With a world as big as ours, it should come as no surprise that there are sights, sounds and experiences that just can’t be missed. While it’s easy to keep one’s head in the sand with all the trials and tribulations of home life, it’s absolutely necessary that everyone get the chance to get out and experience this world. If not, how else can one truly gain the perspective needed to believe that one’s life is being fulfilled?
It’s this sentiment that inspired the list below. On it, we’re going to share our 20 picks for things that should make everyone’s travel bucket list. Now, we’re not saying that you’ve got to knock out these experiences in a year or even several years. However, these are definitely some things you’ll want to keep on that list – or at least in the back of your mind – when you’re planning a vacation.
Doing so will ensure that you’re giving yourself the chance to experience that truly incredible things that this world of ours has to offer. And, isn’t that what travelling is ultimately about? Of course it is! Let’s take a look…
1. Galapagos Islands
Whatever you think you know about the Galapagos Islands, nothing compares to actually being there.
2. Crocodile Diving (Africa)
Sure, it’s a little bit dangerous, but not as much as you might think! Plus, the thrill will leave you breathless.
3. La Casa del Abor (Ecuador)
Ever wanted to hop on a swing and jet out over the abyss? That’s what’s on tap at this destination, which is also known as “The End of the World”.
4. Big Sky Stargazing (Montana)
If you really want to feel infinitesimal as compared to the size of the Universe, try stargazing in Big Sky Country.
5. Wildebeest Migration (Tanzania)
Forget about “The Running of the Bulls”! You’ve not seen the majesty and fury of nature until you’ve seen a great wildebeest migration in Tanzania.
6. Champagne Pool (New Zealand)
Okay, so you can’t swim in the Champagne Pool unfortunately, but this is a hot spring that’s unlike any other in the world.
7. Cerro Negro (Nicaragua)
Sure, you could go many places to check out an active volcano… But, which of those places would let you sled down it?
8. Shwedagon Pagoda (Burma)
This incredible Buddhist Temple adds completely new meaning to the term “bling-blind”. In fact, there’s a 76-carat diamond atop!
9. Jomblang Cave (Indonesia)
Heading down the full 80-meters to the bottom of this vertical cave is an experience that can’t be fully put into words.
10. Ha Long Bay (Vietnam)
You’ve seen the pictures of the boats traversing Ha Long Bay? Why just watch them from the shore? Hop on board!
11. Yi Peng Festival (Thailand)
The sight of floating candles at the Yi Peng Festival might be one of the most beautiful things a person can witness on this green Earth of ours.
12. Blue Lagoon (Iceland)
There are spas, and then there’s this. How could you argue with soaking in this incredible hot spring while sipping a heady brew?
13. Plitvice Lakes (Croatia)
If Croatia hasn’t made your list of places to check out, then the Plitvice Lakes could very well change all of that.
14. Alhambra (Spain)
Beautiful and colorful, this palace is a work of art unto itself and will endlessly fascinate you with its ornateness.
15. Buckskin Gulch (Utah)
This is another experience that firmly finds itself in the camp of those that feel like setting foot on another planet.
16. Sagano Bamboo Forest (Japan)
There’s something almost otherworldly about traversing the pathways through the breathtaking Sagano Bamboo Forest.
17. The Lavender Fields (Provence, France)
While the Lavender Fields of Provence are a sight to behold, it’s the beautiful smell that will really transport you.
18. Salar de Uyuni (Bolivia)
After it rains, this great salt flat becomes a giant mirror. Walking on it makes you feel like you’re stepping into the sky itself.
19. Cappadocia (Turkey)
Even if you’ve never given a thought to taking a hot-air balloon ride, this incredible experience should make your bucket list.
20. Machu Picchu (Peru)
On any bucket list, there has to be at least a few obvious items… And this is one that definitely should make the cut.