9 Breathtaking International Destinations To Tick Off Your Bucket List
Travel is something that holds a different meaning for all of us. Some like to travel to get the travel bug out of their system; others do it to escape the monotony of daily life. And some do it simply to make new memories. Whatever our reasons to travel, every one of us deserves to have a vacation day once in a while. We often find ourselves daydreaming about our future travel plans and wait for that long weekend. With so many spectacular and unique sights across the globe, it would be difficult to narrow them to only the ones we can dream of. Well, the good news is that the power of the internet lets us do our own research and find some beautiful places that might not necessarily be on our personal travel list. The truth is that life is all about exploring and discovering new places:
1. Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia is famous for its “fairy chimneys” that can stretch upto 130 feet in the sky. The surreal and scenic landscape was carved out of towering rock formations formed millions of years ago. One of the quintessential experiences of visiting this place is taking a ride on a hot air balloon early in the morning. There’s also plenty of other popular places you can see around the area, including the underground cities, Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. You can also explore the AlaDaglar National Park and head to the Uchisar Castle. Uchisar Castle is one of Turkey’s most unique and popular landmarks, and it is riddled with tunnels. The castle was once used as a refuge during enemy attacks.
2. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a city that was founded nearly one thousand years ago on the edge of the Sahara. The striking town is a mix of old cultures and new. You will get to witness snake charmers and intimate yet thriving souks, as well as some exquisite cuisine. The city is also only a few hours’ drive from The Atlas Mountains for those looking to escape the city and take a trip into the Mountains.
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
Are ye ready to take a stroll down the magnificent coastline? The wonderful city is bursting with charm and is the perfect weekend getaway. The town has just about everything you could require from parks to museums, galleries, and many more. Edinburgh also hosts one of the largest festivals in the world called the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The city has bags of culture, scrumptious food, striking views, and delicious drinks. If you enjoy viewing unique and interesting architecture, the famous Balmoral hotel is just a fifteen-minute walk from the famous Edinburgh Castle.
4. Bali, Indonesia
Once you’ve set foot in the gorgeous province, you will understand why it is Indonesia’s most popular tourist hotspot. The magnificent location boasts of tranquil temples, exotic beaches, dense jungles, imposing volcanoes, and mind-bogglingly beautiful landscapes. The beautiful province also welcomes the Ubud Food Festival every year. It also showcases the diverse flavors present in the Indonesian archipelago. You’ll get to see dozens of events that include cook-offs, talks, demos, food tours, and more.
5. Reykjavík, Iceland
Iceland has a population of fewer than 400,000 people, and more than half live in its capital city of Reykjavik. The island is just about as isolated as you can get and is nicknamed the land of ice and fire for a reason. It is the dream of an adventurer and a paradise for the naturist. You can see lava fields, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and glaciers punctuating the vast expanse of openness. The Aurora Borealis dances above the winter, and the Iceland sun never sets in summer.
6. Iya Valley, Japan
Those who have an adventurous streak would love Japan’s Iya Valley. The idyllic location is tucked away within the mountainous spaces of Shikoku. Although this is one of the least visited of the four islands, it truly is one of the most unique and beautiful. Iya Valley is home to rapids, various zip-lines, and hiking trails that sprawl across the woodland canyons.
7. Port Louis, Mauritius
Port Louis is the capital of the island of Mauritius and is located in the Indian Ocean. It’s close to Africa and super easy to reach. Thanks to its proximity to India, it shouldn’t cost you a pretty dime to visit either. Once you’ve entered the island, you’ll be greeted by beautiful beaches, dreamy lagoons, and the striking Black River Gorges National Park that is just a drive down the island. Take a trip with a helicopter and enjoy the view of the underwater waterfall (it’s just called that, it isn’t actually real)
8. Baja California Sur, Mexico
Who wouldn’t want to sip on a sun-soaked cocktail while relaxing on the sunny coastline of Mexico? If you see yourself as an island “gyal,” then Baja California Sur is the place for you. You can watch whales, tour agave farms (where tequila comes from), climb volcanoes, and just kick back as you relax under the Mexican sun. The landscape of Baja California Sur ranges from blue coastlines in the South to the cactus-strews deserts in the North.
9. Norwegian Fjords, Norway
Norway is characterized by flowing waterfalls and deep blue waters. Norway’s grand fjords are one of Northern Europe’s most magnificent sights and are a must-see. You’ll also find cute little villages and communities lining the coast along with unique cuisines and local traditions. Fish, locally reared sheep, and wild game are a few of the most popular dishes in the region.
No matter how many places you’ve visited or how many you want to visit, these nine places are what should definitely be on your bucket list. Which of these nine international destinations do you want to visit the most?