"You have brains in your head — feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go…"
– Dr. Seuss
If the pandemic taught us anything, it is to explore the world's wonders while we have the chance. Now that the world is slowly opening up, it is the perfect time to craft your travel bucket list. Here's our list of dreamy destinations to visit in your lifetime.
1. Machu Picchu, Peru:
Machu Picchu is perhaps one of the most iconic sites in the world. sitting at 2,430 meters above sea level, the best way to explore the site is through a four-day trek along the magical Inca Trail. But plenty of public transport routes are also available for those who don't fancy the walk.
Although the title of ‘Lost City of the Incas’ has been proven a myth, its stunning panoramic views, and cultural monuments could not be more real.
2. Dubrovnik, Croatia:
Compared to Machu Picchu, a trip to Dubrovnik on the coast of Croatia is a piece of cake!
With beautiful terracotta roofs stretching out to the sea, ‘The Pearl of the Adriatic’ lives up to its name and has even caught the eye of the world of cinema. Popular gems such as Game of Thrones, Star Wars and Robin Hood were all filmed here.
3. Paro Valley, Bhutan:
Paro Valley is known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic landscapes. Home to the iconic Takhtsang Lakhang (also known as the Tiger’s Nest), its National Museum displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artwork.
From its unique position between China and India, you can catch a glimpse of the eastern ridges of the Himalayas. Bhutan opened its doors to tourists only in the 1970s, leaving so much to discover for the ones who wonder!
4. Havana, Cuba:
Havana is THE place for bohemian bars and cool cafes. Its strong mix of multiple cultures creates inviting settings filled with stunning colors. Did we mention the weather is amazing all year around? Even in winter the temperature does not drop below 22°C.
The city itself holds a great variety of sights, with the16th Century Hispanic buildings and vibrant modern buildings standing side by side.
A trip to Havana is a walk through history - you can ride in classic American cars, or dance your night away until sunrise.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark:
One of the more accessible bucket list destinations, Copenhagen is the crown jewel of the Baltics. Forget cars and taxis and explore the city by bike under the gorgeous Scandinavian sun! Other than the rustic fishing ports, the Tivoli Gardens host operas, concerts and events.
Local cuisine such as Rugbrød and Smørrebrød accompanied by famous Danish pastries are must-tries. And don't miss the chance to experience Copenhagen’s jazz scene at one of its two world-famous clubs, Jazzcup and Jazzhus Montmarte.
6. The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt:
No travel list would be complete without the Pyramids.
If you want to explore Egypt beyond the Pyramids, the Red Sea is next on the list offering a diversity of corals and colorful, distinctive fish.
If you go further inland, much of the land is desert, making it the perfect spot for a new kind of adventure. You can even camp but are you brave enough?
7. Hanoi, Vietnam:
Rich history? Check. Busy street life? Check. Diverse cultures? Check. Vietnam is home to centuries of French, Asian and Chinese cultures all blended into one. It’s a colorful paradise for your Instagram feed.
That aside, its location provides the ideal opportunity to visit the iconic Halong Bay. If you want to go more off the track, then Cat Ba Island or Lan Ha Bay are highly recommended.
8. Petra, Jordan:
Not many places on this list have been around since 9,000 BC, but Petra has. The heritage site is safe and accessible for tourists, and at night, over 1,500 candles light your way around the ruins - Isn't it romantic?
The ‘Rose City’ gives stunning views across the valley and through the buildings. Don't forget to add ‘The Gateway’ at Bab Al Siq and The Treasury to your plan.
9. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:
Who wouldn’t want to jump into a country with carnivals, football and natural beauty in its DNA?
Standing at 38 meters high, the infamous ‘Christ the Redeemer’ towers over the beaches and the favelas with a spectacular view! Below, you can find several hike routes that show the balance between Rio’s urban and rural beauty.
10. Northern Lights, Norway:
The ‘Aurora Borealis’, or Northern Lights, has amazed millions of tourists and locals alike. Witnessing this phenomenon, however, comes with the cold and darkness of Norway’s forests, so wrap up warm!
A bucket list is not only a wish list but a plan to make your dream a reality! Our world has a lot to offer and these destinations are just the tip of the iceberg.
Have you visited any of them?
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