We are all guilty of doing our day jobs and dreaming about where we’d rather be and what we’d rather be doing (unless you’re a travel writer, of course… or Beyonce). But don’t just dream about what might have been – get out there and do it!
Below are ten of the most amazing things to see and do before you, well, kick the bucket…
1. Sail The Galapagos Islands
Astonishing, unique and home to the famed Galapagos giant tortoise (weighing around 550lbs), Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands really do feel like another world. It’s famed for its biodiversity and you can snorkel with white-tipped sharks and sea lions.
The Islands boast some of the highest levels of endemism (species being unique to one area) on the planet. A truly jaw-dropping once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. Laze In Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
For the ultimate unforgettable indulgence, visit Iceland’s Blue Lagoon. Unwind in its warm geothermal spas and encounter the bluest lagoons you’ll ever see. It’s no wonder that the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of the most well-loved and visited attractions in Iceland.
3. Trek The Incas In Peru
You’d be forgiven for thinking that the trek to Machu Picchu is all about arriving at the enchanted lost city, but the completely breath-taking experience to reach Machu Picchu through the Andes mountain range, is just as spectacular. Snow-capped mountains one day and tropical lush vegetation the next. A truly magical experience.
4. Road Trip Across California
Ever wanted to feel as though you were in a great American film? Take a road trip through California and absorb the iconic scenery: Gaze in awe at the complex construction of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, wonder at nature’s creation at Big Sur on California’s coast and wrap up in laid-back L.A for an authentic Hollywood ending.
5. Dive The Great Barrier Reef
The supreme Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the magnificent beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. Dive and explore the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, a living treasure so vast, it can be seen from space. Dive through coral islands (where there are 83 species of coral) and navigate through the Daintree National Park, which claims to be the oldest tropical rainforest in the world.
6. Marvel At The Mahal
The Taj Mahal is undeniably spectacular. Built entirely out of white marble and with lavish decoration, it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen. The architecture is sublime, and coupled with its romantic back story, it’s little wonder that it attracts thousands of visitors each year. Explore the city of Agra by bike and experience sunset on the Yamuna for an unforgettable end to the day.
7. Hike China’s Great Wall
The first view of this ancient monolith meandering away through the hills is amazing. See the original fortifications by avoiding the touristy reconstruction at Badaling and travel onwards to more secluded Jinshanling. Attempt the steep-sided scramble on this stunning stretch if you’re feeling energetic enough and admire the relatively untouched and impressive scenery.
8. Explore The Grand Canyon
It’s magnificent and vast beauty lends itself to being one of the seven wonders of the natural world. At 227 miles long, 18 miles wide and at least a mile deep, the Grand Canyon sure is grand. But apart from its greatness, it’s the stunning mosaic of colours and erosional forms that make it particularly exquisite. Visit at sunrise and sunset to appreciate the fully beauty. But don’t just peer over the edge like most tourists do, explore its far-flung regions and view beautiful marvels like the Havasu Falls.
9. Stroke Whales In Mexico
The San Ignacio Lagoon in Baja California is a breeding place for grey whales that adore being stroked and tickled by humans. To participate – or even just to watch – is a truly extraordinary, inspirational and poignant experience and is quite possibly the most incredible wildlife encounter on Earth.
10. Sleep Under The Stars In The Sahara Desert
The stuff dreams are made of: after a long trek in the mysterious Sahara desert, lying down to look up and count the shooting stars that burn through the clear darkness of the sky before falling into a blissful slumber. Climbing sand dunes in the day and watching the sun rise and set on the horizon. Perfection.
