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100 Best Places on Earth – The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

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updated 13.12.2023

This isn't just a travel bucket list; it's a gateway to experiences so profound and diverse that they promise to reshape your understanding of beauty, culture, and adventure. From the majestic peaks of Patagonia to the hidden alleyways of Kyoto, each destination on this list has been chosen not just for its aesthetic appeal, but for the unique story it tells. Rough Guides, your trusted travel companion, goes beyond the usual tourist trails to bring you authentic, tailor-made experiences that resonate with your personal travel aspirations.

1. Bhutan - a tiny country leading the way in sustainable tourism

• 2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

3. Ethiopia - the sunken churches of Lalibela

• 4. Gorges du Verdon - the 'alternative Grand Canyon'

5. Taj Mahal - one of the new Seven Wonders of the World

6. victoria falls - the world’s widest curtain of water.

Hidden in the Himalayas, with all the matchless scenery you’d expect, the tiny country of Bhutan is staggeringly beautiful. Piercing peaks and plunging valleys fold into its borders, where you can climb to mountaintop monasteries, hike through ancient forests and horseback ride over lush green plains, while local guides give a real insight into the country’s living spirituality.

Bhutan has been quietly forging its own path for centuries. Now, it’s leading the way in sustainable tourism. With at least sixty percent forest cover, Bhutan takes environmental conservation seriously. It’s already carbon negative, and while the target to become the world’s first fully organic nation by 2020 has been pushed back, they are still actively working on it.

Preservation is priceless, and travellers to this enchanting nation will leave with a real sense of what a privilege it is to experience Bhutan’s natural, cultural and spiritual riches.

You may have heard of Bhutan’s now-famous compulsory tourist tariff, which sees foreign visitors paying a minimum of $250 per day just to visit. But what you may not know is this includes all accommodation, food, transport and a local guide – and it also grants you access to one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine corners. A tailor-made trip ensures you get to see exactly what you want to see and travel the way you prefer - a specific route, selected hotels, particular activities, it's all possible when you go tailor-made.

Monks in Bhutan

2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

While the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, has long lured visionary types to its bohemian neighbourhoods, it’s slipped under the tourist radar for years. That may have something to do with its turbulent recent history: although Georgia gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, there followed a period of civil war, violence and ethnic tensions.

Over the past decade, however, a new generation has reignited Tbilisi’s cultural scene through a mix of local art galleries, exhibition spaces, music venues, concept stores and creative hubs. A growing crop of industrial- style hotels is springing up across the city, many set in Soviet-era factories and publishing houses. The food scene is thriving, too – innovative chefs have taken the helm in the kitchens of new restaurants, where they reimagine traditional Georgian cuisine with a modern twist. The revolution is underway. Read more about why Georgia is the ultimate adventure destination .

Where to stay

Enjoy a stunning view from the Terrace Boutique Hotel , located a short walk from the Tbilisi funicular.

Discover the wine region on a full-day tour from Tbilisi . Visit beautiful towns, taste plenty of Georgian wine and find out more about the traditional winemaking process.

Tailor-made travel

Planning to visit Georgia for a holiday? Talk to our carefully selected local expert to create and book your perfect trip to Georgia.

Tbilisi in Georgia

An enigmatic and utterly beguiling country, Ethiopia has endless intrigue. From its unique, highly sociable cuisine – the basis of which is injera , a spongy sourdough pancake, piled high with piquant curries and stews and shared between friends – to its ancient language and curly Amharic script, there’s very little that’s familiar about this place, and your trip will be all the better for it.

Ethiopia is a largely Orthodox Christian country, and its religious festivals and structures are something to behold. The sunken churches of Lalibela , hand-carved out of the red rock below ground some nine hundred years ago, are an astonishing feat of engineering. Come January, the network of tunnels and staircases that connect all eleven churches fill up with thousands of worshippers dressed in white, celebrating the birth of Christ with a twelve-hour mass.

Exploring Ethiopia with your own guide and at your own pace will help you really discover this fascinating country. A local expert working for a local tour operator can help to plan and book your ideal trip .

Lalibela in Ethiopia

4. Gorges du Verdon - the 'alternative Grand Canyon'

The breathtaking beauty and majesty of the Gorges du Verdon – also known as the Grand Canyon du Verdon – almost matches that of its American cousin, albeit on a much smaller scale. Peppered with spectacular viewpoints, plunging crevices up to 700m deep, and glorious azure-blue lakes, this area of Provence in France is absolutely irresistible. The river falls from Rougon at the top of the gorge, disappearing into tunnels, decelerating for shallow, languid moments and finally exiting in full, steady flow at the Pont du Galetas at the western end of the canyon. Alongside is the huge artificial Lac de Sainte-Croix, which is great for swimming when the water levels are high.

Moustiers-Ste-Marie is the loveliest village on the fringes of the gorge, occupying a magnificent site near its western end. Set high on a hillside, just out of sight of both canyon and lake, it straddles a plummeting stream that cascades between two golden cliffs. A star slung between them on a chain, originally suspended by a returning Crusader, just adds to its charms.

If you're planning to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the Hotel La Bonne Auberge features a large terrace and garden, as well as a swimming pool in an excellent location in town.

Visit the gorge as well as the lavender fields on a day trip from Nice . Particularly suited for those short on time or without their own transportation, this day tour allows you to discover the area while returning back to Nice the same evening.

If you're thinking of visiting Provence and the Gorges du Verdon – get in touch . Rough Guides has paired with experienced local tour operators in France to offer fully customisable trips, like this from Paris to Provence itinerary .

Gorges du Verdon in France

Simply the world’s greatest building, Shah Jahan’s monument to love does not disappoint. Volumes have been written on its perfection, and its image adorns countless glossy brochures and guidebooks; nonetheless, the reality never fails to overwhelm all who see it, and few words can do it justice. A workforce of some twenty thousand men from all over Asia completed the Taj Mahal in 1653 after twenty years of toil, and it is undoubtedly the zenith of Mughal architecture in India .

Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore described the Taj Mahal as “a teardrop on the face of eternity”, and though its layout follows a distinctly Islamic theme, representing Paradise, it is above all a monument to romantic love. Shah Jahan built the Taj to enshrine the body of his favourite wife, Arjumand Bann Begum, better known by her official palace title, Mumtaz Mahal (“Chosen One of the Palace”). The emperor was devastated by her death, and set out to create an unsurpassed monument to her memory – the result is sublime.

There are endless accommodation options in Agra , from where most travellers start their Taj Mahal visit. Our favourites include Tajview IHCL SeleQtions with stunning views and the Grand Imperial - Heritage Hotel .

Planning to explore the Taj Mahal on your own? Get your skip-the-line access tickets to the Taj Mahal beforehand to enjoy a hassle-free visit.

To see the Taj for yourself, drop us a line . Our tailor-made trips service will pair you with a local expert based in India to plan and book a fully customisable tour of India, like this sample itinerary to explore the Golden Triangle .

Taj Mahal in sunset

Along with Mount Everest and the Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls – or Mosioa-Tunya (“the smoke that thunders”) – ranks as one of the world’s seven natural wonders. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen beforehand, nothing can prepare you for the awe-inspiring sight and deafening sound of the falls. The world’s widest curtain of water crashes down a huge precipice, producing clouds of spray visible from afar, before squeezing into a zigzag of sheer-sided gorges as a torrent of turbulent rapids, carving its way to the Indian Ocean well over 1000km away.

Their dramatic setting on the Zambezi river – on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border – has also made Victoria Falls the undisputed adventure capital of Africa. There’s an array of adrenaline-fuelled activities on offer, from whitewater rafting and bungee jumping to zip-lining and bodyboarding. Less touted are the stunning wildlife-viewing opportunities

Victoria Falls affords: the national parks that line the serene banks of the Upper Zambezi are home to large mammals, such as elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe and leopard, as well as a variety of antelope and more than 410 bird species.

Read more in our First-timer's Guide to the Victoria Falls .

Ilala Lodge is your best bet if you want to be as close to the Falls as possible. Occupying lovely grounds, the lodge has stylish rooms, a small pool and an excellent restaurant. Best of all, though, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the park’s entrance; from the hotel’s terrace, you can see clouds of spray rising from the Falls.

There are endless opportunities to explore the area: from a guided walking tour over sunset cruises to exploring the local entertainment and food scene .

Victoria Falls

Find more travel inspiration in our book The Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places on Earth 2020 .

Header image: Yana Zubkova/Shutterstock

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World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

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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Protect Your Trip »

The 50 most beautiful places in the world.

Let these gorgeous destinations inspire you to travel more.

(Getty Images) |

From national parks to extraordinary beaches, these travel spots are sure to please.

Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla

Yellowstone National Park: Wyoming

Ksamil, Albania

Glacier National Park: Montana

(Courtesy of Visit Florida) |

Sanibel and Captiva Islands: Florida

Angel Falls: Canaima National Park, Venezuela

Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu Archaeological Park, Peru

Hever Castle: Kent, England

Budapest, Hungary

Cliffs of Moher: Lislorkan North, County Clare, Ireland

Kyoto, Japan

The Botanical Gardens of Nevis: Nevis

Hanalei Bay: Kauai, Hawaii

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

The Azores: Portugal

Flam, Norway

Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia

Banff National Park: Canada

Boulders Beach: Cape Town, South Africa

Canterbury, England

Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona

Venice, Italy

Pamukkale, Turkey

Krabi, Thailand

Glencoe, Scotland

Grindelwald, Switzerland

Fiordland National Park: New Zealand

Havasu Falls: Arizona

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Blue Ridge Mountains: United States

Halong Bay: Vietnam

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Bergen, Norway

Seljalandsfoss: Iceland

Palm Beach: Noord, Aruba

Bagan, Myanmar

Plitvice Lakes National Park: Croatia

Raja Ampat Islands: Indonesia

Tel Aviv, Israel

Loire Valley: France

Jaipur, India

Meteora: Kalabaka, Greece

Petra, Jordan

Positano, Italy

Platinum Coast: Barbados

Guilin, China

Victoria Falls: Livingstone, Zambia, and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Rothenburg, Germany

Lake Bled: Bled, Slovenia

Giza, Egypt

You Might Also Like

• The 50 Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World
• The World's 50 Best Tourist Attractions
• The 30 Most Famous Landmarks in the World
• 30 Top Tourist Attractions in the USA
• 30 World's Best Places to Visit

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50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 8, 2024

While writing this post about the most beautiful places in the world that we’ve visited, I did a Google search to compare what we think is beautiful to what the Internet thinks.

Most articles of other beautiful places stated “ photos courtesy of Getty images ” or photos courtesy of some other generic stock photography supplier. We actually spotted some of our photos in some of these lists – used without permission of course

So since people are using our stuff all anyway, we thought we’d write a list of beautiful places on earth that we’ve seen with our own. eyes, using our own images.

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Places in the World

These are the places in the world that literally took our breath away when we saw them for the first time. I hope you enjoy the most beautiful places in the world…That we’ve been to.

1. Cappadocia, Turkey

We had seen the photos of Cappadocia before taking our first hot air balloon ride in Central Turkey but a photo doesn’t do justice to the beauty of Cappadocia’s landscape. Cappadocia is on our list of the best historical places in the world as well.

Seeing the hot air balloons soaring above the fairy chimneys and its lunar landscape felt like a dream. Cappadoccia is our number one pick out of all the beautiful places in the world that we visited.

Be sure to stay in a cave hotel when you do go to Cappadocia, it’s heavenly.

• Read about our balloon flight in Cappadocia
• Our Cappadocia Cave Hotel Tour

2. Santorini, Greece

Santorini truly lives up to its reputation as a beautiful destination. It’s one of the most romantic places we’ve ever been and our favorite place to visit in Greece. Staying in a luxury cave hotel in Oia was a dream come true. Santorini is definitely the star of the Greek Islands and for good reason.

As I sat in the infinity pool overlooking the caldera, I felt as if there was no other place the epitomizes paradise as much as Santorini, Greece.

• The Very Best Things to do in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini: Best Hotels and Towns
• Santorini Photography Guide
• Iconic Santorini: A Cave Hotel Experience
• The Best Places to Visit in Santorini, Greece

3. Lake Louise, Canada

Each time Dave and I visit Lake Louise in Banff National Park we are reminded of why we always tell people it is the most beautiful place in Canada. With Victoria Glacier plunging into the turquoise waters of this glacier lake, Lake Louise is the perfect natural Canadian setting. Read more: The Best Things to do in Banff

The entire area of Banff is picture perfect and you’ll be mesmerized with each scene you encounter. We had an epic game of pond hockey on Lake Louise i n the winter and it was just as beautiful in the summer. In fact, we like it better in the winter because there are no crowds!

• Canoe Lake Louise, Alberta
• Where to Stay in Banff
• The 52 Best Things to do in Alberta, Canada – The Ultimate Guide
• 12 Best Hikes in Banff National Park

4. Maldives

The sapphire blue waters of the Maldives are like nothing we’ve ever seen.

Secluded private islands house luxury hotels with over the water bungalow. The sand is soft and white as snow creating the perfect island paradise escape.

• The Best Things to do in the Maldives
• Watch our video – The Beauty of the Maldives

5. Antarctica

Whenever people ask us what our favorite destination is, Dave always answers Antarctica. The reason? Because it is one of the most beautiful places to photograph on earth.

The different shades of blue ice and snow layer the landscape. Massive ice. formations the size of buildings drift through the deep blue water and the skies are crisp and clear. There is no place in the world quite like Antarctica.

• Beautiful Images of Antarctic Ice
• Things to do in Antarctica
• How to Pack for an Antarctic Cruise

6. Serengeti Plains, Tanzania

While Dave loves Antarctica, I (Deb) love Tanzania. And no place is as beautiful as the Serengeti.

The wildlife is outstanding, but the sunsets and landscape of great plains of Africa are second to none.

Every beautiful picture that you see of those African sunsets really are that gorgeous!

• A Tanzania Safari
• African Safari Animals in Photos
• What to do in Tanzania

7. Sapa, Vietnam

It has been well over a decade since we visited Sapa in Vietnam, but it’s striking scene will always be etched in our minds. While hiking through the plunging rice terraces in high mountains on the border of China, I felt as if each turn was a picture in a National Geographic photo story.

• Things to do in Vietnam from North to South
• Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam

8. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Before visiting Positano, I thought the Cinque Terre was the most beautiful place in Italy. But when I saw the plunging coastal cliffs of the Amalfi Coast as we drove to Positano, I was floored by its dramatic views.

The coastal views are spectacular and piece-de-resistance is getting to enjoy a glass of bubbly as we overlooked the colorful buildings overlooking the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

• Top Stops on the Amalfi Coast
• The Most Romantic Cities on the Italian Coast

9. Exuma Cays, Bahamas

Flying from Nassau in a small twin-engine plane offered incredible views of white sand beaches dotting the gin blue waters of the Exuma Cays in the Bahamas . There are 365 islands and atolls waiting to be explored with secluded beaches and crystal clear waters calling your name!

• Exuma Cays – Dream Trip to the Bahamas
• Thunderball Grotto in Exuma Cays – What you Need to Know

10. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi has become one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, but I’ll never forget seeing it for the first time in 2000. Located in the south of Thailand, Krabi is an island paradise with countless karst islands jutting out of the South China Sea.

Popular beautiful places in southern Thailand are Railay, Koh Lipe, Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi.

• Rock Climbing Krabi
• Amazing Things to do in Thailand
• Thailand Travel Tips

11. Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan was the first of the great and famous ancient ruins that we ever visited. This temple complex in Myanmar is filled with more than 2000 pagodas.

Sitting atop a high pagoda overlooking the range of temples was one of the most breathtaking scenes we had ever witnessed. Our hearts are breaking for the people in Myanmar and travel is not advisable there right now. But we hope that they can come out of this crisis soon and we can show them how much the world loves them.

• Amazing Bagan Ruins of Myanmar
• Best of Myanmar

12. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

For years we had seen pictures of this fairytale castle and didn’t know where it was. It wasn’t until we traveled to Bavaria in Germany last summer that we finally saw it with our own eyes, and it did not disappoint. Read more: Most Beautiful Castles in Germany

This castle is so perfect, Walt Disney modelled his Disney Castle after it. It is located just 90 minutes from Munich.

• Best of Bavaria
• 14 Amazing Things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen
• Best Things to do in Munich, Germany

13. Gobi Desert and Mongolian Steppe

While driving through Mongolia during the Mongol Rally, I couldn’t get over the vastness of the landscape.

I know that sounds strange to say, but the Mongolian Steppe is so wide open, that even the skies feel bigger here than anywhere else in the world.

• Tips for Driving the Mongol Rally
• Mongolia in Photos

14. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador are one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Here you’ll find wildlife unlike anywhere else on earth due to their isolation. The diverse landscape ranges from lush forests to isolated beaches and arid deserts.

We fell in love with the beauty of this unique little corner of the world.

• 27 Photos to Transport you to the Galapagos in Photos
• What it’s LIke on a Galapagos Tour

15. Tombstone Mountains Yukon

While driving the Dempster Highway of Yukon Canada, we commented on how much it looked like Mongolia.

Not a lot of people visit the Yukon, but if you do, you will agree that it is one of the most beautiful, lush and diverse. landscapes on earth.

Drive from Inuvik in the Northwest Territories to Dawson City for a great road trip and adventure!

• Driving the Dempster Highway
• The Sour Toe Cocktail – Dawson City’s Dead Toe Cocktail

16. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first saw the Giant’s Causeway. There are other basalt formations around the world, but none seem as symmetrical as here.

The stone steps are so perfect, that it is almost possible to believe the legend that the Giant, Fionn McCool laid these stones to create a link to Scotland .

They look exactly like patio stones that a giant would lay.

• The Legend of the Giant’s Causeway
• Things to do in Northern Ireland
• Northern Ireland Travel Guide

17. Petra, Jordan

While walking along the 2km long Siq to Petra we had no idea what to expect.

The narrow gorge path was filled with beautiful scenes, ruins and formations but it was when we turned the corner to view the Petra Treasury that I let out a gasp. It was so beautiful.

We had been to many ancient cities by this time and didn’t think we could be surprised by beauty anymore, but Petra caught us off guard.

Petra excited us and made us remember how travel can still surprise and delight.

• Petra Jordan by Day
• 13 Exciting things to do in Jordan

18. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Living close to Niagara Falls , we always compare waterfalls around the world to the one in our own backyard. But there is no comparison between the two. Iguazu Falls is in the middle of a jungle.

It is wild and untamed and is an impressive set of 275 waterfalls plunging into a canyon that is 2.7 km long!

Standing on the boardwalk engulfed by the waterfalls and jungle was one of the most incredible scenes we had ever seen!

• The Best of Iguazu Falls
• Getting Soaked at Iguazu Falls

19. Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa has many beautiful places to visit, but there is something special about the beauty of Cape Town. This city is framed by the towering Table Mountain creating the most unique cityscape we’ve ever laid eyes upon.

It almost looks like someone has dropped a giant background behind the picturesque waterfront. With beaches, colourful colonial architecture, and a gorgeous seaside, this city has it all and it is gorgeous.

• The Very Best of Cape Town
• Things to do in South Africa
• 28 Reasons to Visit South Africa

20. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza can be seen from all over Cairo. They look like a mirage jutting up from the desert. When I first saw them while driving from the airport to our hotel, I didn’t think I was actually seeing the pyramids. That couldn’t be them, could it? It was!

The pyramids have never lost their mystique and allure and seeing them with our own eyes was a dream come true.

• 8 Must See Egypt Attractions
• The Red Pyramid of Egypt
• Egypt in Photos

21. Antelope Canyon, United States

You can’t take photography tours to Antelope Canyon anymore, but you can still see them.

The draw of this canyon is to witness the short window where the sun shines through an opening once per day to create a waterfall of light illuminating the layered rocks in this impressive cavern. It is truly a wonder of the world. Check out Antelope Canyon in Photos

22. The Himalayan Mountain Range, Nepal and Bhutan

We have seen a lot of mountains in our time and they are all beautiful, but there is something extraordinary about the world’s highest mountain range.

While trekking to Everest Base Camp, we actually commented that you almost feel that you could reach out and touch the heavens. Nothing compares to the beauty of the Himalayas.

• Trek to Everest Base Camp
• Everest Base Camp Tips

23. Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan

We had always wondered if the Himalayas were as beautiful as we remembered and then when visiting Bhutan, we were reminded just how striking they are.

We trekked deep into the mountains for views just as impressive as Everest, but even short climbs like this one to Tiger’s Nest Monastery was absolutely beautiful.

• 18 Things to do in Bhutan
• Bhutan Trek to Laya
• Himalayas in Photos

24. Ilulissat, Greenland

Many people think that Greenland is just one big slab of ice. But Greenland is filled with color and beauty. Nowhere did we see that more than when hiking out to the world’s most active calving glacier in Ilulissat.

The rainbow-colored houses of Illulisat make way for the deep green hues of the Arctic Tundra leading towards Margerie Glacier where beautiful and massive icebergs crash in the sea.

There is nothing like seeing the power of mother nature up close and personal.

• Incredible Greenland the Final Frontier
• Greenland – Where Ancient Culture Meets the Outside World

25. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is stunning. A cruise through the endless scene of limestone islands surrounded by turquoise and emerald green waters is a must when visiting Vietnam.

It was while hiking from the Cat Ba Cave to a high lookout that we were totally taken aback. When we looked down to see the scene of junk boats surrounded by karts, we knew, we were in someplace special.

• Ha Long Bay or Bai Tu Long, How Do you Choose

26. Twelve Apostles, Australia

Australia has some incredible places to visit, but I think its most beautiful destination is the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road.

We hiked for four days along the dazzling coast before reaching the giant sentries standing guard in the sea. Take a helicopter tour to really take in its beauty.

• The Great Ocean Walk
• 23 Greatest Places to visit in Australia

27. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Climbing to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro was one of our greatest adventures and seeing Furtwangler Glacier with our own eyes was unbelievable. We didn’t notice its beauty until we started our descent, because all the way up, we were looking down at our feet!

As I watched Dave cross its path, I felt tears well in my eyes because of the immense beauty before me.

As the sun rose, the ice turned to a glowing shade of pink that we will never forget. It’s too bad I didn’t have my camera raised to take a photograph, but I did capture it on video.

• Watch our video on YouTube
• How Hard is it to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

28. Milford Sound, New Zealand

New Zealand is one of our favourite destinations on earth and the South Island has one of the most diverse landscapes in the world! You can see a lot in a short time.

Milford Sound in Fjordland National Park has some of the highest sea cliffs on earth rising 1,200 meters above the water. A cruise of Milford Sound is one of the top things to do in New Zealand.

Sheer rock faces rise up from the blue waters blending into the perfect blues skies dotted with fluffy clouds.

• 37 Awesome Things to do in New Zealand
• Cruise Around Milford Sound – Our video

29. Victoria Falls, Zambia

I know I have already included a great waterfall of the world by mentioning Iguazu, but Victoria Falls needs to be on this list as well. It is the world’s largest waterfall plunging down in one continuous curtain for 1.7 km. Seeing from a helicopter is a must. From above is the best way to really see its scope.

• Dream Trip -Things to do in Victoria Falls
• Watch the best of Victoria Falls

30. Lake Nakuru, Kenya

The Masai Mara may be Kenya’s top draw, but it was Lake Nakuru that we really fell in love with the beauty of Kenya. Known for the flamingos and pelicans that frequent its alkaline shores, Lake Nakuru is a picturesque location in Africa. It’s also one of the best places to see rhinos in Africa.

• Kenya’s Incredible Lake Nakuru
• 27 Greatest Places to visit in Africa

31. Seljalandsfoss, Iceland

Iceland is known for its waterfalls and none are quite as famous as Seljalandsfoss. It is has been featured in so many movies including the recent Netflix comedy, Eurovision. Be sure to go behind the falls for this view.

• Not to Miss Iceland Waterfalls
• 13 Unique Places to Visit in Iceland

32. Costa Navarino, Greece

We had never even heard of Voidokilia Beach before visiting Costa Navarino, but when we saw this perfect horseshoe beach, we couldn’t believe that such a beach existed.

You can bicycle or hike up to a high lookout to see the stunning beach that looks exactly like the Greek letter Omega.

Costa Navarino – Ancient History & Natural Beauty Greek Food – A Complete Guide to the Best Greek Cuisine Watch the Video: The Best of Costa Navarino

33. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Ireland is one of our favorite destinations on earth. It also has some of the most beautiful scenery on earth. It was difficult to choose what was the best and most beautiful of Ireland, so we thought we’d go with the most famous, The Cliffs of Moher. If you go at sunrise or sunset, you’ll avoid the crowds and experience amazing skies!

• 21 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland
• 34 of the Best Things to do in Dublin, Ireland

34. Norway Fjords

Our Norway in a Nutshell cruise took us through one beautiful scene after another. Just when we thought the cliffs couldn’t get higher we’d turn a corner and there’d be another massive mound before our eyes. The reflections in the waters made for incredible views.

• Norway in a Nutshell – Scenic Train Rides to Fantastic Fjords
• Trolltunga Hike – Trekking to Norway’s Most Famous Landmark
• Watch the video tour – Beautiful Norway Fjords

35. Rio de Janiero, Brazil

Rio is an exciting city to visit, but when going up to the top of Christ the Redeemer , or taking a helicopter tour over the city, you really witness just how striking the coast is.

The beaches are some of the best in the world with famous names like Ipanema and Copa Cabana. The endless white sand is framed by the giant Sugarloaf and Two Brother’s mountains making for an epic scene.

I think Rio is the most beautiful city on earth, especially when you take its ocean and mountainous setting into consideration.

• The Top 18 Most Excellent Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
• Sugarloaf Mountain Views in Rio Video
• The Very Best of Rio video

36. Grand Canyon, USA

I’m not going to lie. When visiting the Grand Canyon, I wasn’t expecting much. I thought it would be a cheesy tourist trap, but it lives up to the hype! There is a reason the Grand Canyon is featured in so many movies , it is spectacular. A road trip through California and Arizona brought us to this place, and I am so glad that we saw it with our own eyes. Read: The 17 Best Hikes in Arizona

• The Absolute Best Things to do in The Grand Canyon
• Arizona Road Trip – The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary
• The Quintessential California Road Trip Itinerary
• Route 66 – America’s Historic Highway
• Best Places to visit in the USA

37. Huacachina, Peru

Most people think of the Middle East when picturing deserts, but our first real desert experience was in Peru, and it blew our minds. We didn’t know that sand dunes could be so high! Staying in the desert oasis and climbing up to the top of the sand dunes was amazing. We were overwhelmed with the endless shadows rolling before our eyes.

• 24 Best Things to do in Peru
• What Expect when Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru
• Torres del Paine National Park – 5 Days in Patagonia

38. South Dakota Badlands

Who knew that South Dakota has so much to offer. We were invited on an Instagram trip to the state a few years ago thinking we’d have trouble finding interesting photos to capture. It turned out that South Dakota is photogenic at nearly every turn. There’s more to it than Mount Rushmore. The Badlands are truly spectacular read all about it here.

• 19 Wondrous Pictures of South Dakota
• Things to do in South Dakota – 10 Not to Miss Attractions
• A Video tour of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse

39. Maui Bamboo Forest

Most people will say the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Japan is one of the most beautiful places in the world. But we haven’t been there. However, we have been to many other bamboo forests throughout Southeast Asia. None of them compare to Maui’s Bamboo Forest.

Located along the Pipiwai Trail along the Hana Highway there are other beautiful things to see including high cascading waterfalls. But the bamboo forest is really an incredible site.

• 17 Fantastic Road To Hana Stops
• Where to Stay in Maui
• 22 Unique Adventures in Maui
• 26 Best Things to do in Maui

40. Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the natural wonders of the world. It is popular for diving and snorkelling, but seeing from above was the most beautiful way to experience it. The green coral reef dotted the waters of the coral sea. With hundreds of islands and atolls stretching over 344,400 square kilometers (133,000 square miles) it is one of the great places to fly over in the world.

• 18 Great Things to do in Queensland
• 23 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia

41. Isle of Skye

Driving the North Coast of 500 showcased so many beautiful places in Scotland.But it was when taking a detour to the Isle of Skye that we managed to view one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its fairy pools have long attracted visitors, and we were excited to see the Old Man of Storr.

• North Coast 500 – The Ultimate Trip Guide to Scotland’s Epic Drive
• Dunnet Head, Scotland: Panoramic Views, WWII Bunkers, and a Lighthouse

42. Vik, Iceland

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Iceland it is difficult to choose. I mean, the waterfalls are endless, the hot springs are so inviting and the lava fields and volcanic coast are picture-perfect. How do you choose? It’s not easy but Reynisfjara Beach on the coast of Vik is so often featured in movies and tv series it must be special.

The black sand beach, the basalt columns, and the enormous sea stacks are out of this world. It’s often stormy and moody creating an ominously beautiful scene.

• 13 Unique Places To Visit In Iceland
• The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Worth the Visit?

43. Meteora, Greece

Greece deserves its own “beautiful places to visit” list, but for now, I must include this awe-inspiring view. The Monasteries of Meteora date back to the 9th century but the monoliths were formed over thousands of years. Located in central Greece, these isolated monasteries sit atop giant pillars jutting out of the lush valley. This is so beautiful it was used as the setting for the city in the clouds in the Game of Thrones.

• Meteora Monasteries of Greece – Magic Monoliths in Photos
• Interesting and Fun Facts About Greece

44. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Canada has many picturesque fishing villages, but nothing quite compares to Lunenberg in Nova Scotia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is so strict that residents and businesses cannot change the colours or designs of their houses.It’s a good thing too, because this is the most beautiful town in Canada. (in my opinion).

• The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary
• Nova Scotia Pictures that Will Make You Want to Visit Right Now
• Explore the Nova Scotia South Shore – Halifax to Yarmouth

45. Mount McKinley, United States

Alaska is North America’s final frontier and there are striking scenes at every turn. But it is Mount McKinley in Denali National Park that takes the cake. Seeing it from the ground is impressive, but flying up to see it from a bird’s eye view is out of this world.

• Best Things to do in Alaska
• Places to Visit in Alaska
• How to Pack for An Alaskan Cruise

46. Zanzibar, Tanzania

After climbing Mount Kilimanjaro we hopped a flight to the paradise island of Zanzibar. It was after leaving Stone Town for the beaches of Nungwi that we fell in love with the beauty of this island.

When the tide goes out to reveal layers of colour on the ocean floor it reveals the deepest shades of green. When the tide is in, the turquoise water is just as beautiful as it crashes against the pure white sand.

• Read: Discover The Best Beaches in Zanzibar

47. Li River, China

The Li River in Yangshuo China is one of the most picturesque scenes we’ve ever witnessed.

Taking a bamboo raft down the Li River really allowed us to take in the beauty of the surrounding karst formations that make this enchanting part of China so famous.

• Bamboo Raft the Li River
• Why go Off the Beaten Path in China
• Great Things to do in China

48. Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Most people suggest the Namib Desert and sand dunes of Sossusvlei. But while cycling through Namibia, we had our heads down until reaching Fish River Canyon. With a night off to relax and take in the view, I’ll never forget overlooking the endless ravine spanning 100 miles before our eyes.

• Namibia Travel Guide

49. White Desert, Egypt

Massive white formations dot the desert landscape. of Western Egypt, creating a surreal scene. We stayed overnight in a Bedouine camp surrounded by monoliths resembling mushrooms, camels, and hawks. We were surprised to see that when we touched the rock, it was actually made of chalk. As the sun went down the sky exploded in colours creating one of the most beautiful desert scenes we had ever witnessed.

Read more: White Desert of Egypt

50. Pinnacles, Borneo

Oh, how we would love to go back and photograph the pinnacles. But. we wonder if we could do the hike today! This two day trek takes you to the middle of Gunung Mulu National Park in Malaysian Borneo to see the most beautiful display of pinnacles we’ve ever seen.

Like so many places we mention on this list, the Pinnacles don’t seem real. When looking down upon them, they seem like a painting in the jungle. The sharp limestone edges peek out of the green forest like a dream.

• The Pinnacles of Borneo, an Adventure in Sarawak
• Great Things to do in Borneo – Malaysia’s Wild Jungle Island

And these are the most beautiful places in the world that we’ve seen. Where have you been on earth that is beautiful? We’d love hear from you to help plan our future travels.

Save this to Pinterest for future travel planning

• Beautiful Cities in Europe
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 41 Beautiful Places in Canada To Visit Right Now
• 27 Greatest Places to Visit in Africa
• Places to Visit in Kyoto – My Favorite City in Japan
• 26 of the Best Places to Visit in Barcelona
• Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta Canada
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

Travel Planning Resources

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Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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15 thoughts on “50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been”

These are really some of the most beautiful places on earth. Wish I could visit some of these places before I die.

There is so much beauty in the world and 50 of the most beautiful places to visit are only the tip of the iceberg. From the majestic Alps in Europe to the stunning beaches of Thailand and the tranquil islands of the Caribbean, there are incredible sights to behold throughout the world. Regardless of what kind of landscape you prefer, there is a perfect getaway out there for everyone.

I am especially impressed by the possibility of flying in a hot air balloon in this place. It is very cool when you soar smoothly over historic cave houses, along with more than a hundred other balloons of the same kind. It is a beautiful sight when the morning sun sanctifies the earth and the balls, it makes an unforgettable impression.

Fabulous list of some of my favorite places. i live in cape town for 6 years and would back there in a heartbeat.. even as my heart longs for the crystalline waters of the greek islands

Hi Dave and Deb,

Amazing article! Glad you shared this beautiful article on beautiful places in the world to travel. And i am pretty impressed with the photographs you have in this article, they more tempting and natural. I would definitely gonna visit most of these places in future, especially egypt, krabi (thailand) and also vietnam as its pocket friendly. Also gonna recommend this blog to my travel blogger friend. Keep sharing such beautiful articles.

Cheers, Abhay

This article (and its photos) make me want to travel right now! There’s so much beauty in the world, and we will get to travel and see it again. I really hope all of these places have had a much-needed rest during the pandemic and will have new rules/regulations to make travel more sustainable in the future. Thanks so much for sharing… updating my bucket list now!

Santorini is a beautiful city with ancient structures. Nice article. Thanks for sharing

The serengeti is one of the most amazing places in the world. The animals, the sunsets, the space and sense of really being in the wild. I love it cant get enough. Some amazing places on here. I need to travel

As a traveler and photographer amateur, I find your recommendations very useful. Many of them I try to put into practice always (but not always is possible) Cheers!

Hi, Amazing collection in one post, I wish i want to travel above place one day. Thank you for sharing .

This is amazing – I’m bookmarking to add all these places to my bucket list. I’ve been to a few but can’t wait to travel to all the rest, especially Antarctica! Thanks for sharing these stunning destinations!

Super. I couldn’t get myself to go through this on my phone. Had to see the beautiful shots on the larger screen of my computer. Thanks for putting all this together. It so encourages me to travel the world on my bicycle.

Beautiful article and some of the best places to visit.

Wonderful blog. Amazing travel destinations. I will definitely visit these places once in my life. Thanks for hsaring this informative blog.

First off, the photos look astoundingly surreal and out of this world! It’s like the sceneries were only captured to be viewed in a movie screen! Beautiful art of nature plus great photography equals these masterpieces! Thank you for sharing these beautiful places with us even though its only through virtual but you made us inspired and motivated to work our asses off to even just visit one out of these many wonderful places!

• BEST OF THE WORLD

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024

From a horseback safari in Kenya to river rafting in West Virginia, here’s our ranked list of the top travel experiences right now.

This page is a portal.   No, really, it is: Our annual Best of the World feature is a gateway to the streets of Paris , the snowy Caucasus Mountains of Georgia , the ancient rock art of Algeria . To help us engage with places more deeply and meaningfully, we drew on National Geographic’s global community of experts to create the following ranked list of 20 great adventures for 2024. Read on and you’ll discover that this page is also a celebration—of travel’s power to transform us and our connections with one another.

#1: Go on horseback safari in Kenya

A safari in Africa usually conjures an image of mud-spattered 4x4 vehicles bouncing through the bush. But there’s another way to travel: on horseback .  

Although horse safaris originated in Kenya in the 1970s, they’re a perfect fit for today’s growing number of travelers looking for more engaging, sustainable wildlife encounters. At the 32,000-acre Borana Conservancy , two stables house thoroughbreds and ex-polo ponies for riders of all skill levels. Visitors can book half-day, full-day, or overnight rides. July through September is the prime time to go.

Since wildlife perceive equines as just another animal, exploring the landscape atop a horse makes for an intimate experience. “To journey on horseback is to break down the walls—meant to protect but also to separate—between oneself and the natural world,” says Nichole Sobecki , a photographer and equestrian who’s ridden in Borana. “Your horse is a translator, responding to the low growl of the lion, the soft scent of a herd of elephants.” A horse’s ears are an advance warning system, she says, helping knowledgeable guides navigate routes.

#2: Run an Olympic marathon in Paris

For the first time, members of the public will be able to run their own marathon during the 2024 Summer Olympics , in Paris, France , just one initiative aimed at creating a more inclusive Games.  

Slated to be held the evening of August 10, between the men’s and women’s official races, the Marathon for All will allow 20,024 qualifying lottery winners on the 26.2-mile route that links Paris and Versailles , a loop beginning at the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and passing through nine arrondissements before finishing at Les Invalides on the banks of the Seine. Before or after the big event, learn the route to follow in their tracks.  

#3: Ski tour UNESCO sites in Georgia

Long a means of transportation, exploration, and hunting, skiing is still a way of life in the mountainous republic of Georgia. Now visitors can enjoy some of the nation’s best backcountry skiing in the Caucasus with the help of outfitters such as Svaneti Ski and Georgia Ski Touring . In Svaneti, excursions may lead skiers through panoramic Gvibari Pass or to medieval Ushguli villages, among the highest continuously inhabited in Europe. The best times to experience this are December to April.

#4: Bear watch in Katmai National Park

Alaska ’s Katmai National Park is home to one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world. Far from the crowded viewing platforms of the Brooks Camp Visitor Center, a guided trip along the Katmai coast with outfitters like AK Adventures reveals a different side of the park.

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Here, the bears feast on a diversity of foods: sedges, grasses, razor clams, salmon. “For me, seeing a single brown bear in the wild is meaningful because it is a sign that the landscape is healthy enough to support it,” says Alaska photographer Acacia Johnson , a frequent National Geographic contributor.

#5: Hear legendary live music in Kyoto

Guidebooks speak of Kyoto as frozen in time, with hushed temples and meditative gardens. But after hours, Japan ’s former imperial capital reveals a live music scene that can be loud and irreverent. At venues like Jittoku and Field , rock, swing, and even Irish music echo into the night. Whatever you’re into, from jazz to punk, there’s a community to share your jam. “This is what happens in Japan when the mask comes off,” says Kyoto guide Van Milton.

#6: Cruise an epic river in Colombia

About 80 percent of Colombia ’s population lives in the river basin of the Magdalena, which flows for nearly a thousand miles from the Andes to the Caribbean. AmaWaterways’ new cruises on the river—said to be the first by a major cruise operator—take seven-night trips from Cartagena via Mompós to Barranquilla. Stops at colonial towns, performances of vallenato   and cumbia music, and visits to a stilt-house village highlight the region’s culture along this mighty waterway.

#7:   Road trip Route 66 in New Mexico

For nearly a century, Route 66 has beckoned to travelers. A trip along the Mother Road through New Mexico hits timeless landmarks , such as quirky motels and curio shops in and around Tucumcari and symbolic etchings in Petroglyph National Monument . In Gallup—mentioned as one of the places to “get your kicks” in Nat King Cole’s 1946 hit song “Route 66”—you can take in performances featuring Zuni, Lakota, and Diné (Navajo) dancers.  

Some 18 miles of the highway traverse Albuquerque , the longest urban interlude of the route in the United States. And it’s getting a half-million-dollar glow-up with the ongoing restoration of vintage neon signs along Central Avenue.  

While cruising down the brightened strip, stop at the new West Central Route 66 Visitor Center , with its museum and outdoor amphitheater. The center will host events like lowrider car shows, drive-in movies, and artisan markets.

#8: Explore ancient art in Algeria

Algeria is home to Africa’s largest national park, which holds one of the world’s greatest concentrations of ancient rock art. Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is a geologic wonderland of sandstone towers, arches, and sculpted outcrops. But these rock forests are only half the story.  

Neolithic herders and hunter-gatherers carved 15,000 petroglyphs here, including images of elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. These animals are more commonly associated with sub-Saharan Africa—a hint that this arid wilderness was once a grassland crisscrossed by waterways. Five- to seven-day guided tours with Fancy Yellow take in the most spectacular works of Tassili’s art, like the “Crying Cows,” engraved at the base of a stone pinnacle 7,000 years ago.  

Travelers with more time might want to combine a trip to Tassili with a visit to the Algerian Sahara’s other great geologic marvel: the extraordinary mountain range of Ahaggar National Park .

#9: Dive with sharks in Western Australia

Stretching almost 700 miles along the Indian Ocean north of Perth, Western Australia’ s Coral Coast is studded with natural wonders. But Ningaloo Reef is the star. Here, you can dive with giants: Some 300 to 500 whale sharks ,   one of the largest congregations on Earth, gather along the reef each year between March and July. Ethical outfitters ensure divers give the sharks space and avoid feeding them or using flash photography.  

Even more megafauna abound from July to October, when about 40,000 humpback whales migrate along the Coral Coast. You can also commune with more than 10,000 dugongs in Shark Bay or swim with manta rays at Coral Bay.  

#10: Hike a volcano in Panama

A sustainability leader, Panama recently launched its “1,000 Kilometers of Trails” project , which seeks to bring outdoor recreation and green tourism to rural communities and protected areas.

First out of the gate is the Ruta de la Caldera , a system of five trails around the extinct Valle de Antón volcano . The treks take in waterfall-speckled landscapes, according to photographer Rose Marie Cromwell , who hiked sections of the Ruta de la Caldera over five days.

“There were some spectacular views on top of the volcanic crater—interesting land formations covered in so much green,” she says.

#11: Catch the eclipse at Niagara Falls

Directly in the path of totality, Niagara Falls will offer views of a total solar eclipse, which won’t occur again in the contiguous U.S. until 2044. For about three and a half minutes, beginning at approximately 3:18 p.m. on April 8, the sky will darken over the thunderous cataract as the moon crosses between Earth and the sun.  

On the U.S. side of the falls , Terrapin Point, Prospect Point, and the Observation Tower will be prime viewing areas (if clouds stay away). From the Canadian side, an excellent vantage point is Table Rock. A side bonus: The sunny-day rainbow that hovers above the falls will become pink.  

#12: Trek a glacier in Chile

In Chilean Patagonia‘s Laguna San Rafael National Park , visitors can trek to glaciers, taking in a panorama of pale blue ice massifs and glacial waterways. Some 17,300 glaciers still cover the whole of Patagonia’s ice fields, but rising temperatures are rapidly melting them. Climate scientists say sustainable tourism , such as hikes with Chilean outfitters like Turismo Valle Leones , supports local communities and inspires travelers to learn more about how to protect glaciers.

#13: Step back in time on Menorca

Spain ’s Balearic Islands are best known for the jet-set beach destinations of Ibiza and Mallorca . But quiet, less developed Menorca has a unique mother lode: The archipelago’s greatest repository of ancient architecture.

In an area of just 270 square miles, Menorca has a total of 1,574 inventoried archaeological sites , ranging from the foundation blocks of small dwellings to well-preserved village centers that existed long before the Roman Empire. Most striking are the navetas,   megalithic tombs dating back to 1600 B.C.; talayots, watchtowers built from mortarless blocks of limestone; and   taulas,   shrines exclusive to Menorca that evoke Stonehenge pillars. These remnants of the Talayotic Menorcan culture, the first civilization to inhabit the island, have now been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List .  

The open-air monuments are easy to visit; the island’s Me-1 road passes by some of the best-preserved sites, including the settlements of Talatí de Dalt, Naveta des Tudons, and Taula de Torretrencada.

Reenter the 21st century at the new Hauser & Wirth gallery in the picturesque town of Mahón. Housed in repurposed 18th-century hospital buildings, the cultural venue presents contemporary art exhibits and has an outdoor sculpture trail with works by Louise Bourgeois and Joan Miró.

#14: Ride classic rails in Scotland

Exploring Scotland ’s wild, scenic Highlands doesn’t have to mean roughing it. The Royal Scotsman train glides among the moody lochs and dramatic peaks in style. New suites debuting in May 2024 sport interiors that reflect the compelling landscapes through dark woods, wool tweeds , and richly patterned bespoke tartans crafted by Scottish brand Araminta Campbell . After a day spent hiking to waterfalls or playing rounds of golf (a sport inextricably tied to the nation), guests can wind down with a massage at the onboard spa.

Departing Edinburgh ’s Waverley Station, the two- to seven-night rail journeys cross the heart of the Highlands, from Perthshire to Inverness to the rugged west coast. During stops guests can tour castles, stargaze in Cairngorms National Park , sample whisky at revered distilleries, and even take a dip in a loch.

#15: Find authentic flavor in Thailand  

The Isaan region in northeastern Thailand is known for its distinctive cuisine that reflects influences from bordering Laos and Cambodia. “Isaan is a hidden gem of Thailand,” says Weerawat “Num” Triyasenawat, the chef at Samuay & Sons , a Michelin Guide -recommended restaurant in the Isaan city of Udon Thani.

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One key ingredient of the region’s delicious food is pla ra, a fermented-fish seasoning that boosts umami flavor. Local dishes include laab   (minced meat salad), traditionally served during celebrations.

#16: Wander tea trails in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is virtually synonymous with tea. The island nation is one of the world’s top producers of tea leaves. British colonists introduced the first bushes about 200 years ago. Now visitors can trace the footsteps of historic planters on the new, nearly 200-mile Pekoe Trail , the country’s first long-distance walking route.  

Starting just outside Kandy, the trail follows the 19th-century tracks upon which workers and horse-drawn carts transported freshly plucked leaves. Hikers pass through hill towns and tea estates and can stop to take a cooking class or savor a cup of aromatic Ceylon tea.

#17: Gallery hop in São Paulo

São Paulo, Brazil ’s largest city, is an art lover’s paradise, home to numerous galleries, exhibitions, and street murals. The crowning jewel is the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP), which is expanding to showcase more of its 11,000-plus artworks, from pre-Renaissance paintings to contemporary sculptures. Departing from the usual model of exhibiting works on walls, MASP hangs some pieces against clear panels, allowing visitors to view the art from all angles.

#18: Raft the rapids in West Virginia  

Despite its name, West Virginia ’s New River is actually one of the oldest on Earth, perhaps as old as 360 million years. The river falls 750 feet in only 50 miles between sandstone cliffs. It eventually merges with the Gauley River.   Outfitters such as ACE Adventure Resort can arrange whitewater rafting trips here on Class III to V rapids through the longest and deepest river gorge in the Appalachians.  

#19: Go antiquing in Hudson Valley

The bucolic Hudson Valley is booming, thanks to an influx of New York City residents during the pandemic. But it’s long been a mecca for creatives: Its landscapes inspired America’s first artistic fraternity, the Hudson River School. Antique collectors will be drawn to the hundreds of stores, boutiques, craft shops, and flea markets that sell everything from colonial furniture and rare books to mid-century modern decor. For vintage finds, head to the Antique Warehouse in Hudson, Sister Salvage in Catskill, and Opera House Co. in Athens.

“There’s a common denominator here—the charming historic villages,” says Sarah Gray Miller, owner of Coxsackie antique store UnQuiet . From Stuyvesant to Saugerties, these towns “share a strong commitment to preservation.”

#20: Sleep on the water in British Columbia

The newly reopened Tofino Wilderness Resort , owned by the Ahousaht First Nation, is an idyllic base from which to explore the western coast of British Columbia ’s Vancouver Island. In the heart of Clayoquot Sound, the luxury floating lodge was renovated with lumber cut from timber which fell on-site. Through guided whale-watching trips or visits to the Freedom Cove artists’ sanctuary, the Ahousaht share with guests their philosophy, hishuk ish tsawalk (“everything is one”), celebrating the interconnectedness of people and nature in a land they’ve occupied for thousands of years.

Editor's note

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10 of the Most Remote Destinations on Earth

Whether they’re entirely uninhabited or with very low populations, this guide will take you on a journey to the places few humans get to experience. These isolated spots are difficult to travel to, totally unique, and will leave you with the most adventurous kind of wanderlust.

Pitcairn Island, South Pacific

 Michael Dunning / Getty Images

Ideal for those who truly want to get away from it all, the island of Pitcairn off the coast of New Zealand is the least-populated territory on earth with just 50 full-time residents. Its extremely remote position in the ocean makes it one of the best places in the world for stargazing, and the quartet of islands that form the archipelago (Pitcairn is the only populated one) remains the only island group in the world listed as an official International Dark Sky Sanctuary. While tourism remains the primary economic resource, the island still doesn't see many visitors. The lush-yet-rugged isle is just under 2 square miles in size and 3,000 miles from the nearest continent, meaning a visit will require a minimum of 32 hours on a boat.

Cape York Peninsula, Australia

 Oliver Strewe / Getty Images

There are more national parks inside this northernmost tip of the Australian continent than any other part of Queensland , as well as some of the world’s most isolated and secluded coral reefs for snorkeling, fishing, and scuba diving. It was here that Captain James Cook had his first interactions with Aboriginal Australians, eventually making records of the native flora, fauna, and languages. The rugged peninsula is still home to many Indigenous communities to this day. A trip to Cape York will take at least seven days by car via a 745-mile mostly unpaved road connecting the city of Cairns with the peninsula.

Changtang, Tibet

 Tuul & Bruno Morandi / Getty Images

This Tibetan region, otherwise known as the "Roof of the World," averages about 2.5 miles in altitude and spans the size of Germany, Poland, and Lithuania combined. Elevations can stretch over 4 miles above sea level in some spots, giving it an extremely arid, cold climate with a surprisingly plentiful and diverse community of endangered wildlife. The Changtang National Nature Reserve, the second largest nature reserve on earth, heads conservation efforts protecting this wildlife. Along with the unique animals such as snow leopards, wild yaks, Tibetan sand foxes, and black-necked cranes, Changtang is also home to a small population of an elusive nomadic herding culture.

McMurdo Station, Antarctica

 John Brown / Getty Images

The largest scientific research station in Antarctica, McMurdo was built on rugged volcanic rock 2,415 miles from Christchurch, New Zealand, and 850 miles from the South Pole. Temperatures at the base have reached minus 58 degrees F in the winter with winds exceeding 100 knots at times. Access to the Ross Island station is available via ship into the harbor as well as small aircraft landing strips on the nearby sea ice and shelf ice. Antarctica is the most isolated continent in the world and the only one without any full-time residents.

Oymyakon, Russia

 andzher / Getty Images

Known as the coldest inhabited place on earth, Oymyakon is located just a few hundred miles from the frigid Arctic Circle . The town is home to about 500 permanent residents who have adapted to temperatures averaging minus 58 degrees F in the wintertime; the lowest temperature on record was recorded at minus 90 degrees F in 1933. This settlement isn’t just freezing, but it’s also extremely isolated as well. The nearest major city, Yakutsk, is located 576 miles away (two days by car), and the region is plunged into darkness for 21 hours per day during winter.

Tristan da Cunha, Saint Helena

David Forman / Getty Images 

Part of the same single territorial grouping under the British Crown as the remote island where Napoleon was exiled in 1815, Tristan da Cunha is the most remote inhabited place on earth. The island’s population is about 300 people, most of whom are farmers or fishermen, and it is 1,243 miles from the closest community on the “neighboring” island of Saint Helena. At just 7.5 miles across and about 1,750 miles from Cape Town , it takes a six-day boat journey to reach the isle from South Africa.

Choquequirao, Peru

 Fabian Schmiedlechner / EyeEm / Getty Images

Although Choquequirao is often referred to as Machu Picchu's sister city, you won’t find any lines queued up there. Unlike Machu Picchu which clocks its visitors at 2,500 per day, this “other” lost city is certainly not for the faint of heart. The archeological site is praised as one of the most remote Inca ruins found throughout the Peruvian Andes, and it can only be accessed after several days of mule rides, hiking, and wilderness camping. This may not always be the case, however, as rumors continue to circulate about a $50 million plan for a cable car that could bring up to 3,000 visitors up to the ruins per day in the future.

Vale do Javari, Brazil

 Laszlo Mates / Getty Images

There are parts of the world we only know about thanks to advanced satellite technology, and in 2018, a drone captured the images of a previously undiscovered tribe of indigenous people in the Vale do Javari territory of the north Brazilian Amazon . The territory, home to the largest number of isolated indigenous peoples on earth, encompasses more than 8.5 million hectares and is only accessible by waterway or by air.

Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

 F.Luise / Getty Images

The deepest part of the Dallol Volcano inside Ethiopia's Danakil Depression is located about 400 feet below (yes, below) sea level, making it one of the lowest points in the world. Just as impressive, it is also known as one of the hottest places on earth with the daily average max temperature topping 106 degrees F. Locals have been making the precarious trek to the region to mine for salt for centuries, and the spot has only just begun to attract tourists.

Longyearbyen, Norway

This infamous town in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is located about 800 miles from the North Pole and is known as one of the world’s most isolated inhabited areas. There’s a population of just 1,500 residents in the town, and teachers carry guns to protect their students from polar bears (hunting for polar bears is strictly forbidden, and shooting one in self-defense will require a personal inquiry from the governor of Svalbard). Another interesting feature of Longyearbyen? It became illegal in the town to bury their dead within city limits in 1950 after it was discovered that the temperatures were consistently too low to allow bodies to decompose.

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Passing Thru Travel

Travel Beyond Earth: Exploring the Future of Space Tourism

Posted: March 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

Space tourism, once a mere figment of science fiction, rapidly evolves into a tangible reality, offering the most intrepid travelers an unprecedented opportunity to venture beyond Earth’s confines. This burgeoning industry promises to redefine the boundaries of exploration, providing experiences ranging from suborbital flights to extended stays in space stations. As private companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic spearhead this new era, the dream of gazing upon Earth from the vastness of space is closer than ever. This guide explores the forefront of space tourism, presenting ideas that mark the future of extraterrestrial travel.

1. Suborbital Spaceflights

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dima Zel

Suborbital spaceflights represent the threshold of human space exploration, offering a brief yet profound journey beyond the confines of Earth’s atmosphere. This experience allows you to witness the curvature of the Earth against the backdrop of the infinite cosmos, a sight that has transformed the perspective of many astronauts.

During the flight, you’ll experience a few minutes of weightlessness, floating freely within the cabin, an exhilarating and serene sensation. Companies leading this venture, such as Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, utilize cutting-edge spacecraft designed for safety, comfort, and the optimal viewing experience. The flights are meticulously planned, with each phase — from the rocket’s ascent to the silent glide back to Earth — maximizing the passenger’s experience of space.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a comprehensive training program offered by these companies to prepare physically and mentally for the rigors and euphoria of space travel.

2. Orbital Spaceflights

Orbital spaceflights are the next frontier for private space tourism, offering an extended stay in low Earth orbit. This experience goes beyond the brief moments of weightlessness, allowing you to live and move in space, witnessing multiple sunrises and sunsets in a single day from the vantage point of a spacecraft. Currently, this level of space travel is offered by companies like SpaceX, which plans to use its Crew Dragon spacecraft to transport private citizens to orbit.

While aboard, you’ll experience life as modern astronauts, from sleeping in zero gravity to observing the Earth from a unique orbital perspective. The journey is about experiencing the day-to-day life of an astronaut, making it a profoundly transformative experience.

Insider’s Tip: Engage in a rigorous pre-flight conditioning regimen to ensure you can fully enjoy and participate in the activities and demands of living in space.

3. Space Hotels

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alones

The concept of space hotels is set to revolutionize space tourism, offering a luxurious stay in orbit. These hotels, planned by companies like Axiom Space, aim to attach habitable modules to the International Space Station or even construct free-flying space stations designed for commercial use.

Guests can expect accommodations that combine the thrill of space with the comforts of Earth, including rooms with views of the planet below, space-grown food, and recreational activities adapted for microgravity. The development of space hotels highlights the growing accessibility of space travel, promising an extraordinary vacation destination that was once the realm of astronauts.

Insider’s Tip: Keep an eye on the development progress of these stations and plan for a longer training period to acclimate to extended periods in microgravity.

4. Lunar Flybys

Lunar flybys mark an ambitious step in space tourism, offering private citizens the chance to journey around the Moon. This mission, reminiscent of the Apollo missions of the 1960s and 70s, promises an unparalleled adventure, bringing you up close to the lunar surface before witnessing the Earth rising over the Moon’s horizon.

SpaceX’s Starship is one of the spacecraft intended to make such missions possible, providing a comfortable and safe journey for those aboard. The experience of seeing the Moon up close and the Earth in full view offers an extraordinary sense of our place in the universe and the interconnectedness of all life on our planet.

Insider’s Tip: Such a mission requires physical preparation and a deep commitment, as it represents one of the longer-duration space tourism experiences currently planned.

5. Zero-Gravity Flights

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Frame Stock Footage

Embarking on a zero-gravity flight offers an unparalleled introduction to the sensations of space without leaving Earth’s atmosphere. This experience simulates the weightlessness of outer space through parabolic flight patterns, creating moments where gravity’s pull is momentarily negated.

Inside a specially modified aircraft, you’ll float, flip, and soar as if in space, providing a unique taste of what astronauts experience aboard the International Space Station. The flights are meticulously planned and executed, involving a series of steep climbs and descents, with each parabola offering around 20 to 30 seconds of weightlessness.

For those dreaming of space travel, this adventure is an accessible and exhilarating preview, requiring minimal training compared to orbital missions. It’s a favorite among space enthusiasts, researchers, and educators for its educational value and the sheer joy of experiencing microgravity.

Insider’s Tip: Focus on mastering movements in microgravity during the flight to maximize the experience. Quick acclimation allows for more freedom and enjoyment during the brief periods of weightlessness.

6. Spacewalk Simulations

Image Credit: Shutterstock / vicspacewalker

Spacewalk simulations offer an immersive experience that closely mimics the extravehicular activities (EVAs) performed by astronauts in the vacuum of space. Utilizing advanced virtual reality (VR) technology and neutral buoyancy labs, these simulations give participants a realistic sense of the challenges and exhilaration of conducting a spacewalk.

In neutral buoyancy labs, participants are submerged in large pools equipped with full-scale models of spacecraft and space station modules, allowing them to practice tasks under conditions that simulate microgravity. VR simulations, on the other hand, use cutting-edge graphics and motion-sensing technology to create detailed, interactive environments where participants can explore and work on virtual spacecraft or satellites.

These experiences are designed not only for entertainment but also as educational tools, offering insights into the physics of space, the complexity of astronaut tasks, and the teamwork required to complete a mission outside the Earth’s atmosphere.

Insider’s Tip: Take the time to learn about the intricacies of real space missions to enhance the realism and immersion of the simulation experience.

7. Astronaut Training Experiences

Astronaut training experiences are comprehensive programs designed to simulate the physical and mental preparation required for space travel. These programs cover a wide range of activities, from high-G force centrifuge training to simulate rocket launches to underwater neutral buoyancy sessions that mimic the weightlessness of space.

Participants also engage in classroom sessions where they learn about spacecraft operations, navigation, and the science behind human spaceflight. Additionally, survival training exercises prepare participants for emergency scenarios, including how to safely return to Earth in unforeseen circumstances.

These experiences are offered by various space agencies and private companies, aiming to provide an authentic glimpse into the life of an astronaut and the rigorous training they undergo.

Insider’s Tip: Embrace every aspect of the training for a holistic understanding of the physical and psychological demands of space travel.

8. Visits to Space Launch Facilities

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Northfoto

Visits to space launch facilities offer a unique opportunity to witness the intersection of human ingenuity and cosmos exploration. Facilities like NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida and SpaceX’s launch site at Boca Chica, Texas, provide guided tours where visitors can see launch pads, vehicle assembly buildings, and control rooms.

These tours often include exhibits on the history of space exploration, showcasing spacecraft, satellites, and memorabilia from historic missions. For those interested in the future of space travel, some facilities also offer the chance to see the latest aerospace technology and spacecraft being prepared for upcoming missions.

Witnessing a live rocket launch is a highlight of visiting these facilities, offering a tangible sense of the power and potential of space exploration.

Insider’s Tip: Plan your visit to coincide with a live rocket launch for an unforgettable experience, but be prepared for schedule changes due to weather or technical delays.

9. Space Camps for Adults

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mike_shots

Space camps designed for adults blend the thrill of space exploration with the rigor of astronaut training in an immersive, educational environment. These camps offer a comprehensive overview of space science, including hands-on activities like building and launching model rockets, simulating space missions, and navigating obstacle courses designed to mimic the physical challenges of space travel.

Beyond the physical activities, workshops, and lectures from experts in the field provide insights into the complexities of spaceflight, the history of space exploration, and the future of humanity in space. This experience is about fulfilling childhood dreams and understanding the teamwork, problem-solving, and technical knowledge required for space missions.

Whether you’re a space enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding or simply seeking an adventure out of this world, adult space camps offer an unforgettable journey into the final frontier.

Insider’s Tip: Engage fully in the camp activities and network with fellow space enthusiasts to enrich your experience and foster connections within the space tourism community.

10. Virtual Reality Space Exploration

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Gorodenkoff

Virtual reality (VR) space exploration represents the cutting edge of technology, allowing you to traverse the cosmos from the comfort of your own home. High-definition visuals and immersive audio transport you to other worlds, from the International Space Station to the rugged terrain of Mars. These experiences are crafted with attention to scientific accuracy, offering not just entertainment but an educational journey through space and time.

You can embark on guided tours of extraterrestrial landscapes, participate in simulated space missions, and learn about the cosmos in an engaging, interactive format. VR technology continues to evolve, promising ever more realistic and expansive explorations of the universe. For those fascinated by space but not ready to leave Earth, virtual reality offers a compelling window into what lies beyond our planet.

Insider’s Tip: Invest in a high-quality VR headset and explore the various space exploration programs available to maximize the realism and depth of your virtual space experience.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Skreidzeleu

As space tourism evolves, these journeys become increasingly accessible to those who dream of the stars. Whether through a brief parabolic flight or an ambitious journey around the Moon, the opportunities for adventure beyond Earth’s atmosphere are expanding. Each of these experiences requires financial investment, a commitment to preparation, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

As you contemplate your place in the cosmos, remember that the essence of space tourism lies in pushing the boundaries of human experience, offering a new perspective on our planet and our place within the universe. The future of travel beyond Earth promises new destinations and a new understanding of what it means to explore.

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The post Travel Beyond Earth: Exploring the Future of Space Tourism republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Andrei Armiagov.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Spirit's Latest Sale Has Flights Across the U.S. Starting at $49 — but You'll Have to Book Fast

The airline's sale, which ends on Tuesday, is in celebration of Earth Day.

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Spirit Airlines is celebrating Earth Day with a sale that has one-way flights starting at just $49.

The deal , which ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on April 23, is available for travel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from April 30 to June 19 and then again from Aug. 6 to Oct.16, Spirit shared with Travel + Leisure . The sale is not available during several blackout dates, including May 28, May 29, Sept. 3, and Sept. 4.

“The opportunity to travel and explore nature is impactful and helps us better appreciate our planet,” Lania Rittenhouse, the vice president of guest experience, brand and communications at Spirit Airlines, said in a statement shared with T+L. "We hope this offer makes it easier for our Guests to discover a new national park or beach this summer with family and friends.”

Fly between Atlantic City and West Palm Beach, between Atlanta and Baltimore, between Nashville and Boston, between Charlotte and Dallas, between Newark and Pittsburgh, and more starting at just $49 each way. On the West Coast, travelers can fly between Los Angeles and San Antonio, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and more also starting at just $49, or splurge and fly from the City of Angels to New Orleans starting at just $77 one-way.

Travelers can also fly cross-country for less with travel between Miami and Chicago starting at just $69 each way and travel between Philadelphia and Los Angeles starting at just $81 each way.

The sale comes as Spirit Airlines plans to launch new routes to popular destinations like Boston, Portland, Ore., and Salt Lake City in time for summer.

​​The ultra-low cost airline offers bare-bones tickets and charges for extras like baggage and seat selection. However, travelers who belong to the airline’s paid yearly membership program, the Saver$ Club, receive discounts on those extras.

Travelers who miss the sale can still save big by booking their tickets in person at the airport . That’s because Spirit waives its passenger usage fee for customers who book in person, which generally saves travelers around $23 per ticket each way.

Largest Batch of Earth-size Habitable Zone Planets Found Orbiting TRAPPIST-1

TRAPPIST-1: Largest Batch of Earth-sized Exoplanets

The most studied planetary system, aside from our own solar system, lies about 40 light-years away. We've looked at the seven rocky exoplanets orbiting the TRAPPIST-1 star with ground and space telescopes like Spitzer, Kepler, Hubble, and, now, the James Webb Space Telescope.

In March 2023, the first science from the Webb telescope was released. An analysis of TRAPPIST-1b, the innermost planet, revealed its dayside temperature and found little evidence of an atmosphere .

In a press release on February 22, 2017, NASA announced the discovery of the most Earth-sized planets found in the habitable zone of a single star, called TRAPPIST-1. This system of seven rocky worlds–all of them with the potential for water on their surface – is an exciting discovery in the search for life on other worlds. There is the possibility that future study of this unique planetary system could reveal conditions suitable for life.

In February 2018, closer study of the seven planets suggested that some could harbor far more water than the oceans of Earth, in the form of atmospheric water vapor for the planets closest to their star, liquid water for others, and ice for those farthest away. The study pinned down the density of each planet more precisely, making TRAPPIST-1 the most thoroughly known planetary system apart from our own.

A 2021 study revealed more about TRAPPIST-1 planets. They are likely made of similar stuff, but they are different from Earth. That could mean they all contain about the same ratio of materials thought to compose most rocky planets, like iron, oxygen, magnesium, and silicon. But if this is the case, that ratio must be notably different than Earth's: The TRAPPIST-1 planets are about 8% less dense than they would be if they had the same makeup as our home planet.

Exoplanet surface in 360 VR

An artist's illustration of TRAPPIST-1d takes you to the surface of the third planet from the red TRAPPIST-1 star. From here, the star looms larger than our Sun and its light casts a red glow across the sky. Look up, and you may catch a glimpse of its six sister planets, as visible as our Moon is from Earth. View on YouTube

Planet hop from TRAPPIST-1 e

Take a trip with the Exoplanet Travel Bureau to the fourth planet in the TRAPPIST-1 system, TRAPPIST-1 e, a world swimming in water in perpetual twilight. Its sister planets gracefully light up the sky, promising another adventure just a hop away.

Interact with the TRAPPIST-1 system in 3D

You can fly through the TRAPPIST-1 planets and see an artist's concept of the surfaces on your phone or with a desktop app. Compare each planet to Earth or Jupiter, compare the TRAPPIST-1 system to our solar system, and see how far the habitable zone extends. With the touch of a screen or the click of a mouse, you can visit the newly discovered TRAPPIST-1 system in the our Exoplanet Catalog. It contains every exoplanet discovery, powered by NASA's Exoplanet Archive, the official database used by professional astronomers engaged in exploring new worlds.

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Archived footage of the NASA news conference announcing the discovery of the seven TRAPPIST-1 planets on February 22, 2017.

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On Earth Day, Biden Spotlights Climate Investments to Contrast With Republicans

President Biden announced $7 billion more for solar power projects and pointed to a new a climate work force as he tries to galvanize young voters.

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By Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Brad Plumer

Zolan Kanno-Youngs reported from Triangle, Va., and Brad Plumer from Washington.

President Biden announced $7 billion in grants for solar power projects on Monday and tried to draw a contrast with Republicans who want to roll back his policies on climate change.

In remarks at Prince William Forest in Virginia, Mr. Biden said the money from his signature climate and energy law, the Inflation Reduction Act, would help provide solar power for hundreds of thousands of homes in disadvantaged communities.

“Despite the overwhelming devastation in red and blue states, there’s still those who deny climate is in crisis,” Mr. Biden said at the start of a week in which his top officials will fan out across the country to promote his environmental policy. “Our MAGA Republican friends don’t seem to think it’s a crisis.”

He also said the American Climate Corps, a new work force for people hoping to combat climate change, would create thousands of jobs for the next generation.

Mr. Biden’s Earth Day event comes as he tries to energize younger voters, many of whom are disillusioned with the 2024 candidates and infuriated over the administration’s handling of Israel’s war in Gaza.

On Monday, Mr. Biden tried to strike a middle ground when speaking about the turmoil on college campuses . Asked whether he condemned “the antisemitic protesters,” Mr. Biden said, “I condemn the antisemitic protests.” He added: “I also condemn those who don’t understand what’s going on with the Palestinians.”

Mr. Biden leads his Republican opponent, former President Donald J. Trump, among young voters, and many approve of his record on the environment when contrasted with Mr. Trump’s. Mr. Biden’s lead, however, is smaller than it was at this point during the 2020 election cycle, according to a Harvard Youth Poll released last week.

Another poll, from October , found that just 31 percent of voters younger than 30 were “satisfied” with Mr. Biden’s record on climate change.

Danielle Deiseroth, the executive director of Data for Progress, a left-leaning research firm, said Mr. Biden could use his efforts to combat climate change to bolster support among young voters.

“The bigger fear is not necessarily young voters turning out en masse for Trump. It’s them staying home,” Ms. Deiseroth said. “That’s where the climate stuff does come into play, to sort of energize and also to scare young people to coming out to vote.”

Mr. Biden has faced a messaging problem when it comes to the Inflation Reduction Act, his most consequential climate policy to date. The legislation contained hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits to help companies switch to low-carbon electricity sources like wind, solar and nuclear power. It also included billions in incentives for people to buy electric vehicles and electric heat pumps for their homes.

The law, signed in 2022, is already having ripple effects: Across the country, businesses have announced plans for more than 150 factories that would build electric vehicles, batteries, solar panels and wind turbines. Sales of electric cars and installations of large-scale solar power plants both hit record highs last year.

Yet polls suggest that few Americans seem to know about the law.

One potential problem is that many of the climate law’s outcomes are not yet fully visible. While companies have announced more than $100 billion in new manufacturing investments in states like Arizona, Georgia and Michigan, many of those factories are not yet up and running.

Some environmentalists have sought to publicize the law’s effects. Climate Power, a liberal advocacy group, plans to spend $80 million on election-year advertising to contrast Mr. Biden’s legislative accomplishments with the actions of Mr. Trump, who has mocked climate science and has vowed to roll back programs to promote clean energy.

Other climate activists have sharply criticized Mr. Biden for not doing enough to curtail fossil fuel drilling in the United States. U.S. oil and gas production soared to record highs last year. Many activists have focused anger on Mr. Biden’s approval of Willow , an $8 billion oil drilling project on pristine federal land in Alaska, and on federal approval of a natural gas pipeline from West Virginia to Virginia that has been opposed by environmentalists.

“President Biden has taken historic action on climate change and done more than any president in history to combat the climate crisis, but that bar is unfortunately quite low,” said Stevie O’Hanlon, the communications director for the Sunrise Movement, a group of young climate activists. “If Joe Biden wants to be seen as a climate president by young voters, he needs to decisively take action to end the fossil fuel era.”

In recent months, Mr. Biden has taken a series of steps to try to slow down domestic fossil fuel production. In January, the administration said it would pause the approval of new terminals that export liquefied natural gas in order to study the issue further. This month, the Interior Department said it would ban oil drilling across nearly 13 million acres in Alaska’s North Slope.

Lisa Friedman contributed reporting.

Zolan Kanno-Youngs is a White House correspondent, covering President Biden and his administration. More about Zolan Kanno-Youngs

Brad Plumer is a Times reporter who covers technology and policy efforts to address global warming. More about Brad Plumer

Our Coverage of the 2024 Election

Presidential Race

The number of Trump allies facing election interference charges keeps growing, and prosecutors are sending a warning as Donald Trump and his supporters continue  to spread conspiracy theories: that disrupting elections can bear a heavy legal cost.

Trump has vowed to “cancel” President Biden’s policies for cutting pollution from fossil-fuel-burning power plants, “terminate” efforts to encourage electric vehicles , and “develop the liquid gold that is right under our feet” by promoting oil and gas.

A campaign watchdog group filed a formal complaint to the Federal Election Commission accusing Trump’s presidential campaign  and related political committees of concealing payments of $7.2 million in legal fees in violation of campaign finance law.

Other Key Races

Scott Perry, the House Freedom Caucus stalwart and 2020 election denier, is confronting a general election challenge in a central Pennsylvania  district that has grown more competitive.

With the 2024 primary season entering the homestretch — and the presidential matchup already set — hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians  cast their ballots  in Senate and House contests  as well as for president and local races. Here are the takeaways .

David McCormick  won an unopposed Republican primary for Senate  in Pennsylvania, securing the party’s nomination two years after former Trump torpedoed his first Senate run by backing his primary rival, the celebrity physician Dr. Mehmet Oz.