham III in 1911, and it's been a source of fascination throughout the world ever since.

Built in the 1st c AD when the Roman Empire peaked, the Colosseum represents Rome at its grandest. This massive arena, where gladiators fought to the death, was built around 80 A.D., and it held 50,000 people in tiered seating. Wear comfy shoes to climb the many steps to the top tier, which not only gives terrific views of the limestone structure, but also over Rome itself.

The Taj Mahal, located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, is a monument to love. It was built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house his beloved late wife Mumtaz Mahal. With its domed central tomb and surrounding minarets, this white marble mausoleum is one of the world's most recognizable — and beautiful — buildings, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer statue is Brazil's most famous landmark. Perched atop 2,296-foot-tall Corvcovado Mountain is this 98-foot-tall statue of Jesus with outstretched arms. In addition to the statue, you'll be treated to stunning views of the skyline and Sugarloaf Mountain. It's illuminated at night, giving the illusion that it's floating in the darkened sky, keeping watch over the city.

Petra (aka the Lost City of Stone), located in a remote canyon in Jordan's southwestern desert, is an ancient stone complex built by the Nabataeans. These temples and tombs are carved directly into the pink sandstone cliff faces, creating a one-of-a-kind setting. The site has numerous hiking trails that'll lead you to these magnificent structures, including the imposing Treasury that was memorably featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is known for its Mayan sites, including Tulum, above the Caribbean Sea and Coba, with its nine-tier pyramid, but the largest — and most renowned — ruin is Chichén Itzá, dating to 600 A.D. The complex is dominated by a 78-foot, pyramid-shaped temple known as El Castillo. While you can no longer climb the steps to the top, you'll still be awed by the ancient temple's size and splendor.