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This is a collaborative post.
I have often found myself daydreaming about far-off places, imagining the views, sounds, the taste of the local food, and the beautiful images that I could snap with my family. So, if you are a daydreamer like me, then you are in the correct place. This blog is about some of the top international destinations that I have visited or want to visit with my husband/family – real bucket list items!
No, I am not sharing any old tourist traps, I am talking bucket list material here, guys.
Malaysia
First up on our globetrotting adventure is a place that is often ignored; but it shouldn’t be. Welcome to Malaysia, the land of smiles.
Ever imagined visiting a place with a diverse melting pot of cultures? From bustling cities to beautiful beaches and green rainforests, the country has it all.
Now, obtaining a Malaysia visa is typically a simple process for most travellers. Once you are here, do not miss out the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur or the historic streets of George Town in Penang.
Then there is the Perhentian Islands with its powder-soft white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. And for all the nature lovers, a trip to the lush rainforests gives you the opportunity to spot orangutans in their natural habitat.
Iceland
Ready for something completely different? Let’s head north to Iceland. Have you ever wanted to witness the otherworldly beauty of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky?
Here is something different and absolutely magical. This country is one of the few places where you can observe the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis.
Then you have the opportunity to soak in a geothermal hot spring with your partner surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
For me, Iceland was an experience from another planet. From black sand beaches to gigantic waterfalls (just like in James Cameron’s Avatar) and ancient glaciers, this is a nature lover’s paradise.
Italy
Now let us fly to Europe. Have you ever dreamed of tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain or wanted to try out authentic pasta on our charming Roman piazza?
Dear traveller, Italy is calling you.
Even though you would need to get an Italy visa before your trip (unless you are an EU citizen, of course), trust me, it is worth the effort. Just imagine lazily walking around the Colosseum, marvelling at Michelangelo’s David, or floating over the canals of Venice.
Bellissimo, right?
But the allure of Italy goes beyond its famous cities. Here you get the rare opportunity to explore the colorful coastal villages of Cinque Terre and even try out world-class wines in the rolling hills of Tuscany
Aaah, let’s not forget the mouth watering cuisine; from pizza in Naples to risotto in Milan, every region has its own culinary delights.
Bora Bora
We all have seen those pictures of crystal-clear turquoise waters and over-water bungalows. Well, they are not CGI, they are real.
At Bora Bora, you can wake up to the gentle lapping of waves right beneath your feet, snorkelling with colorful fish, and also watch the sunset in a unique combination of orange and pink.
This is the stuff of dreams, my friend.
Japan
Ever wondered what it would be like to experience a culture that seamlessly blends centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge technology?
Tokyo’s neon-lit streets and Kyoto’s serene temples offer two sides of the same fascinating coin.
Imagine savoring world-class sushi, watching sumo wrestlers in action, and zipping across the country on a bullet train. And if you time it right, you might just catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom – a sight that’ll take your breath away.
But Japan’s allure extends far beyond its famous cities. Have you considered visiting the picturesque town of Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps?
Or soaking in an onsen (hot spring) with a view of Mount Fuji? And for pop culture fans, a trip to the Studio Ghibli Museum or the Pokemon Center is sure to bring out your inner child.
Tanzania
Speaking of breathtaking sights, let’s talk about Tanzania. Have you ever dreamed of witnessing the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest thunder across the Serengeti plains?
Or climbing to the snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro?
Tanzania offers some of the most incredible wildlife experiences on the planet. Picture yourself on a safari, watching lions lounge in the shade of an acacia tree or elephants amble by your jeep.
It’s like stepping into a nature documentary – only better because you’re actually there!
But Tanzania isn’t just about safaris. The island of Zanzibar, with its pristine beaches and historic Stone Town, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and culture.
And for a truly unique experience, how about visiting a Maasai village to learn about their traditional way of life? It’s an eye-opening encounter that’ll give you a new perspective on the world.
Peru
Last but definitely not least on our world tour is this little South American country. If you ever wanted to be present in the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, perched high in the Andes Mountains, then Peru should be top of your bucket list.
But the country isn’t just about the famous Incan citadel. You can explore the colourful markets of Cusco, try out ceviche fresh from the Pacific, and even take a boat ride on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake on the planet.
Also let’s not forget about the Amazon rainforest, which covers nearly 60% of Peru. Tourists can spend the night in an eco-lodge, and wake up to the sounds of exotic birds chirping, and howler monkeys.
Final Thoughts
So these are the seven incredible destinations that I have visited in the last couple of years. And yeah, let me repeat myself, these places deserve a spot on anyone’s travel bucket list.
Remember, the world is full of wonders just waiting to be explored. So why not start planning your next adventure today?