The internet has made the world a much smaller place. It’s surprisingly easy to virtually visit almost any destination. However, while this is a useful way to expand your understanding of the planet, virtual visits aren’t the same as physical ones.
Vacations are more than an opportunity to relax and de-stress. They offer you the chance to see other cultures discover stunning natural locations, and it’s an effective way to eliminate prejudices and stereotyping.
As Mark Twain once said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”
The problem is, despite the world digitally shrinking, it’s still a big place, it can be difficult to know where to go next. Here are five destinations for you to choose from, each one needs to be visited at least once in your lifetime:
1. Australia
Australia is a country and a continent. It’s the 6th largest country in the world and has an impressive array of attractions.
You’ll want to visit the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House, Cairns, and the Daintree National Park. It’s also important to check out the outback and even try some Australian bush tucker. Other sights worth looking at include Melbourne, Sydney, Darwin, Tasmania, and the world-famous Bondi Beach.
There are also several amazing national parks, the Gold Coast, and even the Snowy Mountains. In fact, the list of things to do in Australia is almost unlimited. You’re going to need to allow yourself plenty of time for a visit.
Before you come, you should discover the most interesting facts about Australia and use this information to help plan your trip. It’s the only way to see as much of this country as possible.
2. Italy
Several fascinating destinations in Europe are worth visiting. However, if you need to pick just one country, choose Italy.
Italy has been culturally significant for thousands of years. It was the heart of the Roman Empire, and there are many architectural gems dating from this period and others. The people are known to be friendly, and you’ll experience some of the finest foods in the world, along with some impressive wines.
If you have the time, you should visit Como Cathedral, St Mark’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum, the Colosseum in Rome, Pompeii, and the Sistine Chapel.
Italy also has some stunning countryside. Check out the Amalfi Coast and enjoy tasting different wines in the rolling Tuscan hills.
3. Japan
Japan doesn’t often come top of a bucket list, but it should! Its culture is traditionally very polite and incredibly respectful of older generations.
Japan has a long history and is home to a surprising number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s also the place to try the incredibly fast Shinkansen train or to try some of their unique cuisine.
When you plan your visit, you’ll want to ensure you see Tokyo. It still seems like a city from the future, and surprisingly, it’s constantly changing.
The capital, Kyoto, is the best place to experience traditional Japan. It’s home to over 1,000 temples, many of which are more elaborate than you’ll have ever seen before.
Contemporary art lovers should include Naoshima, the rural island that was nearly a ghost town. Other delights include Mt Fuji, Hiroshima, Okinawa, and Kamikochi.
There is little doubt you’ll find something for everyone in Japan.
4. Africa
Africa is a massive continent. There are many places worth visiting. However, one thing you need to do in Africa is take a safari. This can be done in various places, including South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, and even Uganda.
Book a tour operator before you go or find one when you get there. You’ll be treated to luxury lodges and all the details of the safari will be taken care of. The tour operators will help to ensure you see as many creatures as possible. That includes elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos.
It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
5. Antarctica
Antarctica sits at the very south of the planet and is the least populated continent. It’s cold, icy, and generally uninviting. However, the continent is larger than Europe and is home to some impressive sights.
These include the Brown Bluff, McMurdo Dry Valleys, Mount Erebus, and the Ross Ice Shelf. You can travel the continent, ideally with a guide. Or, you can simply book a cruise and see it all from the comfort of a ship.
Summing Up
It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking at luxury travel or doing it on a shoestring. The above five destinations can all be visited and should be included on your list of places to explore and appreciate during your lifetime.
All you have to do is make a plan and commit to going. The rest will take care of itself.