my most unforgettable travel experience

Sunshine Seeker

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Popular categories, 29 of the world’s most unforgettable travel experiences.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 30. January 2024 · In: Travel

Are you looking for the best and most unforgettable travel experiences in the world? Then you’re in the right place. This list of travel experiences is curated by professional travelers with 10+ years of travel experience.

As a travel blogger of almost a decade, people always ask me; what’s your number one travel experience to date? And while that is, of course, incredibly hard to answer, I do have a few memories that stick out.

Sometimes it’s the simplest of joys that makes the most impact, you don’t always have to travel far or break the bank to have incredible experiences.

And what makes an experience unforgettable will always differ from person to person. We all see the world differently through the lens of our programming. That’s why I also asked 19 fellow female travel bloggers to write about their most unforgettable travel experiences .

From sleeping in a cave in Matera to kayaking among icebergs in Nunavut, these bucket list experiences are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

🌟 Pro tip >> Be sure to check out Tripaneer , my favorite and the world’s leading marketplace to explore and book unforgettable travel experiences.

Article overview

1. Experience the Geisha in Japan

2. join a wellness retreat in ubud, 3. sunrise over haleakala volcano in maui, 4. hiking the stairway to heaven (legally), 5. kayaking among icebergs in nunavut, 6. hiking mount sinai in egypt, 7. hiking the congo nile trail in rwanda, 8. everest base camp trek, 9. fly over victoria, bc in a seaplane, 10. hiking half dome in yosemite national park, 11. explore altyn emel national park, 12. swim in the wadis of oman, 13. drive across salar de uyuni, 14. carnival in the caribbean, 15. spelunking in waitomo glowworm caves, 16. exploring antarctica, 17. climbing mount kilimanjaro, 18. hot air ballooning in cappadocia, 19. climbing the great wall of china, 20. lunch in a traditional balinese family compound, 21. snorkeling the great barrier reef, 22. witnessing the northern lights, 23. paddleboarding with wild dolphins, 24. see the taj mahal at sunrise, 25. sleep in a cave in matera, 26. see the sunrise over pinggan village, 27. visiting a cultural village in south africa, 28. go castle hunting in poland, 29. experience floracion de cieza, what makes a travel experience unforgettable, how can i make sure i have an unforgettable travel experience, where do you book tours and excursions, what are the most unforgettable travel experiences in the world for 2024, what are considered unique experiences, what is the most unique experience you’ve had, do unforgettable travel experiences have to be expensive, what are some ideas for new experiences, remember to pin this for later 😉.

By Honest Travel Stories

If you close your eyes and think of Japan, what do you see? Come on, try this experiment! Before I went there, I used to see Mount Fuji, cherry tree blossoms, and Sailor Moon (this was my childhood hero, don’t laugh!). But now, a few months after the trip, I can only see a geisha or maiko performing and dancing. It’s definitely one of the world’s most unforgettable travel experiences .

This is so traditionally Japanese that you won’t believe it’s still happening today, in the digital era. The Geisha still wear hand-painted kimono, they still have the specific updo hairstyle that makes them easy to recognize, and they still perform the same arts as they used to centuries ago.

If you ever get to experience the geisha culture in Japan you’ll feel like you have traveled through time. It is definitely unique, you cannot find anything similar anywhere else in the world. And it is memorable, even if you don’t speak the language. In the end, art goes beyond words, beyond nations and ethnicity, beyond basic understanding. Art must be felt, and you will feel it once you’re there.

The geisha experience that we chose was to go to a geisha theater in Kyoto in November for an annual representation, but there are many other options you can choose. But something is clear: you have to choose one. If you didn’t enjoy a geisha experience while in Japan, were you even there?

Many of my favorite travel experiences have happened in Indonesia, a country I fell in love with 14 years ago. Before Bali skyrocketed in popularity among Instagrammers and digital nomads . One of these experiences was a personalized wellness retreat in Ubud.

Ubud, Bali is known as one of the spiritual centers of the world, and for good reason. Nestled between lush rice fields and ancient temples, Ubud is a haven for those seeking peace, relaxation, and spiritual growth.

Booking this retreat is single-handedly the best decision and the best money I’ve ever spent on myself. I was a little unsure whether or not to spend money on a retreat in Ubud since I’ve been there so many times and I usually like to plan my own itineraries. But I’m so glad I did!

I spent my days doing yoga, exploring hidden gems, eating the most delicious food (even if you’re not vegan, I’m not), learning new skills and joining in on sacred Balinese rituals. Oksana tailors your retreat to your preferences and will give you experiences you didn’t even realize you were looking for.

It was exactly the reset I needed after a few hard years in life. I’m almost crying writing this, just because of how much I needed this healing experience. If you ever feel stuck or like you need to reset, head to Ubud.

🌟 Check price and availability here >> 4-Day Personalized Wellness Retreat in Ubud

By Bright Lights of America

Haleakala volcano may be dormant, but that doesn’t make the 10,032-foot colossus any less imposing. Standing up amongst the clouds to watch the sun peak over the crest of a blanket of fluffy clouds takes pride of place on my ultimate travel bucket list.

We were awake in the car at 3:30 am for our drive to the summit to see the sunrise at Haleakala. You’ll want to bring a couple of warm jackets, and maybe even nab a blanket from your hotel, because the temperatures before sunrise are chilly to say the very least. But once the first slivers of sun begin to appear at the horizon, the gathered crowd hushes and everyone takes in the beauty of the experience.

The arid landscape of the volcano is juxtaposed with beautiful, downy white clouds, as fingers of red, orange, and yellow spread across the horizon. We were lucky enough to have two Maui natives sing the Mele Oli chant – the traditional greeting of the sun. It’s a travel experience that I’d repeat again in a heartbeat, despite spending a good 40 minutes hopping from one foot, to the other, to stay warm.

Remember that watching the sunrise over Haleakala requires reservations in advance for those who want to watch the sunrise.

By My Backpacker Life

There are a lot of incredible places to visit around the world, but there’s one unforgettable travel experience I just can’t stop thinking about. It’s one you should put on your bucket list – hiking the Stairway to Heaven in Oahu, Hawaii !

The Stairway to Heaven hike, also known as Haiku Stairs, is  not   an easy hike – it could even be quite dangerous, so be sure you’re prepared and used to hiking. In addition to that, it’s illegal to hike up the actual stairs, you’ll risk getting a fine if you do so. Instead, take the magical legal way via the Moanalua Valley Trail.

In the beginning, the hike is mainly flat. However, it will soon get steeper – if it’s not a completely clear day, you’ll feel like you’re on your way up among the clouds! I’d recommend bringing crampons for the steeper part of the hike. Remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen as well. It’s Hawaii, it gets hot!

The view you’ll get from the summit is incredible. You honestly don’t need another reason to put this hike on your bucket list, but if you’re into hiking and adventure you’ll enjoy the challenge of the hike itself as well. As you come up the back way, you’ll also get several views of the valley and the beautiful ridge!

By Voyageur Tripper

The Arctic Archipelago is Canada’s best-kept secret. Far off the tourist radar, few travelers make their way north of the Arctic Circle into the vast and sprawling territory of Nunavut. Canada’s largest and least populated region, traveling to Nunavut is worthy of any bucket list. And for those who find themselves under the midnight sun, one of the most incredible experiences you could have is kayaking among icebergs.

I remember gliding through the salty seawater in an inflatable kayak. I was covered head to toe – dry suit, waterproof gloves, and hat – just in case I found myself capsized and in an unintended polar bear dip. Until I was paddling so close to icebergs, I’d never appreciated just how much of the ice was below water. Looking down, I could see the curves of ice run so deep they disappeared from view.

Nor had I appreciated their colossal size; being so close to Greenland, the icebergs had recently calved off ancient glaciers. They would eventually decrease in size as they meandered south to Newfoundland, but at this moment I had to crane my neck upright to see the top. Some were so enormous they had their own waterfalls. Melting ice near the top would run down and spill over the edge, falling into the ocean.

Later a guide chipped off some pieces of an iceberg and we drank our cocktails with glacial ice. As my group sipped our deliciously cold beverages, we all agreed. Kayaking in the Canadian Arctic was a truly memorable experience.

By Curls en Route

One of the very first travel experiences I checked off my bucket list, and one that really deserves to be on yours as well, is the Mount Sinai hike in Egypt. Also known as “Jebel Moussa” in Arabic, the mountain, located in Saint Catherine in South Sinai, is the second-highest in the country after Mount Catherine.

Apart from the friendly Jebeliya tribe that lives there, the mesmerizing nature of the mountain, and its challenging elevation of 2,285 m, it also has high religious value. You see, this is the mountain where it’s believed that Moses spoke to God and received the 10 commandments. And Saint Catherine’s Monastery, built at the foot of the mountain, is supposedly where Moses had seen the burning bush.

Hiking Mount Sinai is one of the most spiritual and empowering adventures you can ever embark on. Once you reach the summit and marvel at the mountainous, vast desert as you watch the sunrise from within the clouds, you’ll reach an indescribable state of euphoria that you’ll remember forever. And if you decide to do this in winter, you might be lucky enough to witness snow. Yes, Saint Catherine is the only place in Egypt where it snows!

By Exploring Wild 

On the far western edge of Rwanda, snaking along the green shore of gorgeous blue Lake Kivu, lies a unique adventure for outdoorsy travelers: the Congo Nile Trail . Stretching roughly 120km from Gisenyi to Kibuye, this patchwork route of local trails and dirt roads can be walked in 4-5 days, with nights spent camping or sleeping in small guesthouses.

Along the way you’ll pass through villages and farmland, never far from a curious group of kids or an enthusiastic “helloooo” shouted from a grove of banana trees. The trail is safe and well enough developed for hiking independently (I hiked it solo) but still adventurous enough to be interesting.

You’ll piece together directions from the hand gestures of helpful locals and likely pass some miles with Rwandans excited to practice their English or French. At the end of a long hot day, you’ll probably manage to find a place where you can kick back with a cold(ish) Turbo King beer and a view of Lake Kivu.

The Congo Nile Trail isn’t easy; it can be hot and hilly, and the frequent attention from locals can sometimes feel draining. It’s important to travel mindfully and try to minimize impact – both environmental and cultural – on this fragile area. But for travelers with some experience in Africa who are looking for an adventure rich in both scenic beauty and cultural learning opportunities, I highly recommend it.

By Emma Adventures

The Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is certainly one of the most unforgettable travel experiences I have had. Situated in the Himalayas in Nepal, Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world, and trekking to its base camp is one of the most beautiful journeys in the world.

Stay in teahouses in the mountains for 10-14 days and as you journey through beautiful scenery and experience local life in Nepal. Although a tough trek, it’s certainly doable with the right training and well worth the effort.

It’s a great feeling waking up in a lovely teahouse surrounded by mountains every day, to a home-cooked meal and only having to worry about how far you have to hike that day.  

Along with reaching Everest Base Camp, which is the ultimate goal, you’ll get to take an amazing scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the starting point of the trek, as well as explore the crazy, bustling capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu.

The people in Nepal are extremely welcoming and friendly, which makes the experience even better. I’d truly recommend adding Everest Base Camp to your bucket list, I guarantee it’s an experience you will treasure forever! 

By Christin has Fernweh

Did you know that Victoria, British Columbia has the only official sea-airport in the world? I found out from the guide on a whale watching tour off Vancouver Island, Canada.

There are two “runways” on the water, smack in the middle of the harbor. You can buy tickets to domestic or US destinations, like Seattle just down the Pacific coast. And: you can book sightseeing trips.

I went on the Victoria Classic Panorama Tour and it was a unique experience for me. It was the first time I took off in a plane from the water and landed on the water. Admittedly, the landing is somewhat bumpier than on a runway. But the views of BC’s capital and the ocean were so worth it!

I only went for the 20-minute tour, but personally, I thought it was plenty of time to get a first impression of water aviation. And I took a ton of pictures and videos from the air. If it is just about the experience, that tour is perfect. The seaplane flies at a lower altitude than a normal plane, so you can see much more of what is happening on the ground.

Even though I went during high season, in June, there were only 5 people on the plane with me. And I was able to book a cheap ticket on the day, as I was flexible with timing.

🐋 My top pick >> Popular combined Seaplane Flight and Whale-Watching Cruise

By She Dreams of Alpine

Standing at the top of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park at sunset is a truly epic place to be, and the moments I have spent up there make for one of my favorite travel memories. The awe-inspiring views of the grandeur and granite of Yosemite reach another level when bathed in the fiery glow of the setting sun.

Hiking Half Dome is no easy feat either, and the first time I did it, I felt empowered in the outdoors in a way that truly changed my life. Half Dome proved to me that I am strong, brave, and capable of so much more than I ever thought was possible.

The Half Dome hike requires a long, uphill trek just to get to the base of the dome, a total of about 14 miles round trip with 5,000 feet of elevation gain. Then you have to ascend the steep granite face while clinging tightly to the steel cables – which is definitely not for the faint of heart or scared of heights!

Making it to the summit of Half Dome is such a proud accomplishment that adds to the exceptional experience of standing on top. I have explored the outdoors and hiked all over the world, yet Yosemite’s iconic Half Dome continues to hold a special place in my heart.

By Backpack Adventures

Few people have Kazakhstan on their bucket list, yet in my mind, it is one of the most underrated places in the world . It is where I had my most unforgettable travel experience to date.

Most think Kazakhstan is nothing more than steppes, but this is far from the truth. A visit to Altyn Emel National Park  is proof of Kazakhstan’s spectacular nature which is incredibly diverse.

Altyn Emel National Park has singing sand dunes, volcanic rocks, rainbow mountain ranges and vast steppes. The views are really out of this world with Martian and lunar-like landscapes everywhere you go. I kept taking pictures of all the different colors in the hills ranging from red to yellow to brown to grey and white.

Altyn Emel is also Kazakhstan’s prime Safari destination. It is one of the last places in this world to see wild horses and wild donkeys and even though it might be from far away you have a good chance of spotting them as well as the Persian gazelle or Bukhara deer.

Nature and wildlife are more than enough reasons to visit Altyn Emel, but there is history too. Traces of Scythian tribes that lived in the area around the first millennium BC are everywhere. From mysterious stone steles to ancient petroglyphs and burial mounds that fit perfectly in the remote sceneries of Altyn Emel.

By The Diary of a Nomad

One of the most unforgettable travel experiences I’ve had was swimming in the beautiful wadis of Oman . Oman is filled with natural wonders; if you spend 10 days on this peninsula, you’ll see plenty of gorgeous waterfalls, mountains, valleys, deserts and my favorite of them all ⁠⁠— wadis.

The most famous wadi in the country is Wadi Shab, and it totally lives up to its hype. This attraction consists of 3 natural pools you can swim in, and one of them also leads you to a mystical cave with a waterfall inside it. I’ve always enjoyed swimming, but swimming inside a wadi with a breathtaking view of canyons all around you and fishes cozying up to your feet was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It also felt incredibly fun; like being inside a natural waterpark all day!

Wadi Shab is suitable for all travelers. The first of the three pools is very shallow and perfect for non-swimmers, beginners and children. You can simply relax in this pool if you don’t feel comfortable in deeper water. The second and third pools are quite deep, so I’d only recommend them for excellent swimmers. If you enjoy adventures and are great at swimming, you’d also love swimming inside the cave at the end of the third pool!

For this experience, I highly recommend bringing a waterproof dry bag and waterproof phone case so that you can keep your belongings with you as you swim. The dry bag can also act as a floatie if you ever feel tired from swimming! You can find more tips for visiting Wadi Shab in my Oman itinerary here .

By Travel by Carla Vianna

Traveling to the vast Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia  has got to be one of the most epic adventures I’ve crossed off my bucket list. The Salar de Uyuni, or the Uyuni Salt Flat, is the largest salt desert in the world, composed of 11,000 square kilometers of glistening white salt. It’s an otherworldly landscape that allows for surreal, perspective-shifting photos—but the journey there is just as exciting.

The most popular way to visit the Salar de Uyuni is by group tour. I chose to go on a tour starting in San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. The tour involved a three-day road trip through Bolivia’s wildest landscapes in a 4×4 truck shared by seven strangers. On this tour, I visited volcanoes towering 5,000 meters above sea level. I ate lunch at local villages so small and quiet it was difficult to imagine that anyone lived there.

I took a dip in a thermal bath overlooking a vast desert scene, followed by a walk through a rocky landscape that mimics the one on Mars. I encountered every kind of weather possible, from sunshine to rain to snow flurries while crossing the mountains at dusk. For three days, we were completely off the grid—traveling to remote corners of the country where llamas and alpacas largely outnumbered humans.

This adventurous journey ended at the Salar de Uyuni, where I witnessed the sunrise over the endless sea of salt. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and a travel memory I’ll never forget!

By Juleen Meets World

Attending a Caribbean carnival in Trinidad and Tobago , was something I had been dreaming about for years. In Trinidad, the carnival takes place annually on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, intended as a sort of last hoorah before “giving up the ways of the flesh” for Lent.

However, the festivities begin weeks and months before. Like deciding which costume I wanted to wear in the parade on Carnival Tuesday and which fetes and events to attend.

Starting just after Christmas, the Trinidad event calendar is filled with fetes, with the number increasing the closer you get to the carnival. Events also include culturally significant demonstrations such as the Re-enactment of the Canboulay Riots. There are also various competitions including the Junior and Senior Carnival King and Queen competitions and Panorama, the steelpan competition.

I went to Trinidad for about 10 days and spent most of my time hopping from fete to fete. When Carnival Monday and Tuesday finally rolled around, I was but still so pumped to participate in the parades through the streets of Port of Spain to the beautiful sounds of soca music.

Months of anticipation and planning ended in a week that just flew by, lodged in my memory the most unforgettable travel experience to date.

By Periodic Adventures

In Waitomo, New Zealand, you’ll find a glowworm species that is exclusively found in New Zealand! These glowworms live deep in an underground cave system that is only accessible through a guided tour on the North Island. My most memorable travel experience was spelunking in these caves first on foot, then in a small inflatable raft!

When you first see the glowworms, they don’t look like more than the average worm, but as you descend into the caves away from sunlight, your eyes start to adjust and you begin to see a faint turquoise glow all around you. Soon enough your eyes are perfectly adjusted to the dark and you can see millions of speckles of turquoise-like stars around you.

The most amazing part of this tour was that the cave we entered had water flowing through it so after a short trek, we boarded an inflatable raft that was on the underground river. My boyfriend and I sat in the front row. The raft was guided by a rope attached to the cave ceiling so no paddling was needed. We floated along.

No cameras. No phones. No external lights at all. Just the sound of water flowing and the sparkle of turquoise all around us. It was beautiful and breathtaking. I highly recommend touring the Waitomo Glowworm Caves if you find yourself on the North Island of New Zealand!

By Directionally Challenged Traveler

Due to its remoteness, visiting Antarctica is often thought of as a near-impossible dream by many travelers. However, it is worth the long flights, the adventure of crossing the Drake Passage, and even every hard-earned penny. Upon arrival at the ice continent, Antarctica welcomes you with open arms and a vastness of beauty rarely seen on Earth.

Only 40,000 people visit Antarctica every year (compared to the 5 million people who visit Rome), making it one of the most special and unforgettable travel experiences in the world.

Walking on land surrounded by penguins and elephant seals was a surreal experience. Since Antarctica isn’t a country or claimed by any specific country, there are strict restrictions to protect nature. That doesn’t mean you can’t fully experience it though.

We were able to get up close to humpback whales while they were feeding in a zodiac boat. Kayaking with a leopard seal, doing two polar plunges with penguins, and even camping on land overnight were awesome experiences to really appreciate our Earth.

Spending two weeks on an expedition ship was more than just looking at nature. Onboard, the staff had daily programming that covered the various species we’d see (hopefully), photography tips, and the history of the first explorers of Antarctica. Their knowledge, friendliness, and experience helped to round out the trip to make it the best trip of my life.

I’ve visited seven continents and over 35 countries, and none of them have impacted me like Antarctica.

By Sue Where? Why? What?

Reaching the highest peak in Africa had been on my Life List for a while & turning 50 was my motivation for tackling it sooner rather than later. The morning after celebrating my birthday, I set off on my big adventure.

The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro lies at 5895m above sea level & is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Where Kilimanjaro is unique among the other highest continental peaks (Seven Summits), is that it’s possible to climb without any specialist equipment or expertise.

I had chosen to take the 8-day Lemosho route. For me, the priority was to give myself the best chance of reaching the summit. The altitude is the biggest unknown factor. You can train as much as you like but, in the end, you don’t know until you are there how it will affect you.

Throughout the climb, I struggled with the altitude & was full of trepidation about how I would cope when it finally came to Summit Night. As we began our final journey at midnight, I was wearing so many layers to protect myself from the cold that I could barely bend my legs!

After 6 hours of walking very slowly uphill, battling the cold & my mental demons, I finally reached the peak. Standing on the roof of Africa as I witnessed the sunrise is a moment I will never forget. It was worth every step, every doubt and every struggle along the way.

Mount Kilimanjaro will test you both mentally & physically, but you will come out with a new understanding of what you are capable of. I can honestly say that it is one of my best travel experiences to date.

By Tayara Muse

Only a handful of things can give you an adrenaline rush so strong, that you remember it forever. In some ways my most memorable travel experience was cliché; in other ways, it was a sacred, liberating moment. I gifted myself a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia , Turkey for my birthday a couple of years ago – yes, a very social media-influenced adventure.

There’s so much power to doing something unique, completely solo and in a foreign place. The day started off rather early, the tour pick-up was at 4:30 am (yikes) and the ascent into the morning sky was right at 6:00 am. I joined a group of strangers below the balloon and watched it light up. As the warm air filled it, we started boarding.

What a feeling it was to float in the air, overlooking a historical region, and be surrounded by hundreds of colorful balloons – 3000 feet above the ground. The view took the breath right out of me! So, yes, it’s cliché, yes it’s been overdone, but listen up, nothing has compared to soaring in the sky and feeling invincible for a straight hour!

By A World in Reach

One of the most unforgettable travel experiences I’ve ticked off my bucket list was climbing the Great Wall of China. I spent 10 days exploring Shanghai, Xi’an, and Beijing before visiting the Great Wall on the last day.

I visited the Mutianyu section of the wall. This area is one of the most scenic and best-preserved, yet there are fewer tourists here than at the Badaling section. You can either hike from the base to the Wall for approximately an hour or take a cable car. I highly recommend the cable car – the journey up is scenic and you’ll need all your energy for hiking the actual Wall!

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is about 1.5 hours from Beijing. You can get to the wall from Beijing by taking public transportation, but I recommend taking one of the many tours offered from Beijing. Several Beijing hotels and hostels offer very affordable tours, you can also book online in advance.

Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, cool and comfortable clothing, and bring water for your hike. It can get really hot and the steps on the wall are very steep and uneven. At the end of your hike, treat yourself to an ice cream from the vendor at the cable car stop and then take the toboggan down for more fun!

Seeing the Great Wall in person was one of the best experiences during my travels and is worth a spot on everyone’s bucket list.

There’s no secret that I’m obsessed with Indonesia, and I have been for over a decade. So while this might not be the most spectacular experience ever, it is certainly one of my most unforgettable travel experiences .

A few years ago, I decided to book a bike tour in Ubud to hopefully see a side of Bali we wouldn’t be able to on our own. After a lot of research, we ended up with Jegeg Bali Cycling. A family-run business that focuses on small groups and truly puts their guests’ experience above everything.

After an incredible day on the backroads of Ubud , we were brought to Putu’s family compound for lunch. His mother and aunts had put together the most amazing feast with all my favorite Indonesian dishes. It was one of the best meals I’ve ever had, and being able to come inside their family home, where four generations live, felt so incredibly special.

We sat around the table for a while, just enjoying the food and listening to Putu talk about everyday life in Bali. And as if that wasn’t enough, we also got a shirt made in the neighboring village as a parting gift. Because they earned money from us, they wanted to give back to their community and also back to us. How awesome is that!?

Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is another one of my most unforgettable travel experiences. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the coast of Australia. Fitzroy Island is the getaway to the reef.

It’s home to an incredible array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, sharks, and dolphins. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the reef is a truly magical experience that will leave you in awe of the beauty and diversity of the underwater world.

As you snorkel through the coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. You might spot a school of vibrant fish darting through the coral, a graceful sea turtle gliding past, or even a majestic manta ray soaring through the water.

The peaceful silence of the underwater world is broken only by the sound of your own breathing, adding to the sense of tranquility and wonder. Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, and is a must-do for any nature lover or adventure seeker.

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Norway is an incredible travel experience that is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Even though I am Norwegian, I have only seen the Northern Lights once as I live in the south.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a stunning display of colorful lights in the night sky.

Norway is one of the best places in the world to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle, as the country is located in the “Aurora Zone” and experiences frequent Northern Lights activity.

As you stand under the starry night sky in Norway, watching the Northern Lights dance and swirl above you, you’ll feel a sense of wonder and awe that is hard to describe. The colors of the lights can range from green to pink to purple, and the movement of the lights can be slow and graceful or fast and frenzied.

The experience is truly mesmerizing and will leave you feeling humbled by the beauty and power of nature. It is definitely one of the top things to do in Norway .

Seeing wild dolphins while paddleboarding on Nusa Lembongan is one of those pinch-me travel experiences. Actually, it was one of the last items on my original bucket list.

Nusa Lembongan is a small island off the coast of Bali, Indonesia, and is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

While paddleboarding just off Jungut Batu Beach, I suddenly spotted a pod of wild dolphins swimming and playing in the waves right in front of me. The sight of these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat was truly awe-inspiring and left you feeling humbled by the beauty and power of nature.

I remember sitting down on the board and just thinking how lucky I was to be right there right then. I wish I had a photo to look back on, but I’m also glad that I just focused on being in the moment.

Visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise is a travel experience that is sure to take your breath away. The Taj Mahal is a stunning white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India, and is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.

Seeing this iconic monument bathed in the soft light of the rising sun is a truly unforgettable experience. As someone who loves history and architecture, finally getting to visit the Taj Mahal was a dream come true.

As you approach the Taj Mahal at sunrise, you’ll be struck by the sheer beauty and grandeur of the building. The white marble shimmers in the early morning light and the intricate details of the carvings and inlays become even more pronounced.

Be sure to get there while it’s still dark out, to be able to get some photos without people in them. A pro tip is to also visit Mehtab Bagh , a garden complex on the opposite bank, which in my mind is the best place to view the Taj Mahal.

Staying in a cave in Matera is a unique and unforgettable travel experience that will transport you back in time. Matera is a city in southern Italy that is famous for its ancient cave dwellings. These caves were carved into the rock by hand and were once used as homes, churches, and even prisons.

Today, many of these caves have been converted into stylish and comfortable accommodations, offering visitors a chance to experience the history and culture of Matera in a truly unique way.

I ran away to Matera last year after two horrible years with a death, break up and the sale of my dream home. I spent several nights in a cave with only one window framing the church towering above the city.

One night I stood there thinking about my next step in life when the church bells started ringing right before sunset. The whole valley became silent except for this music, and all the lights turned on one by one. I started crying and felt like I was supposed to be right there at that moment.

That night I planned out my entire next year as I felt a new energy flow through my body. It is one of the most profound experiences in my life so far and I can not recommend Matera enough.

Seeing the sunrise over Pinggan Village had been on my Bali Bucket List for years. And I’m so grateful that I got to experience it with my mother.

Located in the central highlands of Bali, Pinggan Village is known for its stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies and valleys. As the sun rises over the horizon, the landscape is bathed in a soft, golden light and white mist that creates a truly magical atmosphere.

To witness the sunrise over Pinggan Village, you’ll need to wake up early and make your way to one of the many viewpoints in the area. As you wait for the sun to rise, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of nature and the peacefulness of the early morning.

As the first rays of sunlight begin to peek over the horizon, the colors of the landscape begin to change, creating a stunning display of light and shadow.

Traveling has been a way of life as I love wandering in new destinations and meeting new cultures and people! If you are looking for your next travel destination consider Africa!

What can you do on a vacation in Africa? One of the most memorable travel experiences I had while on the road was to visit a cultural village in South Africa. A day well spent in an African ancient tribe village in Gauteng located one hour’s drive north of Johanessburg.

Have you heard of the Zulu tribe? On my first trip to Africa, I visited a village of five traditional dwellings inhabited by Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele tribes. The Zulu is the largest ethnic group in South Africa inhabiting KwaZulu Natal and Gauteng. The whole experience is fun and informative!

You will be welcomed by the head of the village and watch a short documentary film presenting the history of the village and the tribes. Then you head out on a guided tour of the beautiful community coming across the village’s warriors. Mingle with the welcoming people, learn their traditional dance and sit down for a delicious feast. Definitely an unforgettable experience!

You might not think of Poland as one of the main castle destinations in the world. But let me tell you, it should be! Going castle hunting in Poland is an unforgettable travel experience that will transport you back in time to a world of knights, kings, and queens.

Poland is home to over 500 castles, each with its own unique history and architectural style. Exploring these castles is like stepping into a fairy tale, and is a must-do for any traveler interested in history, culture, and architecture.

As you travel through Poland , you’ll have the chance to visit some of the most impressive castles in Europe. From the towering Wawel Castle in Krakow to the romantic Malbork Castle on the banks of the Vistula River, each castle offers a glimpse into a different era of Polish history.

I went castle hunting in Poland several times during my time living in Krakow, and my absolute favorite experience was visiting the beautiful pink Książ Castle on the first sunny and warm day of spring. I stood on the viewpoint by myself and pictured what it would be like to be alive when the castle was rebuilt in the 16th century.

You might have heard about Sakura in Japan and the cherry blossoming in London or DC, but did you know that Spain has its very own floral happening?

Experiencing Floracion de Cieza , the blossoming of almond and fruit trees, is an unforgettable travel experience . It was something I had been looking forward to for years.

The phenomenon occurs every year in Cieza in the region of Murcia , usually in late February or early March. During this time, the hillsides and valleys of the region are covered in a blanket of pink and white blossoms, creating a stunning display of color and fragrance.

My parents and I went for a drive through the countryside, stopping at various viewpoints to admire the stunning views of the almond trees in bloom. You can also participate in guided tours, which will take you through the orchards and explain the history and cultural significance of the almond blossoms in the region.

FAQs: World’s best travel experiences

An unforgettable travel experience is one that leaves a lasting impression on you and creates memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. It could be a beautiful natural scenery, a unique cultural experience, an adventure that pushes you out of your comfort zone, or simply a moment of pure joy and happiness.

It will of course be different for everyone, but in my eyes, an unforgettable travel experience is the top two or three experiences that come to mind when asked.

Here’s my step-by-step guide to making any travel experience as good as possible:

• Plan ahead: Research your destination and create a travel itinerary that includes activities and experiences that align with your interests. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions.
• Be open to new experiences: Travel is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. Be open to new experiences, whether it’s trying new food, participating in a local festival, or exploring a hidden gem.
• Embrace the local culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture by learning about the customs, traditions, and history of the destination. This will help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the place you’re visiting.
• Engage with locals: Interact with locals to get a sense of their daily lives and perspectives. This can be as simple as striking up a conversation with a shopkeeper or taking a guided tour with a local guide.
• Stay flexible: Travel plans can change unexpectedly, so it’s important to stay flexible and adapt to new situations. This will help you avoid stress and frustration and make the most of your travel experience.
• Take care of yourself: Travel can be exhausting, so it’s important to take care of yourself by staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and taking breaks when needed. This will help you stay energized and enjoy your travel experience to the fullest.
• Be present: Finally, be present in the moment and take time to appreciate the beauty and wonder of your surroundings. Put away your phone and camera, and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the place you’re visiting. This will help you create lasting memories and make your travel experience truly unforgettable.

I book all my tours through Viator and GetYourGuide , depending on who offers the best value for that destination. But most often I end up booking through Viator.

I’m getting more and more into guided tours, especially for the first few days of a trip. That way you can ask a local guide all your questions and get tips on hidden gems and local favorites you might otherwise have missed.

For multi-day trips and retreats, I always check Tripaneer , the world’s leading marketplace to explore and book unforgettable travel experiences. They offer any type of holiday you can imagine including mindful yoga retreats, adventurous safaris, epic surf camps, and more.

Tripaneer also has separate sites for booking surf camps , yoga retreats , and many more.

There are countless unforgettable travel experiences in this beautiful world, it all depends on the person who experiences them.

But here’s a list of what I consider to be the most incredible travel experiences in the world:

• Visiting the remote Svalbard archipelago in Norway to see polar bears and Northern Lights
• Exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru
• Going on a safari in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania
• Walking on the Great Wall of China
• Swimming with whale sharks in the Philippines
• Taking a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia in Turkey
• Seeing gorillas in the Virunga Mountains on the border of Rwanda, Uganda and Congo
• Cruising through the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador
• Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia
• Exploring the ancient ruins of Petra in Jordan

Unique experiences are travel activities or experiences that are not commonly found in typical tourist itineraries. They are often off-the-beaten-path and provide travelers with a chance to engage with the local culture and environment in a more authentic way.

Some examples of unique experiences include:

• Staying in a treehouse or igloo
• Participating in a traditional ceremony or festival
• Volunteering with a local community or conservation project
• Taking a cooking class with a local chef
• Exploring a hidden gem or lesser-known attraction
• Going on a wildlife safari or nature hike
• Visiting a remote village or island
• Learning a new skill or craft from a local artisan
• Trying a unique mode of transportation, such as a hot air balloon or camel ride
• Going on a cultural tour or immersive experience, such as a homestay or language exchange program.

I’m asked this question a lot, and while I would love to have this crazy story about when I rode across the steppes of Mongolia on horseback, it is yet another experience from Bali. I took this silversmith class in Ubud and absolutely loved it.

It might not be the most unique experience in the world, but it’s the one that constantly pops into my head. My mom and I made silver rings that we still use today. You can read more about the experience in my guide to the most unusual things to do in Bali .

No, unforgettable travel experiences do not have to be expensive. While some experiences may require a larger budget, there are many affordable travel experiences that can be just as unforgettable.

For example, hiking to a beautiful viewpoint, exploring a local market, or trying a new cuisine can all create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.

Here are my top ideas for new experiences yo can have without traveling far or spending much money:

• Take a cooking class: -you don’t have to travel far to attend a cooking class. Many local cooking schools and community centers offer affordable cooking classes where you can learn how to make new dishes and cuisines.
• Visit a local museum or art gallery: Most museums and art galleries offer free admission or discounted rates on certain days of the week. This is a great way to learn about local history and culture, so be sure to take advantage of it. I lived in Krakow for 5 years and never went to the museums, something I regret today.
• Go on a nature hike: Most of us live near at least some kind of green space, whether it’s a city park, mountain, coastal hike or national park. Try to find a new natural area you have yet to explore, pack some snacks and head out. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of your area.
• Attend a free concert or festival: Many cities and towns host free concerts and festivals throughout the year. Check your local events calendar to see what’s happening in your area.
• Take a bike ride: Rent a bike or use a bike-sharing service to explore your city or town. This is a fun and affordable way to get some exercise and see new sights.
• Volunteer with a local organization: Many nonprofits and community organizations rely on volunteers to help with their work. This is a great way to give back to your community and meet new people.
• Visit a farmer’s market: Some communities have weekly farmer’s markets where you can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. I just went to one the other day and got lots of different vegetables and pastries. Definitely one of my favorite ways to support local businesses and discover new foods.
• Take a dance class: Many dance studios offer affordable classes in a variety of styles, from salsa to ballroom to hip-hop. This is a fun way to learn new moves and meet new people.
• Go on a scavenger hunt: Create your own scavenger hunt or participate in one organized by a local group or business. This is a fun way to explore your city or town and discover new sights and hidden gems.
• Attend a local sporting event: Most places have minor league or amateur sports teams that offer affordable tickets. This is a fun way to support local athletes and enjoy a day out with friends or family.

Looking for more travel inspiration?

• 16 incredible islands you probably haven’t heard of but need to visit!
• 12 Cities That Aren’t on Your Bucket List (But Should Be)
• The ultimate Spain bucket list : 101+ awesome things to do & places to see
• The ultimate Norway bucket list : top 200 awesome things to do!
• The ultimate Denmark bucket list : 101+ awesome things to do

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

You’ll Also Love

25. May 2020 at 18:07

This is an awesome list! Thanks for including me!

25. May 2020 at 22:12

Right!? I can’t wait to get back out on the road now 😀 Thanks for contributing!

30. May 2020 at 09:55

Some great ideas in here. So many wonderful things I’ve never even heard of but would love to do now!

30. May 2020 at 19:18

Same here! Thanks for stopping by 😀

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

My 15 Favorite Travel Experiences Everyone Should Try Once

• Bucket List Trips
• Types of Travel

Travel opens you up to so many incredible experiences, and while there’s a whole lot more of the world I’d still like to see, and this is certainly not the definitive list of best travel experiences, I’d like to share with you some of my most amazing experiences and those I think deserve a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. 

1. Watch The Sunrise In A Really Special Place

One of my most memorable sunrises was on Mequfi Beach at the end of a trip through the Quirimbas Archipelago in the Indian Ocean off the north-eastern coast of Mozambique. My husband and I had traveled the 68 miles of the archipelago by plane, sailboat, traditional dhow (wooden boat), and helicopter. We’d spent 2 weeks on the journey and Diamonds Mequfi Beach Resort was the final stop on our itinerary. Keen to savor our last few hours of beach time before flying home, we were up early and down on the beach just as the sun’s first rays of light started to peek over the horizon.

2. Do Something That Terrifies You

After it takes a 360-foot tumble over Victoria Falls , the Zambezi River squeezes through a narrow gorge where it boils up into the biggest, and arguably best, white water rapids in the world. This is not for the faint-hearted, and an average level of fitness is required, but if you are feeling brave this really can be an adventure of a lifetime. I have done this trip numerous times and it’s definitely something I would recommend.

Pro Tip: The best time to raft the Zambezi is when the water levels are lower and more rapids are accessible, from August to mid-October. Go with a good operator like Bundu Adventures .

3. Laugh When You Get Caught In A Well-Known Tourist Scam!

Rome is an expensive city. Even a double room in a moderately priced hotel can be pricy. Traveling to Rome as a family with small children, we found the best value accommodation was one of the many convents that take in paying guests. Traveling on a budget and trying to economize wherever we could, we caught the train from the airport into the city. With our luggage and two small children in tow (one in a pushchair), we made the classic rookie mistake – we asked a local taxi driver how much he would charge to drive us to the convent. He named an exorbitant price. Some haggling ensued. Beating him down to a price that wasn’t quite so eye-watering, we climbed into the taxi. He drove for minutes, and around the corner pulled up outside our destination! An expensive lesson learned. All we could do was laugh!

4. Climb A Mountain

Climbing mountains is something I have been doing for years. I’ve climbed them, guided them, and taken my husband and my children up them. I’ve also taken clients on trips they tell me have been life-changing experiences.

If you are looking for an achievable, yet challenging, mountain to climb, let me steer you towards Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro , where I have been guiding regularly for years. Whether you’ll rate a climb up Africa’s highest mountain a great “travel experience” depends entirely on when you’re asked! Ask a climber making the final push to the summit and they’ll probably say no! At that moment it’s a tough, cold, nauseating, exhausting hell. But ask them 6 hours later, when they’re grinning from ear to ear, standing on the roof of Africa, and their answer will definitely be different.

5. Fly First Class

I’d love to say I have flown in first class, but that wouldn’t quite be true! Years ago, traveling from South Africa to Australia , I got as close to flying first class as I am probably ever going to get. Our travel agent made a mistake with our booking. When the plane touched down in Perth en route to Sydney , my husband and I got off with all the other passengers for a short layover before reboarding. We were surprised to see our boarding passes had us in new seats. In first class! We said nothing, grabbed a glass of champagne from the hostess, and sat down. The hostess, surprised to see us, asked to see our boarding passes. And that’s when the mistake was noticed. We were on the wrong plane; our travel agent had accidentally booked us on a later flight to Sydney! We were allowed to finish our champagne , and then quickly ushered to a pair of empty seats back in economy. Our time in first class was lovely while it lasted!

6. Take An Epic Road Trip, On A Road Less Traveled

The 800-mile, 8-day drive from Kathmandu in Nepal to Lhasa in Tibet , along the China-Nepal Friendship Highway is a seriously memorable road trip. It takes you past the highest peaks of the Himalayas, pristine alpine lakes, incredible Buddhist monasteries, and surreal landscapes.

Pro Tip: The China-Nepal Friendship Highway closed after the 2015 Nepal earthquake, and is now only open for goods transport. The route currently being used is along the Pasang Lhamu Highway, a rough route only advised for very intrepid travelers.

7. Spend Time With The Locals

I traveled with Indian friends to Kodenchery in southern India , where they were taking part in a white water kayaking competition. Not knowing the front end of a kayak from the back, I wasn’t actually taking part in the competition but was somehow persuaded to take on the role of commentator. Kodenchery is not on even the most adventurous traveler’s paths, and I was quite a novelty standing on the river bank, microphone in hand, doing my best to describe the action taking place in the river below. I learned a handful of useful phrases from friendly locals and when I was at a total loss for words, one of the local teachers stepped in as my translator. I somehow made it into the local newspaper and onto the local TV news! I’ve never forgotten my weekend of celebrity in the backwaters of south India.

8. Sleep In A Tent

I’ve slept in many tents in my time, and have many fond memories. My husband, on the other hand, is not a keen camper, only sleeping in a tent when absolutely necessary. Of all the tent experiences I have subjected him to, he tells me the most memorable is waking up one morning in a tiny, ice-covered tent in Ethiopia ’s remote Bale Mountains on a trek through to find the endangered Ethiopian wolf. 

9. Sleep On A Boat 

My husband and I were traveling to Tanzania ’s Mahale Mountains National Park, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, to trek with chimpanzees. Most tourists coming to Mahale fly in by charter flight. We decided to travel by boat up the lake from Zambia , spending 3 nights on the MV Liemba , a WWI German gunboat that was converted into a passenger and cargo ferry. We’d managed to secure a “first-class cabin,” which consisted of a rickety bunk bed, a plastic garden chair, and a broken fan — I wouldn’t recommend the trip to any other than the most stoic of travelers. Most of the passengers didn’t have cabins, instead sleeping on the deck. The shared bathroom facilities left a lot to be desired – my husband caught typhoid on the journey home! 

You might not want to choose this boat, but find a boat that suits you, and spend a few nights aboard.

10. Eat Street Food

Street food comes in all shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. My “sweetest” street food memory is piping hot, fresh jalebis in India. It was a chilly early morning and I was walking, with a friend, through the narrow back streets of a tiny town in the Indian Himalayas, when we came across a guy deep frying these delicious sweets at a makeshift stall on the side of the road. Jalebis are a distant cousin to the donut, with a flour batter, deep fried in circular shapes, and soaked in sugar syrup or honey – they are delicious.

11. Visit An Iconic Site And Appreciate Seeing It In Person

The Eiffel Tower , the leaning tower of Pisa , the Grand Canyon – there are so many iconic sites around the world that deserve a place on your travel list. For me, it’s the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Growing up in Sydney, I never appreciated “the bridge” and must have crossed it a thousand times in my youth, never giving it a second thought. What makes you appreciate it though is climbing to the top! Dressed in a camouflage climbing suit, you, and your trembling knees, climb 1,332 steps to reach the top (burning 504 calories on the way!). At the top, you are rewarded with astounding views over the city. The view is particularly magical at dawn, watching the bustling metropolis come to life far below.

Pro Tip: book your climb with Bridge Climb Sydney the climb will cost you around $128. 

12. Sip Cocktails In A Rooftop Bar With A View

There are a million places around the world to sip a cocktail from a rooftop bar with a view. My special place is the chic rooftop bar at Upendo House , in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It overlooks the azure ocean and the historic House of Wonders (built by the second Sultan of Zanzibar in 1883 with a door so wide he could enter the house riding on the back of an elephant!).

13. Swim In Infinity Pool With A View

Everyone loves an infinity pool . My most memorable is the pool at Africa Bush Camps, Bumi Hills , Zimbabwe, which hovers on the edge of a cliff, looking out over the vast and shimmering waters of Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made lake, below.

14. Visit Somewhere With A History So Deep You Will Never Truly Understand It

Lalibela in northern Ethiopia is a place where I’ve stood in awe at the history around me. Known for its distinctive subterranean churches, many of which are joined by tunnels carved out of rock during the 12th and 13th centuries, Lalibela is still a pilgrimage site for Coptic Christians today.

15. Take Local Transport 

My first encounter with public transport in India was taking a sleeper train from Delhi to Dehradun (the gateway to India’s famous hill stations). I was alone and had never been on an overnight train before, let alone one in a different country. I boarded the train just before midnight. Within minutes, my fellow passengers had taken me under their collective wings, finding my berth, teaching me how to fold down my bunk bed, and introducing me to their families. As the train pulled out of the station, in unison they opened their picnic containers full of home-cooked food and offered me all kinds of delicious treats. I’ve never felt so instantly and completely accepted by a bunch of total strangers.

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Travel, Learn, Grow

My Unforgettable Travel Experiences: A Journey to Remember

Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures. 

As an avid traveler, I have had the privilege of experiencing some truly unforgettable moments worldwide. 

Whether immersing myself in the local culture, indulging in delicious food, or exploring breathtaking landscapes, these experiences have left an indelible mark on my soul. 

In this blog post, I will share some of my best travel experiences that have enriched my life and created memories I will cherish forever.

Discovering Iceland’s Natural Wonders

Iceland is a true paradise for nature lovers. 

From its stunning waterfalls to its mesmerizing volcanic landscapes, the country’s raw beauty captivated me from the moment I arrived. 

My visit to the majestic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip. 

Witnessing the floating icebergs in the lagoon, surrounded by the spectacular Vatnajökull National Park, was an experience I will never forget.

Best Time to Visit:  Summer (June to August) offers mild temperatures, long days, and optimal conditions for exploring the outdoors. However, if you are keen on experiencing the Northern Lights, visit during the colder months (September to April).

Recommended Activities:  Golden Circle tour, Blue Lagoon visit, whale watching, and exploring the black sand beaches.

Local Customs:

• Be prepared for unpredictable weather.
• Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
• Respect the fragile ecosystem by staying on marked paths.

Getting Lost in the Vibrant Streets of Tokyo

My trip to Tokyo was nothing short of magical. 

The city’s perfect blend of traditional and modern culture left me spellbound. 

One of my favorite memories was exploring the bustling streets of Harajuku, where I indulged in some of the best street food Japan offers. 

From the quirky fashion to the colorful kawaii culture, Tokyo’s energetic atmosphere made it an unforgettable destination.

Best Time to Visit:  Spring (March to May) for cherry blossom season, and autumn (September to November) for pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage.

Recommended Activities:  Visiting historical temples, exploring Tsukiji Fish Market, enjoying a traditional tea ceremony, and shopping in Akihabara.

Local Customs:  Bow when greeting someone, never tip, and refrain from eating or drinking while walking in public.

Embracing the Spirit of Adventure in New Zealand

As an adventure enthusiast, New Zealand was a dream come true. 

My adrenaline-fueled experiences included bungee jumping in Queenstown, hiking the stunning Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and exploring the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves. 

The country’s diverse landscape, ranging from snow-capped mountains to lush rainforests, provided the perfect backdrop for my exhilarating escapades.

Best Time to Visit:  Summer (December to February) for warm weather and outdoor activities, or shoulder seasons (March to May or September to November) for fewer crowds and mild weather.

Recommended Activities:  Exploring Fiordland National Park, wine tasting in Marlborough, visiting Hobbiton, and experiencing Maori culture in Rotorua.

• Respect the environment.
• Use the phrase “Kia Ora” as a greeting.
• Adhere to Maori customs when visiting sacred sites.

Experiencing the Magic of the Northern Lights in Norway

Witnessing the Northern Lights has always been on my bucket list, and my trip to Norway did not disappoint. 

The ethereal beauty of the dancing auroras in the night sky was a sight that I would never forget. 

My trip to Tromsø, a city well-known for its prime Northern Lights viewing opportunities, was a life-changing experience that left me in awe of nature’s wonders.

Best Time to Visit:  For the Northern Lights, visit between September and March. For mild weather and outdoor activities, visit during the summer (June to August).

Recommended Activities:  Fjord cruises, hiking in the mountains, visiting the Viking Ship Museum, and exploring Bergen’s historic waterfront.

Local Customs:  Dress modestly, respect personal space, and avoid discussing personal finances in conversation.

Falling in Love with Italy’s Rich History and Culture

My journey through Italy was a feast for the senses. 

From the awe-inspiring architecture of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, I was truly captivated by the country’s history and culture. 

However, my most memorable experience was exploring the stunning Amalfi Coast, where the azure waters of the Mediterranean met the dramatic cliffside towns.

The delicious food, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views made Italy a destination I will always hold dear.

Best Time to Visit:  Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) for mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and favorable conditions for sightseeing.

Recommended Activities:  Visiting the Colosseum in Rome, taking a gondola ride in Venice, wine tasting in Tuscany, and exploring Pompeii.

Local Customs:  Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, greet people with a handshake or two kisses on the cheek, and enjoy leisurely meals.

As an avid traveler, I have been fortunate to experience some incredible moments globally. 

These unforgettable journeys have enriched my life and taught me valuable lessons about different cultures, perspectives, and the beauty of our world. 

I cannot wait to embark on my next adventure and create even more cherished memories. 

Happy travels!

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"You See Photos And Think You Can Comprehend It, But When You Arrive You're Dumbstruck": People Are Sharing Their Most Memorable Travel Experiences

"Nothing can prepare you for seeing it with your own two eyes."

BuzzFeed Staff

Maybe you're thinking about your next vacation or maybe you're just daydreaming about seeing the world. In any case, it's never a bad time to plan your next adventure. So I gathered some inspiration from the subreddit r/Travel and from the BuzzFeed Community. Here are some of the most memorable, life-changing experiences according to travelers.

1. "I traveled to the mountains of Togakushi in Nagano, Japan. I followed a path lined with 400-year-old trees, temples, and shrines up the mountain. It was the most serene place I've ever been, and it felt like a scene from a storybook."

— u/Patient_Meat4569

2. "Many couples choose to honeymoon in a tropical destination, but we chose Iceland. We rented a car in Reykjavik and drove around the entire country on the Ring Road. It was the most incredible experience of my life. This country is truly the land of the gods."

— u/deleted

3. "Visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Nothing prepares you for just how immense and enormous the Grand Canyon really is. You see it on TV and think you can comprehend it, but then you arrive, and you're totally dumbstruck."

— u/Finniemc

4. "Hiking Mount Batur to catch the sunrise in Bali. When I told my husband we were going to be waking up at 2 a.m. on our honeymoon to hike up Mount Batur to catch the sunrise, he was less than thrilled. At the base of the volcano, we saw dozens of other tourists taking the same hike (which, by the way, was pitch black and much more intense than we had prepared for). We reached the top of Mount Batur right before the sun started to rise. It was one of those moments that made me stop and feel awe-inspired by just how incredibly beautiful this great big world is."

— Hannah Loewentheil

5. "The sight of Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland shook me to the core. This Alpine village is said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, and it's easy to see why."

— u/mbgraphx

6. "Stepping foot in the Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona. It's such a disorientating experience. Logically you know you’re in a church, but it feels like you’re on a forest floor staring up at huge trees while simultaneously under the sea looking up at the water’s surface. It’s mind-blowing."

7. "It was forecast to be a sweltering hot day Prague, so I decided to get all of my sightseeing out of the way between 5:30 and 7:30 a.m. to beat the heat. It was the best decision. Seeing this beautiful city in the peaceful early morning while everyone else was sleeping was incredible."

— u/bpg5075

8. "Hot spring hopping through the rain forest in Dominica. Dominica — not to be confused with the Dominican Republic — is one of the wildest places I've ever visited. I was there in 2011, and it was unlike most Caribbean islands I'd ever seen. Compared to more polished and touristed islands, Dominica still felt wild and rugged. I loved it. I visited several hot springs during the weeks I was there, but the most memorable were the springs I found on the way to Trafalgar Falls ."

"These little pools of hot water formed right in the middle of the rain forest. It was a far cry from the monetized and commercialized hot springs found in most places. And the fact that the "twin" waterfalls of Trafalgar Falls made up the backdrop didn't hurt either."

— Evie Carrick

9. "I spent four days camping out in the remote Algerian Sahara. It was just me and a local guide. At night it was freezing, but it was free of all light pollution, the sky was breathtakingly beautiful.

10. "Swimming with sea lion pups in the Galápagos Islands. Imagine being in a room of happy, wiggly puppies all vying for your attention. Then swap out puppies for sea lion pups flipping and diving around you in the ocean. Now you can probably understand why this travel experience was so incredible."

"I had the great privilege of boating around the Galápagos Islands for 10 days with a travel agency called  Inca , and it was nothing short of amazing. Even after seeing giant tortoises, sharks , and tons of rare birds (including the iconic blue-footed booby), the little sea lion pups are what stand out. It was one of those experiences that left my cheeks feeling sore from smiling and my heart bursting with happiness."

11. "Traveling to Rome and seeing the Colosseum in person was amazing. Pictures don’t come close to the feeling of standing right next to it and seeing it with your two eyes. I loved Italy in general, but this was a real highlight."

— Iris James

12. "After 4 days of trekking over the Salkantay pass to get to Machu Picchu, I woke up around 3:30 a.m. attempting to get to the ancient Incan citadel before the rest of the tourists arrived. It was 100% worth the early wake up just to see the sunrise here alone."

— u/feastandexist

13. "Eating my way through Tsukiji Market in Tokyo. It was a food-lover's dream. Tsukiji was once home to Tokyo's largest wholesale fish market and famous tuna auctions. Today, the market has moved, but Tsukiji Market is still a food lover's paradise. The chaotic streets are lined with vendors selling everything from steaming hot onigiri and freshly caught sushi to wagyu beef skewers and piping bowls of ramen. Walking and eating my way through Tsukiji Market while taking in all the sights, smells, and flavors was absolutely amazing."

14. "Seeing the world’s largest waterfall, Victoria Falls, on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia was a larger than life experience."

— splootingtil

15. "My brother and I bought a car in Georgia and spent 100 days driving across all of Central Asia — through Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and more. It was the most epic trip I've ever taken, and I would recommend it to anyone in search of an amazing adventure. We ended up selling the car to a couple in Kazakhstan who were taking our same trip but in reverse."

16. "I took a hot air balloon ride in Göreme, Turkey, the famous town in Cappadocia known for its fairy chimney structures. Suffice to say it was utterly breathtaking."

— u/unanatkumot

17. "Seeing the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. I had to stand in line for quite a while to get inside, but it was so worth it. I visited early in the morning, and with the bright morning rays shining through the windows it was absolutely breathtaking. It's easily of the most beautiful works of architecture I've ever seen."

— steamed ham

18. "I watched the sunset in Xingping, China from the top of Laozhai Hill and it absolutely blew my mind. I would recommend staying a night in this town just to see this view with your own eyes. The city is only 20 minutes via bullet train from Guilin."

— u/coolcatjames

19. "After years of thinking I should travel alone, I finally went on my first solo trip to Iceland. The Westfjords region was the best part of my trip. Between the scenic drives, the fjords and the lack of tourists, it was so special."

— u/BlueSparkEU

20. "I walked nearly 600 miles across Spain on the Camino de Santiago. It was the journey of a lifetime. The hike is not exactly the most difficult in the world, but the Camino experience is something that can't be replicated anywhere else."

— u/BlakeUsesInternet

21. "Northeast India is a trip that should be on every nature-lover's travel bucket list. Sikkim, an Indian state bordered by Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal, is home to some of the most gorgeous natural landscapes on earth."

22. "Traveling down the Dalmatian Coast on a summer day was one of the most breathtaking views I have ever seen. Dubrovnik is simply incredible: The water is clear, and the Old City makes you feel as if you've traveled back in time to the Middle Ages."

— u/Terpsichorean_Wombat

23. "Awhile back I got to spend three months on a small banana plantation in the Amazonian rainforest. I remember showering under waterfalls, buying frozen, sweet coconut milk from a woman’s porch, eating tiny bananas that tasted more like raspberries, getting caught in wild rainstorms every day, and taking in so much natural beauty it was overwhelming. It's an experience I’ll never forget that I hope others will have."

24. "I rode my motorcycle from the US to Colombia. I had no plan and no guide. I wanted to make it all the way south to Patagonia, but I ended up spending about eight months in Central America. I just couldn't leave. The whole experience was organic, challenging, and such a blast...everything I could ever want from a travel experience."

— u/anyholsagol

25. "Hiking Queen's Bath Trail in Kauai, Hawaii . It's a short hike up, but my god, the view is so breathtaking. It's usually not packed with tourists, so you can really enjoy your surroundings. Once you get to the top you can wade around into the many small crevasses filled with delightfully warm sea water and spot sea turtles in the ocean down below. It was so gorgeous and memorable."

— witchyribbon84

26. "Driving through the Scottish Highlands will always stand out as one of the most memorable trips of my life. The A82 is one of the prettiest drives I've ever taken. All of the lochs, Glen Coe, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park are incredibly gorgeous. I'm used to the densely forested mountains in the US, and I found the rocky crags of the Highlands to be totally breathtaking."

— u/ich_habe_keine_kase

27. "Exploring the wadis and sleeping in the desert in Jordan. Chances are you've heard of Petra. And while Petra is nothing short of amazing, it was Jordan's wadis (or valleys) that stood out even more to me. Wadi Rum is a wide-open desert wilderness that's punctuated by jutting sandstone cliffs where I rode a camel through the desert and stopped to see prehistoric inscriptions and impressive sandstone arches before sleeping at a Bedouin camp for the night. It was nothing short of amazing. And in Wadi Mujib, I walked up a river between sandstone cliffs carved by cool water on a hot June day. It was one of the best experiences I can remember."

28. "Visiting Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada. There's no words to explain how you feel when you walk in the clearing and see that jade blue lake and the snow-capped mountains behind it. You feel like you're somehow stepped into a magical world of a scene from a postcard."

— u/malazanGates

What travel destination or experience was so special, thrilling, or one-of-a-kind that you'd recommend everyone experience it? Tell us in the comments below.

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Real Life Stories

15 Travellers tell us their most memorable travel experiences – and how it changed them

By Jaye Hannah

Published on Nov 30, 2017 | 6 min

There’s no doubt that travelling brings you a range of emotions: joy and excitement, but also the feeling that you’re in unknown territory. One thing’s for sure though: travelling is probably the best thing you can ever do. Don’t believe us? Just ask these 15 Travellers, who shared the trips and moments that changed them forever…

RELATED: WHEN YOU TRAVEL FOR THE FIRST TIME, SOMETHING CHANGES IN YOU  

“The most memorable trip I have ever had was when I was 17 traveling to Vietnam alone. I was living and working in Vietnam for 4 months as a bartender (and ended up meeting my amazing girlfriend there too!). The most emotional part of the trip was when I was leaving back to Australia to visit my Grandmother who had been very sick. I felt like I lost everything (and even being able to see the person who I had come to love). I worked hard for 6 months and was able to find my way back here.  3 years later I live in this beautiful country and able to speak the native language while living with my girlfriend.”   – Lachlan Gordon

“A friend and I booked a spur of the moment trip to India after a few drinks. That trip was one of the highlights of my life, teaching me so much about culture, enriching me and teaching me more than any classroom ever could. The smells and sites and sounds will forever stay with me. That trip gave me the travel bug and showed me the true meaning of wanderlust.”  – Bala Walsh 

“My most memorable travel experience was when I was 12 years old I was lucky enough to be sent on a camp to Switzerland with children from all over the world who had also received organ transplants. Growing up being sick and having my liver transplant in 1998 at the age of 7 travel had never been an option for me, so this was such an incredible experience to be gifted. It was my first time on a plane and overseas. It was so special, I remembered being shocked at the sheer beauty of it all.” – Kate Elizabeth

RELATED: I TRAVELLED ON CONTIKI WITH A BRAIN TUMOUR. THIS IS MY STORY  

“Our first night on Contiki, we could see the Eiffel Tower from our accommodation…and we decided to walk to it! 3 hours later it was 2am and we were getting closer and closer – it looks like it was just around the corner every corner! We finally reached it and and we were in utter awe! I don’t think I’ve ever been as happy as finding the Eiffel Tower at 3am covered in sparkles which lit up the night sky. That is what happiness feels like. In that moment, anything in the world felt possible. ” – Emma Walker

“I have only started traveling this year. As a child I wasn’t fortunate enough to travel as my parents worked to keep a roofs over our heads. It was a DREAM of mine since I was very young to go to Japan. I worked, worked and worked my butt off to fulfill my dream all by myself! I finally got to go in April to see the cherry blossom trees, I literally cried as we touched down in Tokyo. To see a whole new world was mind blowing! Travelling is made me so humble since then.” –  Maddi Lomas

“As a coeliac I found it difficult to locate gluten free foods in a lot of places, but I didn’t let that stop me from enjoying my contiki trip through Europe. We wanted some gelato in Italy and opted to walk around the streets to find some gluten free gelato. Finally, we found some – I then asked if there were gluten free cones as well, and when the shop keeper pulled out a gluten free cone, I confessed my love for him and his shop. It was so important for me to find traditional local foods so I could experience my European adventure to the fullest!” – Leslie Wickens

“After my summer study abroad trip to Italy fell through, my best friend and I decided to book a last minute trip to Europe. While searching for trips, we stumbled upon Contiki and decided to book. As Americans, we had never heard of Contiki before and really didn’t know what to expect. From this trip, I got to experience 6 different countries, watch the Euro Cup in Europe, and most importantly I met life long friends. I am dying to go back and as a teacher, although I have to work multiple jobs to even be able to dream of it. I work in an intercity where most students don’t get the opportunity to leave the state for a majority of their lives, due to financial reasons. My goal is to show my students that they should never let money limit their travels. With a lot of hard work, they too can see the world!” – Julia Gulia 

“I have always wanted to explore New Zealand and when the opportunity came up I just couldn’t say no. This group of people made the trip for me and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. They helped me to face my fears and try things I never imagined I’d be able to do. The euphoric rush you get when you compete your first bungy jump is one I will never forget!” – Kira Chow 

“My most Memorable travel memory was from a Christmas I spent in China. I was able to travel to a leper colony in one of the very rural areas outside of Guangzhou. There was one lady in particular who has rocked my world even to this day. After learning that they only have to eat what they can grow and the large bags of rice my friends and I brought them, she offered me and every person I was with this bowl of oranges. She had nothing by our standards – but was still willing to give all that she had. It’s moments like this that keep me hungry for travel.” – Arden Shanklin

“The moment that changed my life was in July 2016. I went on the grand southern contiki tour and I opened up the further into the tour I went (I’m usually quite shy) and have never been the same since. Because of this tour I wanted to be more open, so between this tour and my next tour in April 2017 I took the biggest step in my life and came out to my parents. Not only has travel physically changed me, but it’s helped me come to terms with myself” – Tim Savage

RELATED: WHY SPAIN IS ONE OF THE BEST COUNTRIES TO TRAVEL TO IF YOU ARE LGBT+

“My sister and I went on a Contiki to Scotland and Ireland. There was one night in Loch Ness when it was raining cats and dogs, so we were forced to stay at our hotel. Everyone was bummed at first, but then we didn’t really care, because we were cooped up in a hotel with some pretty awesome people. We sat and played card games and drinking games all night. It was probably one of the most fun nights in the whole trip!” – Kandyce Lauren

Do you have a travel experience that changed you forever? Let us know in the comments…

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Unforgettable travel experiences: exploring global wonders

Explore the world with our guide to unforgettable travel experiences, from natural wonders to thrilling adventures. Ignite your wanderlust today!

Worldpackers Worldpackers

Sep 10, 2023

Ever found yourself staring at a picture of an awe-inspiring landmark or natural wonder, wishing you were there? If so, then this post about travel experiences is for you.

We've all felt the itch to break free from our routine and embark on an adventure. But where should we go? What should we see?

Fear not! This blog promises to take you on a whirlwind tour around the globe - from plunging into Australia's vibrant Great Barrier Reef to scaling new heights at Dubai's Burj Khalifa.

The world awaits us, ready with its hidden gems . So let's pack our bags and get ready for some unforgettable journeys!

35 unforgettable travel experiences

Traveling is not just about reaching a destination; it's about the extraordinary moments and memories that unfold along the way. 

In this list, we present 35 remarkable travel experiences to inspire your next adventure. Next, we will delve deeper into them.

• Exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru.
• Witnessing the beauty of the Northern Lights in Iceland.
• Safari adventure in the African Serengeti.
• Visiting the historic city of Rome, Italy.
• Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
• Relaxing on the pristine beaches of the Maldives.
• Cruising through the stunning fjords of Norway.
• Experiencing the vibrant culture of Tokyo, Japan.
• Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
• Taking a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, Turkey.
• Hiking through the Grand Canyon, USA.
• Exploring the temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
• Road tripping along the Amalfi Coast, Italy.
• Walking the Great Wall of China.
• Visiting the historic Pyramids of Giza, Egypt.
• Going on a wildlife safari in South Africa.
• Exploring the Inca Trail in Peru.
• Cruising the Amazon River in Brazil.
• Immersing in the culture of Marrakech, Morocco.
• Witnessing the Taj Mahal in India.
• Camping under the stars in the Sahara Desert.
• Experiencing the beauty of the Greek Islands.
• Tasting authentic street food in Bangkok, Thailand.
• Road tripping on the Pacific Coast Highway, USA.
• Visiting the medieval city of Prague, Czech Republic.
• Exploring the ancient city of Petra, Jordan.
• Going on a wine tour in the vineyards of Tuscany, Italy.
• Taking a gondola ride in Venice, Italy.
• Discovering the wonders of the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador.
• Exploring the historic streets of Kyoto, Japan.
• Hiking through the lush landscapes of New Zealand.
• Witnessing the sunrise at Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
• Exploring the vibrant street art of Berlin, Germany.
• Visiting the temples of Bagan, Myanmar.
• Sailing through the Greek Cyclades Islands.

Adventure travel

Adventure travel experiences encompasses a diverse range of activities that take travelers off the beaten path and into the heart of nature and culture. 

From trekking through remote landscapes to observing wildlife on safaris, adventure travel offers unique and often physically demanding experiences. 

Whether you seek the thrill of water sports, the challenge of mountain summits, or the serenity of wilderness camping , it's a way to break from routine and create lasting memories . 

These adventures connect people with the world in a raw and immersive way, forging deep connections with both nature and fellow travelers.

Historical journeys

If you're a history buff, then embarking on historical journeys will be an unforgettable experience. 

These trips offer more than just sightseeing; they provide a window into our shared past, offering travelers the opportunity to explore world heritage sites, museums, memorials, and ancient ruins . 

Museums are perfect gateways into understanding a place’s past. Whether it's exploring art at The Louvre Museum in Paris, or diving deep into human evolution at New York City’s American Museum of Natural History, museums around the globe provide enriching insights into our shared heritage.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Great Wall of China or the historic city of Venice transport visitors to bygone eras, showcasing the architectural and cultural treasures of humanity . These sites speak volumes about the civilizations that once thrived there, leaving an indelible mark on our collective history.

Cultural immersion

Diving into the heart of local cultures can be an enlightening journey, offering firsthand experiences that textbooks just don't capture. 

The joy of these journeys lies in partaking in age-old traditions, absorbing their significance, and appreciating the rich tapestry they form within a culture.

This can be achieved by actively participating in traditional festivals, where the energy and customs of a culture come to life. Engaging in cooking classes offers a sensory journey into a region's culinary traditions, allowing travelers to not only savor local flavors but also understand the history and stories behind each dish. 

Volunteering within local communities provides an opportunity to make a positive impact while building deep connections with the people and their way of life.

Platforms like Worldpackers facilitate these immersive experiences by offering volunteer and work exchange opportunities worldwide, making it possible to live, learn, and grow within different cultures.

Travelers can choose from a wide range of projects, such as helping with organic farming in Portugal or assisting at a hostel in Argentina . In exchange for their skills and time, participants receive accommodation and other benefits .  Check out all the opportunities worldwide ! 

These travel experiences enable travelers to go beyond the surface of a destination , forging connections that transcend borders and leaving them with a profound appreciation for the world's diversity.

Connecting with nature

Connecting with nature through eco-friendly travel offers unique opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural world while minimizing environmental impact . 

It involves exploring pristine landscapes, encountering wildlife in their habitats, and participating in sustainable practices that promote the well-being of our planet. 

Whether it's embarking on a wildlife safari, hiking through untouched wilderness, or diving into crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs, these travel experiences deepen our connection to the environment . 

They also inspire a genuine appreciation for the Earth's beauty and the importance of responsible travel, further enhanced by engaging in eco-conscious activities like tree planting and sustainable farming.

Worldpackers eco programs provide an excellent avenue for travelers to engage in eco-conscious and sustainable travel experiences around the world. 

These experiences foster a deeper connection to the environment, promote sustainable practices, and create memories that go beyond typical tourist experiences. 

Plus, they allow travelers to contribute positively to the destinations they visit, leaving a lasting impact on the places they call home for a while. Some popular positions include:

• Be part of an eco-village and learn sustainable practices in Shawnigan Lake, Canada.
• Discover India from a different perspective: join a organic farm in Chikkarayappanahalli. 
• Help make the oasis green again and combat desertification by participating in a farmstay in Morocco .
• Permaculture, Agroforestry, Bioconstruction & Community! Join an eco project in Paraiso , Colombia.

Check out all the opportunities in eco programs worldwide through Worldpackers!

Spiritual travel

Embarking on a spiritual journey can be an enlightening way to explore the world. It offers you a unique opportunity to discover new cultures, learn about ancient traditions, and deepen your understanding of yourself .

Spiritual travel encompasses meditation and yoga escapes, allowing seekers to find inner peace and mindfulness. Yoga retreats, often set in serene locations like Bali or Costa Rica, promote physical and spiritual harmony. 

Sacred pilgrimages to revered destinations like Mecca and Varanasi offer opportunities for spiritual transformation and unity with ancient traditions , making spiritual travel a profound path to personal growth and inner peace.

Whether you want to deepen your yoga practice, explore holistic healing modalities, or simply immerse yourself in a peaceful and nurturing environment, Worldpackers offers a range of programs at holistic centers , yoga retreats , and similar wellness-oriented destinations.

Off the beaten path

Travel is not just about ticking off the typical tourist spots. Traveling is all about going beyond the conventional tourist spots , testing your boundaries, and making memories that will last a lifetime. 

Off the beaten path travel reveals hidden gems and underrated destinations , offering unique cultural experiences and unspoiled landscapes. 

Exploring places like Slovenia's Julian Alps, India's mystical Hampi, or Chile's lesser-known Patagonian trails provides an intimate connection with local culture and pristine beauty. 

These destinations, often preserving traditions and untold stories , invite travelers to discover the charm of remote Laotian villages, the vibrancy of Medellin's street art, or the surreal landscapes of Namibia's deserts. 

Off the beaten path travel fosters curiosity and wonder , making each journey unforgettable and enriching.

Tips for enhancing your travel experiences

Traveling is not just about visiting new places; it's about the experiences you gather and the memories you create. Here are some tips to make your travel journey more enriching .

Creating a travel bucket list

A travel bucket list can be an exciting start to your adventure . It allows you to outline all the destinations, activities, and experiences that you dream of accomplishing during your travels. 

This could range from seeing iconic landmarks, trying local cuisines, or even learning a new language!

Travel itinerary planning tips

An organized itinerary will help maximize your time while traveling. Research on must-visit spots in each destination beforehand but also leave room for spontaneity – unexpected adventures often lead to unforgettable moments! 

Safety and health while traveling

Your health and safety should always be a priority when traveling . Always have travel insurance, stay updated with vaccinations required for different countries, keep emergency contact numbers handy at all times.

Mindful travel

Mindful travel involves being present in every moment of your trip — observing surroundings keenly, immersing yourself fully into cultures & traditions of places visited without causing harm or discomfort to anyone around.

Connecting with locals

Interacting with locals can give you an authentic insight into their culture, traditions, and way of life. They can also recommend lesser-known spots that aren't typically included in tourist guides.

Cultural sensitivity and respect

While traveling to new places, it's essential to respect the local customs and cultures . Learn about the social norms and etiquettes before visiting a place to avoid unintentional disrespect or harm.

Also, take a look at: 

• Trip preparation: 6 steps to plan your dream trip
• Your essential carry-on packing list to do it like a pro
• How to travel on a budget: travelers' tips and hacks

What a journey we've embarked on, exploring unforgettable travel experiences around the globe. From natural wonders to cultural immersions, there's something for everyone.

With its vast array of landmarks and offbeat locations, the world offers countless opportunities for exploration and experience. Start your journey here and explore the world's boundless opportunities!

Want to learn more about planning your trip? By subscribing to the WP pack plan you have unlimited access to +120 courses at Worldpackers Academy, the travel school made by travelers!

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

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The 19 Most Unforgettable Bucket-List Travel Experiences

By Katherine McGrath

When you look back on all your travels, which memories are the sharpest? They probably don't include time spent lounging in the hotel while the world outside awaits. For many with wanderlust , the fondest memories involve experiencing the local culture first-hand and trying things that push beyond comfort zones. It's an undeniable fact that new experiences change us for the better, challenging us to look at the world through a different lens.

Of course, souvenirs can be a great way to remember a trip and decorate your home, but when it comes to travel, it's best to collect memories, not things (souvenir is French for memory, after all). It's been well-documented that our experiences become an integral part of our identities and often make for fabulous stories—which is exactly why we enjoy things like whipping around the streets of India in the back of a rickshaw, flamenco dancing in Barcelona, and exploring street art in Berlin. Here, we've compiled the best travel experiences that you really should check off of your bucket list.

Learn to roast coffee in Guatemala.

Go cliff jumping in Pula on the southern tip of Croatia.

Courtesy Getty Images.

Ride a motorbike around northern Vietnam.

Courtesy Getty images.

Bathe in one of Budapest's thermal baths.

Celebrate with the locals on Beaujolais Nouveau Day in France.

Learn to make sushi in Japan.

Smell the lavender in Provence.

Ride in a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey.

Learn to Flamenco dance in Barcelona.

Climb Mount Fuji in Japan.

Photo: Azlan Mohamed. Courtesy: Flickr.

Take a street art tour in Berlin.

See the northern lights in Scandinavia.

Bike around Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Go surfing on the North Island of New Zealand.

Ride a camel and watch the sun rise over the sand dunes in the Sahara Desert.

Join the running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain.

Drink coca tea in Peru.

Whip around the streets of India in the back of a rickshaw.

Ride an ice explorer onto an ancient glacier in Alberta.

By Jessica Ritz

By Katherine McLaughlin

By Sarah Archer

The 10 most incredible travel experiences in the world, according to Lonely Planet

Oct 7, 2020 • 7 min read

The Monastery of Petra by candlelight © K. Chae / 500px

There’s no two ways about it; 2020 has dealt an unexpected blow to the travel industry. And while our dreams of jetting off for adventure or reconnecting with loved ones in another country may have been dashed, we have to remember that things won’t always be like this – there’s still an array of unique and compelling places around the world waiting to be experienced and appreciated.

Now is the perfect time to start planning for when it's safe to travel again, and to inspire those once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Lonely Planet is proud to present Ultimate Travel List , the second edition of our bestseller that offers a brand new ranking of the greatest places on Earth.

Travel can be a force for good, allowing us to connect with other cultures and communities, educate ourselves and experience how others live. For this edition, extra marks have been awarded to destinations that manage tourism sustainably. From the marvels of human invention to the raw beauty of nature, this inspiring list of 500 places has been put together by our most knowledgeable experts. Here’s the top 10 from the new book.

1. Explore the ancient 'lost city' of Petra  

This Unesco World Heritage Site has long mystified travellers with its stunning sandstone construction and history. Over 3000 years old, it was originally capital of the Nabataeans, a nomadic people from Arabia who were merchants and craftspeople. The city was eventually abandoned, only to be embraced by the Bedouin who began living in the caves up until the 1980s. In 2007 the enigmatic city was voted in as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and any visitor who ventures there can see why. From the Siq, the winding narrow canyon that was once a trade route and a focal point for religious processions, to the iconic 128-ft-high Treasury building, visitors to the sprawling 102-sq mile site are overtaken by the wonder of it. Historic and intriguing, Jordan enjoys a reputation as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the Middle East.

2. Visit the Galápagos – the islands that have astounded scientists

A literal wonderland of science, the Galápagos hold secrets of nature not seen anywhere else in the world. Famed as the place where Charles Darwin’s ideas on evolution by natural selection were shaped, the islands inspire thought and wonderment. Many of the native creatures are unique to the stretch of islands off the coast of Ecuador , with 200-hundred-year-old tortoises, large land iguanas of pink and yellow, and flightless cormorants. Located at the meeting of three separate ocean currents, the Galápagos also hold a bounty of marine species. Ecotourism has become a booming industry in the last few years, with the airport being built from mostly sustainable and recycled materials, and running on solar and wind power.

3. Learn from the Aṉangu at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park 

Blushing like an epiphanic, sun-baked chunk of coal on the shimmering horizon, there’s something haunting about witnessing the golden and umber hues of Uluru at sunset. Standing proud at 348m tall and stretching nearly 4km wide, the sandstone leviathan is not only an impressive spectacle and popular tourism spot, it’s a sacred site. The area’s native inhabitants, the Aṉangu people, hold the belief that spiritual ancestors reside here. An icon to Australia , the site has long been a draw. Up until 2017 it was possible (against the wishes of the Aṉangu) to ascend the summit, but there are still rich and rewarding experiences open to travelers. The Aṉangu cultural center is a highlight where there is a display on tjukurpa, the creation period.

4. Embrace a slower pace of life on the Okavango Delta

A marshland that is home to some of the world’s most endangered animals, this beautiful wilderness is a compelling destination for an African safari. Expanding up to 7722 sq miles (20,000 sq km), this is one of the world’s largest inland deltas and an important lifeforce for huge numbers of wildlife. The area can be appreciated in a number of different ways, including by powerboat, mokoro (a traditional canoe), and via 4WD safaris. You'll spot wildlife big and small – the most thrilling sight is no doubt the proud African elephants that can be spotted bathing and drinking. In order to protect the environment, visitor numbers are regulated, making it an exclusive but truly rewarding experience. 

5. Gaze upon geysers and grizzlies at Yellowstone National Park  

Home to 60% of the world’s geysers, (including Old Faithful – the park’s most famous one) Yellowstone offers a full an assault of the senses. From eggy whiffs of roaring, hot springs that explode over a searing landscape to the exciting sight of bison, elk, bears and wolves running past, there is always something to thrill. On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park in the US, and today welcomes an impressive 4 million people every year. It also boasts rugged canyons, mountains and forests perfect for hiking, walking, climbing, trail running, and other outdoor activities.

6. Emulate a pilgrim's journey to the astounding Lake Bled

With its white bell-towered church atop an island on a glassy lake, and a medieval castle that clings to the side of a green precipice, Lake Bled is picture-perfect. The eye-catching beauty of the Slovenian retreat has always made it a draw, from early pilgrims to 19th-century royalty. Backed by the Julian Alps and the Karavanke, the route around the lake makes for an easy and enjoyable walk or cycle, while swimming in or diving beneath the stunning waters is also popular with the throngs of visitors who venture here. A jewel of the Alps and a symbol of the country’s beauty, Lake Bled continues to be a popular choice for those who enjoy inspiring surroundings.

7. Marvel at the overwhelming power of Iguazú Falls 

Easily reached from both Brazil and Argentina , the furious Iguazú Falls are an awe-inspiring demonstration of the power of nature. The cascades are formed by a chain of hundreds of waterfalls nearly 2 miles (3km) in extension that join forces to create something magnificent. The expanse of the surrounding national park, a protected area over 67,720 hectares (the majority of which is a rainforest with unique plant and animal life) adds extra value to a visit. Multiple rainbows can be spotted when the spray and falling water is backlit against the sun as Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) thunders over the rocks.

8. Find heaven on earth at the temples of Angkor 

A symbol of ingenious resourcefulness and religious dedication, Angkor’s temples encourage admiration in anyone who sees them. The most famous of the sites – Angkor Wat – represents Mt Meru, the home of the Hindu gods and the center of the universe. It is a place of pilgrimage for all Cambodians , and the largest religious building in the world. Angkor includes over 1000 shrines and temples, including Ta Prohm, with its large, jungle-engrossed towers. The sunrises here are unmissable. Avoid busier crowds by visiting in the wet season.

9. Float on a mirror surface at Salar de Uyuni

After rainfall, Salar de Uyuni, the biggest salt lake in the world, is transformed into an enormous mirror where the boundaries between sky and earth disappear. The flat salt surface reflects the clouds, and the horizon disappears. Measuring 4085 sq miles (10,582 sq km) and sitting at an altitude of 3653m (11,984 ft) in the Bolivian altiplano, the lake is just as compelling when dry, with the white cracked surface having the appearance of another planet. There’s even geyser fields to visit, while high-altitude lakes of aquamarine attract flocks of flamingos.

10. Take a classic teahouse trek around Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit

A dream destination for hikers, serious walkers and trekkers, the Annapurna region has stunning mountains and hidden hilltop villages. There are also charming lodges serving food and pots of delicious tea. Hikes here offer everything, from farmland and rice paddies, through pastures and fields to craggy summits and snowy embankments. Tilicho Lake and the village of Ngawal are highlights, with the latter offering beautiful views across the valley of snowy summits. There are experiences to suit everyone, from short treks to month-long journeys of the Annapurna Circuit and Sanctuary trails.

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Seven Travel Experiences That Made 2022 My Most Memorable Year Yet

by Carolyn Ray | Dec 29, 2022

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Last updated on February 20th, 2023

Featured image: The captivating seaside town of Split in Croatia | Photo from Envato

A year of firsts in 17 countries, from Mexico to Spain, to inspire you for 2023

by Carolyn Ray, Editor, JourneyWoman

When I rang in the new year in Mexico last January, I never imagined that 2022 would be one of my busiest travel years ever. This year, I decided to say yes to everything, and what a journey it has been! I’m so grateful to have had opportunities to travel to so many different regions, including Europe, Mexico, the US, South America, the United Kingdom and Canada, visit 17 countries and meet inspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs who are making a difference as we adapt to our new reality. Not only that, I was able to experience so many firsts: a Danube river cruise, Christmas markets across Europe, and the islands of Croatia. I swam in cenotes in Mexico, hiked in Croatia’s national parks, danced in parades, revisited places I love and rediscovered many unique destinations I knew nothing about. I couldn’t be more grateful to have had these experiences and to be able to share them with you.

Every day we are invited to do something new. It might be something that scares us or makes us uncomfortable. We have a choice. We can say no and stay in our comfort zone or we can say yes! and discover something new about ourselves and the world. In sharing these experiences, I hope they inspire you to say yes to the unexpected and trust the universe.  Throughout my travels, I’ve relied on first-hand experiences from other women, advice from health professionals, strictly observed local regulations and mask-wearing, and have been fully vaccinated. I expect pandemic regulations to adapt to changes throughout 2023, but that’s not stopping me from living the life of my dreams. After all, time is fleeting and I believe I can do more good by getting out in the world – as women, we can learn, share and make the world a better place through our own actions.

Oaxaca is a wonderful place to wander / Photo by Unsplash

1. Mexico: Merida and Oaxaca (January, May and June)

Throughout 2022 and 2023, I spent several months in Mexico, in San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Escondido, Mérida and Oaxaca. The weather was wonderful. I experienced my first Day of the Dead in San Miguel and took my first hot air balloon ride. From November to January, I lived in Merida and took Spanish lessons, visited UNESCO archaeological sites like Uxmal and  Chichen Itza , swam in cenotes visited small Pueblos Mágicos (magic towns) like Valladolid and Izamal, and Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve,  home to one of the largest pink flamingo populations in the world.

In May and June, I spent six weeks in Oaxaca. There is so much to see and do here, from walking tours, the nearby Monte Alban archaeological site, Hierve el Agua, Puerto Escondido or Huatulco (where I experienced Hurricane Agatha), and small villages where women are sharing their craft skills including weaving, cooking and pottery. 

I’m grateful to Jennifer Furlong and the team at Tlayudona for introducing me to these women and helping me learn what sustainable travel can be for women and communities. She told me: “When I started Tlayudona, I wanted the women that I had gotten to know in the villages that had all of this immense amount of ancestral knowledge to be able to share that knowledge and those stories. Also, the economic component but to create a dignified living wage out of doing so was important to me. Their ability to live in harmony with cycles and understand that we don’t need to always have an upward growth trajectory and balance like health, family, community.”

Read more about Mexico:

What Life in Mexico Taught Me About Trust, Joy and Gratitude During the Pandemic

Why Merida, Mexico Might Be Perfect for Solo Women and Long Stays

Best Places for Solo Women to Stay in Oaxaca, Mexico

25+ Things Solo Women Love About Mexico

Meeting Jennifer and Tania in Oaxaca was a highlight / Photo by Carolyn Ray

2. Canada: Exploring Nova Scotia’s Less-Travelled Lighthouse Route (June)

In June, I travelled to Nova Scotia, Canada, where life is governed by the rise and fall of the tides, by the wind and water, and by the fog. I visited the southeastern part of Nova Scotia, including Yarmouth, Digby and Cape Sable, with my colleagues from the Travel Media Association of Canada.

Nova Scotia may be the second smallest province geographically, but it is big on lighthouses, including the now-accessible Peggy’s Cove near Halifax. Along the South Shore alone, there are 180 to explore on Nova Scotia’s Lighthouse Route, each with its own story, reflecting the courage, perseverance and resilience of the lighthouse keepers and the communities in which they lived.

This area was also the home of Maud Lewis , who became Canada’s most famous folk artist after her death in 1970. Her paintings now grace the homes of admirers, patrons, and investors the world over.

Read more about Nova Scotia:

 A Less-Travelled Route for Lighthouse Lovers in Nova Scotia, Canada

Magical Encounters With Canadian Folk Artist Maud Lewis in Nova Scotia

Soak in Nova Scotia’s Charm at Peggy’s Cove, Now Accessible to All

Lost and Found in Nova Scotia’s UNESCO Cliffs of Fundy Geopark

With my TMAC travel writing colleagues Shelley and Lauren/ Photo by Carla Allen

Famous Nova Scotia folk artist Maud Lewis / Photo by David Corning

3. Colombia: Discovering the Reinvention of Medellin (September)

Arriving alone in Medellin on an early morning flight for the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) conference, I admit to being a bit anxious given Medellin’s historical reputation and my previous experiences in Colombia years earlier.

Instead, I left in awe of the transformation that is taking place. Once the world’s most dangerous city, Medellin has mastered the art of accepting its past with grace but moving forward with courage. Across this city of four million people, I witnessed hope and renewal, evidenced in sites from Parque Inflexion to Comuna 13 to Moravia. Cultural change takes time, courage and powerful, honest storytelling. It also takes leadership, and in Colombia, women are stepping up to lead change.

Carolina Díaz Velásquez, one of our guides from Impulse Travel , shared the story of her own uncle being kidnapped and eventually killed by the Medellin cartel.  Fearing for their lives, her family moved to Bogota only to return years later. She finds therapy in giving tours, which allow her to share memories from her childhood. “This is a time that produced a lot of pain but it can’t be ignored,” she says. “We learn from the lessons of the past.”

Read more about Colombia here:  

Safe for Solo Women? The Reinvention of Medellin, Colombia

My female tour guides, Caro and Anna, from Impulse Travel / Photo by Carolyn Ray

Not ready to travel on your own yet? 

Look for a group tour for women, by women, in our Women’s Travel Directory.

4. Croatia: The Undeniable Magic of the Venice and the Croatian Coast (October)

In September and October, I visited Venice and the Croatian Coast as a guest on Insight Vacations’ first-ever women-only tour. Croatia has a more complicated history than any country I’ve visited before. My head spins considering all of the countries that have influenced Croatia’s development: Italy, Yugoslavia, Italian, Venetian, Austria, and France.  Over 12 days, I travelled from through Istria, Split, Hvar, Korçula and Dubrovnik, channeling Game of Thrones throughout!

One of my favourite places was Split, the largest city on the Adriatic Coast. Founded as the Greek colony of Aspálathos in the 3rd or 2nd century BC, Split has been under Roman, Venetian, Austrian, French, Italian, and Yugoslav rule. The real highlight is Diocletian Palace, an incredibly well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage site built in the fourth century AD by the Roman Emperor Diocletian as his retirement home, due to the healing properties of the sulphur springs under the city. 

I also met women entrepreneurs along the way, like Dr. Irene Fonda, whose who leads a sustainable fish farm with her family in Istria, a region of Italy near Slovenia. Dr. Fonda’s farm was chosen as Alpe Adria’s most sustainable project in 2019 and Slovenia’s hidden gem award in 2022.  I loved spending time with documentary filmmaker Celine Cousteau, the Travel Corporation’s Treadright Foundation Ambassador, who travels the world to help amplify the voices of the amazing individuals who are working to protect ecosystems, wildlife and people.

Read more about Croatia here:

From Dubrovnik to Split, Four Places For Adventurous Solo Women to Discover in Croatia

Learn about Women-Only Trips from Insight Vacations or Trafalgar Tours

The view of Dubrovnik from the City Wall / Photo by Carolyn Ray

Meeting filmmaker and activist Celine Cousteau was very special  / Photo by Carolyn Ray

5. Britain: Bristol and Bath (November)

Only a few hours from London is the less-travelled Bristol, which really is a very charming and walkable city. In addition to its thriving arts and museum culture, I loved seeing great live jazz at the Old Duke, exploring its coffee shops and pubs and even afternoon tea!

In Bristol, I discovered Martin Booth’s book “111 Places in Bristol That You Shouldn’t Miss” and he was kind enough to give us a personal tour. I also did a tour was with John Nation at Where The Wall’s Bristol Street Art Tour, who gave his first-hand insights into the life and work of Banksy and shared his own stories that make Bristol the street art and graffiti capital of the UK.

 I was grateful to witness a very special Remembrance Sunday in a city that endured great destruction during WW2, when an entire neighborhood was devastated by a bombing raid on November 24, 1940.

Bristol is the home of renowned street artist Banksy / Photo by Carolyn Ray

In addition to arranging this trip for me, Visit Britain also invited me to stop in at Bath. The whole city is a blend of ancient, medieval and modern features – delicious, timeless and elegant. I dipped my toes into all Bath has to offer, from its Roman thermal baths, to the Abbey, the Royal Crescent and the Circus. Not to mention a mouth-watering afternoon tea at the Roseate Villa, Sally Lunn’s famous bunns and charming cafes and restaurants. Even Pulteney Bridge, with its quaint shops, reminded me of the Rialto Bridge in Venice. It’s no wonder that much of Bridgerton  is filmed here.

A highlight was meeting author Jane Christmas, whose book “What The Psychic Told the Pilgrim” made me laugh so hard and inspired me to do Camino. Jane lives in Bristol and came to Bath so that we could connect in real life over tea. It was such a thrill for me.

Read more about Britain:

JourneyWoman Travel Tips: Where to Stay in London, UK

A Women’s Travel Guide to England

Summer of 2002: 30 of Britain’s Top Outdoor Festivals and Events

Afternoon tea at the Roseate Villa in Bath / Photo by Carolyn Ray

With Canadian author Jane Christmas on Pulteney Bridge / Photo by Carolyn Ray

6. Christmas Markets in Europe (November and December)

There’s no place more festive than a Christmas market in Europe, particularly this year, as the world embraces a return to travel.  Over a three-week period, I embraced train travel to visit iconic cities across Europe and experience the magic of seven Christmas markets across Europe including Prague, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Salzburg, Vienna, Munich and Budapest.  While I loved them all, my favorite was Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market, set under the fairy-tale spires of the stunning Church  of Our Lady before Týn, watching friends and family gather for hot mulled wine, trdelník  chimney cakes and sausages.

Vienna and Budapest were special too, however, as my daughter joined me for our pre-Christmas celebration. I’ll be writing more about this in the New Year, including features on the Jewish Museum in Prague and the Dohány Street Synagogue in Budapest.

Several of these markets were stops on my first river cruise as a guest on the Avalon Waterways Christmas Markets river cruise. Having seen the massive cruise ships in Venice and Dubrovnik this year, I prefer river cruising as it has a smaller footprint while adopting environmentally friendly practices onboard. As you may have noticed, we don’t cover large-scale cruising in our editorial at all due to its impact on the environment. Find an Avalon river cruise here.  I also encourage you to t a ke the train in Europe – plan your journey here !

Read more about Christmas markets:

Seven Iconic European Christmas Markets Solo Women Love

The main entrance to the Salzburg Christkindlmarkt / Photo by Carolyn Ray

7. Spain (November to February 2023)

Last year’s Camino whetted my appetite to return to Spain, a country I’ve spent a significant amount of time in and adore. This year, I decided to make Malaga my home base so that I could learn more about the southern coast of Spain, including Seville, Toledo, Cordoba, Mallorca and Nerja. Spending Christmas in Seville was magical and even a week there wasn’t enough time to wander the Santa Cruz area and explore its complex history.

2023 is the 50th anniversary of Picasso’s death, with a national campaign being planned across France and Spain. I’ve already visited his birth home here.in Malaga and hope to write more about this in partnership with Spain Tourism.

My return to Canada is slated for early February, and I plan to make my way north through Segovia and to Girona before taking the train back to London. While Segovia will be new to me, Girona is a town I visited years ago as part of a trip to Barcelona, Sitges and Tarragona, so I’m looking forward to returning to the Dali Museum and Figueres. Watch the JourneyWoman_original Instagram for more updates and tips or join our Solo Travel Wisdom group on Facebook, where I’m posting regular updates.

Read more about Spain:  

On Spain’s Camino de Santiago, Expect the Unexpected

Less-Travelled Places: The Undiscovered Town of La Herradura in Southern Spain

What have your most memorable travel moments been in 2022? Share them in the comments below.

The medieval city of Cordoba, Spain/ Photo from Envato

How Women Can Transform the World Through Travel

Five Ways You Can Teach Your Grandchildren About Sustainable Travel

by Kathy Buckworth | Apr 23, 2024

As good travellers, we can teach our grandchildren how to make good decisions about the Earth when they travel.

Meet the Woman Protecting Zimbabwe’s Majestic Lions: Moreangels Mbizah, the only Indigenous Black Woman Lion Conservationist in Zimbabwe

by Rupi Mangat | Mar 26, 2024

Featured image: Moreangels Mbizah giving her TED Talk on wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe | Photo by Ryan Lash for TEDMbizah shares her fascinating journey into wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe by Rupi MangatMoreangels Mbizah had never seen a lion or any other...

Cactus Cocktails and Low-emission Coffee? What We Can Learn From the Caribbean Island of Bonaire

by Jules Torti | Mar 25, 2024

From cactus cocktails to low-emission cups of coffee, the Caribbean island of Bonaire, population 22,500, is a leader in sustainability, with lessons to teach about the transformative impact of travel.

Carolyn Ray

As the CEO and Editor of JourneyWoman, Carolyn is a passionate advocate for women's travel and living the life of your dreams. She leads JourneyWoman's team of writers and chairs the JourneyWoman Women's Advisory Council and Women's Speaker's Bureau. She has been featured in the New York Times, Toronto Star and Zoomer as a solo travel expert, and speaks at women's travel conferences around the world. In March 2023, she was named one of the most influential women in travel by TravelPulse and was the recipient of a SATW travel writing award in September 2023. She is the chair of the Canadian chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), a member Women's Travel Leaders and a Herald for the Transformational Travel Council (TTC). Sometimes she sleeps. A bit.

We always strive to use real photos from our own adventures, provided by the guest writer or from our personal travels. However, in some cases, due to photo quality, we must use stock photography. If you have any questions about the photography please let us know. Disclaimer: We are so happy that you are checking out this page right now! We only recommend things that are suggested by our community, or through our own experience, that we believe will be helpful and practical for you. Some of our pages contain links, which means we’re part of an affiliate program for the product being mentioned. Should you decide to purchase a product using a link from on our site, JourneyWoman may earn a small commission from the retailer, which helps us maintain our beautiful website. JourneyWoman is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you! We want to hear what you think about this article, and we welcome any updates or changes to improve it. You can comment below, or send an email to us at [email protected] .

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My 14 Most Unique & Amazing Travel Experiences!

• Post author: Elyse
• Post category: Australia / Jordan / Lifestyle / Mexico / Nepal / South Africa / U.S.A / Uganda
• Post last modified: 23/09/2023
• Post comments: 12 Comments

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Home » Travel Guides » Lifestyle » My 14 Most Unique & Amazing Travel Experiences!

I love reflecting on my past travel experiences and how these moments have enhanced my life. The feeling you get when you’re standing in front of a structure like the Taj Mahal, it’s hard to believe you’re seeing it in real life. Or, swimming in the open ocean alongside the world’s biggest fish, but still feeling completely relaxed. Moments like this are what I travel for!

I’m excited to share with you my 14 most unique & amazing Travel Experiences . I would describe each of them as real “pinch me” moments. Even years later I still remember how I felt each time and how in awe I was of that moment. I honestly think travel is the best gift we can give ourselves. So I’m hoping my list inspires you & gets you excited to start planning trips beyond 2020.  

Travel Experiences in ASIA:

1) annapurna base camp trek 2019, nepal.  .

The Annapurna Base camp trek is one of the most popular trails in Nepal and can be done in as little as 7 days. I think this trek is so popular because it’s reasonably manageable for first-time trekkers and still has the most incredible scenery. Plus, it starts in Pokhara which is one of the most gorgeous towns in Nepal.  

Once you make it to Annapurna Base camp (or ABC) you’ll be 4130 meters above sea level, so compared to some other treks you’ll be less likely to experience altitude sickness.  

Before doing this trek I had already been to Nepal 7 times and seen amazing views of the Himalayas. But nothing had prepared me for the beauty of Annapurna Base Camp. ( you can read my full ABC guide here ). The morning we arrived at base camp the sun was just starting to rise over the snow-covered mountains, it was stunning. I was surrounded, 360 degrees, by massive mountains and after walking for days I felt so overwhelmed that I had actually made it there.

Book your trek to Annapurna Base Camp here .

2) TAJ MAHAL 2009, India.  

The Taj Mahal is located in the city of Agra, in northern India. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and built by thousands of workers, over a 20 year period. Shah Jahan had the Taj built to house the remains of his favorite wife. I guess this is a romantic story, he must have loved her dearly, but when I was there I heard a story that after the Taj Mahal was complete the emperor ordered that all the worker’s hands be chopped off, to ensure they can never again create something so beautiful. I’m not saying that story is factual, but it definitely takes away from the romance.

When I visited Indian in 2009 I was 22 and this was my first big trip overseas. The day after we arrived in Agra we woke and nice and early to see the Taj Mahal. The best time to go is either early morning or late afternoon. So not when the sun is at its highest. I remember when I first saw it, I couldn’t believe it was real. To call it a masterpiece is an understatement, it’s absolutely beautiful! I had never seen anything man-made so incredible, and even all these years later, it’s so perfect and well kept.

Learn more about the Taj Mahal on Tripadvisor .

3) THE POTALA PALACE 2014, Tibet.  

The Potala Palace is in Tibet’s capital city Lhasa and from 1649-1959 was the winter palace for the Dalai Lamas. The palace sits high up on a hill overlooking the city. And it’s actually the highest palace in the world, sitting at 3,700 meters above sea level. (So not that far off Annapurna base camp).  

I visited the Potala Palace during a 7-day tour of Tibet, and it still blows my mind that I’ve actually been inside the rooms that were once home to the current and former Dalai Lamas. Today many sections of the palace operate as a museum but with the sounds of Buddhist chanting and the smell of incense and burning yak-butter, it definitely didn’t feel like a museum. The palace is the centerpiece to the city of Lhasa, it’s such a beautiful and unique building, with so much history. Tibet would definitely be one of the most interesting and saddest places I have ever been to! It was only in 1950 that China first invaded Tibet, and still claims this land today! If you would like to read more about this history visit freetibet.org.

4) PETRA 2016, Jordan.

I’m sure many would agree, Petra is definitely one of those “pinch me” travel experiences. This is one of the most popular sites in Jordan & is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites . It was also the capital of the Nabataean Empire and has been around since the 1st century BC.  

The city of Petra is massive and I don’t even think you could see all of it in one day. But the real “pinch me” moment was seeing The Treasury. It’s absolutely amazing and, like the Taj Mahal, still perfect to this day. The Treasury is also one of the filming locations of the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. It was very exciting to see it in real life.  

Day passes are available on viator.com.

Travel Experiences in AFRICA:

5) gorilla trekking 2018, uganda.  .

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is in the southwest of Uganda and is one of the three countries where you can see wild Mountain Gorillas. The national park is up in the mountains and has densely forested terrain.  

Trekking to see Mountain Gorillas was something my best friend and I had talked about for years, and in 2018 we finally went. This isn’t a cheap experience, Africa is generally an expensive part of the world to travel in but Gorilla trekking is next level. In Uganda, a 1-day pass to Bwindi National Park is 600USD per person, and Rwanda is even more at 1500USD per day. But it’s definitely worth it, seeing these beautiful and endangered creatures in their home was out of this world! You can read my full travel guide on Gorilla trekking by clicking here .  

Also, these gorillas aren’t in any zoos around the world, as they can only survive living at high altitudes. This fact made seeing them even more special.

6) AFRICAN SAFARI 2013, Zimbabwe, Botswana & South Africa.  

During one of my trips to Africa, I visited three national parks, Hwange in Zimbabwe, Chobe in Botswana & Kruger in South Africa. Not many wild-animal encounters are quite like the ones you get on an African Safari.

I remember one time in Hwange, we were parked in an open-air 4WD, it was my friend & I, our guide, and another lady with her two young girls. Only a couple of meters away were two fully grown male Lions. They were just relaxing and enjoying the sun. And this lady with her kids was stressing out and waiting to drive away as she was worried about their safety. Whereas I was in awe of the moment, I couldn’t believe they were right there, and I never wanted to leave! Looking back I can see why she was worried, I guess it’s crazy to be so close to such a big animal.  

But that’s what Safari is all about, letting your guard down and playing by the animal’s rules. If at any time the animals were bothered by our presence, our guide would remove us from the situation. After this trip I lost interest in going to Zoos, it was absolutely incredible being in the animal’s home.  

All the accommodation we had on this trip was insane, so beautiful & such high quality. It was incredible falling asleep to the sounds of hippos grunting and lions roaring, those little things helped make this one of my favorite travel experiences. Also, one night at Camp Hwange we woke up at 2 am to an elephant standing at our back door.

Follow these links to Tripadvisor & check out each camp!

Camp Hwange, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe .  

nDzuti Safari Camp, Kruger National Park, South Africa.  

Chobe Marina Lodge, Chobe National Park, Botswana.

7) DEVILS POOLS AT VICTORIA FALLS 2013, Zambia.

Victoria Falls flows into the Zambezi River, which separates Zambia and Zimbabwe. At the top is a natural pool of water called Devils Pools. Visiting Devils Pools literally allows you to sit right on the edge of one of the world’s biggest waterfalls.

I remember when I first stepped into the pool I was so overwhelmed I nearly cried. It was a mixture of feeling a bit scared & amazed that I was actually there.

When we arrived at Vic Falls we asked our driver about visiting Devil’s Pools and he said it’s not currently the right season. The ability to visit depends on the water levels and they are usually open from mid-August to late – December. I was there at the start of August. The next morning we were visiting Vic Falls on the Zimbabwe side and we could see across to Zambia people in the pools!!! So that afternoon, by any means necessary, we crossed the border to Zambia and got to Devil’s pools. It was a mission but my friend Bianca & I made it, so by the time I stepped into the water, I was a little overwhelmed.  

This is one of the most insane travel experiences and every thrill-seeker needs to add Devils pools to their bucket list. As much as the water rushes over the falls when you’re sitting in Devil’s Pools the water feels very calm. This is still a dangerous experience but I never felt like I was about to go flying off the edge. I even felt comfortable enough to slide over the rocks on my stomach and put my head right over the edge.  

Out of everything on this list, if I could go back and do one of them right now it would be Devils Pools.  

Book your Devils Pools experience now at viator.com

8) climbing table mountain 2018, south africa..

Table Mountain is one of the ‘7 wonders of nature’ & is the backdrop to the city of Cape Town. When clouds cover the top, it’s referred to as the “tablecloth”. Climbing Table Mountain was number 1 on my list of 9 Reasons Why I Love This City blog.

There are two options to reach the top of Table Mountain, hiking or taking the cable car. I would recommend hiking up and getting the cable car back down.  

The trail I took up the mountain was called Indian Venster. Along the way, there are 4 phases of climbing (without ropes), but there are staples, chains, and also the natural rocks for you to use to pull yourself up with. This route is about 7 km and at some points, it could be very difficult. But I’m no professional and I managed, I felt like it was such a great achievement to make it to the top.  

The views along this trail are incredible, Cape Town is such a beautiful city and along the way, you’ll get views of the coastline, CBD, and out to Robin Island. If you could like to read my full travel guide on Cape Town, click here.  

Travel Experiences in EUROPE:

9) lapland during christmas 2009, finland..

Lapland is in the very north of Finland, and from the countries capital Helsinki you can get direct flights to Rovaniemi. In Lapland, you can step into the article circle, and if you’re lucky you may see the Northern Lights.  

The main reason my friends and I visited Lapland was to meet the real Santa Clause, yep he lives there. You’re able to visit his village, the post office where all the kid’s letters go, and meet the man himself. (but in all seriousness though, Lapland would be a great holiday with kids).

We were there at the start of December & it was just starting to become a winter wonderland. There was a   little bit of snow, and we knew winter was really starting to set in because the only daylight we got was from 10 am to 2 pm. During winter Lapland is dark 24/7, but on the upside, during summer you can still see the sun at midnight.  

The main reason I included Lapland in this list was that it was my first time being in Europe and where I saw snowfall for the first time. It was a magical place to visit in December and I would love to go back one day.  

More information about Lapland can be found on Tripadvisor.com.

Find the cheapest flights to Lapland with Skyscanner.

Experiences in AUSTRALIA:

10) whale sharks 2016, australia.  .

Whale shakes are slow-moving gentle giants, they aren’t a type of whale or a shark, they are actually the largest fish in the world. Whale Sharks regularly swim close to the surface but can dive to depths of 1000 meters. This allows for incredible opportunities for us to swim reasonably close to them.  

I’ve been lucky enough to swim with Whale Sharks in Australia and Mexico. But to be honest I wouldn’t recommend swimming with them in Mexico. I did this off the coast of Cancun and I felt like the whole day was awful for the animals. There were way too many boats surrounding the Whale Sharks and there were people just jumping in and out of the water, with little regard for the animal’s wellbeing.  So it wasn’t one of my best travel  experiences!

But then my experience swimming with Whale Sharks in Australia was far better. I think whenever visiting animals in their environment it’s important to be conscious of their health, safety, and happiness. And, Whale Sharks are protected in Australian waters under both state and federal law.  

To swim with Whale Sharks in Australia you’ll need to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed, Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia. Whale sharks aside this is a beautiful part of the world. I booked my day tour with Three Island Whale Shark Dive and they’re amazing. They limit the number of people in the water with the whale shark at any one time, ensuring we never touched them, got within 3 meters, or restricted their normal movement & behavior. If you want to read more about my travel experience swimming with Whale Sharks, click here to read my blog .  

Travel Experiences in NORTH AMERICA:

11) helicopter over & into the grand canyon 2019, u.s.a..

When my husband & I went to Las Vegas last year it wasn’t confirmed that we were going to do this trip. It was one of those “we’ll see what happens”   kind of things. But I was completely blown away by how incredible this tour was!

The flight left from Boulder City Municipal Airport, which is located about a 30 minutes drive from the Las Vegas Strip. Then the flight took us over, Hover Dame & Lake Mead. The pilot was great at pointing out notable sights and talking about the history of the area. Then we landed in the Grand Canyon and had a champagne breakfast, sitting next to the Colorado River. It was a once in a lifetime moment and I was excited by every second of it. This is one of the best things about travel, you never know what amazing experiences are just around the corner.  

The company we booked with was called Papillon Helicopters  and we did the Grand Celebration Tour.

Click here to book your Grand Canyon Helicopter tours with Viator.com

12) SKYDIVE KEY WEST 2013, U.S.A.  

Key West is a small island city in the state of Florida and is also Florida’s southernmost point. Spending a day in Key West was amazing in itself, it’s such a cute city. But skydiving over the Florida Keys and Florida’s Barrier Reef was insane!  

I had skydived once before in Fiji, so wasn’t overly nervous. The flight up to the drop point was stunning, even with someone strapped to my back I still managed to get an awesome view of the world below.  

And, then jumping out is one of the most thrilling experiences you could ever have. They say you fall at a speed of 120 mph or more, and the free fall lasts for nearly a minute. It’s definitely a scary thing to do, but I promise it’s worth the nerves. I had so much fun.  

Are you brave enough to jump? Book at Sky Dive Key West!  

13) SNOWING IN CENTRAL PARK 2020, U.S.A.

Central Park, the center of New York City! Growing up I had seen movies like Home Alone 2 & Elf, with scenes filmed in a snow-covered central park and it always looked so dreamy.  

Then during my stay in NYC last January we got one day of snow and it was absolutely amazing. I was walking around central park, completely covered in snow and it looked like a postcard. I know being in New York is a “pinch me” travel moment in general, but seeing Central Park like this was incredible. And it doesn’t always snow in the city during January so I felt so lucky to be there.  

14) SWIMMING IN CAVES ON THE YUCATAN PENINSULA. 2018, Mexico.  

One of the amazing things about traveling in Mexico is discovering all the Cenotes and caves, that are scattered over the Yucatan Peninsula. I have been to a hand full of Cenotes during my trips to Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, and they have all been so beautiful. These swimming holes are always surrounded by tropical jungle and large rock formations that make you feel like you’re lost in another time.  

The most memorable travel experience I have had discovering caves and cenotes in Mexico was during a visit to Kantun Chi Ecopark . Included in your entry pass is access to an underground cave. To get from one end to the other will involve swimming & walking, and generally takes people about an hour.  

As much as I loved this, I do look back on this experience and remember how cold we were and that we probably rushed through a bit too fast 🤦🏽‍♀️. But I also have a clear memory of how insane this cave was, it was amazing and the water couldn’t have been any clearer. This is definitely a good lesson for me to slow down and really take it all in.

Book your private tour of Kantun Chi Ecopark on Viator.com

Traveling the world makes so many amazing things possible. You can’t have all these unique travel experiences in your own back yard, the world is so big and has so much to teach us. So, I hope this article has inspired you to follow your wanderlust spirit, far and wide! Comment below about what has been your biggest “pinch me” travel experience.  

Thanks for reading,  

Happy Travels.

Like this Article? Pin It!

If you liked this article, I would love for you to share it with your friends.  

Planning a Trip? Travel Resources Below;

Where to Next?

If you’re unsure of where to travel to next, why not check out my Destination Page.  Filled with informative travel guides from all over the world.

Searching For The Best Flights

Without a doubt the best site for comparing and booking flights is Skyscanner. Just click here to compare flights and get the best prices with Skyscanner. 

Booking Accommodation  

Then when it comes to booking accommodation; if you’re after a hostel the best place to search is HostelWorld.

Or, if you’d prefer a hotel or resort,  Booking.com or Agoda  are two of the best sites out there, they consistently return cheap rates.

Get Your Cashback

Before you book though don’t forget to activate your  Rakuten browser extension so you get cashback on these bookings. 

Don’t know what Rakuten is? Read my guide here!

And, Don’t Forget Travel Insurance 

Unfortunately, everything doesn’t always go to plan but travel insurance will protect you when it comes to illness, injury, theft & cancellation. I never travel overseas without travel insurance, it’s just not worth the risk! 

Cover-More is a trusted company and they also have COVID-19 benefits available. 

Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.

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This post has 12 comments.

The gorilla trekking sounded so interesting. Was it a hike up or you got to the location by driving ? Also the African safari sounds unreal seeing wildlife that close becomes surreal !

Thanks Taylor, we only got transport to the parks entrance then it was all on foot until we found them, I think the longest we walked until we saw them was around three hours.

You’ve been to some pretty amazing places! I totally get what you mean — there are just some places that make you go, “Wow, I’m really traveling the world!” The only ones from this list that I’ve seen/done are the Taj Mahal and the African safari (in Kenya). The rest are still on my bucket list. Wish me luck!

Yes exactly, such special moments. I’m sure you’ll get there, all the best x

Love your article and your site design. It is so beautiful and reader friendly.

Oh thank you so much Sayali, really appreciate the feedback

Wow! So many of your experiences are on my bucket list! I’ve only recently started travelling and my ‘pinch me’ moment has to be my first day in Venice. I was sat drinking coffee with a pastry in St Mark’s Square early in the morning, before the crowds and I was so excited to be there. I’ll never forget it

Thats so cool Tracy, I still haven’t been to Venice (my trip last year was cancelled because of Covid), but definitely getting up early, before the crowds sounds perfect. Thank you for your comment.

Girl, what an incredible life and experiences you’ve had! Some of these are absolute bucket list goals of mine. I’d love to trek the ABC in Nepal, I’m the world’s unfittest person so this would be a massive goal to do something like this. I’m so inspired by this list!

Aww that’s so good to hear Missy! You can do it…

You have planned some amazing experiences. Great to highlight them here to give ideas of the amazing adventures all over the world.

These are such incredible experiences! We’re visiting Key West in a few weeks but I don’t think we will be brave enough to skydive. Great job! 🙂

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17 True Short Adventure Travel Stories That Will Inspire Your Next Trip

Note: This post sharing real adventure stories contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Love true short adventure travel stories or are you eager to discover thrilling experiences to have while traveling?

Then you’re in the right place!

I reached out to some of my favorite travel bloggers and asked them to share stories about their most epic adventures around the world.

While some of the following anecdotes showcase crazy travel stories or even travel fails , others offer up inspiring travel experience stories that were smooth sailing (or camping or hiking!) the whole way.

That being said, all of these stories have one thing in common: they share a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will inspire your travels.

Keep reading to discover these adventure travel tales. And feel free to add your own in the comments below!

Table of Contents

Where Should Your Next Travel Adventure Be? [Free Quiz]

But first, before we dive into our list of the best adventure short stories , I invite you to take my free travel personality quiz .

Answer a few easy (and fun!) questions to discover your perfect travel destination based on your personality. Each suggestion aims to offer a unique experience that you wouldn’t easily find in a guidebook.

Feel free to even pause to take the quiz and then let me know your results in the comments below.

Then when you’re back continue reading to dive into the most epic adventure stories online that you can find!

True Short Travel Adventure Stories In Real-Life

If you’re looking for true short adventure stories to read online, these are my favorites:

1. Trekking Nepal’s Mohare Danda Route

My adventure short story takes place in Nepal where I did the Mohare Danda Trek — which is no easy feat; however, in my opinion it is truly one of the best hiking trails in the world .

But, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me explain. A few years back, I was invited on a press trip by the Nepal Tourism Board to experience some of the incredible experiences the country has to offer.

There were a number of itineraries to choose from, including doing a safari in the popular Chitwan National Park or doing the popular Poon Hill Trek. While both looked enticing, there was one itinerary, the Mohare Danda Trek, that looked less traversed — which helped to pique my interest.

The Mohare Danda is one of Nepal’s newest treks, opened in 2010 as an eco-trek to help support and develop the Parbat and Myagdi districts.

It’s a stunning hike, though my first day got off to a difficult start as I found myself violently ill.

Ascending higher and higher, sweat pouring down my face and my backpack threatening to pull me to the ground, I stopped constantly to gag and vomit — until we reached the high altitude teahouse where we’d be staying the night.

While the group went in for tea, I laid on the ground, nearly crying from the physical pain (from the challenging hike) and discomfort (from the sickness). In that moment, I truly didn’t think I could do it.

But then I opened my eyes to the beauty that surrounded me — the type of beauty you truly can’t find anywhere else — and realized that if I gave up now I’d never forgive myself.

And luckily, after skipping dinner and sleeping for 12 hours, the sickness subsided and I felt eager to experience this Himalayan hike.

Here is a quick overview of this amazing trek:

You’ll hike the rough but stunning terrain of the Annapurna Himalayas for five days, visiting high-altitude villages, passing yak and buffalo, and staying in homestays and small family-run hotels with squat toilets, spiders, and, for the most part, no showers.

The accommodations are rough to say the least, but as you gaze upon the high Himalayan peaks, interact with locals, and take in the nature that surrounds you, it’s hard not to feel immense gratitude for such a rugged and beautiful adventure.

This is particularly true when you reach the top of Mohare Danda at 3,313 meters (10,869 feet) and realize just how far you’ve come.

For an immersive look into what this adventurous trek is like, check out my video:

Tips: In terms of travel tips for this trek, I recommend looking for alternatives to popular travel adventures . While popular experiences and attractions are popular for a reason, seeking lesser-known activities often leads to more local and unique experiences.

Additionally, from a sustainable tourism standpoint it can help dispense tourism dollars to places that may need it and can help curb overtourism .

Also, bring medication for upset stomach and altitude sickness! I was vomitting on Day #1 and was grateful to have medication. Moreover, I had a throbbing headache when we reached the summit and was happy to have tiger balm with me.

2. Hiking in Georgia’s Greater Caucasus Mountains

Love uplifting travel stories ? Then this one is for you, because it shares how an adventure changed my outlook for the better.

Because here’s the thing:

I’ve never thought of myself as an adventurous traveler. I’m definitely not one for hiking – usually, the only thing that can get me to embark on a trek is the fear of missing out.

On my first trip to the Republic of Georgia, every traveler I met spoke about a hike in the Greater Caucasus mountains that I absolutely couldn’t miss.

The trek from Kazbegi town to Gergeti Trinity Church is a short one, but based on the church’s location atop a mountain, I knew it was going to be a tough climb – especially after six weeks of traveling around and living off khachapuri , the country’s famous “cheese pie”.

I arrived in Kazbegi on a cold, foggy afternoon and reluctantly woke up early the next day with the idea to hike to the church that morning. Luckily, a chance encounter over the breakfast table at my guesthouse saved me.

I got chatting with a couple who had done the hike the previous day and had a crucial tip for me: Don’t follow the main trail, but instead, take the path on the left side of the mountain.

As it turned out, the main route -– the trail everyone else was taking -– was impossibly steep, but the lesser-walked path was a gentle, ambling trail along a mountain stream.

Had I tried to take the main path, I never would have finished the walk; however, following this gentler route, I experienced something totally foreign: A hike I actually enjoyed! I felt so accomplished by the time I reached the church.

I’ve since moved to Georgia and have challenged myself to many other hikes in the Greater Caucasus. But if it weren’t for that first introduction to trekking in Georgia, I don’t think I would have had the courage to attempt any other trails.

“Adventure” means something different to everyone, but I think there’s an adventurous traveler inside all of us. Often it takes one positive experience to prove to yourself what you’re really made of.

Tip: When hiking in Georgia, always ask for advice from travelers on the ground. Trails and conditions change from year to year depending on the weather so it’s very important to gather first-hand information.

– Emily from Wander-Lush

3. Hitchhiking in Kazakhstan

My adventure trip story takes place in Kazakhstan! On my trip to Central Asia in 2019, I spent a couple of days in Kazakhstan exploring offbeat places such as Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, Kolsai Lake, and so on.

As Kazakhstan is a relatively under-developed country, there is no good public transportation system once you move out of Almaty City.

However, one great thing about Kazakhstan is that hitchhiking is quite common, meaning it’s easy to get a lift to your destination.

During my 25-day stay in this country, there was a stretch of four-to-five days when I hitchhiked continuously and met some wonderful people.

I covered a stretch of over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) hitchhiking and had the chance to meet different people on the way. From a group of Russian friends who helped me reach the highway to army personnel who helped me reach my desired destination, I met so many people with different stories and backgrounds on this trip.

Most of the people with whom I hitchhiked were friendly and excited to know about my Indian heritage since they loved India. And this is how I fell in love with hitchhiking and had my faith in humanity restored in a foreign country.

An amazing thing about Kazakhstan is that it is a hitchhiking-friendly country, so anyone can travel around by hitchhiking; however, do keep in mind that you will find more options during the summer than the winter season when the roads are covered with snow and most of the lakes are frozen in this region as well. 

Tip: Start your day early as there are more vehicles available for hitchhiking during the morning than in the afternoon or night.

– Rachita from MeanderWander

4. Swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura, New Zealand

Many of my most adventurous travel stories come from my time living in New Zealand.

In November 2018, I decided to live life to the fullest and say yes to all of the adventures that came my way in the country.

This travel story is one of my favorite adventures: swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura.

I woke at 4am to a pitch-black hostel room, my eight roommates all still sound asleep at the early hour.

I snuck out on tiptoes to change, crammed a cheese roll in my mouth, and dragged the suitcase holding a year of my life to the Kaikoura dolphin-watching tour office.

With just a few hours of sleep in my system and more adrenaline than I had jumping out of a plane, I tugged on my insulated wetsuit in a blur.

The moment we dove off the water, I was shocked awake. No amount of coffee, tea, or sugar has ever given me such an intense wake-up. It turns out, the ocean is freezing at 5 am, before the sun has risen and in early-spring.

Don’t be scared off by the temperature, though, because 5am is when the dolphins are most playful!

For five seconds, I struggled to breathe through the cold. Then, the wetsuit flooded with water and I was warm.

A moment later, I was face to face with a wild dusky dolphin, one of the smallest species of dolphin in the world! Swimming with it, the dolphin twirled at the surface of the water while it spun in spirals beneath me.

I hummed strange Dory-esque whale noises to draw the attention of more members of the pod, including a tiny baby dolphin no bigger than my calf. He seemed most interested in the strange bug-eyed thing that kept getting tangled in her own flippers.

The sun rose, warming my back as I continued to flounder amongst the most elegant animals in the ocean. It was the most beautiful sight, watching as the dark blue of the ocean turned a sunny turquoise, brightening our swimming companions for the first few hours of dawn.

The practice of swimming with wild dolphins is banned in the North Island, where the species of Hector’s dolphins are in decline. But in Kaikoura, the practice is thriving and actually helping to restore the dolphin populations.

By supporting this adventurous experience, you’re supporting dolphin conservation.

– Nina of Nina Out and About

5. Canyoneering near Zion National Park 

One of my favorite adventure activities was canyoneering near Zion National Park in Utah, USA . The entire area around the national park has slot canyons, and these narrow canyons are often not much more than tubes carved by flash floods over the years.  

Many of them descend in a series of “steps” with sheer, tubular drops between short walks in the narrow canyons. Canyoneering is the adventure of rappelling on a rope down these drops and hiking from one to another.

This was my first time canyoneering, so I hired a guide, who had all the equipment and gave me detailed instructions on what to do. 

I’m not going to lie: the first was scary! Backing up to a sheer drop, putting your weight on a rope attached to an anchor, and then inching your feet over the edge requires a leap of faith. 

Then you make an actual leap and step down off the level ground and swing your feet against the vertical cliff face. Before you know it, you’re walking down a cliff! 

The first drop was 30 feet and it seemed a very, very long way down when peering over the edge from above.  By the end, I had traversed 12 drops in total, including one that was 200 feet deep! I soon overcame my fear and truly had one of the most fun days ever!

Tip: The best time to do this is in the fall when the summer heat has subsided but the winter snows haven’t set in. There are several outfitters in Springdale — the gateway to Zion National Park — that offer guided canyoneering trips.

By the way, if you’re interested in trekking, here are some of the best hiking trails in Utah (a number of which are in Zion!).

-James Ian from Parks Collecting

6. Hiking without a guide to Dzukou Valley of Nagaland, India

Looking for real life adventure stories in India ? Then this one is for you!

At 8,000 feet above sea level, Dzukou Valley is located in the northeastern state of Nagaland in India .

Having dreamed of visiting the valley since 2012, it was finally fulfilled in 2019, when I along with three other friends from Kerala and Uttar Pradesh went backpacking. 

We refrained from watching any videos or travel guides to make sure we embraced the journey in its purest form. When reaching Kohima — the capital of Nagaland — we ended up choosing the shorter and steeper Jakhama Trail for our Dzükou Valley Trek .

Beside a gushing river and the view of the highest of Jakhama Hills engulfed by the clouds, we marched ahead. Following the marked directions on the rocks, we ventured into a dense tropical evergreen forest. Splashing our face with the cold waters of a stream, we met a local who was descending the hill. 

He confirmed that we were on the right trail and motivated us with a picturesque description of the valley. Tuning in to the sereness of the forest, we would lay on the boulders and sing. I bet among the 500 bird species found in Nagaland, a few of them did sing back to us. 

The higher we hiked the steeper the trail became and once it turned 5pm, the hills turned darker.

Stepping on the narrow uneven precipitous trail with little left strength, we reached the top of Jakhama Hill to witness majestic reddish skies and the slumbering valley. We concluded the day dancing around the fire under the starry moonlit sky at the campsite.

The best thing about traveling without a guide or travel company was the fact that we could spend our time according to our will. We explored the valley for two consecutive days — walking into the unknown, dipping into the shivery waters of the Dzukou River, and sometimes only watching the valley for many hours from the top of a cave. 

To have experienced the beauty of Dzukou Valley both under murky and sunny skies, and the romanticism of clouds with the hills of the valley at night was magical.  

Tip: For flowers and views of the lush green valley against the clear blue skies, May to September is the best time to visit the Dzukou Valley. It snows from December to February, too.

– Joydeep from The Gypsy Chiring

7. Whale watching in New Zealand on a scenic flight

Who doesn’t love reading short adventure stories? This one will make you want to fly to New Zealand!

Being an admirer of our ocean and the marine life in it, I have always found whales and other beings very fascinating. During the whale migratory season every year, I usually take the whale watching boats to go see them in the water. 

I have seen them mostly either by boat or from land during my coastal walks; but when I visited Kaikoura in New Zealand, I was pleasantly amazed to learn about the whale watching scenic flight experience. The pictures and videos were exciting and very convincing.

Air Kaikoura runs this experience from a local airport at Kaikoura and the 20-minute flight costs NZD150 — and is completely worth it, as you follow migrating spem whales and see them from a bird’s eye view.

The experience of seeing such a huge mammal in its natural habitat as if you were a fly on the wall is something that can only be felt.

During the flight journey, one can also see other marine animals such as rays and dolphins — and, in fact, I saw many dolphin pods during my ride. Undoubtedly, this has been one of the coolest things I have done in New Zealand.

Tip: Even though the experience can be done throughout the year, the best time is in the winter season between the months of June and August. You’ll absolutely go home with some amazing adventure travel stories to share with friends after this experience! Whether you’re traveling solo in NZ or with friends, definitely add this to your itinerary.

– Raksha from SoloPassport

8. Climbing Mayan Pyramids in Yucatan, Mexico

For a truly adventurous Mexico travel experience, head to the Yucatan Peninsula to climb some Mayan pyramids.

While there are ancient ruins all over Mexico, they are somewhat spread out; however, in the Yucatan, there are many not far from one another.

Located in the center of the Yucatan, the colorful, colonial city of Merida is a great home base to explore ruins. There are so many things to do in Merida including a visit to the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins, the closest ruins to the city which are located in a Mexican national park.

Besides Dzibilchaltun (pronounced zee-bee-shall-tune), there’s Chichen Itza — one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though you can’t climb any pyramids there, Chichen Itza is still a highlight for many.

A bit more off the beaten path, there’s also Uxmal (pronounced yoush-mall), a UNESCO World Heritage Site similar in scale and importance to Chichen Itza, though you can climb the pyramids there.

Not far from Tulum , the Coba Ruins site is another great option. Located in the Yucatan jungle, Coba is a complete Mayan city where many rent a bike for the day to explore it all. The main pyramid, called Nohoch Mol or Ixmoja, is the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan that you can climb.

Another great Tulum day trip is to visit the nearby Ek-Balam Ruins. With elaborate stone carvings of giant masks throughout the site and pyramids you can climb, this is among the best off-the-beaten-path ruins sites in Mexico.

With about 200 public Mayan archeological sites throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, there are other great less-visited sites. These include Kohunlich Ruins near Bacalar Lagoon, Mayapan Ruins near Merida, Becan Ruins in Campeche, and the San Miguelito Ruins in Cancun .

Tip: Arrive at the ruins as early as you can! Many Mexico archeological sites have been cleared of trees and have no shaded areas, so it gets very hot. Arriving early means not climbing pyramids in the midday sun and also avoiding the crowds.

-Shelley from Travel to Merida

9. Horseback riding on a black sand beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Vieques, a tiny island off the east coast of Puerto Rico , is known for having some of the best beaches in the world; however, on the south shore of Vieques, a unique-looking beach with black sand exists.

There are only two ways to get to this secluded beach — hiking through the bushes following the muddy stream or horseback riding through the lush tropical forest down to Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach).

The Viequenses love their Paso Finos — a breed of horse prized for their gait. The moment you exit the airport, the horses are the first to greet you and you will see them roaming freely all over the island.  

The gait of the Paso Fino is smooth, comfortable, and perfect for all riding levels, including kids. And horseback riding allows for adventure, fitness, fresh air, and sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone.

Moreover, it also allows you to travel off the beaten path and go to places inaccessible by car or foot. 

So, what is adventure travel ?

Well, I can say that riding through the lush tropical forest past sugar mill ruins down the trail to Playa Negra is only the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. 

Once your horse steps off the path onto the beach, you’ll take in the panoramic view of the crystal blue Caribbean ocean. The golden sand mixed with shiny black volcanic material with the backdrop of a rocky cliff is shocking and dramatic, and you will feel like you are at the end of the earth.

Riding the Paso Finos is mainly slow and steady but occasionally speeds up to a moderate speed called Paso Corto. But, if you are a more advanced rider, there is no better place in the world to experience cantering on horseback down the beach.

Tips: Here are a few pieces of advice for planning your Paso Fino experience on Playa Negra in Vieques.

• Reserve through Esperanza Riding Company — the tours are perfect for inexperienced riders, kids, and experienced equestrians, too.
• With temperatures averaging between 73 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, the perfect time to ride is anytime.
• Wear closed-toed shoes. Long pants are great, too, but not necessary.
• Plan on getting a little wet and maybe muddy.
• Know that helmets are mandatory.
• Use sunscreen and bug repellent.
• Bring your camera; you won’t want to miss the photo opportunity of a lifetime.

– Jenny from TravelingPartyof4

10. Completing the 9-day “O” trek in Torres del Paine

Once upon a time, a naive group of budget travelers thought it’d be cool to hike the famous “O” Trek in Torres del Paine in southern Chilean Patagonia. The trek takes nine days (give or take) depending on your experience. 

We had no experience. 

In fact, my wife had never even hiked, slept in a tent, or even been camping in her entire life. She had no idea what I had signed her up for.

As good budget travelers do, we cut costs wherever possible. Instead of renting backpacking gear as most people do, I thought my regular travel backpack would suffice.

Instead of paying extra for expensive lightweight backpacking meals, we bought cheap tuna, pasta, and other heavy canned goods. 

And our biggest mistake, instead of calculating how many meals we needed to fuel four long-distance hikers for nine days (which, if you’re wondering, is 4 people x 3 meals x 9 days = 108 meals), we just filled up our grocery cart and called it good.

Thanks to improper gear and heavy food, our backs were killing us on the first few days. Our genius solution?

Throw common sense to the wind and eat like kings to lighten the load!

This brilliant idea came back to bite us around Day 5 when the food “magically” disappeared. At our lowest point, our lunch — the meal meant to fuel an afternoon of heavy hiking — consisted of a handful of plain mashed potatoes and an apple…

…split between four people!

Fortunately, some of the camps on the last days of the trek sold food, so we survived. Still, it was a rough couple of days, and I swear I saw my wife eyeing my meaty thighs and licking her lips at one point.

Despite our struggles, it was an adventure of a lifetime, and I wouldn’t trade our experience for the world.  

So, while I love the saying, “Adventure starts where plans end,” when it comes to the O trek (or any multi-day trek) some planning is probably a wise move.

Tips: For one, if you don’t have a real backpacking backpack, rent one. Don’t be cheap like I was — your body will thank you for it.

Second, don’t just take what you think looks like a lot of food. Instead, calculate every meal. And again, don’t be cheap like I was. Even if the dried backpacking meals are pricey, they are 100% worth it. Turns out, cans of tuna and beans aren’t fun to lug around on your back for days at a time. 

– Mitch Glass from Project Untethered

11. Hiking Mount Etna 

One of our top-pick short story travel adventures takes place in Mount Etna, Italy.

Hiking Mount Etna has to be high on any bucket list when road tripping Sicily. Etna is the largest and most active of Italy ’s three live volcanoes and last erupted in February 2021!

But don’t let that put you off! The volcanologists who monitor the site always know when Etna is planning to let the world know she’s still got it!

This is not a hike for the faint-hearted — you don’t need any special skills but you do need determination and a degree of fitness to get to the top at 3,350 meters (10,991 feet).

That being said, you don’t need to climb all that way from sea-level — from the main car park at Rifugio Sapienza you’ll take the cable car to a station half-way up the volcano. Once there, you’ll hop on a specially designed 4×4 bus which takes you even higher. 

The final leg that you have to hike will take a couple of hours and you’ll gain about 400 meters (1,312 feet) in elevation. You’ll spend a lot of time traversing over ash and old lava fields, with heat from deep in the earth radiating up around you. 

The summit surrounding the main crater is like a moon-scape; you’re above the clouds here and it’s eerily quiet, other than the long, low rumbles of magma coming from the craters, of which there are five!

You may also feel really cold at the top — there is often some snow and ice year-round, so even though you’ve got the world’s most efficient heated floor under you, the air can be freezing due to the altitude.

Standing on the edge of the crater looking down is pretty awe-inspiring. This opening into the earth is vast, full of sulphur gas swirling, heat rising, and magma spitting. As you look in, take a moment to appreciate just how insignificant you are compared to Mother Nature!

Coming down is easier but just as interesting, as you’ll walk between two crater edges on a narrow path, take huge leaps through soft ash, and finally arrive back at your 4×4 bus ready to take you back down to civilization.

Tip: You must book a guided hike if you want to get to Mount Etna’s summit. There are no signed routes or marked paths, and the best way up can change daily as the mountain moves. 

Sulphurous gasses are also a danger, especially on windy days and Etna’s guides are trained to help you stay safe as you head for the summit of one of Europe ’s top hikes.

-Phil and Izzy from The Gap Decaders

12. Backcountry camping in Zion National Park

Hiking and backcountry camping along the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park continues to stand out as one of the best outdoor adventures my husband and I have shared together.

The natural beauty, breathtaking views, and opportunity to feel completely alone in one of the United States ‘ most popular national parks really solidified the entire experience for us.

Starting at the Grotto trailhead along the main road in Zion, our hike involved climbing 6.6 miles to the top of the western plateau of Zion Canyon and gaining 3,100 feet of elevation. 

Our route passed through the notoriously difficult Walter’s Wiggles and went far above Angel’s Landing. It was a challenging, muscle-burning, and overall exhausting climb — especially with all of our camping gear, food, and water loaded up in our backpacks.

However, the higher we climbed the better the views became, and the more we felt that the effort was worth every step. By the time we reached the top, the West Rim Trail had completely exceeded all of our expectations. 

The incredible views overlooking Zion’s magnificent canyons, the unique desert rocks, landscapes, and wildlife –not to mention the magical feeling of being on top of the world while standing at the rim of the plateau — made us forget about all the sweat and exertion it took to get to the top.

In total, it took us six hours to reach our campsite and we arrived with just enough time to set up our tent, prepare some instant noodles for dinner, and watch the sunset from the rim of the plateau. 

We spent the remainder of the night relaxing and watching the sky transition from brilliant orange to multiple shades of deep, dark blues and gazing at the stars in the clear sky. It was the perfect way to end the day.

Tips: The West Rim Trail can be hiked as a backpacking overnight or as an out-and-back day hike depending on your experience and fitness level.

For anyone looking to hike the West Rim Trail, we highly recommend stopping at the ranger stations for updates on trail conditions, weather, and advice before heading out on the trail.

If you’re planning to camp overnight, you’ll also need to stop at Zion’s backcountry office to secure your backcountry permits in advance of your trip!

-Stephanie from Travanie Travels

13. Hiking the Binongan Trail in the Philippines’ Abra Province

The Binongan Trail is a three-to-four day hike from Vira — the main town in Tineg — to the village of Poblacion in the Lacub municipality summiting two mountains along the way. The Binongan River is one of the main river arteries in Abra.

Leaving Vira behind we began hiking through the grasslands of the Apao Rolling Hills, following trails that have been used for centuries by the local villagers.

Our destination: the village of Apao, where we stopped for lunch before an exhilarating climb to the summit and campsite of Mt Pisusok at 1,124 meters (3,688 feet). Here, we had wonderful 360-degree views of Abra. 

Rising early for sunrise and the traverse hike to Mt Bangseg, known locally as the Black Rock Mountain, we had our first sight of the meandering Binongan River below. 

Upon reaching the river — which we had to wade across sometimes waist-deep — the cool water was so inviting that once we safely reached the other bank we swam and played around for a while before continuing on our way.

Our target for the day was the village of Lablabinag, a three-hour hike away, where we arrived just before dark.

Lablabi Nag is a very small village, more of a hamlet really, with just 11 houses. The village chief welcomed us and showed us an empty house where we would be staying for the night, while the women prepared our evening meal.

The next morning the village chief invited us to join their golden carp fishing party. January is the best time to be around for this as the carp make their way back downstream to spawn.

Every man had a role to play. There were “spotters” high up on the rocks whose job was to spot the golden carp and yell the location to the fishermen in the water. With their spear guns in hand, they quickly dove into the clear waters and most times came up triumphantly. 

They were exceptional swimmers and it was fascinating watching their expertise.

For me, this really was the highlight of the trip and an insight into the lives of villagers in a remote area of the Philippines.

We were treated to a delicious golden carp lunch before sadly leaving the kind people of Lablabi Nag behind and hiking three hours along this gorgeous river to Lacub where our Jeepney was waiting.

To this day, this is one of my favorite adventure short stories to share.

Tip: The best time to hike this trail is during the cooler months from November to February. You will pass through several small villages along the way. Pack a few bags of sweets to share with the children and you will make instant friends!

The most important thing is to enjoy the hike, do it slowly, and appreciate the wonderful scenery and people along the way.

-Dave from Silver Backpacker

14. Camping in Australia’s Outback

There is no bigger adventure than going on a camping trip in the Australian Outback.

Only the coastal areas of Australia are densely populated. The center is mostly a desert region that mainly consists of vast farmlands and bare regions. 

The roads are mostly unsealed and in some areas, there is absolutely nothing for hundreds or even thousands of kilometers. 

Crossing the Outback is not an easy task and taking the appropriate gear is extremely important. 

In 2017 we drove from north to south in Australia driving across thousands of kilometers of desert land. Instead of a Four Wheel Drive truck, we were driving a 1994 Toyota camper van with a broken AC and a dodgy battery. 

If you drove more than 50 kilomters-per-hour the side mirrors would flap in because the wind was too strong against the old screws of the van. Since there was no AC we had to drive with the windows down — but in the desert that means lots and lots of sand. 

Every night we’d have to clean out the entire inside of the van and the sand got so bad that the lock of the back door would jam and would have to be disassembled so it could open again.

It took more than a week to cross the Outback and we saw more kangaroos, emus, dingos, and camels than you can imagine. It was a magical trip. The landscapes of the Australian Outback are absolutely fascinating and so different than anything most tourists experience.

The people living in these remote areas are very sociable and welcoming towards travelers. I made so many friends during this time who I will never forget.

Tip: A trip through the Australian Outback is no joke though and shouldn’t be underestimated. Always make sure you have the right equipment and are carrying enough food and water to sustain yourself for at least a week in case you break down. It’s a dangerous landscape so don’t take any risks.

-Victoria from Guide your Travel

15. Hiking the Iceland Interior

The very name “ Iceland ” emanates adventure and beckons the explorer in all of us.

As soon as you leave Reykjavík you are in a boundless wonderland of rugged coasts, dramatic cliffs drenched in waterfalls, and a wilderness at once inviting and foreboding. 

The reality is, Iceland has been subdued to a large extent to accommodate a growing number of visitors each year. And while even the tourist attractions are worth a visit, some of us want a little more adventure. 

Fortunately, Iceland has that covered, too. While the outer edge of the island is conveniently connected by well-paved roads, Icelanders have left generous portions unpaved and untamed. 

The result is the Highlands in Iceland’s Interior. Cut off from the rest of the island by a foreboding river crossing, only the skilled guide or the foolhardy traveler would dare cross. 

Either way, you’ll be in great company if you make it. 

Beware that your insurance won’t cover your normal car rental in the river, so cross at your own risk. A much drier and more economical way across is to have a guide pick you up in a Land Rover.

Barreling down the two-track you seem to be heading further into the badlands. Surrounded now by towering volcanoes, the tracks disappear into a raging river. 

Just when you think there is no way you are going in there, your driver locks into 4WD-Low Range and points the nose into the river. 

As the water climbs higher, you begin to realize just how deep this torrent is. You can see it’s over the bumper, then the tires. You look out the side door and the water is just cresting at the bottom of the window. Talk about an adventurous trip story !

At this moment you are depending on the little contact of your four wheels to keep your grip, a small snorkel to keep the engine running, and the hope that you got the right driver. Even though he’s smiling, you can’t help but feel uneasy. 

Soon enough though he has adeptly maneuvered the truck through the current and you are now on the other side. Or rather, in the middle of two rivers. 

But I will tell you, the second crossing is even more fun! Now you’re all smiling, on your way to what was calling you in the first place: a backcountry adventure. 

Soon you arrive at your destinati: a small compound with the conveniences of a hostel, the luxuries of glamping, or a campground you can settle into for a couple of days. 

Days that you will spend hiking among some (hopefully) dormant volcanoes including Katla, Eldgjá, Vatnafjöll, Laki, and Eyjafjallajökull, which last erupted in 2010.

Among the volcanoes, you will find a labyrinth of trails. You are at the intersection of two main hiking arteries: the Fimmvörðuháls and the Landmannalaugar trails.

Both of these are long-distance trails and offer an alternative to driving in. Which is an adventure in its own right. But why would you want to miss that river crossing?

Tips: If you are inspired to try this yourself, go-between mid-September and late October. These months offer the best of all worlds: smaller crowds for more seclusion and longer nights for more chances of seeing the Northern Lights. 

And the earlier sunset gives you an excuse to knock off early after an exhilarating but exhausting day exploring the Highlands of Iceland. 

– Steve from Maps Over Coffee

16. Hiking the Tongariro Crossing in winter

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the best hikes in New Zealand . Located on the country’s North Island in Tongariro National Park, this trail intersects an awe-inspiring landscape of mountain peaks, dazzling lakes, and active volcanoes.

It’s no wonder that the Lord of the Rings film franchise chose this location for Mordor, and you can spot Mount Doom — or Mount Ngauruhoe as it’s more formally known — rising up like a rocky gatekeeper. 

In summer, the Tongariro Crossing is a popular trail for hiking enthusiasts, but in winter, it’s a different ball game. The highest points of the trail are covered in a blanket of snow. It’s an otherworldly scene that makes you think you’re on the surface of the moon. 

Winter also makes the trail more intrepid. The weather is unpredictable and without the right equipment or knowledge, it can get dangerous. 

I was coming to the end of my New Zealand trip and decided to do the Tongariro Crossing as a last hurrah. But there was a problem. It was winter and I wasn’t an experienced hiker. 

I arrived at the nearby town of Taupo and told my hostel of my intentions. They said they could set me up with a specialist group tour guide that would give me the equipment I needed and take me across the trail. I just needed to wait for good weather to make sure it was safe.

Luckily, I had some flexibility. 

A few days later, it was time. I was picked up and kitted out. We began our ascent through the park, passing lava flows and wheezing up the steep Devil’s Staircase until we reached snow-topped craters. 

We learned how to catch ourselves with ice axes — fun, and necessary in case you slipped off the edge — and hoicked ourselves up wind-blasted ridges with crampons strapped to our feet until at last, we made it to the top. We stopped for lunch before following the trail to the end where refreshments were waiting. 

Hiking the Tongariro Crossing in winter wasn’t easy, but it was certainly an experience I will never forget. The scenery alone was jaw-dropping, to say the least. It was just you and the elements up there. 

Tip: To do this hike in winter, I recommend giving yourself some flexibility as you might have to wait for the weather to be safe enough. Always go with a reputable tour guide too. 

– Francesca from Little Lost Travel

17. Exploring the backcountry of Algonquin Provincial Park

After having graduated from high school, I wanted to spend a week exploring the backcountry of Algonquin Provincial Park. This region of Ontario in Canada is famous for its tranquil lakes, stunning forests, and diverse wildlife. 

I had decided to go on this trip by myself because I wanted to spend some time alone to reconnect with nature.

So, I got out my 60L Osprey backpack and filled it to the top with my tent, my sleeping bag, camping stove, hiking shoes, and lots of food. The plan was to hike the 70-kilometer (44-mile) Western Upland Backpacking Loop in seven days, which is pretty manageable.

I wanted to get more distance at the beginning when my legs were still fresh. On the first day, I hiked for 22 kilometers (14 miles) and everything went well.

Although I was optimistic, I was also a bit skeptical because something always goes wrong on trips like these — plus I was hiking alone. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case and I had a total blast.

The sky was clear and the sun was out that entire week. One thing I always like to do is camp near a lake so I can swim in the afternoons — which is why I also packed a pool noodle!

Actually, I hiked through the loop so quickly that the last few days I barely had any distance left. This meant I got to relax with a book by myself while immersed in nature.

There was a lot of doubt from my parents as to whether or not I could backpack by myself, but I think I proved to them that I could do it. It was an unforgettable experience and I will definitely return to Algonquin for more.  

Tip:  Having said that, if I were to redo the same trip again, I would definitely go in the fall. When I did my hike in early June, the bugs were quite annoying in some places. I have seen photos of the gorgeous Algonquin fall foliage before so I can only imagine what they’d look like in person.

-John from Your Destination is Everywhere

Adventure Tourism Travel Insurance

When embarking on an adventure, make sure to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Bonus Short Travel Stories Collections:

25 Crazy Travel Stories You Need To Read To Believe

23 Inspiring Travel Stories Sharing The Kindness Of Strangers

16 Short Funny Travel Stories That Will Make You Laugh Out Loud

38 Inspiring Travel Love Stories From The Road

21 Travel Horror Stories Sharing Scary Travel Experiences

8 Crazy NYC Subway Stories That Will Make You Hail A Cab

A Host’s Perspective: My Worst Airbnb Horror Stories

11 Epic Travel Fail Stories From The Road

18 Scary Travel Stories From Haunted Hotels To Creepy Cabins

What true short adventure travel stories would you add to this list?

Enjoyed this list of travel adventure stories in English? Pin it for later!

Related posts:

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Hi Jessie, I will like your story lines. Very detailed and wonderful information. I will consider visiting some of the places listed in your stories following some of your traveling tips as well. GREAT job and thanks for sharing.

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45 Funny, Heartfelt, Unforgettable Travel Stories

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

I tell travel stories for a living. I do this because I can’t NOT tell travel stories — every experience I have is shaped in the moment and waits in anticipation to shoot out of my fingertips.

And I live to share those stories with an audience. As humans, we’re hard-wired to be influenced by storytelling, and I feel like stories are what inspire people to actually book a trip.

To be honest, though, compelling stories are what’s missing from most travel blogs today, where SEO-driven travel planning posts make up the majority of the content.

We have SO many great travel stories to tell. But we’re not telling them as often as we should. So I decided to share some of the best stories in one place.

I reached out to my travel blogger friends to share their most entertaining posts of all time. Nothing travel planning-oriented, nothing keyword- or affiliate-stuffed — just fun, entertaining stories that would make a stranger smile or laugh. And did they EVER pay off!

Each of these stories is a treasure. I hope you enjoy them.

Note: Due to COVID-19 and a dwindled demand for travel worldwide, travel bloggers have lost significant portions of their incomes. Between people not researching or booking travel and advertisers reducing their spend, many travel bloggers will be making a small fraction of their usual income for months.

The best thing you can do right now is find a story you like on this list and visit several pages on their blog. It costs you nothing, but your eyes on their display ads (no clicks necessary, we get paid by views!) will earn them some much-needed cash in a difficult time.

Want to help out even more? If you love one of these blog posts, sign up for their email newsletter. You can find mine here.

Table of Contents

Funny Travel Mishaps

Are you looking to read about crazy mishaps that happened on the road? Here are some good ones!

Possibly My Favorite Travel Poop Story Ever

Nomadasaurus

OMG. I had never read this one before but this is one of the funniest travel stories I’ve ever read!

Jared tells the story of when diarrhea hit at the worst time ever — on a Chinese bus — and where he ultimately ended up pooping!

Embarrassing Stories From My Travels

Legal Nomads

Jodi is well-known for being pooped on while traveling — 14 birds and one bat so far — but this post shared plenty more of those stories.

If you’ve ever wanted to know the most embarrassing way to ask where to catch the bus in Argentina, here it is.

Hooked on the Cook Islands: My Giant Wedgie

Neverending Footsteps

Lauren is well-known for her extensive list of disastrous “travel incidents” around the world.

This one involves a snorkeling trip where she accidentally flashed her vag to an entire boat of people, including a family with young kids.

I Have a Confession to Make

Journalist on the Run

Imagine being a travel writer who gets paid to stay in a luxurious resort in the Maldives. Dream job, huh?

Now imagine that you get hit by the worst diarrhea of your life while pretending that everything is normal as the staff gives you a tour! Janet lays out her experience in excruciating detail.

When a City Girl Goes Camping

Suitcase and Heels

I may be a city girl who took her first steps in a tent — but not all city girls take to camping so easily.

Melissa shares a camping adventure in Newfoundland that did not go as planned! (NEVER forget the bottle opener!)

An Ode to Señor Frog, The Worst Car in Cozumel

Emily Luxton Travels

What happens when you rent a weird pea-green car that looks like an emaciated Volkswagen Beetle? Well, you definitely get an adventure out of it, Emily shares.

Know this before you rent a tiny car on a Mexican island!

How to Have the Worst Day Ever in Phuket (and How to Turn It Around)

Why Wait to See the World

Sometimes you have a travel day when you hit disaster after disaster after disaster — and sometimes it’s when you’re on your first full travel day with your boyfriend, ever.

That happened to Steph in Phuket, but soon she found a way to turn it around.

The Time I Got Pissed On in Manila

Aussie on the Road

Continuing the bodily fluids theme, Chris shares a rather disgusting late-night incident in a hostel dorm.

This proves that sometimes fellow backpackers are the most horrifying thing you could run into on the road!

Terrible Travel Tales: Mishaps, Setbacks, and Comical Foibles of Globe Trotting

Year of the Monkey

From missing a flight at the last minute due to a nosebleed to getting mistaken for a child at the age of 32, this is a big list of stories.

Paroma shares her favorite travel mishaps she’s collected over the years, all in excruciating detail.

That Time We Got Held Hostage by Monkeys in Ubud

Bridges and Balloons

And I thought I was terrified in the Monkey Forest in Ubud — Victoria and Steve got TRAPPED in a house surrounded by monkeys and couldn’t escape!

One of my worst nightmares. They seemed to handle it well.

My Embarrassing Driving Experience in Ourzazate

Norbert had never driven stick before in his life — so when the car he rented in Morocco turned out to have a manual transmission, he figured he could just wing it and learn to drive stick that day. NOT SO MUCH!

As a fellow driver who has never driven stick, I felt this one.

Ayurvedic Massage, Not for the Modest

Jessie on a Journey

If you had the chance to get a massage for just $16 in the heart of Kerala, India, you would go for it, wouldn’t you?

Then Jessie found out that this massage was done naked. COMPLETELY naked. With lots of oil and boob massage.

Scary Travel Mishaps

Sometimes mishaps can be on the dark side — though often you’ll find aspects of them humorous in retrospect. Either way, you won’t want to miss these posts.

Disaster Strikes

Escape Artistes

When horseback riding in rural Mongolia, Theodora’s son fell and severely broke his arm…in the middle of absolute nowhere.

This kicked off a breathless emergency of trying to find healthcare in one of the most remote places on Earth. It’s a gripping read.

When Traveling Sucks: A Hospital Visit in Fez, Morocco

Foodie Flashpacker

What’s worse than getting bitten by a bunch of bugs in the night? Getting bitten by giant mutant insects whose bites swell up enormously…right in the middle of your forehead.

Nathan details the story of his medical incident in Morocco and a doctor’s office that looks straight out of Chernobyl.

When a Man Comes Knocking

Borderline Crazy Bloggers

One of the scariest things while traveling is when a man has fixated on you — and because the culture is so different, you’re not sure whether you should be afraid or not.

In this story, Marieke shares the story of an Indian man who showed up at her door and kept refusing to leave.

Tales of Romance and Love

Do you love stories about love? I bet you do!! Here are three stories that will make you believe in finding love on the road.

The Last Time I Saw You (Part Five)

This Battered Suitcase

This is an ongoing series on Brenna’s blog where she tells the stories of the loves she’s met while traveling.

This is a short story that feels like it’s much longer — an incredibly romantic dalliance with a French man on a tropical island, then how it all crashes down once returning to real life.

10 Love Stories From My Travels

Adventurous Kate

It’s been years, but this is still one of my favorite posts I’ve ever written. I share ten different love stories from my travels, and tell you the ten locations where they took place — but you have to use logic and deduction to figure out which location matches with each story.

Nobody has ever guessed all 10 correctly. Maybe you will.

Nacpan and Calitang Beach: One of the Last Starry-Eyed, Lovestruck Journeys of the Previous Chapter

Nomadic Experiences

Looking back to days on one of the most beautiful beaches near El Nido in the Philippines, Marky tells the story of a special girl and the sweet moments they shared on one of the most idyllic islands in the world.

They’ve long since broken up, but he gently holds the experience in his hand, frozen in time.

Unforgettable Travel Experiences

These are the moments that got us out of our comfort zone, introduced us to memorable characters, and turned us into better travelers — and people.

How I Met Gunther, The Best Taxi Driver in Vienna

Budget Traveller

Every now and then, you meet someone who restores your faith in humanity. Gunther the taxi driver was one of those people.

Not only did he defy the odds to get Kash to his bus on time, he was unbelievably kind about the dilemma that happened next.

The Hardest Thing I’ve Ever Done: Two Weeks Hiking Japan’s Kumano Kodo Iseji

Adventures Around Asia

The Kumano Kodo hike in Japan is one of the most famous spiritual pilgrimages in the world. Richelle was excited to get out of her comfort zone — then ended up doing the hike in convenience store waterproof pants.

Despite a very tough start, it turned out to be a fantastic experience.

Hiking in the Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Inside the Travel Lab

Sometimes the most magical travel experiences take place in the most remote areas.

Abi extols the romance and beauty and culture of these isolated villages of Morocco, yet wonders if bringing more travelers here would be a good thing.

What I Learned From Giving Up Meat, Alcohol, and Complaining in India

Ashley Abroad

When Ashley went to Rishikesh, India, for yoga teacher training, she went out of her comfort zone by staying sober, sticking to a vegetarian diet, and giving up complaining.

Did it work? In some ways, yes, and she learned a lot about herself from the experience.

The Thrilling Adventures of Super Boyfriend

No Place to Be

So your girlfriend has dropped her camera in the Nam Song river in Laos. Surely a lost cause, isn’t it?

Not for Poi — a.k.a. Super Boyfriend — who leaped to the rescue, underwater among the sharp rocks.

Alaska Road Trip: Our Top 12 Adventures

Alaska is a destination that so many travelers dream of — but the reality ends up looking different from what you pictured.

Mike and Anne share gorgeous photos and stories from their multi-year honeymoon.

Controversial Takes

A lot of bloggers swear that controversial posts are the way to get traffic. I agree, as long as you go about it the right way. By that, I mean make a point, be fair, and defend it well. And PLEASE don’t trash the Philippines just to get crazy traffic.

5 Reasons to Stop Hating on “The Instagram Girl”

Follow Me Away

It seems so fashionable to hate the “Instagram girl” with the popular travel account — after all, who really wears a ball gown on top of a mountain?

But in this post, Victoria points out why the hate is misguided and the reasons why we should be supporting women with unconventional careers.

8 Reasons Why You Should Never Go to Wales

A Dangerous Business

Sure, Wales is beautiful and fun and interesting to explore, Amanda writes — but do they REALLY need all those castles and myths? Come on, now.

(Let’s say some people didn’t quite get the sarcasm.)

5 Reasons Travel Just Totally Isn’t Worth It

travelingmitch

I’m sorry, why are we even traveling, anyway? It’s so annoying, Mitch says!

What if people don’t speak English? What if you’re forced to challenge your preciously held views? WHAT IF YOU GET LOST AND CAN’T GET UN-LOST?! Better stay at home.

Is a Backpack Just Another Word for “Female Mid-life Crisis”?

GrrrlTraveler

Turning 40 and continuing to backpack around the world as a single woman with no kids. It’s what Christine enjoys — but is this what she really should be doing at this age?

For her, the answer is yes — and this post really shows how deep our cultural norms can set.

8 Reasons Hiking Sucks

Food Fun Travel

When people love food and wine and music as much as Tommo and Megsy, it’s not surprising that they’re equally passionate about what they hate: hiking.

Who needs to go back to nature? Who likes going somewhere without pubs? Is it a bonding experience? Bonding in misery, maybe!

How-To Guides You Never Thought You’d Need

Travel blogs are a great place to learn something new! And often it’s something you NEVER thought you needed to know…

How to Throw Out Your Garbage in Germany

Ali’s Adventures

Who knew just the act of throwing out your trash was so ridiculous and complicated in Germany?!

Ali shares what she’s learned as an expat in Berlin. Also, the comments are a gold mine.

How to Use the Toilet in India

BreatheDreamGo

Worrying about stocking up on toilet paper? Indians don’t use toilet paper at all!

India expert Mariellen shares all the tips for using the toilet in an unconventional (better?) way, and shares a hilarious video from Wilbur Sargunaraj.

How to Survive a Power Outage like a Puerto Rican

Indecisive Traveler

Reese spent years living in Puerto Rico, and during that time she went through quite a few power outages, including a four-day outage in 2016.

Step one? Immediately buy all the cold beer you can and take it home!

Big on Bidets: How Do You Use a Bidet and What is a Bidet For?

LL World Tour

Have you ever stopped in your tracks at the sight of a bidet in a bathroom in Italy or France and not known exactly how to use it?

Lisa shows you what you need to know. Because there’s nothing better than a clean anus!

Quirky Stories from the Road

All of us love to travel for the unusual things we discover on the road. Here are some of the best stories of unusual discoveries while traveling.

The Peens of Pompeii

Domestiphobia

Did you know that the ancient ruins of Pompeii are filled with penises? WELL, YOU DO NOW!

Katie visited the ruins for a day and was struck by how you can find a peen outline just about everywhere you look.

The Funniest Farm Market Sign in Southwest PA

Around the World L

Proof that there’s lots to be loved here in lesser-known parts of the US.

I love this sign that Lillie shared from a farmer with a side of sass!

Pictures of Cats and Dogs in Naples, Italy

2 Food Trippers

Naples is one of the greatest food cities in Italy — if not all of Europe — so it’s no surprise that the felines and canines of this city are as plump as they are adorable!

A cute post from Daryl and Mindi.

Sheep Driving Distractions in the Lake District

Raulerson Girl Travels

The Lake District of England is a wonderful place for a scenic drive…if it weren’t for the kamikaze sheep who leap right in front of your car!

I didn’t believe how fearless the sheep were until I saw Heather’s crazy photos.

How Creepy is the Ringling Brothers Circus Museum in Sarasota, Florida?

My Wanderlusty Life

You don’t have to be afraid of clowns to be creeped out by this weird museum, Ashley opines.

If you’re a hardcore circus fan, sure, knock yourself out! Other people? You don’t know what you’re getting into…

Lady Fails at Grocery Shopping

A Lady in London

Who knew it was so hard to grocery shop in the UK as an American? (Me. Boy, do I know that.)

Turns out none of the items are the same as what you would look for in the US (no tomato sauce ANYWHERE!) and Julie struggles to find normal items she just wants to cook.

Transportation in India: What the Tuk-Tuk?!

Traveling Canucks

Tuk-tuks are one of the most common forms of transportation in India — and they can be TERRIFYING.

Nicole and Cam vividly share every detail of a typical tuk-tuk ride, from near-accidents to carefully maneuvering around cows, and you’ll be white-knuckling it along with them.

That Time Angie Made Us Stay in a Sex Motel

Living the Dream RTW

When Jeremy and Angie had to spend the night in a Colombian border town, Angie chose a nondescript hotel.

Well. Turns out it was filled with a wide cadre of “hourly” guests all night long — and the walls were paper-thin.

You know…these funny posts don’t fit anywhere else, so here they are.

50 Amazingly Achievable Things to Do Before You Die

Fevered Mutterings

Forget those usual bucket list items — go skydiving! See Machu Picchu! — and focus on things that you CAN do. Trip on a shoelace. Use a leaf as a bookmark. Walk into plate glass.

Mike makes sure you’ll finish this post with a smile on your face.

8 Places to Travel in Case of a Zombie Apocalypse

Amateur Traveler

So once the zombie apocalypse actually hits, where should people be going? Chris shares his favorite spots, including Louisville, home to the famous baseball bat.

I have to admit, the isolated Atlantic island of Tristan da Cunha is an inspired choice.

8 Funny Facts About Traveling With Your Twin

Slow Spirit

Guilherme and his twin brother Gregório are identical twins who travel together — and they are VERY distinctive-looking. They get photographed nonstop, people who meet them individually refuse to believe there are two of them, and yes, they play a lot of pranks.

I laughed out loud at their hostel prank!

Thanks for reading! We loved sharing these posts with you.

Which one of these stories was your favorite? Share away!

Around the World in 30 Extraordinary Travel Experiences

Inside: 30 extraordinary travel experiences to help you plan your own Bucket List adventures!

People often ask me, “ Hey   Jenny, what are your favorite places around the world? ”

And I definitely do have a shortlist of favorites.

But to me, travel is about so much more than just places on the map. It’s about travel experiences . Extraordinary. Travel. Experiences.

It’s about people and cultures; animals and nature. And getting a unique view of the world whether on land, underwater or in the air.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle).  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

I’ve never had a “ Bucket List, ” per se, but after 10 trips around the world, I’ve been fortunate to experience dozens of brilliant moments in faraway places (and even a few close to home).

Many that I didn’t even realize were on my wish list until after the fact. 

Since this website is all about carving 30 days out of your life to take the trip of your dreams, I decided to share 30 of my most personally memorable travel experiences from around the world .

I adored them all, so I couldn’t possibly rank them in order of favorites.

Instead, I’ve presented them (for your convenience) just like my RTW trips – beginning in the US and traveling in an eastward direction around the world.

Simple Disclaimer: “Extraordinary” obviously means different things to different people so I will stress that this is simply a list of destinations and travel experiences that have been personally meaningful to me. It is, of course, by no means intended as the top 30 places to go or things to do. But I do hope that you’ll find at least one new travel adventure on my list to add to your own.

So grab your passport, here we go…

1. Driving the Pacific Coast Highway – California, U.S.A

A few years ago, after wrapping up up a business trip in San Francisco, I took a few days to make one of the world’s most iconic drives down the legendary Pacific Coast Highway to Los Angeles.

The PCH hugs the California coastline from San Francisco to Los Angeles passing such scenic spots as Monterey, Big Sur, and Santa Barbara, to name just a few.

It was a trip I’d always wanted to do and there was simply no good reason why I hadn’t done it yet!

So after a day enjoying San Francisco, I headed out along the PCH to Big Sur, a 90-mile stretch of untouched, ruggedly-beautiful coastline known for gravity-defying bridges and inaccessible stretches of golden sand.

I stopped for the night in Monterrey rising before dawn to make the “ 17-Mile Drive ” through the exclusive coastal resort of Pebble Beach, home to the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links, five-time site of the U.S. Open. The next night I booked a beachfront hotel in Santa Barbara before continuing on to Malibu for a morning hike.

When I finally reached LA, I spent my final afternoon at the Santa Monica Pier before flying home.

While it certainly wasn’t my most exotic destination, this road trip holds a special place in my heart because it’s just a classic slice of Americana.

Read More: The PCH in 25 Breathtaking (& Bizarre!) Stops You’ll Adore

2. Dolphin Trainer-for-a-Day – Roatan, Honduras

I’ve always wanted to swim with dolphins.

I mean, who doesn’t? They’re adorable!

But I craved more than the basic “ group swim/dolphin kiss ” experience. And I always worried about whether the dolphins were happy and well-treated at some of the places I’d seen in my travels.

But while planning my summer trip around Central America a few years ago, a keen reader alerted me to the Dolphin-Trainer-for-a-Day experience offered by Anthony’s Key Resort in Roatan. I knew immediately that this was the opportunity I’d been waiting for.

More than two dozen Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins make their home at the 2-acre Bailey’s Key natural lagoon facility that is part of the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS) within Anthony’s Key Resort.

The dolphins at RIMS are not captive in a man-made pool but free to roam the expansive lagoon. Some even leave the facility regularly to participate in the resort’s dolphin show or accompany dive groups but they always return of their own free will.

I spent the day working with Trainer, Christine, and more than a dozen fun-loving dolphins, all eager to interact and practice behaviors with us. I helped prepare their meals, assisted in their healthcare checks, and spent plenty of time just goofing around with them (as it turns out, dolphins are pretty goofy).

At RIMS, if the dolphins don’t want to interact, they don’t and no one makes them. All of the dolphins are free to do as they please which makes it all the more special when they choose to interact with you.

It was truly a remarkable travel experience that I will always remember.

Read More: Roatan, Honduras: Dolphins, Diving & Underwater Dating Dilemmas

3. Island-hopping with the Kuna Indians – San Blas, Panama

It’s not easy to get to the San Blas Islands…but it’s well worth the effort.

Made up of 365 perfectly palm-fringed dots of white sand in a turquoise sea, chartering a sailboat is the best way to explore this remote island group.

But it’s not just the islands that will wow you, meeting the indigenous Kuna people is an experience unlike any other.

When my friend Shannon and I visited last summer, we charted a sailboat owned by Denny & Becky, an American couple who’d been sailing the islands for months.

On our last night, we went ashore to one of the Kuna family islands to grill out with another family of cruisers. In the San Blas, indigenous Kuna families live on many of the islands, and the family living on this one was known to be friendly to cruisers.

As Denny, Shannon, and I took a walk around the tiny island to see the huts where the family lived, one of the women motioned eagerly to my camera.

Due to the language barrier, we didn’t understand what she wanted until she ran into one of the huts and returned with an old, worn family photograph that was clearly a cherished possession. We managed to decipher that she wanted me to take their pictures so they could see the image on my camera’s digital display.

Obviously, the Kuna don’t get the opportunity to see images of themselves very often so this was a big deal.

I eagerly nodded my agreement, and the women sprinted into the huts to put on their Sunday best for photos. They came out pulling traditional tops on over their heads as they ran. They gathered in various groups for photos: mother and daughter, younger kids, older kids, sisters, daughter with her doll, etc. Then we did individual shots of each person.

Each time I took 3-4 photos and then they rushed over to me to view them on my camera. The smiles of wonder that lit up their faces as I scrolled through the photos made my heart soar. Especially the youngest children who I suspect had never seen an image of themselves.

I was thrilled to have made them so happy but I would have given a million dollars for access to a printer to print them all out on the spot.

Luckily, Denny was later able to print the photos and take them back to the island! He said the family was absolutely overjoyed. It warms my heart to know my photos are probably displayed prominently around those huts as we speak.

It’s the kind of feeling that makes travel immensely meaningful to me and just another reason why I never tire of the journey.

Read More: Kokomo, Kuanidup & the Kuna Yala: The San Blas Islands of Panama

4 . Swimming with Sea Turtles, Sea Lions & Sharks – Galapagos

Visiting the Galapagos is one of those “ Bucket List ” experiences that’s on almost everyone’s wish list.

Exploring by cruise ship is the most popular way to see these rugged islands but I discovered that less expensive, land-based trips can be equally rewarding.

While staying on the island of San Cristobal, I took a full day snorkeling and wildlife spotting trip off the coast.

Anytime you get in the water in the Galapagos you’re immediately joined by sea turtles, sea lions, and often sharks (whether you see them or not) and on this day we saw all three.

Swimming among sea turtles and sea lions is an awesome experience, they truly have no fear of humans and their natural curiosity often brings them in very close to check you out.

Though, I admit I could have done without the curiosity of the circling hammerhead and blacktip sharks easily visible 20 feet or so down below when we stopped at Kicker Rock…but it’s all just part of the Galapagos adventure!

Read More: How to See the Galapagos Islands on a Budget

5. Hiking Machu Picchu Mountain – Machu Picchu, Peru

Located on a mountain ridge soaring almost 8,000 feet above sea level, the “ Lost City of the Incas ” is considered one of the world’s most enigmatic ancient sites.

Its cascading terraces of perfectly-cut stones stand as a legacy to the architectural genius of the Incas. A completely self-contained city, invisible from below, the cloud-shrouded ruins managed to remain undiscovered for hundreds of years.

Whether you make the arduous, 4-day hike up the Inca Trail or simply take the train from Cuzco, your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is likely to be a magical experience.

Though my tightly-scheduled itinerary on RTW #2 didn’t allow time for the Inca Trail, I did manage to get in a great hike when I arrived at the site early on my second morning.

People line up at dawn for the 400 daily spots to hike the often-photographed Huayana Picchu, (pictured) but I decided to take a different path (okay, I admit, it was kind of an accident).

While looking around for a higher vantage point for photos should the sun decide to make an appearance through the morning rain clouds, I stumbled upon a trail that turned out to be the lesser-known Machu Picchu Mountain.

It was a challenging hike and I was on the trail all by myself (which concerned me a little) but just when I reached a clearing at the top, the sun rewarded my efforts by breaking through the clouds revealing a perfect bird’s eye view of Machu Picchu way below.

From that vantage point, I felt like I had it all to myself and it was a moment to remember.

Read More: Machu Picchu at Last

6. A Luxurious Stay in Torres del Paine – Patagonia, Chile

The vast majority of visitors to South America’s picturesque Patagonia region spend their days hiking through pristine mountains and glaciers and their nights roughing it in makeshift campsites.

But as I learned on my visit to the region, there is another way to experience the wonders of Patagonia. NO. CAMPING. REQUIRED.

I kept the hiking but traded the tent for a few nights at explora Patagonia’s plush Hotel Salto Chico .

Set on the shores of Pehoé Lake with a show-stopping view of the famed Cuernos del Paine, this über-green property enjoys an unsurpassed natural backdrop that boasts dramatic views from every window.

Expert local guides led explorations within the park each day for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting. It was a glorious four days in arguably the world’s most incredible national park.

Read More: The Best of Patagonia in Luxury (for the Camping-Averse)

7. Whale Watching in the Iceberg Graveyard – Antarctica

It was Day 6 of my Antarctic Expedition on Round the World #8 . We boarded a zodiac for a cruise through the “ Iceberg Graveyard ” at Pleneau Bay and it turned out to be my favorite afternoon of a wildly incredible trip.

The zodiacs glided silently among iceberg sculptures the size of city blocks, each a stunning work of art more impressive than the last. Adding to the adventure, the risk of a potential calving at any moment without warning.

And as if skyscraper, iridescent-blue, death-defying icebergs weren’t visually dynamic enough, the humpback whales came out to play.

We watched as a humpback whale teased us above the surface before diving for up to 7 minutes and emerging on the other side of an iceberg. It was humpback-hide-and-seek at its finest and I could’ve played all day.

But the most dramatic moment came near the end of our cruise as a whale glided right next to our zodiac and just as he was about to show his flume (the money shot in whale photography) the iceberg next to us calved!

The deafening sound of splintering ice breaking off and crashing into the water diverted everyone’s attention as we audibly gasped, hardly knowing where to look it was all so exciting! Whales diving, icebergs calving, it’s an Antarctic wonderland!

This, I realized, was exactly what the Antarctic was all about. This is why people brave the elements to come here. This is why it’s worth the significant expense. It was simply magical.

This one was truly a Bucket List adventure!

Read More: Expedition Antarctica: Why it’s Worth Every Penny

8. A Soak in the Blue Lagoon – Iceland

Located 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik, Iceland’s most famous attraction, the Blue Lagoon, is a steamy combination of mineral-rich freshwater and seawater from deep within the earth, naturally heated to between 98-102 degrees Fahrenheit.

The milky-blue waters flow over vast black lava fields giving the whole place an other-worldly feel. The futuristic-looking Svartsengi geothermal plant in the distance adds to the cosmic effect.

You really do feel like you could be on another planet.

When I visited Iceland in late summer, a chill in the air signaled fall weather just around the corner making the hot-tub-like waters even more difficult to leave. The mineral-rich mud is said to have a healing effect and many bathers slathered it on their face and arms as they relaxed in the steaming lagoon.

A soak in the Blue Lagoon was one of the many highlights of my 30-day trip around Europe and my first visit to Iceland.

Read More: Iceland: Geothermal Wonderland

9. Touring Auschwitz & Birkenau – Poland

It was perhaps the most moving travel experience I’ve ever had.

During a visit to nearby Krakow, Poland, I spent an afternoon touring the concentration camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau.

The gas chambers and crematoriums of the two camps could accommodate thousands per day and operated at full capacity from 1942 up until its liberation in January 1945.

It is a place that everyone should have to see once in their lifetime. It’s the only way to really appreciate the magnitude of the cruel brutality perpetrated on the millions who died here and the few who survived.

There are no words.

The emotional impact of visiting a place like Auschwitz-Birkenau is indescribable. You can read the history and know the terrifying story but standing inside a gas chamber and walking in the footsteps of those who perished there transcends anything that can be gleaned from a book or a movie.

I will forever see those dead-end train tracks in my mind. It was an experience I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Read More: Awed by Auschwitz

10. Driving the Amalfi Coast – Positano, Italy

It was late January, 2009, and I was three stops in to my 4th annual trip around the world .

For my Europe stop that year, I chose a region of Italy that I had always dreamed of visiting, the Amalfi Coast.

There are few stretches of coastline more spectacular than Italy’s Amalfi Coast and the striking village of Positano is perhaps the region’s shining star.

It was the middle of winter and many of the hotels were closed, so I stayed in nearby Sorrento and took advantage of the local bus (which doubles as a school bus that time of year!) to visit Amalfi and Positano.

While Amalfi was lovely, it was the beauty of Positano that really captured my heart.

I wandered the twisting, narrow, staircase-like streets discovering new wonders around every corner. I spent a lazy afternoon soaking in the town’s gravity-defying architecture from a hillside cafe and gazing out at the sea from the beach of Spiaggia Grande.

Perhaps the best part was that the entire town was completely absent of tourists, a rare opportunity to enjoy Positano as the locals do.

Perhaps John Steinbeck said it best in his 1953 when he wrote, “It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.”

Read More: Positively Perfect Positano

And more recent: The Best of the Amalfi Coast in 4 Amazingly Affordable Day s

11. Floating in the Dead Sea – Ein Bokek, Israel

At more than 1,300 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest elevation on the surface of the earth. The quantity of water that evaporates from the sea is greater than that which flows into it, resulting in its excessive salinity (8 times that of the ocean).

While its salinity cannot support the existence of life, the mineral-rich black mud and bromide-laden air make it a major destination for those seeking its healing properties earning it the nickname, “ the lowest health spa in the world .”

But for those not in need of healing, it’s the perfect place to test out the famously effortless “ Dead Sea float .”

When I visited the Israeli resort town of Ein Bokek on RTW #3 , I finally had my chance to try it out.

When I stepped into the mineral-rich water up to my shoulders and lifted my feet off the seafloor…I bobbed to the surface like a cork.

A strange sensation, to be sure, but definitely an experience that’s Bucket-List-worthy.

Read More: Doing the Dead Sea Float in Israel

12. Hiking to the Monastery – Petra, Jordan

Inhabited since prehistoric times, the ancient Nabataean city of Petra has been described as “ a rose-red city half as old as time. ”

Situated between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, the vast city was quite literally carved into the sheer, dusky-pink rock face by its industrious Arab inhabitants more than 2,000 years ago.

I kicked off Round the World #5 in Jordan and arrived at Petra after a 4-hour early morning bus ride from Amman.

As you enter through the Siq – a narrow gorge almost a mile long with dazzling colors and rock formations – you catch your first glimpse of the magnificent Treasury.

But to get to the real prize, you’ll have to earn it.

Wind your way through the rest of the city in the morning hours but save the shade of the afternoon for attempting the hour-long hike up 800 steps to the Monastery.

The beautifully-carved, massive building is stunning; the doorway alone is the size of a house. It’s a grueling hike in the desert heat but worth every single step.

Read More: The Ancient Charms of Jordan

13. A Camel Ride Around the Pyramids – Giza, Egypt

Egypt’s largest pyramid, the Pyramid of Khufu, is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still in existence. An estimated 30,000 workers built the pyramids at Giza over the course of 80 years.

A visit to the pyramids lives up to all the hype and merits a spot on any “ Round the World ” itinerary. In fact, it was perhaps the place I was most looking forward to seeing on my first trip around the world .

I skipped the group tour, hoping to really delve into Egyptian history by hiring my own personal Egyptologist for the day.

It was an incredible day visiting the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Khan el Khalili market, and the magnificent Cairo Museum but the highlight was definitely the Pyramids.

And it’s the best place in the world to satisfy your camel riding curiosity (if you have any).

Yes, it’s total tourist kitsch…but a “ Lawrence of Arabia-style ” camel ride through the sandy dunes of the Giza Plateau with the awe-inspiring golden pyramids in the distance is an experience not to be missed.

Though, fair warning, camels are MUCH taller than horses and not nearly as friendly. Despite my particular camel’s generally grumpy attitude and limited interest in taking direction for photography, it was one of my most memorable travel moments.

Read More: Cairo on Camel Back

14. A Night at the Burj Al Arab – Dubai, U.A.E.

File this one under most luxurious travel experience!

Situated on its own man-made island in the Arabian Gulf, the decadent Burj Al Arab is often referred to as the “ World’s Only 7-Star Hotel .”

Designed to resemble a billowing sail, the Burj dominates the Dubai skyline with its distinct architectural style. With just 202 multi-story suites and a brigade of highly trained butlers tending to your every whim, a stay at the Burj Al Arab is the ultimate travel indulgence.

I’d seen the Burj Al Arab in glossy travel magazines for years and I just knew it had to be part of my first RTW trip.

Of course, since the rooms come with a price tag as extravagant as the service, one night was all I could afford…but what a night it was!

From the Rolls-Royce airport pick-up to the full-size Hermes bath products, it is perhaps the most luxurious hotel I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending the night.

My two-story suite was enormously opulent and my butler was so eager to help I struggled to think of anything he could do for me (what the heck are you supposed to do with a butler, anyway?).

The Burj Al Arab is a mecca for the rich and royal and it’s the best place I know to feel like a princess…even if it’s just for one night.

Read More: Decadence in Dubai – The Burj Al Arab Hotel

15. A Day at Victoria Falls – Zambia/Zimbabwe

They call it the “ Smoke that Thunder s” and if you’re lucky enough to catch your first glimpse of it from the air you’ll understand why.

Thanks to a major flight delay in Madrid, I almost didn’t make it to Victoria Falls at all on RTW #8 .

But the travel Gods were on my side that day and after a frantic connection in Doha, I stepped off a plane the next morning in Livingstone, Zambia on a beautifully sunny African day.

Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Though I booked a hotel on the Zambian side, I chose to visit the falls from the more scenic Zimbabwean side.

I had just one day to see the falls and what a magnificent day it turned out to be!

After an easy crossing over the Zimbabwe border, I wandered the trails of Victoria Falls National Park from the Devil’s Cataract to Horseshoe Falls.

The combination of sunshine and smokey mist from the falls created more rainbows than I’ve ever seen in one place…perhaps even in one year. So close it seemed you could reach out and touch them.

It was a stunning display of nature’s power and I’m so thankful that I was able to see it.

Read More: Lucky in Livingstone – A Visit to Victoria Falls

16. Sunset from Table Mountain – Cape Town, South Africa

The most recognizable landmark in Cape Town, Table Mountain towers over the city offering spectacular panoramic views.

Unfortunately, it is often covered by a line of clouds known as the “ tablecloth .”

But on a clear day, there are two ways to the top: the aerial cable car (complete with a rotating floor) or, for the more adventurous, a 3-hour strenuous hike up a challenging, rocky trail.

While visiting Cape Town on RTW #1 , I landed on the first day to clear skies over the mountain and I knew this could be my only chance to make the hike (it was, by the next day the tablecloth was firmly entrenched and didn’t retreat for the remainder of my stay).  

Though at times along the hike I questioned my decision to forgo the cable car – especially when I reached the top and saw all of the other sunset enthusiasts enjoying picnic baskets of wine and cheese brought up on the cable car- in the end, it was the best way to the top.

Because when you spend hours hiking to enjoy a perfect (and my first) African sunset, it is all that much more rewarding.

But now that I’ve checked the hike off my list, next time I’ll take the cable car…and bring wine.

Read More: Cape Town, Fabulous Cape Town

From RTW #2: Back to Africa – Cape Town, Part Deux

From RTW #9: The Township Legacy of Cape Town

17. Lion Encounter – Mauritius

Mauritius is a beautifully diverse, culturally rich island nation sporting a variety of luxury resorts and sandy beaches.

You could easily spend your entire stay there relaxing on a lounge chair next to the sparkling emerald sea…or you can take a walk on the wild side and visit Casela Nature Park.

One of only three locations in the world (the others are Zambia and Zimbabwe) where you can get up close and personal with lions in their natural habitat, Casela offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to “ Walk with Lions .”

While the lion walk activity was completely booked up while I was there on RTW #7 , I still had the opportunity to experience the lion encounter alternative.

Without a doubt, this was one of the most exhilaratingly-terrifying experiences of my life. Just me, a trainer, a photographer, and more lions than I could comfortably keep track of – alone in the enclosure.

But obviously, I got out alive and with a great photo op (though after watching the Tiger King documentary, I probably would have skipped this particular activity if I had it to do over again).

It was an incredible adventure and sometimes I still wonder…was anyone really keeping a close eye on those lions in the picture behind me?

Read More: Mauritius: Lions, Beaches & Peaks…oh my!

18. Seaplane Flight over the Maldives

Made up of hundreds of tiny, idyllic atolls scattered across an endless expanse of Indian Ocean, the Maldives are a tropical paradise right out of central casting.

No matter where you’re heading when you touch down at Malé airport, you’ll need a boat or a seaplane to get there because even the airport is on its own tiny island.

By far, the best and most popular way to travel through the Maldives is by seaplane.

In fact, it’s your only option to reach many of the top resorts. But this is one pricey airport transfer that’s worth every last penny.

At takeoff, the propellers whir drowning out any attempt at conversation. Soon, the views below of vibrant reefs encircled by halos of turquoise sea (with a palm-shaded spit of sand thrown in sporadically for good measure) will make you forget that your island-attired pilot isn’t wearing shoes.

It’s all just part of the paradise experience in this tiny island nation. Because when you visit the Maldives, getting to your hotel is half the fun.

Two of my favorite properties for a Bucket List stay in the Maldvies – the W Retreat & Spa Maldives and the new St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort .

Read More: Where are the Maldives? (& why you should go now!)

19. A Scenic Flight over Mount Everest – Nepal

My second day in Kathmandu started out pretty much the same as the first.

Up at the break of dawn and off to the domestic airport hoping the weather would be clear enough for my scheduled scenic flight over Mount Everest.

The day before, I’d waited hours only to be told the low visibility conditions would mean just seeing the tips of the mountain range. The airline presented three options: take the flight, get a full refund or come back the next day, and hope for better luck.

I elected to come back and try again and was so glad I did!

Immediately upon arrival the next day we were ushered directly to a waiting aircraft – there was a break in the clouds and it was now or never.

As we flew over the spectacular snow-capped Himalayan mountain range, our flight attendant carefully pointed out each peak that came into view and we even took turns visiting the cockpit for the pilot’s panoramic view.

When the M-shaped peak of Mount Everest finally appeared I was speechless.

I cannot believe people actually climb this mountain (not me, I know my limits!). But I had always dreamed of catching a glimpse of this legendary peak and on this one perfect day in Nepal I got to do just that.

It was the flight of a lifetime.

Read More: The Kathmandu Krush

20. Tiger’s Nest Hike – Kingdom of Bhutan

The 8th century Taktsang, or “ Tiger’s Nest ” is a highly revered Buddhist monastery built into a sheer cliff face at a dizzying height of 9,678ft.

It’s the landmark of Bhutan and likely the only photo you’ve ever seen of this tiny Himalayan kingdom.

For years I’d seen photos of that stunning monastery in the clouds and always dreamed of seeing it for myself. So, on my summer trip around the Himalayas , Bhutan was near the top of my list.

On the morning of the hike, we arrived at our starting point at the base of the mountain in Paro Valley. Over the next 3 hours, we ascended more than 2,000ft from our starting altitude of 7,500ft on steep but well-trodden trails.

Navigating from one mountain to the next (where the monastery is located) involves a significant descent, a bridge crossing, and then a final ascent back up the stairs leading to the monastery.

It was a beautiful but challenging hike. Colorful prayer flags were strung all along the trail and they increased in number as we neared the monastery.

When we finally arrived at the entrance to the monastery, aching legs, and ailing lungs were all but forgotten. It was absolutely magnificent.

The next day it was time to move on to Thailand but the soul-cleansing spirit of Bhutan, a nation that measures life by Gross National Happiness, will stay with me forever.

Read More: Himalayan Happiness in the Kingdom of Bhutan

21. Temples of Bagan, Myanmar

For many years, tourism to Myanmar was roundly discouraged since tourism dollars primarily supported the corrupt government.

But in May 2011, popular Burmese opposition politician, Aung San Suu Kyi, expressed the opinion that responsible tourism to Burma should be encouraged in order to promote the welfare of the common people and the conservation of the environment.

Today, Myanmar’s doors are finally open and many travelers are getting their first glimpse into the beauty of this long-suffering nation.

I couldn’t wait to see Myanmar and planned three stops in the country – Yangon , Mandalay , and the temple-laden city of Bagan.

In the mid-9th century, Bagan was a central powerhouse under King Anawratha and as many as 13,000 temples and stupas may have once stood on this windy plain stretching 26 square miles.

Bagan’s reign of power ended in 1287 and today just 2,200 temples remain in various states of preservation. I spent the day visiting dozens of temples and saved Bagan’s top attraction – sunset from the Shwe-san-daw Pagoda – for last.

Foreign and Burmese tourists alike make the steep climb up Shwe-san-daw to gather at the small landing atop the “ sunset temple ” each night. From the top, a panoramic view over thousands of temples as they blaze orange with the sun’s setting rays.

It’s a sunset view that hasn’t changed in centuries and one of the most unique I’ve ever seen.

Read More: The Temples of Bagan

22. Morning Alms – Luang Prabang, Laos

Situated along Mekong River, the colorfully-serene city of Luang Prabang has emerged as the most prominent showpiece in a country only open to tourism since 1989.

This former Royal capital remains the main center for Buddhist learning in Laos and though tourists have discovered this Asian gem, they are still greatly outnumbered by orange-robed monks.

There’s a spiritual charm to this small town and I was instantly taken with it when I arrived on RTW #6 .

But to experience the real heart of the local culture in Laos, you’ve got to get up pretty early.

Just before dawn, the streets are lined with local residents awaiting the daily procession of monks for morning alms.

As the sun rises, hundreds of monks emerge – seemingly out of nowhere – to fill their alms bowls. In less than an hour, they disappear as quickly as they appeared.

Witnessing the beauty of this tradition in Laos was one of my most awe-inspiring travel moments.

Read More: Destined for Laos

23. Sunrise at Angkor Wat – Siem Reap, Cambodia

RTW #4 – Cambodia: It’s just before 5:00am as I sit in total darkness in an auto-rickshaw bouncing along a jungle road toward the ancient temple of Angkor Wat. Our lone headlight is the only light to be seen for miles on a road that didn’t exist only a few years ago.

The air is thick with humidity, even at this ungodly early hour.

Finally, the rickshaw stops.

Though I can hear people talking, I can see nothing in the inky darkness. Completely disoriented, I ask my driver which direction to walk. He points right and I spot bouncing beams of light coming from smarter tourists who thought to bring flashlights.

I choose a bouncing light and follow it down a long stone path. Hopeful that the owner knows where he is going.

Suddenly, the light veers off down stone steps to the left. Other lights mill about in confusion. Some continue straight while others follow stairs to the right. I have no idea which direction is best but decide to follow my original leader, he has gotten me this far. 

We continue through grass, eventually coming to a spot where other bouncing lights blend with voices in the dark. My phone’s glow illuminates a stone wall next to a body of water where others are already sitting. I grab a spot and settle in for the show.

In the darkness, we wait. With nothing else to do, I look up and am rewarded with a night sky blanketed with stars.

With the painstaking anticipation of a child waiting for Christmas, the ebony sky lightens just enough that I can make out the outline of the enormous stone towers of Angkor Wat.

Over the next 30 minutes, the sky develops into an increasingly vibrant swirl of brilliant pinks and blazing orange as the sheer Khmer genius of Angkor Wat is revealed to the patient crowd assembled.

I smile at the realization that the viewing spot I selected blindly couldn’t be more perfect.

It is a sunrise of epic proportions over a temple that has mastered the art of making an entrance.

Read More: Sunrise at Angkor Wat

24. The Great Wall all to Myself – Beijing, China

Like a giant dragon, the Great Wall winds its way more than 5,000 miles across China’s northern border.

Constructed primarily during the Ming Dynasty, the Wall was originally built to protect the empire against intrusions.

Today it is one of the world’s most famous historic attractions and one of the “ New Seven Wonders of the World .”

Several of the most-visited sections of the Great Wall are within an hour’s drive of Beijing. Though tours are readily available, the best way to see the Wall is to hire your own cab for the day.

But if you want to beat the tourist throngs at this popular world monument, you have to get up pretty early in the morning.

On my visit during RTW #1 , I arrived from Beijing by 8:00am (before the tour group buses arrive at 9:00am) and had the Wall entirely to myself for almost an hour.

It was a cold winter morning and I soaked in the incredible vistas around me marveling at my good fortune to enjoy it in peaceful solitude. I felt so small and so gloriously far from home.

But, as it turned out, this was more than an extraordinary travel moment, it was a life moment. Because as I stood there – taking it all in – I realized that this is what I was meant to be doing.

Traveling. Seeing the world.

My month-long adventure was coming to an end but I knew in that moment that I would take another RTW trip. And, more importantly, that I would try to inspire others to do the same. To seek out their own extraordinary moments.

And 10 RTW trips later that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Read More: Beijing & the Great Wall of China

And more recently: A Second Date with Beijing

25. Swimming with Millions of Jellyfish – Jellyfish Lake, Palau

Located in the western extremities of the Pacific Ocean, the Micronesian archipelago of Palau is a geological wonder.

Made up of more than 350 islands and atolls, Palau is internationally renowned for its marine biodiversity.

During my stay on the island, I hired a boat to explore the Rock Islands and visit the legendary Jellyfish Lake, where I’d read it was possible to swim with millions of iridescent (and harmless) prehistoric jellyfish.

After a steep hike to reach the lake, my guide and I slipped on our fins and masks and jumped in.

Underwater camera in hand, we slowly moved toward the center of the lake. At first, I was disappointed; I couldn’t see much of anything in the murky green water.

But then as we neared the center of the lake, suddenly, they began to appear.

In minutes they were everywhere – pink blobs undulating all around me. Their size was startling at first, ranging from the size of your fist to the size of a basketball.

As I floated in the center of the lake, they innocently bumped into my arms and legs. It was impossible to move without touching one.

It was a surreal experience that can only be found in Palau.

Read More: Wowed by Palau

26. A Scenic Flight over the Great Barrier Reef – Australia

Stretching more than 1,600 miles along the eastern coast of Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is made up of 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands.

The nearby collection of islands known as the Whitsundays are a popular home base for visitors to the Great Barrier Reef. On the final day of my stay in the Whitsundays on RTW #8 , I decided it was time for a splurge.

I booked a 1-hour scenic helicopter flight to get an aerial view of this incredible world wonder.

It’s impossible to appreciate the massive size of the reef system until you see it from above. As my helicopter flew low across the reef, sharks, turtles, and rays were easily visible from the air.

The highlight of the flight was a pass over the aptly-named Heart Reef – so perfectly formed it seemed almost man-made.

The reef and the Whitsunday Islands (especially the swirls of Whitehaven Beach) are a stunning sight from the air and the flight was an awe-inspiring experience.

Read More: How to See the Whitsundays & the Great Barrier Reef (even on a budget!)

27. Bridge Climb – Sydney, Australia

Opened in 1932 and soaring high over magnificent Sydney Harbour, it’s one of Australia’s most recognizable symbols.

But the world’s largest steel-arch bridge is more than just a beautiful backdrop.

A climb to the top of Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge has been named one of the “ Top 10 Biggest Adrenaline Rushes ” in the world by Lonely Planet. It’s a Must-Do for most visitors to Australia.

In 1998, the opening of BridgeClimb made it possible for anyone to experience the thrill of a three-hour roundtrip climb to the bridge’s summit and the most spectacular view in Sydney.

Climbs take place every day of the year except New Year’s Eve (when the bridge serves as the base for a massive fireworks display) and in all weather except electrical storms or extremely high winds.

On my first trip to Sydney on RTW #2 , I made the mistake of not booking in advance. It was totally sold out during my stay.

But on my summer trip around Oceania a few years later, it was the first thing I booked after the flight to Sydney. Despite the July winter weather, I was lucky enough to get a mostly sunny and warm day for my climb and it was a truly epic way to spend an afternoon.

Read More: Summering in Sydney

27. A Day Trip to Aitutaki – Cook Islands

With a vast lagoon rivaling Bora Bora’s – but with a fraction of the visitors – Aitutaki just might be the world’s most beautifully-remote island.

While staying on the main island of Rarotonga on RTW #6 , I flew over to Aitutaki to get a look at this mythical Bali Hai for myself.

After a quick 45-minute flight followed by a Jeep land-tour of the tiny island, we boarded a traditional sailing craft and headed out into the seemingly endless turquoise lagoon.

As the boat sliced through the crystal clear waters and glided past palm-fringed atolls I was completely in awe of the beauty surrounding me and wondered how I would ever fittingly describe this tropical paradise.

It didn’t even seem real.

My favorite stop of the day was the dreamily-exotic and nearly deserted atoll known as One Foot Island. It was the perfect place to laze on a powder-white beach or float in the knee-high lagoon.

But despite its castaway appearance, it was home to one top attraction – a small hut containing one of the world’s most remote post offices.

Luckily, a local on Rarotonga had told me to bring my passport when I visited Aitutaki so I was fortunate to depart paradise with a footprint-shaped passport stamp to remember it by.

Read More: Are the Cook Islands the Best-Kept Secret in the South Pacific?

29. Sleeping in an Overwater Bungalow – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Perhaps the most iconic of all the Pacific islands, Bora Bora’s sparkling turquoise lagoon and soaring emerald peak seem plucked from an old Polynesian travel poster.

Palm-covered motu encircle the lagoon providing a base for the luxury resorts that pepper the island. Overwater bungalows reign supreme and offer oneness with Bora Bora’s spectacular natural environment.

Shallow lagoons teeming with colorful coral and tropical fish are the main attraction and there’s no better way to enjoy them than with a room built right over the action.

The ability to step out of your bedroom and jump directly into the lagoon is a unique luxury and I was thrilled to be able to experience it while staying at the Le Meridien Bora Bora  (pictured here, note that they are currently closed for renovations but scheduled to re-open in 2022) and the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa .

Most bungalows also feature a lighted glass viewing panel in the floor – known locally as “ Tahitian Television ” – which allows you to view the underwater entertainment long after the sun goes down.

It was a terrific experience as a solo traveler (despite the cyclone in Bora Bora!), but even more special when I visited Moorea again with my husband on Round the World #10 – The Honeymoon.

Read More: Surviving Bora Bora – Sea Turtles & Cyclones

Read More: Forget Bora Bora – 3 Reasons Moorea is the Best of Tahiti

30. Sunset from Ahu Tahai – Easter Island, Chile

Just when I thought South Pacific sunsets couldn’t get any better, I arrived on Easter Island.

A short stroll from the main town of Hanga Roa sits a vast field where the ancient site of giant stone monoliths known as Ahu Tahai stands framed by the crashing surf of the Pacific Ocean.

During my stay on RTW #7 , I claimed a spot on the grassy hillside and settled in for the nightly show just as the sun began its dramatic descent.

It’s amazing what a few moai can add to an already mind-blowing sunset. As the sky transitioned from brilliant blue to flaming orange before finally settling into the inky, star-studded purple of night, my mind wandered to the mysteries of this ancient Polynesian culture.

How did they transport the moai here…and why?

It’s a mystery that remains to this day but there’s one thing that’s certain, the sunsets are pure moai magic.

The best way to fully experience the unique culture of this incredible island is with a stay at the luxurious eco-resort,  Explora Rapa Nui .

Read More: The Mystery of Easter Island

Wrapping up 30 Extraordinary Travel Experiences

So, there you have it!

That’s my current list of most extraordinary travel experiences. I hope that in a few more years I’ll have 30 more amazing moments to write about.

That’s the beauty of travel, it’s impossible to see and experience it all…but, hey, that doesn’t mean we should stop trying, right?

And if all these exotic destinations have inspired you to start planning your own Round-the-World trip, get the ultimate planning guide, “The Grown-Up’s Guide to Globetrotting.”

And for more Round-the-World planning inspiration, start here:

The Ultimate Guide to Planning the Round the World Trip of a Lifetime

8 Reasons to Stop Dreaming & Start Planning a Trip Around the World

How to Use Points & Miles to Redeem Your Round-the-World Dream

Why Every Woman Should Travel the World Solo (at least once!) & How to Stay Safe Doing It

How to Travel Around the World with Just a Carry-On: A Girl’s Guide to Traveling Light

Happy Travels!

Thanks for sharing, fantastic article full of inspiring acitivies. I am definitely saving this article and adding some of the experiences to my bucket list! 🙂

This is a really awesome page, Jenny! Wonderful experiences and well written. It’s definitely inspiring. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much, Brad! And thanks for sharing it 🙂

My husband and I are traveling to Italy for our first time Sept 24th – Oct 9th. We are almost following your intinerary except backwards (Rome 5 nights, CT 2 nights, Florence 5 nights, Venice 2 nights). My question is in regards to staying in Florence vs staying in the Tuscan countryside. We love wine and food and not huge museum fans. I wonder if we will not get the same experience staying in Florence as we would in the countryside. We have a a ton of points with Westin so we were planning on Florence so we can use our points. Just curious your thoughts on that. Also if we stay in Florence should we rent a car for one day and drive ourselves around Tuscany? If so any recommendations on must see places? Thanks!

Sounds like a fantastic trip! If it were me, I’d definitely prefer to stay in Florence since there’s so much more to do and see there. It’s just a lovely city and the Westin Excelsior is fantastic (that’s where I stayed when I visited), gorgeous views of the river and Ponte Vecchio. I rented a car while I was there and it wasn’t difficult at all to drive the surrounding countryside and over to Pisa to visit the Leaning Tower. Just driving through Tuscany is so beautiful and I’m sure there are lots of great vineyards you could also visit, though I didn’t have time to fit that in. I’ve always wanted to see Cinque Terre, I’m jealous! That’s one place that is still on my list. Hope you have an amazing time!

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What’s your most unforgettable travel experience?

Traveling gives us a lot of great memories we can always look back on. Getting out of our comfort zone opens the mind to more ideas and possibilities. And while it gives us a peek into how the rest of the world lives, it also makes us appreciate more what we have back home.  For busy people, traveling can help bring back equilibrium when life back home gets too stressful. Traveling with the right partner or group is the key to a perfect holiday.

Menchu Katigbak

My most unforgettable experience was my trip to Paris in the fall of 2013 when the elevator of my apartment konked out for 10 days and I was on the sixth floor. I was so stressed out from climbing up and down the stairs that I got shingles. Luckily, I caught it in time and the doctor gave me medicine. It was my most miserable trip to Paris; I cut my trip short and dashed home to Manila. In the end, there’s really no place like home. However, Paris still remains my favorite destination. It is my second home.

Michaela Madrigal Eduque, student, Fordham University

When my dad suggested going to Siem Reap during one of my short school breaks, I had to admit that I was a bit hesitant, not knowing what to expect as it seemed to be the complete opposite of the big city travel experiences I was used to. But I think that the reason why I loved Cambodia so much was that it wasn’t like a big city experience. There was a certain level of beauty, solitude, and happiness in exploring the Angkor Wat temple despite it being a major tourist attraction. It was refreshing and somehow freeing to be able to go on a hot-air balloon ride and just see the open sky and endless fields of lush green, uninterrupted by skyscrapers and freeways but rather, just the occasional temple or house. And yes, I wasn’t surrounded by the big shops, museums or modern landmarks that usually give me joy in big city destinations, but I was able to get the same level of fun and satisfaction — if not more — with the nature around me, especially in befriending an elephant with a banana offers. I still am a big city girl, but I think that the reason why Cambodia is my most unforgettable travel experience is that, on top of everything, it taught me that sometimes, the most fulfilling memories happen where you least expect it. 

Timi Gomez Aquino, marketing director, Jollibee Foods Corp.-Chowking

We just celebrated 10 years since I was a delegate of the Ship for the Southeast Asian Youth Program, a cultural exchange between Japanese and ASEAN youth. We traveled the region in a Japanese cruise liner for over 45 days. It was an unforgettable opportunity to meet a diverse set of friends, live with and learn from our neighbors and even meet my would-be-life-partner, Bam.

Eloise Alba Carballo, editor in chief, Accent magazine

I love to travel so it’s hard to select one unforgettable experience. But a few months ago, I took a trip to Morocco and spent some days camping in the middle of the Sahara. The lights from the desert sky, an authentic Berber meal, and the sounds of the tribal chants made the 10-hour journey worth every step.

Karen Fabie Concepcion, equestrienne

The most unforgettable travel experience for me is my most recent trip with my family to Paris. Ton and I brought our three girls for the first time to Paris to celebrate our 20th anniversary. We had a great time together especially since it was our daughter’s first time in Europe. The sights, the food and the bonding time we had as a family will always remain special and memorable to all of us. 

Monica Zobel Urquijo, student, Goldsmiths, University of London

After two exhausting days of travels, nothing could have excited me more than seeing the Malagasy landscape from the plane window. It was an exhilarating thought that I would spend the next six weeks in the land of lemurs, moonshine, and my fellow dreadlocks- life loving-vegan co-workers researching endangered reptiles, amphibians, and lemurs. After an eight-hour truck ride, filled with chickens, bongos, Malagasy chants, go pros, and a few miscellaneous items, the research team arrived at the west coast of Madagascar. The weeks to come were packed with early morning lemur runs, tracking countless amphibians — most camouflage, may I add — and kayaking trips to remote islands. Never could have I imagined how much I ended up getting out of the trip. Madagascar will remain with me forever and was truly unforgettable.

Fe Rodriguez, businesswoman

What we have been enjoying and indulging in lately is traveling with the whole family, grandchildren included.  Being a big group means frenzied if not chaotic travel by plane, train, and car, roughing it in apartments and comfort food in charming local restaurants. But the inconveniences are made up for by quality family time together, the joy in seeing the children and grandchildren mesmerized by the beautiful sights and enriched by the cultural experiences.

Pia Ongsiako, businesswoman

Driving from Paris to Prague with my husband during a white magnificent winter, my heart and senses were overwhelmed by the experience. Our route took us through the backroads of the countryside where quaint towns offered us distinct culinary treasures and picturesque landscapes. Those memorable moments, shared with my loved one, I had never before experienced in a lifetime of traveling.  

Alicia Colby Sy, lifestyle editor, Town&Country Philippines

Two years ago, my husband and I, along with three other couples, went on an amazing tour of India. While in Rajasthan, we went on safari in Ranthambhore National Park hoping to see the celebrated Indian tiger.  There were six of us in our open jeep — a driver, guide, my husband, myself, and another couple. After driving around the reserve for over an hour we figured that we would have to go back the next day and try again as it wasn’t uncommon for people to leave the park without seeing anything.

As everyone was busy looking for a tiger, six pairs of eyes were searching in all directions. And then it happened. While parked on a dirt road, I spotted a giant, four-legged tiger walking toward our jeep. With a tiger less than 10 meters away, I couldn’t figure out why no one was reacting. For about 10 seconds I kept quiet trying to figure out if what I saw was real.  Didn’t they see it or was I hallucinating? How could they not see it? I began to doubt myself. But as the tiger was approaching the jeep I decided to call everyone’s attention as I was getting frightened at this point. “Hello! People! Huge tiger at 12 o’clock!” I shouted. Suddenly, my companions turned from all the directions they were facing and in a mad panic the driver and guide began excitedly talking in their dialect. Ecstatic, the guide started to radio all the other jeeps in the park to come to where we were to see the tiger. A sighting that closes up was extremely rare, and for me, it was just a little too close. Those tigers are huge and intimidating.

Judy Dy-Tumangan, COO, TOGRI Philippines Inc.

My husband DK and I recently visited Brazil for the World Cup. It was an experience unlike no other. The spirit of the World Cup in the land of football is incredibly thrilling. I wasn’t a big fan of the sport before the trip. But now I have football fever. Ole! 

Severine Miailhe, marketing, and communications manager, Rustan Commercial Corporation

In July 2010, my in-laws invited Edouard, the kids and I to do a boat cruise with them. It was a first for our family. We had signed up for 10 days sailing from Rome to Venice and we didn’t really know what to expect. It turned out to be our most unforgettable travel experience so far. We loved every bit of the trip. The Royal Clipper was nicer than expected. It’s the largest true full-rigged sailing ship in the world today. The itinerary was excellent; starting in Rome, then Ponza, Capri, Taormina, followed by Corfu (Greece), Kotor (Montenegro), Dubrovnic, Hvar, Rovinj (Croatia) and ending in Venice. It was a perfect vacation for all three generations with enough time for family bonding and also for every generation to enjoy their own activities. Entering the Grand Canal in Venice on this majestic sailboat is something one cannot forget. 

Beth Romualdez, food writer, book author

Last October, after a train ride from Milan to Venezia Mestre with a friend, I realized I had lost my wallet. Our driver who met us at the station advised me to report it to the police right away.  Having studied and traveled extensively in Italy, I normally could get around in my basic conversational Italian, but not a word of Italian came out as I related to the police how I lost it. In my wallet were three credit cards and cash.  Luckily, our four-day stay in Friuli Venezia was all paid for by my friend who owns a prosciutto factory. We went back to Milan at the end of our visit and heeding the advice from my friend I checked again with the police at the station if they had found my wallet.

It was obviously a shot in the dark, even as I prayed hard to San Antonio de Padua. I had no hope of recovering it. I went to the police station and lo and behold, my wallet was there with all the credit cards intact except the cash.  My wallet was not picked but it fell from my lap as I removed the contents from my body bag to get my iPod. Apparently, a fellow passenger in the first-class cabin found it on the floor and turned it over to the police. With the credit cards already canceled and without cash, all I could hope for was a smooth flight back home. Upon landing in Dusseldorf where we had a five-hour stop-over, we decided to go to the city to have lunch at a restaurant that offered the best beer and baked pig’s knuckles.

I never imagined that I could be so excited to get a VAT refund. It saved my day and it was more than enough to pay for lunch and dessert of marron glace at Neuhaus.

Read More:   4 Surefire ways to start a conversation with your seatmate while on air.

Bibai Gaisano Puyat, owner, Renegade Folk Co.

My most unforgettable travel experience was when my husband and I went to Paris on our honeymoon in 2012. Aside from admiring the tourist sites, I was thrilled to discover the charming streets the city has to offer. There is something that tugs at the heart in every corner — from old architecture, quaint boutiques, sprawling parks, or you can just sit by a café and people watch.

To this day I still dream of walking the streets of  Rue de la Bûcherie. As the great author Ernest Hemingway said, “If you are lucky enough to live in Paris, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” That is exactly how I feel about Paris. I just fell in love with its beauty. I am forever changed by it.

Former Senator Migs Zubiri

My most unforgettable trip was with my wife Audrey when we went on our honeymoon to Africa in January 2006. We started in Zambia where we were able to go on the river safaris on the Zambezi River. But the highlight of it was when we went for a swim in the “Devil’s Pool,” which is a naturally formed “pool” literally on the edge of the great Victoria Falls, the largest falls in the world. 

From there, we flew to Botswana to explore the  Okavango Delta. We loved the excitement that we felt every morning as we left the camp, never knowing what surprises we would see or would happen out in the bush. It was amazing to see lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, and leopards, among others, in action in their natural habitat. We ended our trip in Cape Town, South Africa. We visited the famous sites, vineyards and enjoyed their delicious restaurants though what I will never forget is when I went diving with white sharks. It was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. I look forward to returning to Africa as a family when our children are old enough, so they can experience the same unforgettable wonder and amazement we felt.

Source: https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/travel-and-tourism/2014/07/13/1345488/whats-your-most-unforgettable-travel-experience

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5 of the best unforgettable and over-the-top travel experiences

Vacation, as the dictionary states, is ‘an extended period of leisure and recreation, especially one spent away from home or in traveling.’ Most of us are long overdue. So, when that much-needed vacation finally comes, make it an unforgettable travel experience. Read on for some much-needed travel inspiration.

Travel, whether I like to admit it or not, comes with a certain amount of expectation. I might say, “Oh, I’m happy at any beach, as long as I can relax with a book,” or “I don’t care about the hotel room, I’ll be outside most of the day anyway.” Or even, “The service isn’t that important as long as the food is really good.”

But, in reality, I care. A lot.

Relaxing on a beach with soft sand underfoot is lovely, as long as it isn’t facing an off-shore power plant. I would prefer not to stare at a construction site from my hotel room, regardless of how little time I spend in it. And, service does matter, especially when my room key decides not to work at midnight.

Yes, I have expectations. So, what happens when already high expectations are exceeded? When what I already imagine will be great—is even greater? Those unforgettable moments, while few and far between, are the ones I relive time and again. These are my top five.

Over-The-Top Travel Experience 5 / Helicopter Sundowner: Amangiri, Utah

Amangiri  is a resort tucked away along the southern border of Utah, where it meets Arizona. As with many Aman properties, Amangiri is small, and a challenge to find, which adds a level of exclusivity that attracts many luxuries, adventure travelers. Their excursions are equally exclusive and unique.

One such excursion presented to us while there, was the chance to watch the sunset over the Utah desert. That’s not terribly unique, one might think. How about watching the sunset, with a bottle of chilled champagne, from the top of an isolated butte, via helicopter? Now that’s more like it.

We spied on the desert from above, the blades of the helicopter sliced the dry air, and made the trip worthwhile from lift-off. The pilot steered us towards Glen Canyon Dam, and then Horseshoe Bend, the iconic shape of the landscape giving credence to its name.

From this vantage point, hovering over the deep canyon, I could see the striations of rock that had formed over millions of years.

We landed on a nearby towering butte, the flat top was an ideal place for the pilot to set up our champagne sundowner.

The terrain was a sea of gold, the rich mesas, and distant buttes picked up the colors from the sun, and the sky dissolved into moody shades of blue. From our aerie, champagne in hand, and no sound aside from the whirling wind, the world stood still.

Despite the high price tag of the excursion, I had no regrets. Even years later, it is one of the most unforgettable travel moments in my memory. And while my husband might disagree, who can put a price tag on that?

Over-The-Top Travel Experience 4 / Sound bath: Blackberry mountain, Tennessee

More than ever, wellness activities have emerged as daily essentials. Whether a 10-minute morning meditation, a mid-day walk, or a late afternoon restorative yoga session, wellness is more mainstream than ever.

In the past, I had tried a few sound bath experiences from my phone, mainly to help me relax before bed. I was curious to try one in person. So when a girlfriend and I decided to take a trip to Blackberry Mountain , we signed up right away.

Our instructor’s voice had a lulling cadence. He introduced us to the practice of sound bathing, which has nothing, incidentally, to do with bathing, or water. The room had high ceilings, and was drenched in creamy, warm light. He was surrounded by a multitude of instruments; gongs, rainmakers, and chimes, among them. A lovely setting in which to spend the next 90 minutes.

Six of us formed a wide semi-circle on the floor and draped ourselves in soft blankets. The instructor then placed a lightly scented lavender cloth over our eyes. Just five minutes in, and I thought that this was already exceeding my expectations.

The senses in my body awakened, and I melted into the sounds. The gongs overlapped the chimes. The chimes overlapped the rainmaker, which sounded like waves crashing onto a beach. First softly, then gaining power, before receding again. I fell asleep, I think. Then awoke to tuning forks in G major, chants, and quite a few unnameable sounds. The vibrations of those sounds lifted and settled within me, as I drifted in and out of a dream-like state.

Towards the end of the sound bath, the group was asked to slowly sit up. I reluctantly followed orders. The gauzy roller shades had been raised, the curtains drawn—had I even noticed them earlier?

I found myself facing purple mountains— the start of sunset. The ridge was razor sharp, and pink and orange hues were just beginning to appear behind it. I smiled. Then I wondered when I could do the whole thing all over again. One reason, of many, to return to Blackberry Mountain .

Over-The-Top Travel Experience 3 / Berber Tea ceremony: Atlas Mountains, Morocco

An hour’s drive, and yet a thousand miles away from bustling Marrakech, are the mesmerizing Atlas Mountains. We were on our way to Kasbah Bab Ourika , a rustic oasis nestled gently in the mountains.

A holiday at a kasbah feels intimate and secluded, the only sounds coming from the birds whizzing overhead, and the light rustling of leaves. Meals are served al fresco, with miles of the scenic landscape at which to gaze. While we were hard-pressed to leave the grounds, we knew the mountains had much to offer in the way of adventure.

One misty morning, we set out on a two-hour guided trek toward a Berber village. The Berbers, an ethnic group native to Northern Africa, have a history that dates back to medieval times. The language and culture of the Berbers are still thriving in many parts of Morocco, specifically in the Atlas Mountains.

En route to the village, we passed a herd of woolly sheep and abandoned homes overrun with fields of yellow wildflowers. There were no roads, only donkey tracks, and the occasional moped.

Our guide brought us to a village home where we were taught the ceremonial process of making Berber mint tea.

The matriarch of the family showed us her technique, which involved a series of constant pouring and re-pouring. First, she placed the tea leaves into the pot and added boiling water. She swirled to warm the pot, and then rinsed the tea leaves. Next, she strained the water, reserving only the leaves.

She then added more hot water and allowed it to steep for a few minutes while we chatted—our guide acting as translator. Lastly, sprigs of mint, and a touch of sugar, were added to the teapot. We were honored and humbled by the chance to take part in a small piece of traditional Berber life. I will likely never have a mint tea experience that compares.

Over-The-Top Travel Experience 2 / Hammam Spa: The Royal Mansour, Morocco

A hammam, or Turkish bath, is a centuries-old, traditional, Arabic cleansing and bathing ritual. Modern variations of hammam can be found at hotels, resorts, and spas throughout Northern Africa and the Middle East.

Meant to boost the immune system, a hammam treatment uses hot steam to dilate blood vessels, and increase circulation throughout the body. Pores are opened, toxins are released, and the body is immediately refreshed. This sounded intriguing, and unlike any therapeutic treatment, I’d had in the past.

I decided to visit the spa at The Royal Mansour Hotel, in Marrakech, to experience the hammam. I was told that their interpretation of it was one of the best in the city. Marrakech was aglow with high-density, prismatic, and outrageous color, but the spa at the Royal Mansour was decidedly the total absence of it.

I opened the oversized spa door and entered a world of polar white—a jarring contrast from the green gardens I had just left behind. Vaulted cathedral ceilings, a fountain overflowing with white roses, and pale, pastel couches—all within a room of white, wrought iron, latticework. It was ethereal.

Following a short respite on a daybed in the spa’s waiting area, I was summoned by the therapist. She asked me to lie down upon a hot stone platform in a cavernous, marbled, and windowless room. I happily obliged, and put my 21st-century cares behind me, relishing this 8th-century bathing ritual.

A fragrant steam surrounded me, as the therapist scrubbed off layers of unwanted skin with a special black soap, and an abrasive Kessa mitt. It was harsh, and made my eyes water, but was surprisingly invigorating.

Next, she gently poured, and then shockingly threw, warm water across my body, waking me up in an admittedly unexpected way. She proceeded with a full body massage, using therapeutic oils, in an array of intriguing scents.

Lastly, I was escorted to one last room. Bright light streamed through the window towards an inviting, private, plunge pool. Much to my immediate dismay, I discovered it was actually an ice bath. She asked me to immerse myself in the frigid water. While I was initially reluctant, I knew this eye-popping part of the treatment was meant to invigorate my skin, which after 90 minutes of pampering, felt as silky as a newborn baby’s.

Hammam is an experience that is likely not everyone’s cup of tea, given its unconventionality. For me, however, it was all a part of the African adventure. No regrets, Marrakech.

Over-The-Top Travel Experience 1 / Dinner on the Delta, Botswana

There are few places in my travels that have moved me as much as Africa. I am a wildlife junkie and love any opportunity to see animals in the wild. It is no surprise that Africa, and Botswana in particular, would take up such significant space in my travel memories.

After three days of game drives along the Okavango Delta, we thought we had seen it all. Lions, leopards, hippos, and elephants, filled our days and invaded our dreams.

At the end of our last day in Botswana, Foster, our gentle and soft-spoken guide, took us back to our camp so that we could change for dinner. As we climbed out of the dust-covered Land Rover, our safari-weary bodies in need of a hot shower, Foster told us he had one last thing to show us.

My interest was piqued, but my body was shattered. In keeping with my ‘no regrets’ attitude, I climbed back into the Rover and rallied. We bumped along the bush for twenty minutes or so, getting farther and farther from camp, (and a hot shower). The sun was just starting to descend.

We curved around a thicket of trees, startling a few baboons along the way when I spotted something unusual. Not more wildlife, something entirely unexpected.

Miles from civilization, miles from our camp, in the middle of the African bush, was a full-blown, pop-up dinner. A top-shelf bar was created around an ancient tree. A roaring bonfire mimicked the palette of the setting sun and was surrounded by chairs and blankets. A communal dining table set for twenty, and a lantern-lit pathway towards a fully functioning bathroom.

Dinner was being prepared by cooks over open fires, and multiple mouth-watering aromas wafted through the air. I fleetingly wondered if the lions would find the smells as enticing as I did. We were awestruck.

The entire staff of our tent camp, plus the other guests, were treated to a fully-catered dinner in the bush. We sat for hours, eating and drinking, sharing and comparing stories of the day. We replayed our magical moments in the delta.

The low trumpets of elephants, and snorting grunts of hippos in the distance, were the musical soundtrack. With no one manning the camp, I wondered if the cheeky, resident, vervet monkeys were having a party. Botswana—I hadn’t even left, but I was already missing it.

Experience matters

We live in a world of bells, beeps, whistles, tones, and chimes—mostly coming from phones and screens. Our lives are filled with constant noise which interferes with our ability to relax and have calm.

The sounds from these five experiences; the chimes of the sound bath, the wind whistling past us on a remote butte, and the trumpeting of distant elephants, were the antithesis of my normal cacophony. I embraced the sounds of these once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Unforgettable.

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Find your next over-the-top travel experience:

Take a lap of luxurious Lake Como, or just soak up the sun, in Italy.

Tackle the Tetons of Wyoming this summer, with Amangani as your base.

Set your sails on Croatia, and the Dalmatian Coast, by private charter.

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I’m grateful for the incredible travel experiences you’ve shared! Your captivating stories and recommendations have inspired me to seek unforgettable adventures of my own. Thank you for igniting my wanderlust and reminding me of the beauty and excitement the world has to offer.

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Unforgettable travel experiences

Wanderer Blog Post 2

On every trip I took, there was something special that stayed with me long after I left the country. Here is a list of unforgettable travel experiences that I had during some of my travels.

They are events that will always be part of me because they affected me in different ways. I always remember them with a smile.

In my opinion, the search for such beautiful travel experiences is the key to every successful trip!

The Lisbon Girl:

It was my last day in Lisbon and I was getting ready to head to the airport. I thought I would take one last walk before leaving. There she was, sitting on the floor, drawing an abstract drawing. I found it beautiful. she was concentrated. I stared at her for like 30 min while she was drawing.

She looked at me and asked me if I like it and if I wanna buy it, I told her with pleasure! I remember I waited for like 25 min and when it was done, I gave her the money and told her this is the best souvenir I have from Lisbon. I still remember her smile, her happiness, her ‘Obrigado’. I still hear it in her voice! I always thought of going back there to see if I meet her again but I never had the chance.

This was one of the beautiful aspects of solo traveling . Contemplating a girl drawing for 1 hour without having anyone pushing you or telling you to go somewhere else!

She told me her name was Sarah. That is all I know of her.

Love under the Eiffel tower:

I was in Paris. It was the 11th of April 2016. I was spending one night there before taking a train to Toulouse.

On my Couchsurfing app, I met a girl who was also in Paris and we decided to go for a drink. We met at the Eiffel tower, she was from Colombia. We went to a bar and had a beer together.

She had a flight to Prague and I had a train to Toulouse so our time was very short. This hour spent together was more than enough to know there is a connection between us .

After this night, we kept talking and our relationship grew more and more. It was a distance relationship. We always wondered how 1 hour in Paris was enough for us to be together.

We both could not wait for the moment we called each other. We would talk for hours and hours as if we had known each other for years. I sometimes wonder if I should have gone to Prague with her…

I still remember this drink we had with a smile because I am sure that that night, I had met my twin flame! But I guess twin flames are not meant to last…

A one of a kind trip to the Maldives:

In 2013 I had the idea of doing something different. I had always traveled to Europe and I wanted to change. this is when I decided to go to the Maldives.

It was surely one of a kind experience.

Landing on an airport that is an island. Taking a small plane that lands on the sea to get to the hotel. Swimming with Dolphins and sharks.

One of the most memorable moments was waking up with the view of the ocean in front of me. Taking a drink at the pool that feels connected to the ocean.

Snorkeling!! Ahhh … I can still remember how rich the sea was there! I used to snorkel for hours. I discovered hundreds and thousands of wonders in the ocean!

Boat rides to the middle of the ocean were amazing! I will never forget that sunset view from a small boat in the middle of a large ocean!

It was something different, something I am not used too. A different kind of adventure that I was very happy to experience.

My first CS Experience

I am personally a big fan of the CS communities around the world. I made have organized many events during the years and made sure to participate in as many activities as I could.

However, until that night in April 2016, I had never used Couchsurfing to ‘surf’ at someone’s house.

I was coming back from Toulouse to Paris and had booked and room in an apartment. As the train was late, I arrived in Paris at around 11 PM and found the reception desk closed. I tried to call the person from whom I booked the room with no answer.

I sat on the sidewalk, thinking of all possible ideas.

Should I book another hotel? Should I sleep on the sidewalk until morning? (yeah this idea came to mind). I kept thinking until I remembered I had the Cs application on my phone and thought to give it a try.

At midnight, I found a french guy who had lots of positive reviews, online. I contacted him and told him about my situation. He immediately accepted to host med gave me his address.

Thus, one of my unforgettable travel experiences began. I took the metro and I arrived at his place around 1 AM.

He welcomed me, showed me the apartment and the place I am going to sleep in. He had a separate room for guests. We talked for about 1 hour, and I could say I was really happy because I was experiencing a new adventure that I had always dreamed of.

The nest morning we had breakfast together and I thanked him for his hospitality. Since that day, I understood the beauty of hosting people and surfing at people’s houses.

I understood that this small experience is a great way to see and understand the world differently. Since then, I have begun hosting people in my apartment in Bordeaux, whenever I can.

In the end, I think that arriving late to Paris and missing y room was one of the best things that happened to me as it opened the door for new amazing kind of experience.

‘ Learn a new language and who knows where it could lead you? ‘

I have always been a fan of the Italian language. I studied it in school and then at the American Center in Beirut in collaboration with the Italian institute.

One day, I got a call from the institute informing that I got a scholarship to go spend a month in Italy for a workshop called ‘ Laboratorio Internazionale Della Communicazione ‘. I got very excited and did not know at the time what a beautiful experience was awaiting me.

I arrived in Gemona del Friuli, a small village in the North East of Italy in July 2015 and thus my adventure began.

It was a month filled with studying, courses, laughter, friendships, parties, wine, exams…we literally did not slee p!

We were about 90 students from all over the world and we soon all became one big family!

Each of us stayed with an Italian family, and every morning we would meet at the university for breakfast before the courses start. Before noon, we had language, art, and cultural courses. I still remember them in detail. We learned some really amazing things from awesome teachers.

The afternoons were dedicated to the activities. Each student could choose 1 activity for the whole month. We had the choice between Radio, Theater, Music, and other different themes.

I will not get into details now because I will surely write a special article on my experience at this workshop and how it was one of the best travel experiences I had.

I just want to point out, that it was a month filled with beautiful moments, amazing encounters, adventures, and visits .

The last day was so emotional and I could never forget that unforgettable last party we all parties together before each of us went back to their own country.

For all Italian language lovers, I highly encourage you to check this workshop and apply for it as I am sure you will leave with amazing memories.

The Prague Team

Ah, Prague! what a trip that was ! I went there in 2015 and was one of my solo traveling trips.

I stayed in a Czech inn hostel and decided to participate in different events to meet fellow travelers. I went for guided tours and pub crawls. There I met new friends with whom we began calling each other ‘ the Prague Team ‘.

Four people from different backgrounds, four solo travelers discovering the same city met and decided to explore together.

There was Fannie from Costa Rica, Annie from Malaysia and Annamay from England in addition to myself from Lebanon. We went wandering around the streets of Prague together, bought souvenirs and had dinner all together.

I still remember us sitting in the restaurant, each from a different country, discussing lots of different subjects with smiles all over our faces.

This is one of the most amazing feelings in the world, to travel and sit with people you just got to know and feel like you’ve known them forever. They are the travel companions that the love for adventure brought together.

Should we meet again or not, the memories will always bring us back to these times we spent together in Prague .

Here are 6 of my amazing travel experiences. They are not the only ones though. I can tell you about the people I met in Napoli or the trip to Sorrento with my sisters. I can also talk about the nights of Budapest and the laughs in Amsterdam.

The memories are infinite and I always make sure to create great ones whenever I travel because these are the tickets that can send us back in time.

If you like this article, check out other articles that might interest you by clicking here .

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Wow these are some amazing stories and experiences! I loved reading about your CS experience! It’s such an amazing idea and really great how you found someone who took you in!

I love the fact how you went from a bad situation to something really positive!

Thank you for your feedback! i think there is always a positive side to everything, and traveling taught me all this! Cheers! 😀

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Wanderlust for Boomers: 5 Unforgettable Bucket List Travel Experiences

T raveling overseas can present a once-in-a-lifetime chance to thoroughly engage with foreign cultures, take in breathtaking scenery, and create unforgettable experiences. Whether you are an adventurer, foodie, or a culture vulture, there are plenty of places in the world that have something to offer everyone. These are the top five places to go abroad, which range from the bustling metropolis of Dubai to the enchanted streets of Paris.

Paris, France

Known as the City of Love, Paris is a must-see destination for anyone who loves art, history, and culture. Visitors can explore the famous Eiffel Tower, visit world-class museums like the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, and stroll along the Seine River. Paris is also known for its charming cafés, delicious cuisine, and haute couture fashion.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a modern, bustling city that is a true marvel of architecture and engineering. Visitors can take in the stunning views from the top of the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, explore the city's many shopping malls, or go skiing at an indoor ski resort. Dubai is known for its luxurious hotels, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a fascinating blend of old and new, where visitors can experience traditional Japanese culture alongside modern technology and innovation. Must-see attractions include the Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, and Tsukiji Fish Market. Tokyo is also known for its delicious cuisine, from sushi and ramen to Japanese-style barbecue.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a vibrant city nestled between the mountains and the sea. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for breathtaking views, explore the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, or visit the nearby wine country. Cape Town is also home to beautiful beaches, world-class restaurants, and a thriving arts scene.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is a city that truly has everything, from iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge to beautiful beaches and parks. Visitors can take a ferry ride across the harbor, explore the historic Rocks neighborhood, or catch a show at the Sydney Theatre Company. Sydney is also known for its multicultural cuisine, ranging from seafood to barbecue to Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a breathtakingly beautiful island in the Aegean Sea. Visitors can explore the picturesque villages of Oia and Fira, take in the stunning views of the caldera, and enjoy the island's famous beaches. Santorini is also known for its delicious cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional Greek dishes.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a city steeped in history and tradition. Visitors can explore the city's many ancient temples and shrines, including the famous Kiyomizu-Dera and Fushimi Inari Taisha. Kyoto is also known for its beautiful gardens, traditional tea ceremonies, and delicious cuisine, which includes Japanese-style hot pot, sushi, and tofu dishes.

No matter where you choose to travel , the world is full of incredible destinations waiting to be explored. Whether you're looking to escape to a tropical paradise or immerse yourself in a new culture, there are endless possibilities for travel. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and embark on an adventure you'll never forget. The world is your oyster, so go out there and discover all that it has to offer!

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Employee finds purpose and fulfillment serving ’Canes community

By Life@TheU [email protected] 04-24-2024

Over the past 25 years, Marcia Heath, archives specialist at the University Libraries, has gained firsthand knowledge about the University’s nearly-100 years of history. Working intimately with letters, photographs, and newspaper clippings, she has supported countless research requests, helped hire and worked closely with student workers, and sifted through thousands of images and documents while preparing countless exhibitions. Her work has supported numerous authors with their book projects, including acclaimed historian and preservationist Arva Moore Parks , who served as a member of the University of Miami Board of Trustees for 26 years, and William R. Butler , the University’s first vice president for student affairs.

In a few words, what has kept you at the University all these years?

I love working with students and faculty members. It gives me a sense of satisfaction to help them locate historical documents in the University Archives. I value the relationships with the students, faculty members, and researchers. While working in the University Archives, I am asked to assist in many different areas. I love to help, and I believe when we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed. It’s my mission on this earth to help people and that's who I am. 

My mentor, Beatrice Skokan, continues to show me how valuable I am within the organization by providing regular feedback and recognition, offering opportunities for growth and development, showing empathy and understanding, while demonstrating trust and respect. I am so grateful for her mentorship and valued advice.

What is your most memorable experience at the University?

One of my most memorable experiences involved co-curating the 2017 exhibit, “We Are Pioneers.” This project gave me a chance to bring to life the story of the first Black students at the University of Miami. It was a challenge to locate the few photographs taken during the 1960s and 1970s of the first Black students. I was determined to find images to display and spent a whole year searching through yearbooks. The first Black alumni who came to see the exhibit were amazed to see photos of themselves they didn’t know existed.

Also, in 2016 during the inauguration of President Julio Frenk, I had the unique opportunity to share details about the historical images of University presidents on display during “First at UM,” one of the presidential events at the Newman Alumni Center. I helped organize an exhibition that included the University’s first published yearbook, which President Frenk perused. It was an amazing time. I'll never forget the opportunity I had supporting multiple exhibits and putting together talking points for the inaugural event.

What does being recognized for reaching this important milestone mean to you?

This milestone demonstrates appreciation for my hard work, valuable contributions, and dedication to the University of Miami.

This year's Faculty and Staff Long Service Award Ceremony recognizes 316 faculty and staff who have reached a long service milestone of 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 55 years between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024. Show our long service honorees some appreciation by sending a heartfelt card through the Thank a 'Cane tool . View a full list of this year's honorees .

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