Everyone has a bucket list. A combination of places around the globe that you must see before you die. They may be scenic mountain-scapes, historically important monuments or beautiful bodies of water that capture your imagination.
The joy of crossing an item off after a holiday is only matched by the anticipation that comes after a new spot is added and the next trip is being planned.
Whilst ticking items off your list is a treat, picking which ones to put on and which to exclude can be overwhelming. Don’t worry though, if you can’t decide where to go next, this list will keep you busy planning trips for years ahead!
Yukon
Remote, wild and beautiful, Yukon is the smallest territory in Canada. Go dogsledding through a snowy wonderland or ice-skating on Tagish Lake. Be sure to make time to take in one of the most incredible natural wonder’s the world has to offer.
Plan your trip to Yukon between November and March and you’ll have the chance to experience the Northern Lights in its full glory. The gorgeous green glow that illuminates the night sky is a natural phenomenon and is a must-see sight. If it wasn’t already on your bucket list, add it now.
You can see the Northern Lights from basically anywhere in Yukon but some top spots to consider include the Takhini Hot Springs, Kluane National Park and the Watson Lake Region.
ORKNEY ISLANDS
Off the North Coast of Scotland lies a group of small islands called the Orkney Islands. Situated on the mainland of the 70 landmasses is a place called the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney“.
A world heritage listed site, the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney” contains the village of Skara Brae, a sophisticated settlement 4000 years old, and the Ring of Brodger, Orkney Island’s very own Stonehenge. Say hello to the Old Man of Hoy and try not to get frightened as you descend into the Taversoe Tuck Chambered Cairn
The historical significance of these places is truly amazing, as they give us an understanding of how people in the distant past lived.
Do make sure to rug up when you visit Orkney, as strong winds lead to extremely cold weather conditions!
RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
La Montaña De Los Siete Colores, or Rainbow Mountain as it is more commonly known, is a mountain range located in the Andes of Peru.
The brightly coloured landscape is such a unique sight. It almost appears to be painted, such is the depth and vividness of the rainbow-like spectacle.
Hiking trips are available to book, and while the high altitudes, blistering winds and intense UV rays may cause some troubles, the view at the peak makes it worthwhile. Consider the Llama Trek if you want to challenge yourself and become fully immersed in Peruvian culture.
RIO DE JANEIRO
Rio De Janeiro is the craziest city on Earth, and has an unrivalled volume of experiences to explore.
Party it up at the Carnival, visit the “Christ the Redeemer” statue perched atop Mount Corcovado or explore the world-famous beach scene.
Chill out at the Jardim Botânico or take the cable-car to Sugar Loaf Mountain. For full immersion in the Rio lifestyle visit Pedro do Sal, the birthplace of the samba.
You will never be short of something to do in Rio, the beating heart of Brazilian culture. The food is incredible, the music is pumping, and for the most part, the weather is amazing!
TRINCOMALEE
Located in the North-East corner of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee is the perfect place to get a beautiful beach experience whilst staying away from the typical tourist spots.
With resorts and hotels available right on the waterfront, it is the ideal place to soak up the sun and relax.
Play some beach volleyball at Uppuvelli Beach with the locals and while you’re there, stop in at Fernando’s Beach Bar for a cheeky cocktail or two. Definitely make time to go snorkelling at Pigeon Island, only a 20 minute boat ride away from the mainland.
As an extra incentive, the ocean out the front faces east, making it an excellent spot for viewing a stunning early morning sunrise!
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
An outdoor paradise, Yosemite National Park contains huge mountains, beautiful lakes, thundering waterfalls and thousands of flora and fauna species.
With over 1000 kilometres worth of hiking trails, you could spend weeks here and still not see everything there is to offer!
Mountain biking, rock climbing and even rafting are just a few of the other activities available at the park.
Be smart and plan your trip early and during the offseason, as an average of 4 million people visit every year, making the park feel crowded at times.
AMIENS
If you want to go to France, skip Paris and add the town of Amiens to your itinerary. Split in half by the River Somme, the picturesque spot has plenty to offer visitors.
The Amiens Cathedral is truly awe-inspiring, with stained glass windows and stunning statues adorning the monument. Make sure to stop in at the neighbourhood of Saint-Leu, a place of many-coloured houses and tiny connecting bridges that span the River Somme.
The unique floating gardens are also a must-see spot, where 60 kilometres of tiny canals connect an array of beautiful garden scapes. An hours train ride from Paris, Amiens is the perfect place for a day trip while in France!
These seven ideas will be enough to get the brain juices pumping and inspire many years worth of travel. So folks, get out there and start exploring!