Okay, okay, hold your horses here before scoffing and saying, 'oh gosh, this is just another one of those places to see before you die articles.' When the idea was suggested to us, this was also our first reaction, but then we thought about making an article about travel destinations that are as beautiful as they look in the photos, places to visit that truly offer something more than just crowds of tourists and give you memories of a lifetime.
So, you should expect the places to visit on this list to be something a bit more unexpected than the Grand Canyon (although it is absolutely stunning, too) and something more along the lines of an active volcano hike in Guatemala, a cruise through European Christmas markets, and maybe a trip to release baby turtles in Mexico. Yup, baby turtles, you read that right. In essence, this list isn't about just the beautiful places to visit, but also the experiences tied to them. Honestly, this alone could be a real game-changer in planning your precious travel bucket list!
Now that you get the gist of what to expect from this article, prepare to make some new slots in your bucket list before you actually scroll down and check out the charming travel destinations. Once you are there, though, be sure to rank the submissions so the unique gems find their way to the top of this list. And lastly, share this article with your friends, especially the ones you'd like to go on an adventure with!
#1 See The Northern Lights In Norway
From late September to late March, northern lights frequently soar across the sky of Northern Norway. With its numerous islands, extensive fjords, and high mountains, this region of Norway is not only perfect for viewing the northern lights, but it’s also arguably one of the most breathtaking and fascinating places on Earth.
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#2 Volunteer At An Elephant Rescue In Thailand
There are several different elephant sanctuaries to pick from if you want to volunteer with elephants and learn more about them, the issues they face, and how you can help.
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31points
#3 Hike The Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
Any traveler who wishes to delve into ancient history and discover the spirit of Inca culture should take the traditional few-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.
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31points
#4 Explore The Ancient Ruins Of Petra In Jordan
Since the ancient city is featured in so many Instagram feeds, it’s unsurprising that many adventure seekers have put Petra atop their bucket lists. The last installment of the saga-spanning Indiana Jones films, which included this fantastic location, made the ancient city of Petra a desired travel destination.
31points
#5 Ride In A Gondola In Venice
Even though it is pricey and perhaps feels overly touristy, it is an experience you simply must have when in Venice. Besides, riding a gondola allows you to visit areas you otherwise wouldn't be able to!
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#6 Explore Dracula’s Castle In Transylvania, Romania
Although Vlad never lived at the castle, there are paintings of him and a detailed account of the legend on the castle's walls. However, for those with claustrophobia, be aware that you'll have to squeeze through congested, small spaces!
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30points
#7 Visit Gardens By The Bay In Singapore
Gardens by the Bay is a haven for both aspiring horticulturists and nature lovers. Situated by the Marina Bay Waterfront in the center of Singapore, Gardens by the Bay’s surreal sceneries, paradise-like sites, and lush greenery reveal the absolute grandeur of nature.
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29points
#8 Explore The Acropolis In Greece
Visiting the Acropolis comes immediately to mind when considering a city trip to Athens. The Acropolis is the primary tourist destination in Athens, just as the Colosseum is in Rome. It is one of the most famous sights and tourist attractions when visiting Athens and Greece.
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28points
#9 Walk The Spanish El Camino De Santiago De Compostela
A profoundly moving experience is traveling one of The Way of Saint James' paths. Every day, the Camino is open, greeting travelers from all over the world and giving them an extraordinary experience they will remember for the rest of their lives.
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27points
#10 Wear A Mask At Carnival In Venice
Carnivals are a lot of fun, and even more so if you dress yourself up and make hotel reservations in advance. If you are ever in Venice midwinter, do yourself a favor and partake in the Carnival of Venice. During the carnival celebrations, the entire city of Venice is transformed into an even more spectacular setting. When one thinks Venice can't get even more beautiful, the Carnival of Venice proves one wrong.
27points
#11 Release Baby Turtles Into The Ocean In Mexico
If you are ever in Mexico, one of the best family activities in the area is going to a baby sea turtle release. Nearly every day during the hatching season (mid-June through mid-November), sea turtle release ceremonies occur at several camps and sanctuaries around Banderas Bay.
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26points
#12 See An Opera At The Sydney Opera House In Australia
The Sydney Opera House is a magnificent work of architecture and a bustling performing venue. It's a place where traditions are probed and cultures are cherished, where the past influences the present. At the very least, go inside and learn about the history that makes the Opera House so compelling, even if you have no interest in watching an opera show.
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26points
#13 Discover The Magnificent Angkor Wat
The largest single religious monument in the world, the Angkor Wat temple, still stands. Its enormous scale and intricately sculpted architecture provide evidence of its former splendor even though time has wiped out practically everything. The temple will inspire you, leave you in awe and provide you with a perspective on human history that can only be obtained from touring sites like this one.
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26points
#14 Dogsled Through The Alaskan Forest
Imagine yourself sitting in a sled, pulled by some of Alaska’s most mighty animals, as you are zipping through an Alaskan forest. This is dog sledding, which is not only an Alaskan tradition but also a state obsession. It is commemorated each March with the 1,150-mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race running from Anchorage to Nome.
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25points
#15 Make A Wish In The Trevi Fountain In Italy
The most famous fountain in Rome, if not the entire globe, is the Trevi Fountain, also known as the Fontana di Trevi. With the exception of the coin you might want to toss in, it's a top free attraction in the city that attracts an estimated 1,200 visitors every hour.
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25points
#16 Stay In A Tuscan Villa In Italy
It is both a posh retreat for the glitterati and the location of some of the most famous works of art and architectural treasures in the entire world. Simply put, Tuscany is Italy's most culturally diverse area and the ideal place to reside for many foreigners.
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25points
#17 Float In The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea waters are said to help reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, it is known to aid several skin disorders. While we can't guarantee any of this, at the absolute least, swimming in the Dead Sea will leave your skin feeling as soft as a baby's.
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#18 Sleep In An Ice Hotel In Sweden
The Ice Hotel in Sweden is definitely pricey. Still, it's worth it if you want a truly exceptional vacation experience you will never forget.
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24points
#19 Let Go Of A Floating Lantern In Taiwan
To have their deepest heart's desires heard, thousands of people write them on paper lanterns and release them into the sky. This is done during the annual Lantern Festival held in Taiwan's small town of Pingxi. People do this in the hope that their ancestors will answer their prayers.
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24points
#20 Get Spooked At The Catacombs In Paris
The Catacombs in Paris are a wonder of engineering and serve as a memorial to millions of unnamed, deceased Parisians. In addition, guided tours have access to locations restricted to the general public. Thus, that factor alone justifies the relatively high price of a catacombs tour.
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24points