Tourism to the area now known as Yosemite National Park began in the 1860s, after the California Gold Rush had brought more people to the area who then went away and promoted its beauty. To protect the treatment of the area, the government declared it a National Park in October 1890. The park now encloses an incredible 761,268 acres (308,074 hectares) of beautiful rock formations, dramatic waterfalls and lush greenery. It is particularly celebrated for its biological diversity.
The park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, and now it attracts approximately 3.7 million visitors every year. Among the park's highlights is the Half Dome at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley, which peaks at 4,000 feet (1,219 metres) above the valley floor. Another popular attraction is El Capitan, a 3,000 feet (914 metre) vertical rock formation also in Yosemite Valley. It is very popular with rock climbers for its unusual shape; however it is also appreciated by those who like to keep their feet firmly on the ground!
21/05/2020 · By Sukie Chapman
As winter snows thaw, welcome spring at one of France or Italy's largest street parties - Venice and Nice carnival - or soak up the colours of a million freshly opened tulips at the Keukenhof Gardens
Read more
22/01/2020 · By Rashmi Guha Ray
Holidays are a time to unwind, reminisce, and return to the carefree days of childhood, all the while exploring new destinations and making new friends. Add to that a few romantic rail journeys and we’ve got the recipe for the perfect getaway.
Read more
16/09/2019 · By Katie Shaw
In the 2nd episode of his immersive travelogue, Billy Connolly plays Hank Williams’ old guitar, visits the infamous penitentiary which housed Al Capone, and discovers that the Scots brought football to the USA.
Read more
09/09/2019 · By Georgia Shipley
The three-part series is an epic travelogue that sees the famous comedian travelling through the United States of America, taking the migratory trail that Scots took in the 18th century.
Read more
