Everyone wants to explore an array of different countries. In a world where we’ve become fully focused on aesthetics, we don’t mind settling on a quick trip to Spain for a pretty awesome view that can be uploaded straight to Instagram for all of our followers to see
But where should you be heading?
UK: The Shard, London
Known as the highest viewpoint of the capital, the viewing platforms are on floors 68, 69 and 72. The platform offers visitors the chance to see for up to 40 miles. Whether you’re attending to see the city from new heights, to experience on-top-of-the-world yoga classes or for exclusive events, you won’t be disappointed!
Believe it or not, this building is a 95-storey complex. As well as this, it’s 309.7 meters high. With construction starting in 2009 and practical completing achieved in 2012, it’s fair to say that this is one of the most iconic buildings in the world and has fully integrated itself into British culture.
Opening Times: This depends on season
Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG
Observation Deck Ticket Prices: Child tickets are £19.95, and adults are £24.95.
Website: https://www.the-shard.com
UAE: Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Everyone associates Dubai with the Burj Khalifa, as it stands as one of the most renowned structures in the world. With a total height of 829.8 meters, 163 floors and 57 elevators, there are a few packages to choose from when it comes to the observation decks.
Once you’ve booked your tour, you’ll be shown around by the Guest Ambassador and see views all round. There’s even an outdoor terrace at 555 meters! Once you’re done taking in the scenes, head to the SKY lounge for some refreshments!
Opening Times: 8:00am to 3:00pm then between 3:30pm and 6:00pm. This can change depending on seasonality.
Address: Burj Khalifa, 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai
Observation Deck Ticket Prices: Can depend on time and age, but roughly around 499.76 AED (£105.70).
Website: http://www.burjkhalifa.ae
France: Eiffel Tower, Paris
You’ve heard of the Eiffel Tower and have been dying to visit it and we don’t blame you, it is one of the world’s most recognised sculptures. Designed by Stephen Sauvestre between 1887 and 1889, the observation tower attracts millions of visitors each year — making it one of the most-visited paid monuments in the world.
You can indulge in the champagne bar at the top of the tower and enjoy heights of 324 metres tall. There’s even an immersion show, CinEiffel. Although the top of the tower is closed off for renovations until 1st February 2019, it’s estimated that you can see 42 miles away on a clear day.
Opening Times: 9:30am to 11:45pm (Monday to Sunday)
Address: 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
Suggested Duration: 2-3 Hours.
Observation Deck Ticket Prices: Admission depends on age and desired lift/staircase use but go up to €25.50.
Website: www.toureiffel.paris
USA: The Empire State Building, New York City
If you’re looking to experience the NYC skyline, then head to the top of the Empire State Building. With a height of 443 meters and two observation decks, no trip to the Big Apple would be complete without a tour of one of the most famous buildings in the world.
But how much do you actually know about the structure itself? It was completed in 1931, it’s currently the 28th tallest skyscraper in the world, meaning that you’ll definitely be able to experience new heights on your visit; the building was even the first to have more than 100 floors. As well as this, there are 73 elevators and around 6,500 windows – as a result, anyone who’s working in this office building will have an incredible view. It’s been estimated that you can see up to 200 miles on a clear day!
Opening Times: 8:00am to 2:00am (Monday to Sunday)
Address: 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
Observation Deck Ticket Prices: Admissions depend on age, day/night bookings, tour type and floor access but can go up to $185 for VIP experiences.
Website: http://www.esbnyc.com/
USA: Stratosphere, Las Vegas
The Stratosphere is a firm favourite with tourists when they land in Vegas. Located north of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, this is home to the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States at a height of 350.2 meters!
You’ll encounter views of the entire valley, which makes for a spectacular trip. What makes this tower even more interesting is that the restaurant at the top of the tower rotates 360° — and you can even sky dive from its peak!
Opening Times: Open 24 hours
Address: 2000 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104, USA
Observation Deck Ticket Prices: Admission prices can vary on time of booking.
Website: https://www.stratospherehotel.com/
This article was provided by David Laing.
