When people write their bucket lists, that is, a list of things they hope to do before they die, travel is often included. Visiting exotic locations expands the mind and creates lifetime memories.
It’s also something that requires some planning and investment to pull off. So we have put together a list of some truly incredible locations that improve any bucket list. Start dreaming (and saving) now and soon those dreams will be replaced with fond memories.
Relaxing Beaches
When your dream vacation involves soaking up the sun while relaxing on soft sand with a cold beverage in your hand, look to the world’s best beach destinations.
Bali, Indonesia. A paradise in many senses of the word, Bali offers a ton of beaches with white sand and crystal clear water. At night, enjoy the vibrant nightlife at the many restaurants, bars, and clubs. And if you get bored of the beach, there are also jungles and volcanoes to explore.
The Maldives. The name of this tropical nation is plural because it is actually made up of over 1,000 coral islands! It’s a true haven of comfort and luxury, offering a range of lodging options from hotel resorts to underwater villas, all within sight of bright blue water.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia. The most famous island in Tahiti, Bora Bora has exotic bungalows over the water and underwater adventures galore, including hand-feeding of sharks! Not-to-be-missed is the thrilling performance of Tahiti’s famed fire dancers.
Honorable mentions. Honolulu, Hawaii; Santorini, Greece; Phuket, Thailand
Vibrant Cities
If you crave a location that constantly thrums with energy and has some of the best food and shopping anywhere on the globe, turn to one of these exciting cities.
New Orleans, United States. If you can only visit one city in the U.S., make it New Orleans, a festive melting pot of American, French, and African cultures with the food and art to match. It’s always a party in New Orleans, but visit during the famed Mardi Gras celebration to truly cut loose.
Paris, France. Everything about Paris is iconic, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s hard to oversell the food and wine, too. The Louvre Museum should not be missed by anyone who wants to stare history and beauty in the eye.
Dubai, U.A.E.. Dubai is a city where you can experience many modern miracles of technology – the tallest skyscraper and the largest man-made island in the world – while at the same time reveling in the historic markets and museums.
Honorable mentions. Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan; London, England
Mountain Escapes
Are you excited to hike the lofty peaks of a famous mountain range and fish or swim in the streams and lakes that accompany them? Here are a few surprising places to do just that.
Kerry, Ireland. The picture perfect county of Kerry is located in Ireland’s far western region. It is simply packed with mountains, lakes, and coasts. Explore Killarney National Park for the natural wonder, and then make your way home to one of many charming small towns.
Vancouver, Canada. Vancouver is a mecca for hikers, with a stunning number of climbable peaks. The Britannia Range has 23 peaks alone! Vancouver is also a modern city with plenty of amenities, museums, and restaurants to keep you busy when you’re not out in the wilds.
Engadin Valley, Switzerland:
You can’t go wrong anywhere in Switzerland, but if you’re looking for absolutely stunning views of both mountains and lakes, visit any of the 13 lovely towns in the Engadin Valley. Beyond hiking and skiing, you’ll enjoy seasonal festivals, rail excursions, sailing, and Switzerland’s only national park.
Honorable mentions. Whistler, British Columbia; Queenstown, New Zealand; San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Remote Adventures
When your highest goal is to get off the beaten path and take a trip that no one else in your circle has made, look to these remote locations.
Antarctica. Despite being one of the very remotest spots on earth, Antarctica actually sees around 50,000 visitors per year. Most arrive by ship or small plane and stay only a short time on the icy land. But while there, you can spot whales, go sea kayaking, and absorb the breathtaking views.
Paro Valley, Bhutan. This mysterious locale is tucked between India and China. Visitors come to experience sacred Himalayan Buddhist sites and the sustainable tourism practices. Paro Valley is an incredible spot for hiking, getting immersed in history, and eating exotic food.
Andorra. Located deep in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain is Andorra, a tiny nation ruled in partnership by the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell. Here you’ll find the valleys dotted with ancient yet elaborate medieval churches. This is an excellent place to ski in the winter and hike in the summer, and you can go all day without seeing another soul if you want to.
Honorable mentions. Socotra Islands, Arabian Sea; Alice Springs, Australia; Zavkhan, Mongolia
Have we inspired you to add any of these exciting locations to your bucket list? We wish you safe travels and many happy memories to cherish for the rest of your life.