Travel Bucket List: 57 Bucket List Trips, Destinations and Experiences

57 Destinations, Experiences and Trip Ideas TO PUT ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET LIST!

This Travel Bucket List is chock full of adventures and ideas for even the most well-traveled explorers!

North America

Canada 

Hot Springs Cove, Tofino

Travel Bucket List Destination: Tofino

Photo: TheMandagies

One of the best activities to try on Vancouver Island in Canada is soaking in the Hot Springs Cove in Tofino! This experience is unlike anything else in British Columbia, Canada - you can relax in the historic natural steaming pools with the sounds of crashing open ocean waves in the distance. It's an unbelievable experience!

The journey to Hot Springs Cove from Tofino requires booking a water taxi or a charter flight to get you there and back. Between getting there, soaking, and returning, plan for this trip to take up your entire day.

Hot Springs Cove is often booked within a tour group of 10-15 people, but you can pay extra money for your own private trip to these remote Canadian hot springs.

Expect to spend about an hour on the boat, and then once you dock you will hike on a boardwalk an additional 1.5 kilometers through Maquinna Provincial Park to the edge of the peninsula, where the hot springs are located.

Once you arrive at Hot Springs Cove, you can sit back and relax in the steaming, natural waters! Pit toilets and a covered area are available to keep your things out of the rain. There are several pools ranging in temperature, and the closer you get to the end of the peninsula, the cooler (and saltier) the water becomes!

Hot Springs Cove is a perfect adventurous bucket-list activity if you are looking for ways to elevate your next epic trip to Canada! If you are hoping to avoid the crowds, visit during the off-season (which is November - April) or booking your trip on a weekday.

Tours are around $150 per person, but absolutely worth the money!

Guatemala

Climbing the Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala

Climbing the Acatenango volcano in Guatemala should be on everyone's bucket list. The hike is amazing and the views even better. Though Guatemala - and Central America in general - offer many more volcano hikes, this is the one not to miss.

The two-day hike is beautiful, bringing you across different ecosystems. From the farmland at the base to the pine forests where you’ll camp. The camping spots of all tour companies are right between the pine forest and the last volcanic rock ecosystem. Your tent will be facing yet another volcano, the active Fuego. This volcano still erupts about every other 15 minutes, an impressive thing to see. Especially after dark, when the red lava is visible and you’ll enjoy the warmth of the campfire and the dinner your tour guide cooked for you.

Don’t expect a long night's sleep, as the Fuego eruptions could keep you awake and your alarm will go off at 4 o’clock for sunrise. You’ll climb with your group the last – and perhaps hardest due to the altitude and gravel lava rocks – bits to the top. The sunrise from up there is amazing and one you’ll never forget. The summit is at 3973 meters and you’ll have the Fuego and yet another volcano – the Agua – right in front of you with the sun rising from behind the Agua. 

The hike down is much easier; after a breakfast break in camp and packing your stuff, you’ll be down in a rush compared to the tough climb up.

Nicaragua 

Exploring the Corn Islands

Travel Bucket List Destination: Corn Islands

Photo: Deventuretime

Corn Islands is a well-kept secret located off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. The islands, Big Corn and Little Corn, boast pristine waters and beautiful white sand beaches that can be enjoyed with very few people around. The experiences on these islands are unlike most of the main touristy Caribbean Islands as there are no resorts, hotel chains, or crowds throughout the islands. On a trip to Corn Islands, you will see so few people that it really will feel like you’re on your own private Island in the Caribbean! On Little Corn Island, there are no cars or motorcycles, really giving you that off-the-radar experience.

 Corn Islands are such small and walkable islands that you can hike around the entire perimeter in just a few hours. Along the way, you’ll constantly have amazing views and come across many wonderful beaches. You’ll likely run into some friendly locals who love to chat about your travels and where you come from. They may even give you their best local tips and suggest amazing restaurants to enjoy fresh Caribbean food!

Although there are plenty of reasons to visit Corn Islands, one of the main attractions is scuba diving. The islands are surrounded by great dive spots, where you can explore coral reefs while swimming alongside tropical fish. The many dive shops on the islands offer training courses and trips for experienced divers, along with Discover Dive programs where you can learn how to dive in a pool and set out on a quick open water dive. The turquoise waters also make for some great snorkeling around the islands!

Travel Tip: Bring your own water shoes and snorkel kit. Then, you’ll have the freedom to jump in the water and swim with the fish all around the islands!

United States 

Explore San Diego, California with These Bucket List Activities

Travel Bucket List Destination: San Diego

Photo: SanDiegoExplorer

San Diego is the perfect California beach city and a must on any travel bucket list. The climate in Southern California makes San Diego a great choice pretty much year-round. Even in winter, you rarely need a jacket and in the summer, it does not get too hot (at least near the ocean). 

Also known as America’s Finest City, San Diego has so much to offer, whether you are in the mood for a beach getaway at one of the many beach resorts, a fun time in the city, or a mix of both. Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego:

Explore Downtown: There is a lot of stuff to do in Downtown San Diego. From eating delicious food at one of the many great restaurants in San Diego, strolling through the cute Little Italy district, visiting the Midway Museum, strolling through Seaport Village, or having a fun night out in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego has something for everyone. If you love the outdoors and animals, visit Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, also located in Downtown. 

San Diego Beaches: San Diego has some of the best beaches in Southern California. Some of the most popular ones are Mission Beach, Coronado, and beaches in La Jolla. You can relax on the sand, take surfing lessons, or ride your bike along the boardwalk for a fun day on the beach. If you are into hiking, Torrey Pines State Park is great. You will find some stunning trails overlooking the Pacific, and if you are lucky, you might even spot some whales. 

San Diego has so much to offer and is simply a fun city, no matter what you are in the mood for. 

Experience natural wonders in Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Travel Bucket List Destination: Antelope Canyon

Photo: UnearthTheVoyage

One of the best places to add to your travel bucket list to visit is Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located in the Southwest of the United States in Arizona. It is a highly sought after destination because of the unique natural wonder of the canyon itself. People also love to photograph the canyon when the light shines in from the top and creates a gorgeous light beam and illuminates the canyon walls with pretty orange colors. 

A great way to avoid the crowds, but still get to experience the wonders of the canyon is to choose to go to Lower Antelope Canyon vs. Upper Antelope Canyon. Lower Antelope Canyon is less visited compared to Upper Antelope canyon but is just as pretty and can even be more fun as it is a bit more challenging to walk through.

Another bucket list destination right down the road from Antelope Canyon is Horseshoe Bend. Horseshoe Bend is an overlook of a bend in the Colorado River and during sunset the sky highlights the river and overlook and puts on a spectacular show. A great way to see Horseshoe Bend without all the crowds is to book a private tour through Horse Shoe Bend Tours to get access to a private overlook on Navajo Land that you can only access by booking a tour through them. It truly is the best way to see the Horseshoe Bend overlook! 

Cut Loose in Key West, Florida

What’s one of the most fun (and still legal) things you can do in the United States?  How about heading to the great state of Florida – all the way down to the southernmost key, Key West.  Key West is a bucket list trip because it has so much to offer day & night.  It’s a beautiful little resort town with a killer old-school vibe.  It feels romantic, lazy and exciting, all at the same time!

You can easily fill your day by laying around the pool, going snorkeling or checking out some of the quaint restaurants & cafes in Old Towne. The day will be fantastic no matter what you do; and the night will be even better. Key West is absolutely jam-packed with some of the best bars & restaurants you’ll find anywhere. And, if it’s FUN people you’re into, then why not try the famous Duvall Pub Crawl?!

A trip on the Duvall Pub Crawl will lead you down the iconic Duvall Street of Key West, FL. For those of you that don’t know, Duvall is the main par-tay street in Key West and runs all the way from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.  Duvall is lined with the best pubs & bars from one end to the other - think Sloppy Joes, Hog’s Breath, Irish Kevin’s, Bull & Whistle and Cowboy Bill’s.

You can either do the crawl on your own or sign up with a tour that will escort you from bar to bar.  Either way, you’re likely to throw back more than a couple of cocktails and have yourself a great time!

Explore Maui, Hawaii

Travel Bucket List Destination: Maui

Photo: ImJessTraveling

There is a saying here, ‘Maui No Ka Oi’ which means Maui is number one.  Famed for her pristine beaches, legendary surf and laid back vibes, Maui is always on the top of everyone’s bucket list.

There are countless things to see and do on Maui that you can spend a month exploring this tropical island and still not experience it all. 

The best way to experience Maui is by renting a car and working your way around staying a few days in each part of the island.

Start in West Maui, known for reliable surf, calm snorkeling and the best restaurants.  A few of the  must eat places are Fleetwoods on Front Street and Down the Hatch, both can be found in the heart of Lahaina town. 

The North Shore is home to one of the biggest waves in the world Pe’ahi aka Jaws.  Winter months bring bigger surf.  

Next drive the only road that takes you to East Maui.  The road to Hana is one of Maui’s top attractions and takes you along the coast past lush rainforest, gushing waterfalls and panoramic seascape views.  

The Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park can only be accessed via East Maui and where you can find the start of the iconic Pipiwai Trail.  Hiking the Pipiwai trail takes you through an enchanting bamboo forest and ends at a 400 foot waterfall. 

Finish your vacation in luxury in South Maui.  Here you can relax at one of the many world class beaches and splurge on a traditional Hawaiian lomi lomi massage.

Make sure you visit in the winter months.  Not only is it a constant 85 degrees year round, but its whale season.  Over 10,000 North Pacific humpback whales migrate here every winter to give birth to their young in the warm, shallow waters that surround Hawaii.  Icing on the cake for a trip of a lifetime. 

Conquer Mount Whitney, California

Located in California’s Eastern Sierra Nevada, Mount Whitney is the tallest peak in the lower 48 states. It’s a big bucket list for many outdoor lovers and those who conquer it earn bragging rights.

Mount Whitney peaks at 14,505 feet, however, it doesn’t require advanced technical skills or mountaineering equipment (unless you plan to hike in the early or late season when an ice ax and crampons are mandatory). Most people hike Mount Whitney later in the season when the snow is gone which is an easier option. And if you have good hiking skills, proper equipment and can handle the high altitude, you might stand a chance to summit it. 

But don’t get too excited - Hiking to the top of Mount Whitney requires a permit which is awarded through the lottery. 

You can apply for your permit here.

Keep in mind that the application process has become extremely competitive with tens of thousands of people vying for the coveted permit every year!

Mount Whitney is a 22-mile round trip and it takes between 14 and 17 hours on average. While you can hike it in one day, some travelers split it in two days, as they spend a night in dispersed camping spots around the trail or at Trail Camp before switchbacks - the most difficult part of the hike. If you decide to do this hike in one day, you should bring a headlamp, because you will have to start as early as 2 a.m. and walk on the trail in complete darkness! 

After you get your permit, try to get your bearings on a high altitude, and summit at least a few peaks with an elevation between 5,000 and 10,000 feet, or even taller. The Mount Whitney hike gains about 6,700 feet of elevation, and you should be prepared for it not only physically, but also mentally.

Aside from preparing for your hike, make sure to bring enough food, water and wear proper clothing. And don't forget to bring enough sunscreen as the sun can be brutal at high altitudes. 

If you decide to hike Mount Whitney in one day, arrive at least a day before your adventure and book a hotel in Lone Pine or nearby towns in advance because they fill up very quickly during the high season. 

Mount Whitney is located east of Lone Pine and just over 60 miles from the Death Valley National Park. 

Road-Trip Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks

The American Midwest is one of the most mysterious and alluring travel hotspots in the continental US.  The vast deserts, winding rivers, and orange-toned rocks make for one of the most adventurous travel bucket list items of all time, road tripping through Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks. 

So, what’s all the hubbub? What makes these parks SO special and worth your consideration? WELL, for starters, they’re home to some of the world’s, yes ‘world’s’, most sought after hikes: Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park, the Narrows in Zion National Park, Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, the list goes on and on and on. With a plentiful array of hikes, you can also enjoy unobstructed views of the milky way in these parks since they are all certified dark sky places, with the exception of Bryce Canyon National Park being a certified International Dark Sky Park! Night and day, you can expect to be picking your jaw up off the ground through and through.

While you’re exploring, make sure you cross these trails off your list! They’re listed here since stoke (and sweat) is 100% guaranteed!

Arches National Park - Delicate Arch, Tower Arch, Devil’s Garden, & Fiery Furnace.

Canyonlands National Park - False Kiva, Murphy Point, Mesa Arch, Syncline Loop, & Aztec Butte.

Capitol Reef National Park - Cassidy Arch, Hickman Bridge, & Grand Wash.

Bryce Canyon National Park - Navajo Loop, Peek-a-boo Loop, & Fairyland Loop.

Zion National Park - Angel’s Landing, the Narrows, Observation Point, Deertrap, The Subway, & Canyon Overlook.

 If you’re eager to see some lesser-traveled parts of these parks, consider visiting Cathedral Valley in Capitol Reef, the Tower Arch Trail in Arches, The Needles in Canyonlands, and Kolob Canyon in Zion. These remote areas are often shadowed by the more popular areas in these parks, so it’s likely you’ll only see a handful of people in these spots! 

My best advice for executing this epic road trip successfully is bringing plenty of water (like a LOT), applying ample sunscreen, packing your favorite salty snacks (for those electrolytes), and avoiding the midday heat if you’re hiking in the summer season. Summer is an incredibly busy time to visit Utah’s National Parks and the heat can be BRUTAL, so consider a spring or fall visit for the best weather! Lastly, read the most up to date, and obnoxiously detailed guides to visiting all these National Parks!

South America

Brazil 

Travel Bucket List Destination: Rio De Janeiro

Photo: IHeartBrazil

Experience Rio de Janeiro

Epic beaches, delicious drinks, and mesmerizing landscapes, Rio de Janeiro is by far one of the most fabulous bucket list destinations to unwind.

Not only that, but Rio has unique neighborhoods filled with exciting venues and things to do.

While Ipanema is my favorite area and has some of the best hotels in Rio, Lapa and Santa Teresa offer lots of street art and live samba shows.

The funky bars serving caipirinha, the national cocktail of Brazil, are just the beginning of the fun.

In this fantastic Brazilian city, the urban fabric mixes so perfectly with the surrounding nature that it is difficult not to be impressed.

Ride up either the Sugarloaf Mountain or the Corcovado so that you can marvel humbly at the city below. 

It’s absurdly beautiful!

Be sure to pack your swimsuit and hit the spectacular beaches in Rio. The most touristy are sure to be packed, but there are plenty of off the beaten path spots.

Besides, this coastal city has some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen in my life.

So have a laid-back day, sit on the beach with your friends while sipping a caipirinha, and watch the locals in their daily routine. It’s a delightful experience.

When you start planning your next international trip, consider Rio de Janeiro, and embrace the local diversity. This city has everything to make any trip remarkable!

Chile 

Experience The W Trek in Patagonia, Chile 

Travel Bucket List Destination: Patagonia

Photo: MyGlobalWays

Patagonia is the adventure capital of South America, there are literally hundreds of things to do down there! But by far one of the best things to do in Patagonia is hiking and some of the best, most bucket list worthy hiking in Torres del Paine National Park right at the tip of Chile. The landscape is unbelievable, the winds are ferocious and the hiking is spectacular!

There are 2 major hikes in Torres del Paine; the 10 day O Circuit or the 5 day W Trek. Predictably, the O Circuit goes in a loop while the W follows a zig zag pattern.  While the hikes are difficult, they are doable even for beginners. 

There are hunts or tents every night so you don’t have to carry that much equipment. The W formation is great as it means that you don’t always have to carry your pack, you can leave it at your accommodation and come back for it. Thankfully, the days that you do have to carry your bag tend to be the flatter days.

Most hikers will arrive in Punta Arenas, the largest city in Chilean Patagonia, before heading north to start their trek. If you do start in Punta Arenas make sure you stop by Magdalena Island which is COVERED in penguins. You can hike the trail both backwards and forwards, but most people start their trek with the towers hike. 

The towers day hike is both the most iconic view in Torres del Paine and the hardest day! A lot of people will wake up super early and hike through the night to catch the towers mountains during sunrise. Even if predawn wake ups are not your style, try to leave early, as the towers are more often covered in clouds in the afternoon. 

While the towers may be the most iconic view, the entire W trek is stupidly beautiful. You walk along crystal clear lakes, past glaciers (watch for them cracking!) and up though valleys surrounded by breathtaking mountains. 

Cuba 

Visit Cuba’s UNESCO Many World Heritage sites

When you think of Cuba, you think of music, striking colonial architecture and jaw dropping natural beauty.  But you don’t think of amazing UNESCO World Heritage sites.  In fact, Cuba has nine and you will want to explore each and every one of these spectacular sights!

Seven of these sites are cultural gems: 

Old Havana with its Spanish colonial architecture, leafy plazas, remarkable museums, and vibrant nightlife.

Cienfuegos City Center. Founded by French settlers from Bordeaux and Louisiana, the town center is reported to be the most beautiful in Cuba. The French influence is evident in the graceful architecture and the last names of the locals.

Camaguay City Center. The city’s layout of winding streets was deliberately designed to confuse the pirates that roamed the city’s coast. 

The colonial city of Trinidad and its surrounding area. This perfectly preserved colonial town is a musical powerhouse. With multiple clubs, restaurants and museums, Trinidad is a fun getaway.  

The first coffee plantations of eastern Cuba. An area of over 100 abandoned coffee plantations tell the history and importance of coffee in the economic development of the country.  

San Pedro de la Roca Fortress. Built in the 1700s to protect the city of Santiago de Cuba from pirates, this massive brooding fortress is perhaps the finest example of colonial military installation in the Americas.

The Valley of Vinales in eastern Cuba is reported to be one of the most beautiful natural landscapes. The Valley is dotted with limestone outcroppings known as ‘mogotes.” There are networks of underground rivers and many farm-to-table eco-restaurants in the area. 

Two sites are national parks

Alexander Humboldt National Park is north of Santiago de Cuba. Dubbed as one of the most biologically diverse tropical ecosystems in an island setting anywhere on Earth.

Desembarcadero del Granma National Park on the tip of Cuba’s easternmost province of Santiago de Cuba, is a treasure trove of endemic flora and fauna including thousands of unique endemic species.

Ecuador 

Explore Quito, the Capital of Ecuador

Travel Bucket List Destination: Quito, Ecuador

Photo: HomeRoomTravel

Quito, the capital of Ecuador is located high in the Andes Mountains at over 9000 feet. This unique and epic city contains one of the best-preserved colonial centers in the Americas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. People originally settled in the area in 8000BC, but it officially became the city of Quito in 1534. 

It is an amazing city to spend a few days and use it as a base to travel out to other areas of Ecuador. Quito is the perfect place to visit once the lockdown is lifted as it is full of friendly people, inexpensive sites, and delicious food. 

When in Quito, make sure to visit Pichincha TelefériQo, a cable car that goes up to the base of a volcano and offers incredible views of Quito. Grab a meal at Pim’s a gorgeous restaurant that also offers spectacular views and has amazing food. Make sure not to miss the Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus, a cathedral that is covered in gold! 

There are many attractions that surround Quito as well. The Ciudad Mitad del Mundo offers the opportunity to stand in the middle of the world. To relax, head to Termas de Papallacta, a spa, and hot springs resort where visitors can relax in a variety of thermal pools. Overall, Quito offers the opportunity for a ton of epic adventures and experiences.

See the Unique Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands

Travel Bucket List Destination: Galapagos

Photo: ChildrenOfWanderlust

Perfect for intrepid travelers with a love of nature and wildlife, the Galapagos Islands are a destination like no other. The island’s isolation, with an absence of natural predators on land, has allowed for a treasure trove of interesting and often endemic animal species to evolve, each being best adapted to their own individual environments. The islands are perhaps most famous for being the inspiration behind Charles Darwin’s work on theories of evolution. The ancient giant tortoises are arguably the most iconic residents on land, while under the surface of the water, the seas are teeming with marine life.

The best way to visit the Galapagos Islands is to fly in from Quito, in Ecuador, then take a tour on one of the many boats that cruise circuits. Cruises vary in length, offering different itineraries, islands to visit and animals to see. The boats also vary in standard, size and cost. Most boat travel is done at night, leaving the days free to explore the islands.

When we visited, we booked our tour in advance through Columbus Ecuador, who arranged for us an unforgettable multi-day cruise to several interesting and diverse islands.

Some of the best bits included walking amongst nesting albatrosses, snorkeling with playful sea lions and watching humpback whales from the deck of our boat, as they breached from the sea. Our visit to the islands was a top highlight of our extended honeymoon in South America.

Hopefully, the progressive growth in tourism that the islands are now experiencing, can be balanced in the long-term in a sustainable way against the needs of the local wildlife. For anyone who is lucky enough to visit, the Galapagos Islands will be sure to stay with you forever.

Peru 

HikE the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Travel Bucket List Destination: Machu Picchu

Photo: MeetMeInDepartures

Probably in the high ranks of the world's most iconic hikes has to be The Inca Trail to the lost city of Machu Picchu in Peru. You can, of course, get to Machu Picchu in several ways (one way is via a bus from the nearby town of Aguas Calientes).

However, for the ultimate bucket list experience for the fully immersive adventure, nothing will beat hiking the trail to get to the UNESCO ruins of Machu Picchu. 

To hike the Inca Trail you'll need to have a permit and a guide. Be sure to book a tour; do not just turn up and try to do the trail without a guide, sometimes there are trees down, landslides and the weather can close in quickly in the mountains. A 4-day hike along the Inca Trail with a tour company should include permits, porters, equipment and two guides. 

The Inca Trail starts in the quaint cobblestoned town of Ollantaytambo. There are also some pretty epic ruins here, which is worth a couple of hours exploring. So arrive here the day before if you want to see this. 

The first day of hiking lulls you into a false sense of security with a scenic trail that meanders gently through the stunning mountains. Day two is challenging. You'll be going over ‘dead womans pass’, this is one of the more gruelling aspects of the hike and an absolute killer if you are struggling with altitude sickness. My advice is to make sure you have a decent set of walking poles and take it slow. It’s not a race. 

Day three consists of a few more steep climbs and plenty of stairs, although you do get to go through the cloud forest which is particularly special. On day 4 you have an insanely early start – you’ll wake up at around about 4 am and hike in the dark to get to the sun gate in time to see the sun rising over Machu Picchu.

You’ll be tired, a bit smelly (there are no showers on the Inca Trail!), and probably have a good collection of blisters, but all this is forgotten and worth it when you finally get to see Machu Picchu appear through the clouds. It’s beautiful! And a photo can never capture the feeling of achievement and wonder you will feel when you finally make it here.

Europe

Austria

Experience picturesque Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt, the picturesque village at Salzkammergut, is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Austria. This village, with only 750 inhabitants, is nestled in pure nature between the mystical Lake Hallstatt and the huge Dachstein Mountains which gives a unique panorama. 

The market municipality was already inhabited in the 1st millennium before Christ and since 1997 Hallstatt has been listed as an UNESCO world heritage site. Its prosperity since mediaeval times has been based on salt mining, focused on the town of Hallstatt, a name meaning salt settlement that testifies to its primary function. 

Nowadays the Hallstatt salt mines are open as a cultural attraction to the public and can be explored by guided tours.

Exploring the old town with its beautiful old wooden 16th-century houses is one of the best things to do in Hallstatt. Behind every corner there is something lovely to see and with the gorgeous setting on Lake Hallstatt, it’s hard to believe that this place is even real. 

Although the village is relatively small, there are many cultural and historically important places to see, such as the old market square with the beautiful trinity column. 

Also interesting is the ossuary in Hallstatt, where a collection of 600 brightly painted skull bones has been kept. If you love taking pictures, you should definitely visit the Hallstatt viewpoint, from where you will enjoy the most amazing old town view.

But also nature-lovers, sports and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy their trip to the Hallstatt area. The highlights here are hikes on the Dachstein-Krippenstein, a detour to the spectacular 5-finger skywalk and a visit to the Dachstein Ice Cave.

Croatia 

Visit PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK, CROATIA

Travel Bucket List Destination: Croatia

Photo: TravelMelodies

Plitvice Lakes National Park is incredibly beautiful. One of the most sought-after attractions in Croatia invariably finds a place on every traveler's bucket list. The strikingly beautiful network of lakes and waterfalls at Plitvice enchants its visitors for a lifetime.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, Plitvice is the oldest and largest national park in Croatia. You can enter the park through one of the three entrances - 1 (north), 2 (south), and 3 (auxiliary) most of the year except winter (November - March) when the access is limited to the north entrance only.

Out of 8 different self-guided hiking routes, program C and H are the best ones, as they let you witness both the upper and lower lakes. A walk through the national park is therapeutic. The ever-changing colors of waters from emerald green to azure blue, awe-inspiring waterfalls, the sight of fishes in the crystal clear waters, the chirping of birds, the sound of gushing water, the diversity of flora and fauna, the viewpoints, and enigmatic beauty at every turn - you'd feel rejuvenated rather than exhausted even after walking for 5 to 6 hours at a stretch.

Veliki Slap, Sastavci, Veliki Prštavac, Slapovi Milke Trnine, Milanovački Slap, and Galovački Buk are some of the most stunning waterfalls in Plitvice. Make sure not to miss the mostly-missed-by-tourists lookout points over Plitvice Lakes like the one on the way from Entrance 1 shuttle stop towards the Entrance 1 gate.

You can grab a cup of coffee or a quick snack at a cafe near entrance 1. Plus, there are a couple of food stalls near Lake Kozjak Bridge. That's halfway through the hike.

The national park is open to tourists all through the year but, spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit the park. You MUST buy the tickets well in advance to save the hassle. Also, it’s a great idea to start your exploration as soon as the park opens (check hours of operation here) to avoid the terrible tourist crowds and enjoy the beauty fo the place in peace. Always keep the map (you'll get it at the ticket window, or you can ask for one) of the national park handy to navigate it effortlessly.

France 

Alsace wine region, Strasbourg

There’s nothing better than combining travel with other things that you love, and if wine is one of those things - it doesn’t get better than the French Alsace. It’s a destination that you can return to time and time again and always find something new. The region is known for its unique cultural hybrid of German and French influences. This is evident in the architecture, language, food and of course the wines.

Most travelers who visit the region explore the vineyards and villages from two cities, Colmar and Strasbourg. The southern wine trail surrounds Colmar and Strasbourg is the perfect overnight spot from which to discover the northern wine trail.

While staying in Colmar, make sure to stroll the streets around Little Venice, an area of the city with picturesque canals where you can even ride a gondola. The Tanner’s District is another gorgeous area of the city with distinctive half-timber homes.

Make sure to see the Dominican Church, Saint Martin’s Church and Parc du Champ de Mars, the city’s most visited park. There you’ll find an enchanting carousel from the early 1900’s. For a wine tasting, visit Domain Martin Jund or any of the wine houses in Colmar.

You can organize a tasting in one of the Colmar’s authentic wine cellars. There are also smaller villages peppered in the area around Colmar like Kayserberg, Riquewihr and Hunawihr where you can walk into local wine shops for tastings.

If you explore the northern wine trail, make sure to stay in Strasbourg. It’s larger than Colmar but has a similar ambiance with a ring canal around the medieval city center and unbelievable half-timber houses all over the city. The most beautiful part of the city is Petite France where you should get lost in the winding provincial buildings. 

In Strasbourg, make time for a boat tour where you’ll get to navigate through the centuries-old lock system. The tour will show you the old and new parts of the city with a great historical overview. Another highlight is the incredible Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame Strasbourg. The unique architecture is magnificent to see up close and you can climb the tower of the cathedral to the viewing platform above for sweeping views to the Rhine.

The Alsace offers so much more than wine, but that’s a perk. You can return over and over and discover new villages and enjoy all that the region has to offer.

Georgia 

Hiking the Republic of Georgia

Travel Bucket List Destination: Republic of Georgia

Photo: Wander-Lush

If you’re looking to get back to nature, nothing beats hiking in the pristine Greater Caucasus in the Republic of Georgia.

Georgia is fast gaining a reputation for its mountain landscapes and remote alpine villages, and is more than worthy of a spot on any outdoor lover's bucket list. Despite its rise in popularity in recent years, it’s still a relatively off-the-beaten-path destination – which means there’s a good chance you’ll have said mountain landscapes all to yourself.

There are marked hiking routes all over the country, ranging from easy day hikes such as Kazbegi to Gergeti Trinity, Georgia's iconic mountaintop church, all the way to mountain and glacier summits. 

The country’s most popular hiking route is without a doubt the three-day trek from the town of Mestia to the high-altitude village of Ushguli. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ushguli is known for its stone fortified towers which were used for both defensive and residential purposes.

Lesser-known routes can be found in Racha, Tusheti, and Lagodekhi National Park. The hike to Black Rock Lake, which takes you to the border with Azerbaijan and Dagestan, is a favorite.

Multi-day routes involve staying in huts or at village homestays where guests are treated to local cuisine. Khinkali dumplings, one of Georgia’s most iconic dishes, has its roots in the mountains and a hearty serving almost always features on the menu. 

When it’s time to come down from the mountains, Georgia’s bigger towns and cities offer a nice change of pace. The capital, Tbilisi, plus Kutaisi and Batumi on the Black Sea are all worth visiting for their cultural attractions, historic architecture, and café and nightlife scenes.

Greece 

Visit the Acropolis of Athens

Travel Bucket List Destination: Acropolis, Athens

Photo: AthensAndBeyond

If you're longing for a post lockdown trip to somewhere that feels both safe and stimulating, why not head to the Acropolis in Athens? This Ancient Greek temple stands proud on a hilltop in the heart of the capital and offers guests an outdoor museum of what life would have looked like a few millennia ago.

The Acropolis itself is the name of the whole citadel complex which comprises the world-famous Parthenon temple, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike. It also includes the stunning Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus and the Stoa of Eumenes to name a few.

These temples and odeons are in various states of reconstruction and preservation, but the sheer size and scale of the site will leave you awe-struck time and time again. 

The real joy of Athens’ archaeological sites is that they are sprawling outdoor complexes that offer an insight into an ancient way of life that you can explore at your own pace. Spend time meandering up Acropolis Hill from Plaka, taking in the sights of Hadrian’s Library or the Ancient Agora en route, before ending up at the piece de resistance, the Acropolis, that looks out over the rest of the city.

Social distancing measures and safety checks have been put in place at the Acropolis in order to ensure a secure visit for all travellers, including limiting the number of visitors at any one time. This means that you'll be able to experience the Acropolis without the hordes of tourists that the site usually sees during the summer months - absolutely ideal for photographers wishing to take some great shots of the site. While August and September are pretty scorching in Athens, if you can stand the heat, this summer may just be one of the best and quietest times to discover the city.

Italy 

Explore the Natural Beauty of Capri, ITaly

Travel Bucket List Destination: Capri

Photo: TheAnxiousTraveller

Capri might have a reputation for being glamorous, expensive, and a tiny bit exclusive - and all of that is true! But did you know that it’s also a place of incredible natural beauty, perfect for hikes and gentle walks alike? 

Once you’ve shopped your heart out in the super-chic designer fashion stores on Via Camerelle (or just gazed longingly through the windows like the rest of us), head south towards the famous Faraglioni rocks. Be sure to make a pit stop at Buonocore Gelateria for the best lemon sorbet you’ll ever taste in your life, before you walk down the narrow path of Via Tragara. 

If you can tear yourself away from lusting after the beautiful private villas on the path, you’ll arrive at the viewpoint for the Faraglioni. Take all the time you want for photos and general admiration - you’re about to discover what the majority of visitors miss out on!

There’s a small flight of steps just to the left of the viewpoint. Head down them, and you’ll find yourself on Via del Pizzolungo - one of my favourite hidden hikes anywhere in the world! It’s not taxing, but this gorgeous trail takes you through pine forests, whilst blue seas crash on to the cliffs to your right. You’ll breathe in air scented with pine, sea salt and lemon, get fantastic views of the bluest water imaginable, and explore a Roman temple hidden in a grotto. 

Finally, you’ll climb up a stone staircase until you’re outside the excellent Le Grotelle restaurant - stop for a drink, or turn right to keep walking to Capri’s famous Arco Naturale, a beautiful (and very Instagrammable!) arch which nature has carved into the cliffs. 

Hankering for more? Not a problem! Hop on a bus headed to Capri’s second town of Anacapri, and you can walk up to the highest point of the island - Monte Solaro. The well-marked trail is beautifully shrouded by foliage, and leads you to a viewpoint where you can rest up, and take in some truly picture-perfect views of this incredible island. 

There are so many things to do in Capri, and the island is thoroughly deserving of a place on any travel bucket list. The chic and sleek reputation is only one half of the story… and it may well be the stunning scenery which truly captures your heart. Capri was reputed to be the home of the Sirens by the ancient Greeks, and it’ll surely cast its spell on you!

Italian Dolomites

Travel Bucket List Destination: Dolomites

Photo: AnywhereWeRoam

There are few places in the world more beautiful than the Italian Dolomites. Cutting a dramatic arc from Monaco in the west to Trieste in the east, soaring spires of rock rise above swaying alpine meadows and turquoise lakes.

While they may not have the highest peaks or the deepest valleys of their northern neighbors, what they lack in records, the Italian Dolomites make up for in varied and beautiful scenery. 

Spend energizing days hiking under razor-sharp vertical peaks; around glistening glacial lakes and across mountain-framed alpine meadows. The circular loop around Tre Cime di Lavaredo – the three towering peaks standing side by side – is one of the best ways to get up close to the beauty of the area.

The challenging 2-hour climb up to Lago di Sorapis is a well-earned reward with a picture-perfect turquoise lake nestled between barren rocky ledges.  

For a more relaxing afternoon, the vineyards spread along the Trentino valley produce some of the finest wine in Italy. Surrounded by beautiful pastel-coloured buildings, quaint manicured courtyards provide the ideal setting to sample the local drop. 

For a dining experience to remember, an agriturismo in Cortina d’Ampezzo called El Brite de Larieto, produces exceptional cooking from local ingredients farmed on-site. Their homemade artichoke gnocchi was out-of-this-world goodness on a plate.  

Visit the majestic Mount Etna

Travel Bucket List Destination: Mt Etna

Photo: TheGapDecaders

It is hard to do Mount Etna justice with a mere description. This majestic live volcano is a bucket list destination worthy of distance and effort. You cannot road trip Sicily without visiting!

Viewed from Taormina, the nearest town, the summit of Etna sends whisps of smoke across the sky on a clear day as a reminder of the might hidden within.  Hike to the top and you’ll see the smoke rising from the rumbling magma which warms your feet as you look into the vast main crater of this very active volcano.  

If you can’t wait to get your boots on and make your way to the summit at 3350m altitude, be aware that this hike will require a guide, unless you’re a volcanologist of course! That is because the routes are ever changing due to the active nature of Mount Etna, and lethal sulphur gasses swirl around the summit, requiring an expert to navigate through them safely.

If hiking to the top is outside your comfort zone, there are lots of side craters which can be visited, literally from the car park at Refugio Sapienza. Once parked, you are surrounded by huge mounds of ash and cold lava flows which create a distinct picture on the landscape.  It is easy to get out of your vehicle and take an amble up one!  You can also take the cable car half way up Mount Etna and explore the larger craters there with a guide who can provide you with information about recent eruptions.

If you prefer to gaze at this behemoth from afar, then the best views are from Taormina and Catania.  Taormina is our first pick because there are also significant Roman ruins to be explored in the town and sandy beaches to be lounged upon. Taormina even has its own tiny island, Isola Bella, which is also a beautiful nature reserve and can be visited on foot from Isola Bella beach.

Tuscany Wine Tasting

Tuscany, located in the heart of Italy, is one of the most famous wine regions in the world. Known for its great red wines, especially Chianti Classico, this region is full of rolling hills, tiny hill-top towns and some amazing places to eat. What better way to relax, then some Tuscan Wine Tasting! 

Some of the top cities to visit in the area include Florence, Pisa, Arezzo and Siena. But you can’t miss some of the cute hilltop towns, most of which include some great local vineyards nearby. My favorites are Cortona, Montepulciano, and San Gimignano.

Putting Montepulciano on your list to visit while wine tasting in Tuscany is a great idea! The city itself is lovely with lots of places to see and eat. The top sites include the Piazza Grande, Terazza Del Palazzo Communale and the main Duomo.

The main Montepulciano wine you will want to taste is Vino Nobile or Nobile di Montepulciano. The name means, “the perfect wine, of noble men” and/or “of all wines, is the king”.  Here is a great outline to visit some amazing Vineyards near Montepulciano: 

Wine Stop #1- Cantine Dei- To visit for yourself, get all the additional info you need on their website- HERE!

Wine Stop #2- Montemercurio- To book a tasting, visit their website HERE!

Wine Stop #3-Salcheto- Visit their website for more info- HERE!

Arezzo Wine Tasting Tour

Arezzo is a great art city on the east side of Tuscany. Some of the top things to see include San Francesco, Piazza Grande and the Arezzo Cathedral. There are many amazing vineyard and wineries to check out. Here are three great ones to enjoy a nice glass of red at: 

Wine Stop #1- Fattoria Il Muro

Wine Stop #2- Podere di Pomaio

Wine Stop #3- Villa La Ripa

Florence Wine Tasting Tour

Florence is a renaissance city full of art and culture. Top sites include the Piazza della Signoria, San Lorenzo Market, Ponte Vecchio, The Uffizi gallery, and of course the famous Duomo of Florence.  Make sure to swing by Piazzale Michelangelo on your way out of town to enjoy fantastic views of the city! 

There are tons of great little places within Florence to try some great wines. My favorite little place to get a good Chianti in Florence is Baldovino Bistro. If you want to travel outside the city make sure to book yourself the Wine and Food Experience at Torre A Cona! http://www.torreacona.com/

Netherlands 

Get Off-The-Beaten-Path in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great bucket list destination I’m dying to get back to. Though the city is known to be touristy and one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, Amsterdam does have amazing off the beaten path things to see, including distinctly Dutch sights and gorgeous architecture. 

Taking a canal boat tour is a pretty popular thing to do when in Amsterdam, but taking a small canal boat tour is even better. It is the most unique and intimate way to see Amsterdam’s famous UNESCO canal ring. The small boats are usually maxed out at around 10 people or so with your tour guide as your boat captain. The coolest thing is that you can usually bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy onboard. It is truly the best way to get the lay of the land after your arrival in Amsterdam. 

For a unique look into Amsterdam’s culture, check out the Houseboat Museum and Museum Van Loon. The Houseboat Museum gives you a look into how the Dutch live inside a houseboat parked along the Amsterdam’s famous canals. 

Museum Van Loon is a special museum because it is located within a canal house off of Keizersgracht in the canal ring and is named for the family that once lived within its walls. Aside from the Van Loon family, one of Rembrandt van Rijn’s most famous apprentices, Ferdinand Bol, also lived inside this house at one point in time. The interior of the house was renovated to resemble that of the typical 18th century canal home. 

Though it may seem like a touristy city, there are definitely a bunch of off the beaten path spots you can easily explore Amsterdam in a long weekend. 

Portugal 

Street Art Hunting in Lisbon, Portugal

One of the great things about street art is that it's constantly changing, so no matter how many times you've been to a destination, there will be some new art to see on each trip. That's definitely the case in Lisbon, Portugal, which is one of the best places for street art hunting in all of Europe. Although this might not be apparent when walking around the historic center, because Lisbon's best street art neighborhoods are on the outskirts of the city, in places rarely visited by tourists.

The best example of these neighborhoods is Quinta do Mocho, a social housing project that was once notorious for its crime rate but has been completely transformed by street artists in recent years. Its apartment buildings are covered in more than 100 murals, most of which are several stories tall, making Quinta do Mocho the largest open-air street art gallery in Europe. Other neighborhoods that have undergone a similar transformation are Marvila and Bairro Padre Cruz.

As you explore more of Lisbon's street art, you will start to recognize the unique styles of the individual artists. Two of Portugal's most famous artists, Bordalo II and Vhils, both use very unusual techniques, making their work instantly recognizable. In his "Big Trash Animals" series, Bordalo II recycles garbage into art. He uses discarded scrap metal and other trash to create huge images of animals. In Lisbon, you'll find a fox, a raccoon, a heron, a school of fish and many more. Vhils, on the other hand, uses a technique called "creative destruction". Instead of adding paint to a wall, he uses chisels, jackhammer and even explosives to carve away the plaster, exposing the brick underneath. And somehow, magically, an exquisitely carved human face appears on the side of the building. Almost all of Vhils' artworks are portraits.

Experience Madeira

Travel Bucket List Destination: Madeira

Photo: SayYesToMadeira

Madeira Island is a great all-year-round European destination. Most people visit this small Portuguese Island on the Atlantic to hike, explore its primary Laurisilva (UNESCO protected) forests, colorful botanical gardens and swim in natural lava pools.

Some love the choice of different outdoor sports, tours and activities, or great trail running routes while some go there to admire its awesome street art or enjoy its delicious cuisine. There are just so many great things to do in Madeira, that it is impossible to see it all during just one trip.

Madeira has incredible off-the-beaten-path spots. Some of the best hidden gems are Fajã da Rocha do Navio and Fajã dos Padres. Both of these places are secluded spots located under a high cliff. They are only reachable by a boat or a cable car.

Once you descend, you will see that there are no cars, roads and not even that many tourists. Instead, you will find there pebble beaches, gardens full of for example banana, avocado, mango trees. Both places are stunning and peaceful and great to visit, but only on Fajã dos Padres you will also find a restaurant serving fresh fish, seafood and locally grown fruit and vegetables.

You also have a chance to stay overnight in one of the rental houses and there is a chance you will be the only person there after the last cable car leaves. If you are active and adventurous, I am sure you will fall in love with Madeira Island as soon as you arrive. 

Romania 

Transylvania Roadtrip

Travel Bucket List Destination: Transylvania

Photo: Omnivagant

In the heart of Romania you’ll find the region of Transylvania, a region that to many is known as the imaginary land of bloodsucking vampires. The most famous vampire of them all, Count Dracula, a character in Bram Stoker’s 19th century novel, inspired many other stories and movies, it is this character that put Transylvania on the map. And while Bram Stoker’s novel might be fiction, Count Dracula was in fact based on a real person, a 15th century ruler known as Vlad the Impaler, and the region of Transylvania really does exist. 

Transylvania might not be filled with bloodsucking vampires, but it is a beautiful historical region that is home to medieval castles, colourful and idyllic cities and beautiful mountain views, and what better way to explore it then by going on a Transylvania road trip! 

Visit the beautiful cities of Sighisoara, Sibiu and Brasov, some of the most colourful cities you will find in Romania to spend your days getting lost admiring all the historical sights that each of these cities have to offer and to taste the delicious local Romanian cuisine. And while these cities alone are reason enough to head on a road trip through Transylvania, a Transylvania road trip would not be complete without visiting one, or perhaps even more, of Transylvania’s most famous castles. 

When it comes to visiting Transylvania’s castles there are two in particular that should be on your itinerary, Bran Castle and Corvin Castle, visiting these castles is like stepping into a fairytale. 

After seeing Transylvania’s most beautiful historic sights be sure to end your road trip by driving the Transfăgărășan Highway, one of the most beautiful highways in the world, to complete this unforgettable road trip!

Spain 

Hiking the Camino de Santiago

Travel Bucket List Destination: Santiago, Spain

Photo: CarryOnChronicles

The Camino de Santiago is the ultimate bucket list experience for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Translated into English as “The Way of St. James,” the Camino is a network of pilgrimages leading to the famous cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. 

Although this journey is historically regarded as a religious pilgrimage, travelers worldwide embark on it for everything from spiritual satisfaction, to mental clarity, to physical benefits. Additionally, it’s common for travelers to return to the Camino at various stages throughout their lives to experiment with new routes and experience a rebirth. 

The Camino de Santiago consists of nine established routes throughout France, Spain, and Portugal, each offering spectacular scenery, unique terrain, and varying levels of difficulty. Be sure to carefully review each of the individual routes before embarking on this journey. This way, you’ll be sure to select one that aligns with your preferences and physical capabilities. 

You’ll also want to pack wisely and prioritize physical comfort. Well-fitting sneakers, moisture-wicking clothing, and a first-aid kit (stocked with blister band-aids) are a must!

Additionally, consider obtaining a “Pilgrim Passport” when you start this journey to commemorate the experience. As you hike, you’ll need to get this passport stamped at least three times at churches, tourism offices, and/or rest stops to certify that you’ve completed your route by journey’s end.  

Fortunately, since this experience has become popular with tourists, rest stops and small tavernas are strategically placed throughout the various routes for your convenience. Here, you can pause for a break, have a bite to eat, get your passport stamped, and soak up the scenic views.

Along the Camino de Santiago, travelers will discover breathtaking scenery and experience personal growth like never before. As you overcome the challenges each new day brings, you’ll uncover hidden strengths, break down physical and mental barriers, and gain a new outlook on life. No matter which route you follow along the Camino, you’re bound to have an eye-opening experience that will leave you craving more. 

Switzerland 

Hiking in Central Switzerland

Travel Bucket List Destination: Switzerland

Photo:MyFaultyCompass

Switzerland is home to incredible natural beauty - pristine lakes, stunning mountains & beautiful valleys and ridiculously photogenic green pastures dotted with cows (the ringing of cowbells, of course, adds a lovely soundtrack to the whole experience!)!

The best way to explore Switzerland’s breathtaking views is through hiking its many many trails, some of the best of which are in the central part of the country. From as easy as a 30-minute walk on a relatively flat surface to multiple days’ hikes climbing rock faces, there is something for everyone here!

If you are close to Lucerne, some of the best hikes to go on include discovering the beautiful lakes of Bannalpsee or Trübsee, climbing up (or down) Mount Rigi or Mount Pilatus, the lovely hikes at Melchsee-Frutt or the panorama trails around Stoos - all of these locations have hikes for multiple fitness levels so you can take your pick! Bannalpsee & Melchsee-Frutt are especially amazing since these see hardly any tourists so you can enjoy these hidden gems in tranquillity.

Closer to Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen, there are some of the best hikes in Switzerland and some of my absolute favourites! The hike to Bachalpsee from Grindelwald First is one experience not to be missed in Switzerland. The relatively easy hike through the Swiss Alps and the tall peaks of the Bernese Oberland region leading to the stunning Bachalpsee is absolutely breathtaking. As is the panorama hike to Kleine Scheidegg. 

If you love lakes, the short hike to Oeschinensee (or the longer hike in the same area) are worth a slight detour. The famous mountains of this region, from Schilthorn to Grindelwald First, have several marked trails where in case you’d like to do only a part of the hike you can always take the cable car the rest of the way down (or up!). 

Most of the hikes around mountains require the use of a cable car at least partway (unless you are an expert hiker!) so you need to ensure you visit Switzerland during summer (or late spring/ early fall) when most cable cars operate - do note that every cable car will have a different running schedule based on weather conditions (some start as late as June). Around June or September is a good time to visit since most gondolas are operational and you avoid the crowds of July - August.

Switzerland is an incredible bucket-list destination and hiking here is an unforgettable experience!

Asia

Armenia 

Hiking in Armenia

Travel Bucket List Destination: Armenia

Photo: WeDidItOurWay

Armenia is one of those places we visited and just can’t seem to get enough of. From its rich history to its amazing landscape, generous people, and delicious food, there are about a hundred reasons to visit it. But if you love being in the great outdoors, this is the next country you want to visit. 

Armenia is one of the most underrated destinations in the world. Yet, it is super safe, really affordable, and one of the best hiking destinations in the world. The country is still unknown to tourists, which makes it an amazing place to visit at any time of year.

Even though summers may get a little crowded, the spring and fall are the perfect time to visit. The weather is just warm enough, and the hiking trails are open. Many of them close in the winter because they are quite rugged. 

The hiking trails in Armenia span all across the country, through valleys and mountains, around lakes and rivers, and even cross into neighboring countries through the Transcaucasian trail. Don’t be surprised if you run into some of Armenia’s best landmarks on these trails. Also, don’t be surprised that most of these landmarks are actually churches. 

In fact, there is a ton to do in Armenia, even if you don’t hike. Eating is one of the best things you can do here. The restaurant scene is booming all around the country, but especially in the capital of Yerevan (where you can also party any night of the week).

You can visit some of the world’s oldest churches, villages, and cities. In fact, Yerevan recently celebrated its 2800th anniversary, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. 

Truly, there is no shortage of unique things to do in Armenia. There’s something for every age of traveler, regardless of budget. English is spoken by some locals, albeit not widely (Armenian and Russian are the 2 main languages), traveling around the country is quite easy. Buses and trains can get you around from one end of the country to the next. And if you’re really up for an adventure (and want to make some friends), try hitchhiking! 

No matter what you’re into, we’re convinced you will find something that will leave you breathless in Armenia. You’ll probably want to go back, again and again!

China 

Visit THE Great Wall of China

Travel Bucket List Destination: Great Wall of China

Photo: TheTwoThatDo

The Great Wall of China at 21,000 km is the longest structure ever constructed by humans and undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest engineering feats. It is deservedly one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a bucket list travel destination for millions.

Whilst some sections date back as far as the 7th century BC most were constructed during the Ming Dynasty period between 1368 and 1644 and designed to defend the empire and protect Silk Route trade.

Tickets to visit The Wall are only available through the official ticketing system. Detailed only in Chinese, visitors will either need to know someone fluent in Chinese or book via a Travel Agency.

Allowing 65,000 people a day the best preserved and most complete section at Badaling 80 km north west of Beijing is also the most visited. Originally built in 1504 Badaling was in 1957 the first section opened to tourism. The 3.75 km stretch of wall whilst steep in section does provide hand rails and a cable car to aid access for older or less agile visitors.

Another popular section and our most favorite is located at Juyongguan. Rather than a stretch of linear wall this is a closed loop encircling a valley between two steep mountain ranges. Designed to entrap invading hordes the Juyongguan area comprises several sections much steeper than Badaling. Unlike Badaling there are no restaurant facilities and whilst it is possible to buy small snacks we recommend you bring your own refreshments, including plenty of water.

Ticket prices for the two differ. During the high season period of April to October a visit to Badaling costs CNY 40 ($5.75) compared to CNY 45 ($6.45) for Juyongguan.

Whichever you choose you will be mesmerised by the stunning surrounding landscape of rugged mountain ranges as much as the centuries of history you are now amongst. Time your visit for the months of April, May, September or October rather than the peak summer period and you will be rewarded with even more spectacular scenery. The colourful floral blossoms of spring or autumnal bronze, copper and amber make for a truly splendid backdrop.

To enhance your visit further arrive as early as you can. Not just to avoid the larger crowds of late morning or early afternoon but to walk the wall under the early morning sunlight. The colours are richer and the joy of finding a stretch of wall to yourself is a priceless memory that you will never forget.

India 

Listening To The Roar of Lions At Gir National Park, Gujarat, India

One of the unique experiences India offers awaits visitors at the Gir National Park, which is located about 55 kilometers from the historic city of Junagadh in the western Indian state of Gujarat.

The Gir National Park is considered to be the last home of the Asian Lion. In fact, the only place outside of Africa where one can see lions in the wild is the Gir National Park at Sasan Gir in India. 

Seeing wildlife in their natural environment is an experience that cannot be described in words. Watching majestic lions close-up is an experience visitors cherish for a long time.

It is estimated that about 674 lions saunter majestically within the perimeter of the Gir National Park which sprawls over an area of 1412 sq. kilometres. 

The Gir National Park is essentially a Teak forest but also is home to more than 132 species of trees. The Gir National Park has about 38 different species of mammals, about 35 species of reptiles, and more than 300 species of birds. Apart from Lions some of the animals that can be spotted include Leopards, Hyenas, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, among others.

Visitors need to book Lion Safaris online, and these happen in the morning and late afternoon. These are jeep safaris along with a guide on pre-decided routes. No plastic is allowed inside the Gir National Park, and drinking water is provided in refillable bottles by the authorities. 

Apart from sighting lions in the Gir National Park, one may also get to interact with a unique community that has settled in the region. This is known as the Siddi Community which traces its roots to East Africa.

The roar of the lions pulls visitors to the Gir National Park, but there is so much to see in the vicinity. The city of Junagadh itself has many historic landmarks including the Uparkot Fort, which dates back to the 10th century and has within its ramparts, the remains of a palace, step-wells, and rock-cut Buddhist caves.

Two mausoleums that stun visitors with their architectural brilliance stand in the centre of the city of Junagadh are the Mahabat Maqbara and the Bahauddin Ka Maqbara, excellent examples of the blend of Gothic and Islamic architecture. Apart from Junagadh, the famous temple of Somnath is located about 67 kilometres from the Gir National Park.

When in Junagadh, one cannot afford to miss tasting authentic local Gujarati food, and the best place to do that is at the Patel Restaurant & Banquet Hall. The place serves a mind-boggling array of vegetarian fare as part of the famed Gujarati Thali.

Experience A Tiger Safari in Kanha National Park, India

Travel Bucket List Destination: Kanha National Park

Photo: BreatheDreamGo

The anticipation starts before you even enter the park. You line up at the gate, with all the other jeeps, while it’s still dark. The naturalists and guides compete to be among the first in line so if you’re with someone keen, you can arrive 30 minutes before the gates open. You spend those minutes drinking chai, using the washroom (for the last time for many hours), warming up in the pre-dawn chill and hoping today will be the day.

Suddenly, all the naturalists and guides jump into their jeeps and start their engines, the park authorities open the gate, and you’re in. Kanha National Park. One of the premier national parks and tiger reserves in India, a place famous for natural beauty, a thriving tiger population, the resurgence of the almost-extinct barasingha hard-ground swamp deer and for being extremely well-managed. All the stars line up at Kanha, making it my favourite tiger reserve in India and one of my favourite places in India, period.

Once you enter the park and the dawn light starts filtering through the sal trees, you are immediately taken with the beauty of the park. It is a veritable garden of eden, with rolling meadows and thick forests, full of deer, monkeys, wild boar, birds and of course tigers.

The beauty and abundance of Kanha can keep you preoccupied, until a pugmark is spotted or an alarm call is sounded, and then the chase is on. Using knowledge, skill, and instinct, your naturalist and guide will follow the clues and hopefully give you the opportunity to see a tiger in the wild -- one of the most amazing experiences in life!

Consider also visiting Rishikesh, in north India to be amongst the natural environment experiencing the thrill of the chase. Staying at a wildlife lodge near Kanha is also part of the fun, as there are some spectacular places. Some favorites are Pugdundee Safaris Kanha Earth Lodge, Kipling Camp, Singinawa Jungle Lodge, and Bagh Villas.

Explore All of What Jaipur, India Has to Offer

Travel Bucket List Destination: Jaipur, India

Photo: SunsetJeans

Jaipur is the epitome of the crazy India travel experience. From the towering forts to the chaotic market places right next to the Thar desert, it is quintessential India.

Jaipur has a rich culture buoyed by its importance as the capital of the desert state of Rajasthan that was ruled by kings until very recently. It is known for its impressive forts and palaces, its delectable cuisine and the many photo opportunities. 

Hawa Mahal is one of the most famous sites in Jaipur. The Palace of Winds is a huge structure constructed from red sandstone that was used by the ladies of the court to spy on the street market below.

The Amer Fort, a few miles away from the city sits impressively across from the Maota Lake. It was the first defense of the city against invaders and it is visited by hundreds of tourists every day now.

City Palace in the middle of the old city is a wonder with its rich colorful architecture that has been featured on Instagram by everyone that has managed to go there. Not only its culture, Jaipur has some of the best cuisine in the country.

Lakshmi Misthan Bhandar is a traditional sweets-men shop that has been running for 300 years. It is famous for its street food like Raj Kachori and Pyaaz Kachori.

Transitioning to the new, Bar Palladio is a gorgeous Italian inspired restaurant located inside a mango orchard with peacocks nonchalantly roaming about of course. It is one of the top restaurants in Jaipur both because of its unique take on Indian cuisine and its architecture designed by the Dutch architect Marie-Ann Oudejans.

Lastly, it would be remiss not to mention that some of the most opulent and royal hotels in the world are in Jaipur. You can find everything from gold cups on the dining table to a room decorated entirely from pieces of mirrored glass in Sujan Rajmahal Palace and Samode Palace respectively. Jaipur has been the home of kings and queens for over a thousand years and the royal heritage lives on. 

If you are coming to India then Jaipur should be at the top of your itinerary. First time travelers to India usually do the Golden Triangle route which includes Jaipur, Delhi and Agra. Jaipur is a gorgeous city unlike any you have ever seen before.

Indonesia 

Gili Trawangan in Indonesia

Travel Bucket List Destination: Gili

Photo: JoelsTravelTips

A tropical island nestled in the beautiful waters of the Java Sea, a few hours away from Bali, but a million miles away from everyday life, Gili Trawangan in Indonesia is a true paradise and travel bucket list destination.

Gili Trawangan is small - you can walk around it in a couple of hours - but is packed with amazing things to see, do, eat, and enjoy. There are sandy shores on every side some really incredible views on the horizon, including views of Mount Agung on faraway Bali.

The best way to start the day on this sleepy island is to wake up early and see the sun rise in the east, watching as it slowly peeks its head over the hills of nearby Gili Meno, Gili Trawangan's smaller sibling. Then grab a fresh fruit breakfast and get ready for a peaceful day.

Gili Trawangan has many activities to enjoy, including snorkeling, kayaking, working on your tan, swimming with turtles in Turtle Bay, clearing your mind at one of the many chilled beach bars, or taking a ride on one of the horse taxis. 

One of the best ways to spend a day, and one that many people come to Gili Trawangan is to go scuba diving in the many awesome dive sites located around the island.

If you've never dived before, this is the perfect place to get your PADI license. For more experienced divers, there are lots of fascinating reefs, wrecks, and other undersea adventures waiting for you. 

Whichever type of diver you are, I'd definitely recommend Lutwala Dive on the north side of the island. They have great service and a friendly place to learn how to dive. They also provide accommodation and have a really cute parrot that will chat to you.

After a busy day in the sea or on the beach, the most popular thing to do is wander around to the west of the island and take your pick of stunning places to watch the sun go down. One of the most famous is the Ombak Sunset Swing, which will give you instagram-worthy scenes you can normally only dream of. A truly romantic place to sit and watch the sun descend into the calm waters while you hold hands with your loved one on the swing, feet dipping into the gentle waves below.

Grab a local beer and a cosy chair and enjoy the view. If you get hungry, then there are a dozen or so delicious restaurants that serve amazing dishes at great prices. One of the best is Le Pirate Beach Club, which serves fresh fruit cocktails, a range of local and international dishes (try the tacos!) and has a great beach outside to chill on. 

Gili Trawangan is definitely an incredible bucket list destination for those who want to get away from busy city life and find that slice of tropical paradise. The island has no cars and life is slow and chilled. You can stay her for a long time and not get bored.

If you want a change, you can take a cruise back to Bali, or even spend a few days visiting komodo dragons on Komodo Island.

Experience Sanur, Bali

A destination that you should include in your bucket list once travel starts is Sanur. Sanur is a beachside town in Bali that has to feature in your Bali itinerary for it's sheer beauty and exclusivity. It is a place that's still protected from the herds of tourists that throng the nearby town of Ubud.

Known for it's laid-back and relaxed vibe, Sanur is a bucket list destination as it offers you everything you can ask for - nature, culture, history, wildlife, adventure, food, shopping, and nightlife. The best things to do in Sanur include the Pura Blanjong, Sanur Beach, Le Mayeur Museum, Bali Orchid Garden, Sanur Sea-Walker Tour, and the Griya Santrian Art Gallery.

An offbeat place to visit is the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre where you can feed turtles that are recuperating from injury and can get to know about their hatching process. 

Sanur also offers you a variety of options as far as good food and drinks are concerned. If you want to have a healthy meal by the beachside, then the Genius Cafe is the place for you.

For a lovely evening filled with live music, refreshing cocktails and a stunning sunset view, visit the Tree Bar at Maya. And if you want to experiment with local food, then Warung Pantai Indah and Warung Jawa are the best picks.

For dessert lovers, tasting the gelato at Massimo, an Italian restaurant, is highly recommended. As far as shopping is concerned, the Sanur Beach promenade and the Pasar Sindhu Night Market are the best places for buying cheap but quality souvenirs and clothes.

Travel Tips :

1. Start your day early and visit the museum and garden before noon to avoid any tourists.

2. Don't shop from Hardy's supermarket as the items there are too expensive. You can buy the same things at a much cheaper price from the places recommended above.

3. Don't forget to taste the ultimate Indonesian style dish "Nasi Goreng" at the Pasar Sindhu night market.

4. If you plan to visit any of the Nusa Islands, then you have to catch a ferry from the Sanur port. So plan your travel accordingly.

Sunrise Trek at Mount Batur, Bali

Travel Bucket List Destination: Mount Batur

Photo: CoupleOfJourneys

Heading out on an exciting sunrise trek at Mount Batur is a bucket-list item for most tourists visiting Bali.

The primary reason being, Mount Batur is an active volcano and trekking to the top of it is the best way of exploring it. The second reason why people choose to take the pains of climbing to the top of it before sunrise is that it is the best place in all of Bali to witness the sunrise. 

So how should you plan the sunrise trek?

To begin with, you must book the trek from one of the many tour operators in Bali. The tour company arranges a pick up from your hotel. If you stay in the Ubud region, you will most likely be picked up at around 2:30 am, while if you live further south, you may even have to start from your hotel as early as 1:00 am. 

From your hotel, you will be driven to the base of Mount Batur where a trekking guide will greet you and then take you on your 2-hour long climb. Going with a tour guide ensures that you don’t get lost on the mountain in the middle of the night. 

The entire trek takes about two hours depending on your skill level. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, you may find the trek quite challenging. However, the trek, itself, is quite adventurous and therefore a lot of fun. 

You may be given a stick to help you balance and a torchlight to find your way through the darkness. You will also run across plenty of fellow trekkers on the way. 

To cope with the trek, make sure you dress appropriately and that you carry enough water with you. 

The final few minutes of the trek are really difficult as that part of the mount is the steepest. You may even be left reconsidering your decision of taking up this arduous task. 

However, once you reach the peak, you will forget about the struggle you went through. The view from the top will leave you completely mesmerised. 

Once at the top, make sure you find a great spot to enjoy the sunrise and watch the changing hues of the sky.

After the sun is out, you will be served some basic but much-needed breakfast. You will also be allowed about an hour’s time to explore the mount before you begin your descent. 

You must note that the way down will also take almost the same amount of time as the way up. The earlier you start descending the better as once it gets hot, climbing down becomes more tiring. 

The entire adventure usually takes about 10 -11 hours and you will only be back at your hotel by noon. However, despite the fact that the trek requires you to stay up all night and climb atop a 5000 plus feet tall mountain, the view of the sunrise makes the effort completely worth it! 

Iran 

Visit the most beautiful places in Iran

Travel Bucket List Destination: Iran

Photo: TheDiaryOfANomad

One of the most unique, underrated, and stunning travel destinations on earth is Iran, a country that’s largely misrepresented by the mass media. Iran is not only extremely safe to travel to, it also has the friendliest people, exquisite food, breathtaking architecture, and some truly astonishing landscapes.

Two weeks is an ideal time to discover some of the most beautiful places in Iran, although you can easily spend a month exploring the many hidden gems around the country. Start your journey in the capital of Tehran, home to the historic Golestan Palace. Then, move on to Shiraz, the city of poets and gardens. There are some truly gorgeous mosques there, such as Vakil Mosque and the Pink Mosque. Once you’re done with Shiraz, spend some time in the desert of Dasht-e Lut, one of the hottest places in the world! 

Be sure to also visit the desert city of Yazd, and don’t miss the unique Sar Yazd Castle when you’re there — it’s a true hidden gem located about 50 km outside the city. One of the biggest highlights of Iran, though, is the majestic city of Isfahan, home to over 160 mosques. There, you will find two of the most beautiful mosques in the country: Shah Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Another place that is absolutely worth visiting is Kashan, where you’ll find some beautiful traditional houses and bathhouses.

When you visit Iran, you have to try the local cuisine. Some of the best restaurants in the country are Abbasi Teahouse & Restaurant in Kashan and Naghshe Jahan Restaurant in Isfahan!

Japan 

HIKING MT TAKAO, JAPAN

Travel Bucket List Destination: Mt Takao

Photo: LyneGoesAround

Hiking Mt. Takao (Takaosan) located in the town of Hachioji, is one of the best day trips to add to Tokyo your bucket list to connect with nature and take a break from the bustling of the city. If you’re not into hiking it’s still a great day trip as you can also choose to use the cable car or chair lift to climb up and down the mountain, it’s pretty accessible.

Cost: 480 yen (one way), 930 (round trip) 

With various trails (7 in total), each having their own particularities and hot spots; visiting Mt Takao is an activity for everyone. 

The trails join, right before you reach the summit of the mount to admire the stunning view over Tokyo, Yokohama and even Fuji-san if you're lucky and the weather is clear enough.  

If you decide to hike, for a full nature experience trail 1 or 6 are the best choices. In total, you have to plan at least two hours to go up and an hour and a half to get down. 

Whether on the way up or down you have to make sure to check out Yakuno-in Shrine where the gods of the mountain, the Tengû are worshipped.

Tips and things to do at Mt Takao

- Make sure to bring your own water and drinks, there are vending machines at the top but they’re pricey!

- You can find restaurants (lunch with a gorgeous view) and shops at the top, there are also spots to eat a picnic 

- Hiking shoes are not a must but definitely wear good sneakers as you could easily twist your ankle if you’re not wearing good shoes. 

- Try a 'tengu-yaki' halfway up the mountain, it's a sweet black bean crispy waffle!

- Stop at Mount Takao Monkey Park to see some adorable monkeys

It’s a very popular location during every season, but mainly in fall. In fall, as it is the ‘Momiji’ season and you can admire some gorgeous red and orange foliages, and in spring for cherry blossoms. Make sure to try grilled mochi during winter or honeyberry ice-cream in summer!

Experience Tokyo, Japan

I put two links in there b/c I thought they were relevant, but if I can only have one, I'd like to link to the ramen one. Thanks!

If you haven’t been to Tokyo yet, definitely make your way there as it’s one of my favorite cities to visit whenever I’m considering traveling somewhere.

Why? Well, it has some of the best food on the planet driven by some of the most food obsessed people in the world, unique architecture, interesting cultural shocks, and some of the most interesting entertainment options!

Here are some of the best places to experience Tokyo:

For great Tsukemen Dipping Ramen that’s got David Chang street cred behind it, Rokurinsha delivers a flavor punch in a bowl. If you haven’t had Tsukemen dipping ramen before, just remember that you dip the noodles into the thick soup and then eat it. Don’t dump the noodles into the soup! Near the end of the meal, you can and should ask for a top off that dilutes the soup. Then drink all the magic!

Michelin starred ramen is hard to find anywhere else but in Japan. Ginza Kagari is one of them and did not disappoint! It’s a chicken based ramen bowl that is loaded with flavor. On top of it all, it’s only about $11!

For some of the best sushi of your life, check out Sushi Iwa, a one star Michelin. The whole experience is almost like an elegant show with about 6 diners, watching in muted silence as the sushi chef prepares the meal of your life.

For entertainment, Tokyo has no limits to what’s available. The Kawaii Monster Cafe is a vivid experience worth checking out, along with the Robot Restaurant. Just be prepared for sensation overload! For some intimate Japanese bar alleyways, check out Nonbei Yokocho and the Golden Gai district. These are filled with bars and izakayas that fit max 4-6 people at the most!

The Shibuya Crossing is another must-see-and-do as it’s one of the busiest human crossings in the world. At rush hour there are up to 3,000 people crossing this massive intersection during one light change!

But a hidden gem is to check out the surreal Art Islands. It’s a cluster of islands with large scale art installations, cutting edge museums, and architectural gems.

Jordan 

Experience the World Wonder in Petra, Jordan

Travel Bucket List Destination: Petra, Jordan

Photo: FlyStayLuxe

There are few countries as impressive as Jordan. The people are extremely friendly and welcoming, the food is amazing, and the Jordanian landscape and ancient ruins are beyond impressive.

Whether or not you grew up watching Indiana Jones movies, journeying to the lost city of Petra is one experience everyone should add to their travel bucket list!

Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located near the town of Wadi Musa, roughly 2 hours’ drive from Jordan’s capital city, Amman. Petra is the main reason why most people visit Wadi Musa. You would need to allow at least a whole day to explore the area, possibly two. Spending a night or two in Wadi Musa is an absolute must. 

Wadi Musa is built around the mountains above Petra, with the Petra Visitors Centre is located towards the bottom end of town. The Visitors Centre is the entrance to Petra ruins, and from here, the only mode of transportation allowed is on foot, donkey, or horse drawn cart.

The main ruins of Petra are located deep inside a canyon, and to reach them, your day will start with a 3 km hike through the Siq Trail to the Treasury. The hike itself is a most significant experience as you’ll follow in the footsteps of the ancient Nabateans - an indigenous Arab Bedouin tribe credited as the masterminds of Petra’s impressive architecture. 

The Treasury is the first and most popular structure along the pathway through Petra, but in fact, the lost city is actually made up of hundreds of ruins. Many visitors choose not to continue past The Treasury, but if time and physical fitness allows, spending the time to explore the rest of Petra will not disappoint. The 12 km hike up into the mountains to The Monastery is an arduous one, but well worth the effort.

After arriving at the Treasury, one could easily spend a few hours exploring around this section of the canyon, climbing the cliffs around the ruins to find some pretty amazing top-down views of The Treasury. Don’t spend too long here though, as there is so much more to explore. Journey further beyond the Treasury, through the valley to explore other ruins such as the Street of Facades, the Theatre, and the Royal Tombs.

Continuing along, the main trail begins to ascend the rocky landscape into the mountains. To reach The Monastery, it’s a good one hour hike along mountainous terrain. The Monastery is almost identical to The Treasury, but much larger and far more impressive.

There are several other amazing hiking trails around Petra. If you’re into hiking, you may wish to stay at least 2 or 3 days and explore more of the area.

Given that Petra is the most popular tourist attraction in Jordan, this means that accommodation prices in Wadi Musa are astronomical compared to other parts of Jordan, and availability is limited. So be sure to book early!

Many people who visit Jordan do so just to see Petra. But in fact there is so much to do in Jordan that would easily fill an entire week or more.

To fully experience the country, plan to spend at least 10 days in Jordan, seeing the ancient ruins in Amman, Petra, and Jerash, visiting sites of historical and religious significance around Madaba and Mount Nebo, glamping in Wadi Rum, scuba diving in Aqaba, and floating in the Dead Sea. 

Malaysia 

Visit Penang Island, Malaysia

Travel Bucket List Destination: Penang Island

Photo: PenangInsider

Penang is a tropical island set off the northwestern coast of Malaysia whose main city, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t think it’s because of the street art that covers most of the heritage core’s walls — quite far from hipsters, it’s because of the unique blend of eastern and western influences that make up the architecture and the culture of this former trade port of Southeast Asia.

For starters, you can find a perfectly located Penang Airbnb (https://www.penang-insider.com/best-airbnb-in-penang-malaysia/) in George Town to experience its old-world charms which are, like it or not, one of the main reasons to visit beyond the multi-ethnic smorgasbord of food available — Penang was voted best foodie destination by Lonely Planet in 2014.     

George Town is filled with pre-war Sino-Thai shophouses and Chinese Clan Houses. Similar to temples, these were the places where the early waves of southern Chinese immigrants came to find assistance upon arrival. There are still several artisans going about their fathers’ crafts all over town. 

Penang is not famed for beaches, but there are more than 20, and some deserve a look, especially those in the Balik Pulau, the southwestern corner of Penang island. There’s plenty of nature on the hiking trail that criss-cross Penang Hill, once a former British colonial hill station, and today the home of too many tourist tat shops and the excellent nature park Habitat, completed with zip lines and the Curtis Crest — the highest observatory boardwalk in the whole island.  

Penang National Park at Teluk Bahang has more hikes and swimmable beaches such as Monkey Beach and Panati Keracut, with its own small turtle conservation sanctuary. Not too far away, the majestic Kek Lok Si temple, with its Chinese pavilions and arched roofs, is one of Southeast Asia, and Malaysia’s, biggest Buddhist shrine. It’s worth a visit especially at sunset, where you’ll be able to see the sun drip orange hues above George Town and the Straits Sea. 

Maldives 

Scuba Diving with Sharks in The Maldives

When it comes to a destination everyone should have on their bucket list the Maldives is certainly a contender for one of the absolute dream ones!

And whilst most people daydream of a relaxing Maldives holiday there are some more adrenaline fuelled adventures that the atolls have to offer.

One of my personal favourites (both in the Maldives and around the world!) has to be scuba diving with sharks!

The warm, tropical water of the Maldives make it an epic destination for scuba diving and there are some incredible shark encounters to be had throughout the country - and trust me once you’ve been diving with sharks you’ll have a newfound appreciation for their beauty and grace.

For those looking for some luxury diving, Cinnamon Ellaidhoo offers some amazing shark dives - where you can get up close and personal with white and black tips reef sharks who will cruise just inches from you.

And for budget Maldives travellers head straight to Fulidhoo (my favourite local island in the Maldives) where the famous night dive at Alimatha will have you rubbing shoulders (sometimes quite literally!) with the inquisitive nurse sharks that congregate there each night.

Just another awesome reason why the Maldives is so unforgettable and one every diver should experience!

Experience Heaven on Earth in the Maldives

Maldives - you can say heaven on the earth! If you are looking for crystal clear water, white sandy beaches with beautiful Marine life and luxurious overwater villas, Maldives is one of the bucket list destinations to visit in Asia. 

It is a dream destination for every sea lover. It comprises 1102 small islands with many sand banks. Male - the capital city of Maldives has an international airport which is an island itself. 

From Male, you can reach different islands via ferry, private speed boats or via seaplane to far away islands. Maldives has Private and local islands. 

Private islands are Resort islands with Private beaches and Local islands are where local people live. There is No Hostel culture in Maldives, so if you are traveling Maldives on Budget, stay at local islands where you can have conversations with locals, and you can know about Maldivian way of life. 

As Maldives is a Muslim Country, you need to dress conservatively at local islands. Maldives observes Holiday on Friday, meaning no ferry will run on this day, so book your tickets accordingly. 

The major activities you can enjoy in Maldives are Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Sandbank trip, fishing, sunset boat tour etc. 

If you are on resort islands, you can experience luxurious living at overwater villas. The food in Maldives is mostly non vegetarian and you can have hard luck as vegetarians. Remember to bring some snacks/ready to eat food if you are a vegan traveller!

Nepal 

Trekking Everest Base Camp

Travel Bucket List Destination: Everest Base Camp

Photo: RoutinelyNomadic

When talking about ultimate bucket list destinations, surely a trek to base camp of the highest mountain in the world is an obvious choice? As if the fame and mystique of Everest Base Camp weren’t enough, it also just happens to be located in the most stunning mountain range on the planet. 

The expansive alpine scenery doesn’t get any better than the Everest region. Lush valleys carved between looming peaks, interspersed with glassy alpine lakes under a stunning blue sky – Everest Base Camp has provided many of our most memorable single viewpoints.

Of course, nothing this good comes easy, and the trek to EBC, as it's known, is definitely a challenge. The most common route from Lukla to base camp and back takes anywhere from 10-14 days including mandatory acclimatization days. 

While it may not compare to the insane attempts to actually summit mighty Everest, hiking 130 kilometres up (and down) steep mountain trails is still very challenging. The real issue in the Himalaya, however, is the altitude. The trail starts at 2,860 metres in Lukla and reaches a literally breathtaking 5,600 metres at Kala Pattar viewpoint, the main highlight near base camp. 

Most people spend 5 or 6 nights above 4,000 metres, meaning that altitude sickness is a real concern. It is crucial to follow all the guidelines to make sure you don’t ascend too fast and have your dream trip end in an expensive helicopter journey back to the hospital in Kathmandu. Most people also hire a porter to ease their load during the day as well as benefit the local economy – it’s a win-win.

Almost everyone spends an extra night in Namche Bazaar on the way up, with its excellent acclimatization day hikes and terrific selection of hotels (we can highly recommend Green Tara Resort – affordable rooms with real showers and electrical outlets). Meanwhile, if you have enough time, there are many outstanding side trips worth adding in – Ama Dablam Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes are particular highlights. All told, the Everest Base Camp trek is a must for any avid hiker.

Oman 

Explore The Best of Oman

Our bucket list is full of many popular destinations, but also twice as many not so popular places. That's how we chose to visit the country of Oman.

For us, Oman is a celebration of the true meaning of traveling, a place that is not flooded with tourists (now and hopefully for long), a place where you can find the pristine beauty of astonishing yet harsh natural conditions, prospering country, and authentic lifestyle.

There are many beautiful places to visit in Oman. Starting from Jebel Akhdar (the Green Mountain) and passing through villages forgotten by people but never forgotten by God, you reach the highest "Mountain of the Sun" - Jebel Shams. Only wild goats dare to walk on the edge of endless canyons and abysses. Ancient tribes built Bahla Fort and Jibreen Castle that continue to attract visitors with their lavish interiors and endless views of date palm fields.

Wahiba sands are welcoming visitors to camp with Bedouins and experience desert life and sunset prayers. Wadis are the natural oasis to freshen up under the scorching Omani sun. Or we can just head to any beach on the Gulf of Oman to enjoy the clean blue sea waters. 

Last but not least, the capital Muscat will entertain you with its historical, religious, and natural sights - Muttrah Souq and Corniche, Muscat Royal Opera House, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Al Alam Palace, and many more. We highly recommend Oman as an authentic and a bit off-the-beaten-path destination for your travel bucket list.

Pakistan 

Experience Pakistan

Travel Bucket List Destination: Phander Lake, Pakistan

Photo: IntentionalDetours

Pakistan is the definition of a bucket list destination. Often overlooked and misunderstood, this magical South Asian nation isn’t where most people think of when they think of their dream trip. But the reality is that this rugged, mountainous country is an adventure traveler’s Nirvana.

Unlike its neighbor India, Pakistan still has very little foreign tourism, meaning you’re more than likely to have its mesmerizing views and rich historical places to yourself.

What’s more is that Pakistanis are some of the most hospitable people on Earth- which means that no matter where in the country you go, someone will undoubtedly make you feel like part of their family. Add in a wide variety of epic landscapes, Mughal-Era relics, a rich and delicious cuisine, and prices that suit budget travelers perfectly, and you have a destination that is truly like nowhere else on Earth.

Though it would take a lifetime to truly see ALL of Pakistan, a month is a good amount of time to start off with (Tip: If you’re flexible on time, it’s possible to extend your visa when you’re there). 

The cultural capital of Lahore features some truly can’t-miss sights: the Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque and the Wazir Khan Mosque might be the most popular attractions, but one of my favorite Lahori nights took place in a small shrine a bit off the tourist trail. 

To really get a taste for Pakistan’s vibrant culture, head to Madho lal Hussain on a Thursday night to witness the psychedelic meditation that is dhamal. Dhamal is a form of dance where participants whirl and twirl themselves into a trance, accompanied by the thumping beats of dhol drums. This Sufi (an order of Islam) practice is something you might never have expected to experience in Pakistan, but never fails to captivate nonetheless!

The cities are cool, but the true beauty of the country lies in its magnificent mountain peaks that tower over its Northern Areas. Hunza is the most popular region in Pakistan’s famous Gilgit-Baltistan territory and is known for its iconic Passu Cathedral, Attabad Lake, Hussaini suspension bridge, and the historic Altit Fort. 

However, an often overlooked valley of Gilgit-Baltistan is perhaps one of the country’s most beautiful. Phander Valley, famous for its beautiful blue lake and peaceful vibes was one of my favorite parts of my trip. If you make it there, be sure to stay at the Lake Inn, which is one of the best value stays in Pakistan and is run by a kind and helpful local man named Faiz Shazad. 

Swat Valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is another place you don’t want to miss! Though much lower in altitude than the record-breaking heights of Gilgit-Baltistan, Swat’s lush-green hills, many alpine lakes, and friendly locals made me extend my time there much longer than planned.

Pakistan is just as much as a feeling as it is a destination. To fully experience it, go with the flow. Accept invitations, be ready for random adventures, and get yourself the local outfit, the shalwar khameez. Not only will those you meet be pleased, but this ‘fit is undoubtedly the most comfortable thing you’ll ever travel in!

Russia 

Experpence St. Petersburg in Winter

Travel Bucket List Destination: St Petersburg

Photo: BackpackAdventures

St Petersburg is a city famous for its summer nights and long cold winters. Therefore most people won't consider a visit to St Petersburg in winter. However, there are many reasons that this great city is even more beautiful during that time.

St Petersburg is a city of palaces and canals. Sometimes it's called the Venice of the north even though the canals were actually inspired by Peter the Great's visit to Amsterdam. Now imagine those canals, including the large Neva river to be solid frozen and covered in a thick blanket of snow.

St Petersburg in winter is a magical winter wonderland. To survive the cold temperatures its key to change in between indoor and outdoor activities. Both are plentiful in the city with numerous museums, churches, palaces and palace gardens.

Its number one attraction is of course the Hermitage in the winter palace. It's one of the largest museums in this world where you will find the art collections of the Tsars. It's easy to spend your whole day here. Other interesting museums include the Faberge museum and Kunstkamera.

Near the Hermitage is the famous Nevski prospekt. This street has lots of beautiful architecture from the 18th century as well as some of St Petersburg's most impressive churches and cathedrals.

This street is at the heart of the city and also has some of St Petersburg's best restaurants where you can try Russian food. Try blini's at Teremok, Pelmeni at Pelmeniya or Russian pies at Shtolle.

For a true sense of how the Russian Tsars once lived you should also visit one of the extravagant palaces outside of St Petersburg. Most come to see the opulent interior rooms, but in winter the gardens are equally beautiful.

If you bring enough clothes to survive the freezing temperatures, St Petersburg in winter will for sure reward you with a memorable experience.

Sri Lanka 

Visit Ella, Sri Lanka

Travel Bucket List Destination: Ella, Sri Lanka

Photo: BothFeetOnTheRoad

There is a tiny island nicknamed the pearl of the Indian ocean that is a must-add to any travel bucket list. From stunning waterfalls, gorgeous mountain ranges, green hills, wild animals, and delicious food Sri Lanka has it all!

And one of the best places to experience all these awesome things Sri Lanka has to offer is in Ella.

Ella is a small town located in Central Sri Lanka, in what is called the Central highlands. It’s surrounded by beautiful scenery, which you can admire when hiking Ella’s rock or Little Adam’s Peak.

Some other amazing things to do in Ella including checking out the stunning architecture of the 9-arch bridge with the Sri Lankan hills at the back. Of course, the unforgettable train ride between Ella and Kandy is one of the top things to do in Ella.

But, before you leave Ella by train, make sure you learn more about tea at one of the tea factories around Ella and that you check out some of the waterfalls around Ella. Such as the Rawana Ella Falls, The Ella Walla falls, The Diyaluma Falls, The Namunukula Falls, and the Dunhinda Falls. Rent a TukTuk, ignore TLC’s advice, and do go chasing waterfalls in Ella.

Ella is also the best place to try Sri Lanka’s signature dish, rice & curry. The number one rice & curry restaurant in Ella is called Matey hut and it’s always filled with eaters. And what’s even better is that they also provide cooking classes, so you can learn how to make the best rice and curry from the best rice and curry maker in the country!

Lastly, if you are looking for more relaxing things to do in Ella, check out one of the places that offer Yoga classes or check out the Mountains Heaven Hotel for their infinity pool (you don’t have to stay there to use the pool). It is that combination of beautiful scenery and fun and active things to do that make Sri Lanka and Ella a must-add for any travel bucket-list.

Australia

Sydney

Bondi to Coogee walk

Travel Bucket List Destination: Sydney

Photo: JustGoTravelling

The Bondi to Coogee walk in Sydney, Australia is probably one of the most beautiful walks you’ll ever do.

Situated along the coastal cliffs, you will be gifted with jaw-dropping views of the ocean. Along the walk, you will come across little gems of coves each with their own personality. Some will be golden sand beaches with crystal clear water inviting you to take a dip.

Other spots will be coves with rocks and boulders where people often sunbathe and then dive into the sea to cool off.

Have your camera ready as you can spot beautiful wildlife during your walk, such as native parrots.

The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is approximately 6 km in length and will take a minimum of around 2 hours to complete. This is the bare minimum as you are sure to take your time and relax in certain areas.

At the beginning of the walk, there is a famous spot known as the Bondi Icebergs Club which features a swimming pool within the sea. There are always other free rock pools along the walk you can enjoy.

Coogee has its own beach known for people playing beach volleyball so this is great for those who wish to have a bit more fun on the beach.

This is a perfect thing to do even if you have 1 or 2 days in Sydney.

Tasmania 

Hiking in Tasmania

Travel Bucket List Destination: Tasmania

Photo: TravellingTam

Shake off any hints of cabin fever and give the legs a good stretch with some epic wilderness hikes in Australia’s only island state, Tasmania. Prized for some of the freshest air in the world and fantastic, unspoilt scenery, Tassie will get you away from it all and help you feel reconnected to nature. Tasmania is a fascinating state,  perfect for a quiet outdoor retreat. 

With over 19 stunning national parks and state reserves that cover a whopping 40%+ of the island, Tasmania is one of the best places in Australia for bush hiking. From imposing coastlines, pristine untouched forests, otherworldly mountain-scapes to diverse alpine landscapes - Tasmania is heaven for a nature lover.

There are two especially famous multi-day hikes in Tasmania that are no doubt on any keen walkers bucket list. The first is the Overland Track, a 6 day, 65km alpine walk through the Tasmanian Wilderness Heritage Area. You’ll need to carry a pack for the duration but you don’t necessarily need a tent – there are huts along the way.

Another popular long hike is the 4 day ‘Three Capes Track’, taking you along some of the highest sea cliffs in the world and to, as the name suggests, three capes (or ‘peninsulas’).

For those preferring shorter day walks, there are two you absolutely cannot miss. The first is to Cradle Mountain and the midnight blue Dove Lake for some of the most epic mountain views in the area.

For those preferring coastal views, it has to be Wineglass Bay to see the stunning contrasting shades of the bays from above, and the squeaky-white sand of Hazards Beach.

Africa 

Egypt 

Experience the best places in Egypt

There really are SO many incredible places to visit in Egypt and unique experiences to have (even beyond the great pyramids!). When you first arrive in Egypt, in many ways it can feel like you’ve been transported to another world. 

Start your adventure off through a city like no other and one that is often referred to as the ‘Mother of the World’, Cairo! Stay a few days to explore the cobblestone streets of Old Cairo, view breathtaking mosques, or visit the Egyptian Museum to see over 120,000 incredible relics including Tutankhamun’s Gold Mask. 

Don’t forget to sharpen your bargaining skills at the local markets and get a feel for the local culture by sitting and people watching at one of the many local cafes with a mint tea in hand.

It is true though, that no trip to Egypt is complete with a stop by the most infamous wonders of the world, The Great Pyramids. While the Pyramids are still not as busy as they once were, it really is the perfect time to be able to take it all in (almost) all to yourself!

Then travel south through Upper Egypt as the Ancient Egyptian used to - by sailing the Nile. 

Begin your cruise in Aswan and end it in Luxor, having admired so many incredible sites in between, from the Temple of Philae to the Valley of the Kings and Queens, you’ll see places you thought only existed in movies!

Egypt is also often not the first place you may think of for crystal blue waters or pristine sand, but they genuinely have some of the most beautiful beaches on Earth. The beaches here are desktop background worthy and are a must-do if you’re looking for relaxation. Take your pick of a Sea, from the Red to the Meditteranean (or both!), you’ll fall in love with Egypt’s beaches.

Immerse yourself in Egypt, a country full of rich cultures and history, hospitable people and a bucket list worthy adventure!

Madagascar 

The Avenue of Boababs

Travel Bucket List Destination: The Avenue of Boababs

Photo: ALifeOfY

The Avenue of the Baobabs, in Madagascar, is one of those bucket list experiences we all dream about.

Standing at nearly 30-metres high, the imposing baobabs truly are remarkable. To survive the harsh conditions in which they live, the ancient giants store water in their massive trunks. This is the secret to their incredibly long lives with some said to be 3000 years old!

Most travellers visit the Avenue from Morondava, a little laid-back town on the west coast. Just getting there from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, is a long 12 hour journey. From Morondava, you will need a 4x4 vehicle for the 45 minutes of bumpy dirt roads leading to the baobabs.

The avenue is still a working road so expect to see the odd car or zebu & cart! For something really special though, you have to visit at sunset or sunrise! Both if possible! You won't have the place to yourself, but these trees are big enough to be shared around!

Try out your bargaining skills and purchase some cute little baobab tree carvings (don't worry, they're not made from baobab trees!) Or try the versatile baobab fruit that's now classed as a superfood! 

This is plenty to see in this part of Madagascar. Morondava itself is a lovely little quiet beach town. The Kirindy Forest, near the avenue, offers visitors a chance to see the local lemurs. And one of the most spectacular sites, just a 'short' 8-9 hour drive away, are the stone forests of Tsingy de Bemaraha national park. 

One of the reasons why the Avenue is becoming more and more precious is due to the fact that 90% of the forests in Madagascar have been lost to agriculture and logging. The baobab species along the Avenue, the Adansonia grandidieri, have even been placed on threatened species list.

So why not make your visit extra special by finding the baobab tree nursery next to the car park. This is your chance to plant your very own baby baobab for just a few dollars! 

If we're all lucky, your little seedling will be part of a much larger baobab forest in the future. A forest that can be enjoyed for thousands of years!

South Africa 

Driving South Africa’s Garden Route

Travel Bucket List Destination: South Africa

Photo: ChampagneOnArrival

Driving South Africa’s Garden Route is renowned as one of the world’s most scenic road trips. Called as such due to the diverse natural beauty you encounter along this 300km stretch of coastline, there is everything here from forest, mountains, lagoons, rivers and of course, beaches.

There are several great places to stop at and explore along the way, including the town of Knysna. Nestled around a lagoon flanked by two sandstone cliffs known as the Knysna Heads that separate the town from the surging Indian Ocean, the town is a popular base for those looking to explore the area.

Don’t miss trying the famous oysters here, they even have a several day long Oyster Festival here in June every year. Freshline Fisheries is a great casual eatery for every kind of fresh seafood imaginable or try the appropriately named Tapas & Oysters for sweeping views across the lagoon while you enjoy your meal.

Taking to the water is one of the best things to do in Knysna, either via a sunset cruise across the lagoon or sailing out through the Heads in the hope of spotting some of the whales that migrate past here with their young between June and November each year.

Further down the coast is the town of Plettenberg Bay, a fantastic spot for beach lovers; head to The Lookout for a cocktail and a burger overlooking the pristine beach below. Animal lovers can visit the Monkeyland and Birds of Eden sanctuaries and if you’re a sucker for a great view and the outdoors, take a hike through the incredibly scenic Robberg Nature Reserve. Keep your eyes out to sea through, it’s a great place to spot dolphins playing in the suf.

The best way to see the Garden Route is to hire a car or by private tour, this is a road trip destination after all and public transport options are very limited. Additionally, you’ll want the flexibility to be able to stop and take in some of amazing sights you’ll discover along the way!

Tanzania 

Safari in Serengeti National Park 

Travel Bucket List Destination: Tanzania

Photo: TheWorldInMyPocket

Going on a safari in Africa is one of those things that everyone should do once in a lifetime. Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is a wonderful lesson on sustainability and ethical tourism, but it’s also a magical experience. Seeing baby lions or cheetahs protectively walking in the thick grass with their cubs is something that you can only experience on a safari.

As a safari in Africa is not a cheap experience, to make sure that you get to see as many animals as possible, choose Serengeti National Park in Tanzania as your destination. 

Stretching on an area of almost 15,000 square kilometres, Serengeti National Park is home to all of the Big Five, so sought by tourists, in a safari.

Serengeti National Park is also famous for its annual migration, where almost 2 million wildebeest and zebras migrate north or south, following the rain. Serengeti is also known for its numerous populations of hippos, Nile crocodiles and honey badgers. 

When it comes to accommodation in Serengeti, the best option to truly connect with nature would be a campsite, which is mostly offered in a budget safari in Tanzania. The camp sites are basic and offer accommodation in tents, but once all the lights are out, the savannah comes to life! Hyenas are always roaming around the camps, trying to get into the bins, where the cooks have thrown away the leftovers from dinner. 

Towards the middle of the night, lions come out to hunt and you can hear their roars as if they were just next to you. Before the sunrise, zebras might graze their way through the tents. It’s a true spectacle of Mother Earth. 

Uganda 

See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

Travel Bucket List Destination: Uganda

Photo: RestAndRecuporation

Seeing the gorillas in Uganda is one activity that you will want to experience again and again!

They are so similar to humans that you will be shocked by their habits and behaviors. They live in families guided by a leader which usually is a silverback gorilla, the strongest of the group. He has women and weaker males with him and he gets all the main decisions. Which usually are when to move and where to go to find food, and when to stop for an afternoon nap or for the night.

Mountain gorillas are located only in a small area which is divided into DR Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. The latter is the best place to see them due to the number of families, security, and the quality of tourist facilities. Head to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where all but one habituated group live.

Sleep one night in a nice safari tent in the forest, wake up early, and follow your guides on the slopes of the hills until you find the animals. You will then spend one hour with them and see how they behave.

The permit to see the gorillas is quite expensive, 700 USD, but it is worth it and it is half the price you will pay in Rwanda.