edward jones trips of a lifetime

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Trips of a Lifetime

We all have our lists — what’s on yours?

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

A safari through Tanzania with friends. Cage diving with great white sharks in Australia. Boarding the highest railway in northern Europe. We all have our definition of a “trip of a lifetime,” but no matter what yours is, some experiences are so extraordinary, they change how we view the world. And while they're not always easy to reach, often requiring multiple modes of transportation (and even an adventurous spirit), the effort is always well worth the reward.

At Travel + Leisure , we’re devoted to turning our (and your) travel wishes into memories, so let this be the year you stop fantasizing about that once-in-a-lifetime trip and finally book it. Ready, set, get inspired.

Be supported. Grow your business. Realize your success.

As a financial advisor at Edward Jones, you’ll manage your own office, set your own goals and tailor solutions to meet clients’ needs – you are in control of your compensation. We provide a framework for expected performance as you progress through your career. With no ceiling on your compensation potential, it is tied to the effort you put forth.

Emerging Producer Transition Compensation

As an emerging producer transitioning to Edward Jones, your compensation is structured to reflect the level of your individual practice and designed to optimize your financial opportunity. Every financial advisor’s practice is unique and at varying stages of development, therefore how you are rewarded will be tailored to your situation. These compensation plans include the following base components:

• Commissions, fees and Standard Compensation components (see Standard Compensation chart below)

New asset compensation

Emerging Producers are financial advisors who are in the first few years of building their practice and/or anticipate having less than $30 million in assets under care during their first year with the firm.

Note: If you believe that you exceed these requirements, please review the Experienced Financial Advisor Compensation.

You will receive a supplemental salary for up to four years – giving you the support you need to build your practice

• Your supplemental salary will be based on a number of factors, including prior experience.
• This salary 1 will adjust as you grow your assets and commission level.

Commissions

As you partner with clients to help them achieve their financial goals across the arc of their lives, you’ll earn commissions 2 .

Commissions start at 9-10% and increase up to 27-30% during your first four years as a financial advisor, based on certain criteria and lifetime tenure as a financial advisor. We anticipate financial advisors are likely to increase their commission payouts approximately every 6 months. In year five, they are likely to increase to 36-40%.

In addition to salary and commissions, you have the potential to maximize your earnings through qualifying new assets gathered through year five. For every $1 million in qualified new assets you bring to the firm, you can earn $4,000 through year 4 and $2,000 in year 5.

Sample compensation schedule for Emerging Producers*

Commissions, salary and new asset bonuses are just the beginning.

As your compensation increases in your first years, it is possible that your total payout can hit 50% when you add in travel awards, profit sharing and, in the past, the potential for a limited partnership opportunity**.

Bonuses paid as you earn them.

Bonuses and other variable compensation can make up a significant percentage of your compensation. We don’t hold your bonuses captive to entice you to stay. We structure all bonus opportunities to be paid as you earn them on a trimester basis – so you can get rewarded for your hard work sooner and reach your full potential faster.

• Trimester profitability bonuses – You may earn trimester bonuses, based on the profitability of the firm and your individual branch office. This component is designed to reward financial advisors over and above your regular earnings when your efforts produce a bonus-eligible profit for your branch. Eligibility for the next trimester begins immediately once paid. (For more detail, see Profit and loss statement section below.)

Profit and loss statement

With our entrepreneurial business model, you operate your own office and have the freedom to build your pra ctice your way. You are rewarded for the profit and bonus opportunities you create – with no managers in the branch to take a cut.

Each financial advisor receives a branch profit and loss statement, which includes all revenue and expenses attributable to your branch, minus an allocation for firm support. Branch expenses typically include 3 :

• Financial advisor earnings
• Branch staff payroll
• Occupancy expenses
• Equipment and access charges
• Telephone, postage, licenses, etc.

Your branch profitability bonus is based on a combination of the firm’s and the branch’s profit. Your branch’s profit is determined by a simple formula:

• Gross Revenue
• – Expenses
• – Firm Support
• Branch Profit

Branch profitability bonuses are calculated and paid on a trimester basis, based on the firm’s current bonus level and the branch’s individual profit.

Profit sharing

As part of “our share the work – share the rewards” culture, each year we distribute a portion of the firm’s net profits in the form of profit sharing. Over the past 10 years, the annual contribution has averaged 4.28% of a financial advisor’s total compensation (including bonuses). This retirement contribution immediately vests upon payment 4 .

Travel awards

Our Travel Award Program recognizes you for building your practice with strong client relationships. These trips promote knowledge sharing among financial advisors in a relaxed setting where you can recharge.

About half qualify

Travel awards aren’t reserved for just a few top advisors. In the past five years, about half of our financial advisors have earned a trip.

Two chances to earn each year

We offer two six-month qualification periods each year. You also have the flexibility to combine two trips into one “Super Trip.” Trip values average $5,000 to $8,000 for two people and $15,000 for a Super Trip.

All trips include spouses or domestic partners – and many welcome families. Some recent trips have taken our financial advisors to:

• Venice, Italy
• Bali, Indonesia
• Athens, Greece
• Dublin, Ireland
• Turks & Caicos

Partnership

In the past, certain financial advisors have had the opportunity to make a limited partnership investment in Edward Jones’ parent company, The Jones Financial Companies, L.L.L.P. (JFC), a Missouri limited liability limited partnership. Eligibility to participate in a limited partnership offering has historically required, among other things, financial advisors to meet certain tenure and performance requirements. As of January 1, 2023, over 34,000 Edward Jones associates, including financial advisors, branch office administrators and home office associates are limited partners of JFC.**

Important Information

**Limited partnership is a security and can only be acquired through a securities offering that complies with the securities laws. The offering of limited partnership can only be made through a registered offering document or pursuant to an exemption. There is no assurance that the firm will engage in future offerings of limited partnership or that the offering criteria will be the same as in the past. Invitation to participate in any offering is at the discretion of the firm.

1 All employee financial advisors receive minimum guaranteed salary (MGS) in an amount determined by federal and state law. MGS does not fluctuate and is paid regardless of quality or quantity of work performed. 2 Your commission payout is subject to the firm’s earning conditions. 3 Financial Advisors may incur additional branch expenses. 4 While the firm has made profit sharing contributions consistently over the past 10 years, please note that it is still discretionary.

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20 Trips of a Lifetime to Take in 2020

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Make 2020 your most adventurous year yet by signing up for one of these trips of a lifetime. Hike on drift ice in Japan, sail to one of the world’s most remote and beautiful UNESCO sites, cycle through the best of Jordan on your way to Petra: These journeys are unlike any trip you’ve ever taken before.

Ultimate Seychelles with Aldabra Atoll: Exodus Travels

This once-in-a-lifetime journey visits Aldabra Atoll, one of the most remote UNESCO World Heritage sites on the planet. Hidden away from the impact of humans, Aldabra has managed to sustain a population of 152,000 giant tortoises. This is the trip for wildlife enthusiasts: The clear waters of the Seychelles are home to 850 species of brilliantly colored fish that you’ll visit on snorkel and dive excursions.

East Greenland Arctic Safari: Natural Habitat Adventures

Most tours of Greenland barely scratch the surface of this remote country, shuttling passengers on and off of cruise ships for limited excursions. To really immerse yourself in Greenland, join Natural Habitat Adventure’s East Greenland Arctic Safari , a nine-day adventure centered around Natural Habitat’s unique luxury base camp near the edge of the Greenland ice sheet. You’ll be in one of the world’s most remote locations (with a maximum of only 11 other travelers in your group), but still have access to hot showers and gourmet meals. You’ll spend your days exploring the surrounding water, meeting the local Inuit villagers, kayaking, and more.

Highlights of the Frozen Continent: Chimu Adventures

Will 2020 be the year you finally check off your seventh continent? Chimu Adventures makes Antarctica more accessible with its surprisingly affordable Highlights of the Frozen Continent Cruise . On this 12-day trip you’ll set foot on the peninsula, delight in the company of hundreds of penguins, spot whales, and enjoy exploring relatively untouched territory.

Galapagos Multisport with Quito: G Adventures

Kayaking, snorkeling, biking, and surfing—you won’t be bored on G Adventures’ Galapagos Multisport trip (but you will have plenty of time to lounge on the beach if you choose). This adventure hits the highlights of Quito and the Galapagos, starting in Ecuador’s fun-filled capital before cruising between the islands of Santa Cruz, Floreana, and Isabela. You’ll make friends with giant tortoises, pay a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, and hike up a volcano to the world’s second-largest crater.

Jordan Cycling Holiday: Saddle Skedaddle

Slow down and see the best of Jordan on Saddle Skeddaddle’s eight-day cycling trip . You’ll ride to popular spots such as Wadi Rum, Amman, and Petra, while also exploring secret spots like the Ajloun Forest Reserve and the Madaba Plateau. Your reward for all that riding? Soaks in the Dead Sea and traditional Bedouin feasts.

A Food and Wine Adventure Through Tuscany and Piedmont with America’s Test Kitchen: EF Go Ahead Tours

Foodies, this is the tour that you’ve been waiting for. EF Go Ahead Tours has teamed up with America’s Test Kitchen for a one-of-a-kind, food- and wine-fueled adventure through Italy’s best culinary regions. You’ll sample truffles at the Alba White Truffle Fair, taste wines from local vineyards, learn how to make pasta from a Bolognian chef, and get a true sample of Italian culture. We’re already salivating.

Druk Path Trek, Bhutan: Exodus Travels

The tiny country of Bhutan has exploded in popularity recently, but fortunately, the nation’s strict restrictions on tourism mean you’ll still have an authentic visit if you go. For a real adventure, sign on to Exodus Travels’ Druk Path Trek Tour , which combines an incredibly scenic multi-day hike from Paro to Thimpu with time spent exploring the culture of Bhutan’s cities and villages. Pick one of the departures that coincides with Bhutan’s festivals for an unforgettably colorful and fun experience.

Kazakhstan Adventure: Intrepid Travel

Kazakhstan might just be the most unfamiliar place you’ve ever been. This far-flung country is home to a unique culture and landscape you won’t find anywhere else. Intrepid Travel’s Kazakhstan Adventure takes you to the former Soviet space port of Baikonur, along the Silk Road ruins of Sayram and Otrar, on hikes through Altyn-Emel National Park, and definitely out of your comfortable routine.

Hokkaido Winter Tour: Oku Japan

The crowds will descend on Tokyo for the 2020 Summer Olympics. Get off the tourist pack by visiting in winter, for Oku Japan’s Hokkaido Winter Tour . This self-guided adventure lets you set your own pace as you explore Hokkaido, Japan’s second-largest island. You’ll visit national parks, trek on drift ice, and snowshoe through UNESCO World Heritage nature reserves before unwinding in the country’s famous onsen hot springs at the end of each day.

Egypt Adventure: Intrepid Travel

For less than $900 you could spend a week cruising the Nile on a traditional felucca, exploring the ancient pyramids, and tasting everything in sight at Cairo’s bazaars. Intrepid Travel’s Egypt Adventure tour is light on cost but heavy on action. You’ll travel by train, boat, and bus through Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, experiencing Egypt’s famous hospitality.

Sailing Croatia: Dubrovnik to Split: G Adventures

Croatia’s coast is one of Europe’s most stunning. Explore it at a leisurely pace, sailing on a small yacht from Dubrovnik to Split, on G Adventures’ Croatia sailing tour . You’ll spend eight days aboard a small ship with just seven other travelers. When you’re not on the boat, you’ll be taking excursions to Mljet National Park, exploring Korcula (Marco Polo’s birthplace), tasting wine at local vineyards, and much more.

Canadian Rockies Hiking Plus: REI Adventures

The Canadian Rockies were practically designed for adventure. REI Adventures’ Canadian Rockies Hiking Plus action-packed trip begins in tourist hotspot Lake Louise but quickly gets you away from the crowd, as experienced guides lead you up hidden hiking trails. Each day will bring a new, exhilarating activity—like whitewater rafting in Yoho or hiking on the Columbia Icefield.

Cuba Multi-Adventure Tour: Backroads

You can still visit Cuba legally, despite new restrictions. ( Backroads’ Cuba Multi-Adventure Tour falls under the “Support for the Cuban People” category.) This trip offers a much deeper look at the country, getting you outside the main cities and into less touristy areas via bike rides and hikes. This tour is designed to help you connect with locals in a meaningful fashion, giving you the chance to take salsa classes, share meals, and engage with Cubans.

New Zealand: South Island Adventure: National Geographic Expeditions

New Zealand is famed for its Great Walks, a collection of stunning trails around the country. Hike three of them on National Geographic Expeditions’ South Island Adventure , a 12-day trip that showcases the highlights of the South Island. In addition to some epic trekking, you’ll get to sea kayak in Abel Tasman National Park, helicopter into Mount Aspiring National Park, and cruise around Milford Sound.

Georgia: Walking in the Svaneti Mountains: Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel

Georgia is one of Europe’s trendiest destinations right now. This undiscovered gem has remained off of most tourists’ itineraries until recently, so you can still avoid the crowds and have an authentic adventure. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel’s Georgia Walking Tour showcases the country’s wild side, with plenty of hikes in the Svaneti Mountains mixed with cultural experiences like a visit to the remote village of Adishi, home to just 12 families.

Alaska Rafting on the Tatshenshini River: OARS

Rwanda Primate Adventure: Mountain Travel Sobek

Seeing mountain gorillas in the wild is a trip of a lifetime that you can make happen on Mountain Travel Sobek’s Rwanda Primate Adventure . With the guidance of expert rangers, you’ll track gorillas through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, getting a rare chance to see these majestic creatures up close. You’ll also focus your search on another rare creature—the golden monkey.

Epic Outdoor Adventures in Slovenia: Exodus Travels

The title of the trip says it all: This vacation is all about epic outdoor adventures. Exodus Travels’ Slovenia adventure showcases this country’s extreme sports scene. You’ll paddleboard on Lake Bohinj, rappel down waterfalls in the Soca Valley, and zip-line over the Isonzo River, against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. There will also be plenty of time to bring your heart rate back down to normal, with more sedate adventures like dinner at a castle, a chocolate tasting, and a scenic train ride.

Bike Tour: Connemara and the Aran Islands: Wilderness Ireland

Get all the benefits of a bike tour (a relaxed pace, exercise, and access to off-the-beaten-path scenery) without all the downsides (having to carry all your luggage, worries about bicycle breakdowns) on Wilderness Ireland’s Connemara and the Aran Islands bike tour. On two wheels, you’ll ride around the Aran Islands, through the Burren, and along the Wild Atlantic Way. Wilderness Ireland will guide you every pedal of the way (and transport all your stuff between each stop, so you can ride light).

Chile and Argentina: Solar Eclipse Adventure: Boundless Journeys

Can you imagine anything more magical than witnessing a rare solar eclipse from the prime vantage point of Argentina’s Piedra del Aguila? On Boundless Journeys’ Chile and Argentina tour you’ll witness that phenomenon and much more. Think hiking through Patagonia, beer tasting at a local microbrewery, and dancing in Buenos Aires.

For more ideas, see The Top Travel Destinations for 2020 .

More from SmarterTravel:

• 9 Epic Hut-to-Hut Hiking Trips
• What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials
• 7 Adventure Tours You’ll Need a Doctor’s Note For

Caroline Morse Teel is a Senior Editor at SmarterTravel. Follow her on Instagram @travelwithcaroline .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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What Is That Book About

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Review: Journeys of a Lifetime, Second Edition: 500 of the World's Greatest Trips by National Geographic

Buy on Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Hardcover: 416 pages

Publisher: National Geographic; Revised, Updated edition (October 23, 2018)

Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated and lesser-known destinations around the globe, from ocean cruises in Antarctica to horse treks in the Andes. Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary.

Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic’s legendary travel writers, this fully updated, 10th anniversary edition of Journeys of a Lifetime spans the globe to highlight the best of the world’s most celebrated and lesser-known sojourns. Offering a diverse array of possibilities, every continent and possible form of transport is covered, illustrated with glorious color photographs. With 16 new pages; new destinations like Cartegena, Colombia; and updated information throughout, this timely new edition is the perfect resource for travelers who crave adventurous trips–from trekking the heights of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to mountain biking in Transylvania–and those searching for more specific experiences (the world’s top small cruises, hot new museums around the world, secrets for following in the footsteps of film and TV heroes, and more). Each chapter features stunning photography, full-color maps, and practical tips, including how to get there, when to visit, and how to make the most of your journey.

Informative and inspiring, this luxurious volume is a lifelong resource that readers will treasure for years to come.

How many times have you been in that situation trying to decide where to go for a vacation? Or you create a bucket list of places to go around the world? Forget about all that because once you check out Journeys of a Lifetime , it would really take you a lifetime because you'd want to visit every place in this book. This is a really fantastic reference book, not to mention great to browse through to see the different places visually. The book really inspire you to want to travel the world be it by land, water or other. Revised and updated, it highlights some of the best places around the world. Gorgeous pictures as always. Not less in expectations from NG. Every chapter is so resourceful. It gives you tips, highlights info, covers ever means of travel, when to go, how long, when to plan, inside info and travel resources to assist you.

Overall, I loved it. I'm a traveler and this gives me so many great ideas. I may not get to go to some of these places but I sure will recommend to others. For those of you out there who love to travel, this is one that I would definitely grab a copy to check it out.

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Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

Trips of a Lifetime: inspiration for booking your bucket list travel

When I was younger my goals revolved around work and family. I had no time, energy, or money to consider trips of a lifetime. Mortgages, school expenses, braces, etc., ate up most of our cash (though we did manage to squeeze in some great trips with the kids to the National Parks and twice to Europe!). If you’d asked me what my travel future would be, I’d likely have been dreaming of summers by the beach and an occasional trip to Paris. I never thought that regular people like me could go on a safari, or cruise down the Nile. But when a friend went to Africa to celebrate a big birthday, I began to realize that (some of) these bucket list trips are possible if you want them badly enough. By planning, prioritizing, and saving, I’ve had some extraordinary adventures. And you can too!

What are trips of a lifetime?

These are the Bucket List trips – the ultimate travel destinations we dream about. For some that might be New York City, for others India. Some may want a physical challenge, and some may want to be pampered. Our dreams are as individual as we are.

Some people don’t like ‘bucket lists.’ But I find having a list of anything – errands, activities, or books – increases my likelihood to get stuff done. I didn’t have an ‘official’ travel list until we retired and suddenly, we had opportunities we hadn’t had before. Whereas before we planned vacations on a whim, with a prioritized list we’ve organized our travel and reached for more of our trips of a lifetime.

Prioritizing is key. A few years ago we jumped on a friend’s suggestion to travel to Alaska. We’d always wanted to see Alaska, so this seemed a great idea. But when we looked at our combined priorities, we noted that Alaska was way down the list, far below out #1 destination – Costa Rica . We opted to skip the trip and went to Costa Rica instead. We’ll get to Alaska some day, but only when it’s our top choice!

As older adults we know that now is the time to turn our dreams into plans. Top travel bloggers share suggestions for the Best Trips to Take in Your 60s .

Create your Trips of a Lifetime list

1. make a list of all the places you’ve dreamt of going – your bucket list trips..

This is the time to brainstorm and dream.

Make a list of all the places you’ve dreamed of going. Don’t discount any cool travel ideas. Just write it all down. Consider your passions, the things that make you happy. Are you …

( click on a topic for brainstorming suggestions )

• An art aficionado ?
• A beach lover ?
• A history buff ?
• A foodie or wine lover ?
• A hiker and camper ?
• A music lover ?
• A thrill seeker ?
• A sports fan ?
• A book lover ?
• An animal lover ?
• The family historian ?
• ______________________ fill in your dream!

We’ve listed some ideas below, but would love to have you add suggestions for other dream locations in the comments!

2. Cross out anything on your list that is unattainable

Unfortunately some dreams may be physically impossible and we need to accept that. But before you cross off the idea, look to see if you can modify your dream to something that is possible. For example, most of us can’t climb Mt. Everest, but if that’s been our dream, maybe we could make a trek to base camp in Nepal.

Other destinations may be too dangerous to visit now, but might be possible in a few years. Keep those on your list with a note to reconsider in a few years.

3. Set priorities

What is most important to you? This can be difficult if you have a lot of bucket list trips. Consider that you were getting a opportunity to go to any of your picks. Which would you choose? Then consider you didn’t get an opportunity to take the trips. Which would you be most disappointed to have missed?

If you travel with a partner, each should set their priorities separately and then discuss.

Note: I use a spreadsheet to list and evaluate our options. This is an easy way to see what trips will fulfill both my husband and my priorities. Neither one of us may get our #1 pick, but we know we’ll both be happy with #2.

4. Estimate costs for the top priority trips.

Estimate airfare, car rental, or other transportation expense, cost of accommodations and meals, and anticipated activities. Add the cost of travel insurance if you expect you’ll need that. Divide by the number of days to get a sense of how pricey the trip is.

5. Be realistic about your abilities and your budget.

Abilities and Fitness Level – Can we really keep up with the proposed itinerary? For example,

• We bike a lot at home, but can we bike 8-10 hours a day through Europe? Would it be better to book one or two day tours in between a more leisurely vacation? Or as we did, book a bike and barge trip in the Netherlands with our friends of similar fitness levels.
• African safaris involve long flights , very early mornings, and climbing into safari vehicles. This might be difficult with mobility issues.

Budget – Can we really afford the trip? Is there a less pricey option? Or could we establish a savings plan towards the cost of the trip?

Consider traveling in the off season, or shoulder season to save some money. Combining destinations can save you money in the long run.

If budgeting will take an extended time, consider scheduling a lower priority, but less expensive trip, while you save. Check to see if there are destinations closer to home that might satisfy your passion. For example, if you live in North America-

• For history, beaches, cycling, and culture head to New England. Boston or Plymouth .
• There are mountains, ocean, and art in Seattle, WA and the Pacific Northwest .
• The Canadian and U.S. National Parks are phenomenal destinations for adventures, history, and fun.
• Costa Rica is a nature lovers dream and quite reasonably priced!
• Beach lovers will love Hawaii , Puerto Rico and the islands of the Caribbean.
• Those looking forward to experiencing a formal tea in London, can find some of the best afternoon tea spots in the U.S. and Canada.

Consider your future abilities as well.

As older travelers the ‘future abilities’ is most important. We’re active now, but know that’s not guaranteed in the future.

Dave and I have chosen to take the more physically difficult journeys first and have deferred the more sedate ones. We are booked for Machu Picchu next year, and look forward to European river cruises when we’re a bit older.

6. Choose a trip that is within reach physically, financially, and satisfies all travelers priorities. Compromise is key here.

You’ll probably come up with two or more trips that meet your criteria, as we did in our spreadsheet above. You’ll have to decide which ones to do first and which ones will need more planning time.

In our analysis, three trips tied for top priority – Galapagos and Machu Picchu, Costa Rica, and New Zealand. At the time, New Zealand was closed to visitors, so we put that aside until it became a viable option. We booked Costa Rica (traveled 1/2022) and began researching the Galapagos and Machu Picchu trip (now booked for 4/2023)

7. Pick a time frame based on how long it will take to reserve and budget for the trip, etc. Then Book Your Trip!

Once you’ve chosen your destination, begin planning for sustainable options for tours and lodging. If this trip is YOUR trip of a lifetime, it’s likely someone else’s too. Let’s make sure our tourism contributes to preserving these beautiful spots.

Click on the pin to read more about a dream destination.

Inspiration for your Trips of a Lifetime

10 Easy Steps to Plan the Best Luxury Safari in Africa (2024)

An African wildlife safari is the ultimate bucket list trip. It is at once a wilderness adventure and a luxury retreat. If you have ever…

Visiting Petra: Everything to Know About the Rose City (2024)

If there’s anything more fun than planning a trip, it’s planning with a like-minded friend. I’m fortunate to have one of those friends. We research…

5 Best Reasons to Visit Costa Rica: Pura Vida Ecotourism

Costa Rica has been on my travel wish list for years. In fact it was so high on the list that we’d considered moving to…

The Big 15 and More Reasons to Visit the Enchanted Galápagos Islands

Welcome to the extraordinary world of the Galápagos Islands, a paradise for nature lovers. Visiting the Galápagos is a chance to experience nature nearly untouched…

How to Plan a Perfect (relaxing!) European Vacation

How to plan a trip to Europe which is both exciting and relaxing. Combine city days with slow travel to make the most of your…

See the Best of Egypt with a Luxury Group Tour

Traveling to Egypt is on most people’s Bucket List. Who wouldn’t want to cruise the Nile River? See the famous landmarks in Cairo and Luxor?…

Ideas to Help You Choose Your Trips of a Lifetime

Art Destinations

• Acropolis Museum
• Egyptian Museum
• Louvre – Paris
• Gaudi’s architecture – Barcelona
• Metropolitan Museum – NYC
• Vatican Museums – Rome

Wine & Food Travel

• Champagne-Ardenne – France
• Istanbul – Turkey
• Mendoza – Argentina
• Napa – USA
• New Orleans – USA
• Tuscany – Italy

Birding Hotspots

• Everglades NP – USA
• Manu NP – Peru

Music Destinations

• Barcelona – Spain
• Buenos Aires – Argentina
• Broadway – USA
• Havana – Cuba
• Nashville – USA
• Sydney Opera House – Australia
• Vienna – Austria

Dream Beaches

Camping & hiking.

• Antelope Canyon
• Appalachian Trail – USA
• Canadian Rockies
• Camino de Santiago – Spain
• U.S. National Parks
• Wadi Rum, Jordan

Animal Wilderness

• Galapagos Islands
• Kenya/Tanzania
• Okavango Delta – Botswana
• South Africa
• Whale watching in New England – USA
• Yellowstone NP – USA

Historical & UNESCO Sites

• Angkor Wat – Cambodia
• Berlin Wall – Germany
• Dubrovnik – Croatia
• Forbidden City – China
• Ha Long Bay – Vietnam
• Machu Picchu – Peru
• Pyramids – Egypt
• Rhodes – Greece
• Venice – Italy

For Thrill Seekers

• Grand Canyon – USA
• New Zealand
• Victoria Falls – Zambia & Zimbabwe

Literary Destinations

• Stratford-on-Avon – UK
• Trinity College Library – Dublin
• Prince Edward Island – Anne of Green Gables
• Rome – Angels and Demons

For Sports Fans

• Boston Marathon – USA
• Kentucky Derby – USA
• Olympics – ???
• St. Andrews golf – Scotland
• Tour de France
• Wimbledon – UK

Do you have a bucket list? We’ve shared ours on our Favorites and Still to Do page.

Books to Inspire Your Trips of a Lifetime List

• 1000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz
• The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big & Small by Kath Stathers
• Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert (fiction. Free with Audible trial)
• World’s Best Travel Experiences – National Geographic

Find more books on select destinations – Reading the World

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6 thoughts on “ Trips of a Lifetime: inspiration for booking your bucket list travel ”

My top priority trip has to be New Zealand.

Love this list! I’ve done Antarctica and can say it’s changed my entire perspective on our world and Mother Nature!

Ooh, I’d love to see Antarctica someday!

This is pretty much my bucket list right here – I’ve ticked off a few but still working on it.

Lots of great trips. Top of my list is doing a big lap of Australia – having travelled extensively abroad, I’m finally finding the time to travel my place of birth.

Great planning suggestions! I’m glad I do most of it and slowly ticking off things from my bucket list.

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Luxury Travel to Canada: Trips of A Lifetime

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