Jako Hall is a superyacht captain who has been fortunate enough to travel the world, visiting some of the world’s remotest destinations, including captaining a non-ice classed vessel through the Northwest Passage. This article will provide an overview of some of the world’s strangest places to visit, from the ancient Deadvlei acacia forest in Namibia to Pamukkale in southwest Turkey.
Deadvlei – Namibia
Meaning ‘dead marsh’ in English, Deadvlei is a sun-scorched dead forest situated in a white clay pan. This otherworldly oasis is counted as one of the strangest locations on Earth, with the lack of water having forced the roots of trees above ground to search for moisture and all of the ancient acacias having eventually succumbed. This ethereal attraction is surrounded by colossal rust-orange sand dunes that form a contrasting backdrop, including what are said to be some of the highest sand dunes in the world.
Although challenging to reach, Deadvlei is a sight like no other, lying within the protected area of Sossusvlei. Though this ancient forest died out some 600 years ago, the remaining specimens remain in excellent condition, with their blackened skeletons creating striking contrasts against the vivid orange sand dunes. With white ground underfoot and dazzling blue skies overhead, the destination is a photographer’s dream that is best captured in the early morning to avoid both the searing temperatures and the crowds.
Confluence of the Rhone and Arve Rivers – Switzerland
A spectacle unlike any other, the meeting point between the Rhone and Arve Rivers in Geneva is a spectacular natural and historic landmark that has fascinated visitors for centuries. It is here that the blue Rhone meets the somewhat muddier Arve, with the contrast between the two rivers culminating in an arresting natural display. Starting in the Swiss Alps, the Rhone River is a major waterway that flows through several countries, eventually ending in France, where it empties into the Mediterranean Sea. The Arve, on the other hand, is a much smaller and calmer stream that originates in the mountains of Chamonix. The confluence between the two waterways is a beloved attraction for locals and visitors alike. The contrast between the two rivers has intrigued observers since Roman times and even before, with the region having been shaped by various civilizations and forming part of an important trading route between Italy and Germany.
Sea of Stars – Maldives
Between June and October each year, bioluminescent phytoplankton lights up the Indian Ocean, providing dazzling displays beneath night skies bursting with stars. The Sea of Stars occurs as wave movement causes the plankton to glow, creating an incredible shimmering effect. Vaadhoo Island in the Raa Atoll is one of the best spots for viewing the phenomenon, with the waters set ablaze by tiny, twinkling lights that make it appear as though the stars have fallen into the ocean.
Pamukkale – Turkey
Located in the Denizli region in southwest Turkey, Pamukkale is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site that incorporates the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, a once great city built around the Cotton Palace. At Pamukkale, water cascades from natural springs down the white travertine terraces, gathering in stunning azure thermal pools, presenting the ideal location for visitors to take a relaxing dip.
Ranking as one of Turkey’s top attractions, Pamukkale is a dazzling white expanse that takes its color from the calcium deposits that have accumulated over centuries. In its pools, bathers swim and paddle in the milky white water that averages 33 degrees. This natural landmark has existed for thousands of years, having been used by the Romans as spring spa centers, with the waters purported to have health properties capable of countering a range of ailments, from acne to high blood pressure and even varicose veins.
