A travel bucket list is a compilation of destinations or experiences that an individual aspires to visit or accomplish during their lifetime. It typically includes dream destinations, unique activities, or cultural experiences that hold personal significance or intrigue!! I have already ticked off things from the list but I have so much work to do…
Have you ever thought that there are some things you would like to do or experiences to have before you die?
Let me share with you my travel BUCKET LIST!
1.Hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia in Turkey
A hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia in Turkey is a popular and breathtaking experience!! Cappadocia is known for its unique landscape, characterized by fairy chimneys, rock formations, and cave houses. The hot air balloon rides usually take place early in the morning, every day depending on the weather conditions allowing passengers to witness the sunrise over Cappadocia, creating a magical and colorful sky. The balloons drift gently over the surreal landscape, offering panoramic views of the rocky valleys, ancient cave dwellings, and the distinctive rock formations. The experience is serene, and the quiet journey in the balloon allows for a peaceful and awe-inspiring appreciation of the natural beauty of Cappadocia.
Many companies in Cappadocia offer hot air balloon rides, and it’s necessary to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. For me, it was a truly magical experience that I consider must do when there!
Read more in my relevant blog post here.
2.Safari in Africa
An African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that allows travelers to experience the incredible wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich cultures of the African continent. Some famous parks you can choose for an unforgettable safari experience are:
- Kruger National Park in South Africa, known for its abundance of wildlife and diverse ecosystems.
- Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, where I went, renowned for the annual Great Migration, where vast herds of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains. Read more for my safari trip here.
- Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya with spectacular wildlife viewing, especially during the migration and home to the Maasai people.
- Chobe National Park in Botswana known for its large elephant population and riverfront wildlife.
3.Witness the Northern lights in Iceland or Scandinavia!
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display that occurs in the polar regions of the Earth. This captivating phenomenon is caused by the interaction between charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field. The Northern Lights are typically visible in high-latitude regions near the Arctic Circle. Countries such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Canada, and Russia offer excellent viewing opportunities. They are more commonly observed during the winter months due to the longer nights from March and September.
Some popular destinations for Northern Lights viewing include Tromsø in Norway, Abisko in Sweden, Reykjavik in Iceland, Fairbanks in Alaska, and Yellowknife in Canada. Read more about my experience with Northern lights in Iceland here.
4.Take a road trip along the Route 66 in USA
The most EPIC experience! Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is a historic highway in the United States that stretches from Chicago in Illinois to Santa Monica in California. The route covers a distance of approximately 2,448 miles (3,940 kilometers) and passes through 8 states like llinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and ending in California.
Its historical significance and nostalgic appeal continue to attract travelers seeking a classic American road trip experience!! Not an easy trip but a MUST do in your life!
5.Get stunned by the Giza Pyramids in Egypt.
The Giza Pyramids, located on the Giza area near Cairo in Egypt, are among the most iconic and well-known archaeological sites in the world. They are part of the larger Giza Necropolis, which also includes the Sphinx and several smaller pyramids. There are 3 main pyramids, built during the 04th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom of Ancient Egypt : the Great Pyramid of Giza (Pyramid of Khufu) which is the largest of the 3, the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure which is the smallest. You can read more about my trip to Egypt here.
6.Walk along the Great wall of China.
The Great Wall is a series of fortifications built to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire. While not a single continuous wall, it consists of multiple walls and watchtowers built by various dynasties over the centuries. Some sections of the Great Wall are open to tourists and hikers, offering a unique and challenging trekking experience.
7.Visit the Colosseum in Rome.
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an iconic ancient Roman amphitheater located in the center of Rome, Italy. The symbol of Rome!! People can explore the interior of the Colosseum, learn about its history through exhibits, and enjoy panoramic views of Rome from its upper levels. The Colosseum stands as a symbol of ancient Roman engineering and entertainment, and its grandeur continues to captivate visitors from around the world. You can read more about my trip to Rome here.
8.Cruise through the majestic fjords of Norway
A cruise through the majestic fjords of Norway is a breathtaking and unforgettable experience. Norway is renowned for its stunning fjords, which are deep, narrow inlets with steep cliffs or mountains on either side, carved out by glacial activity.
9.Experience the Day of the Dead celebration in Mexico.
The Day of the Dead, or “Día de los Muertos” in Spanish, is a vibrant and significant Mexican holiday that celebrates and honors deceased loved ones. The celebration typically takes place in Mexico from end of October to November 2nd, overlapping with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
During the Day of the Dead, families come together to remember and commemorate the lives of those who have passed away. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and expressing love and respect for deceased relatives and friends. Contrary to its name, the atmosphere is festive and joyful, as it is seen as a way to celebrate the lives of the departed rather than mourn their deaths. Read more about my trip to Mexico city here!
10.Experience the Cherry blossom season in Japan
Cherry blossoms, known as “sakura” in Japanese, are an iconic symbol of Japan and one of the most celebrated natural phenomena in the country. Here are key details about cherry blossoms in Japan. Cherry blossoms typically bloom in spring, usually between late March and early May, depending on the region and weather conditions. The timing can vary each year.
11.Husky & reindeer safari in Lapland.
A Husky and Reindeer Safari in Lapland offers a unique and memorable experience, allowing participants to enjoy the stunning Arctic landscapes while interacting with two of the region’s iconic animals. Lapland, located in the northern parts of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia, is known for its pristine wilderness and is often associated with the magical ambiance of the Arctic Circle. 2 must do winter experiences in Lapland are reindeer sledding and husky ride! Read more here.
12.Get splashed at Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a world-famous natural wonder located on the border between the United States and Canada situated on the Niagara River, which drains Lake Erie into Lake Ontario.
13.Experience the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.
The Rio de Janeiro Carnival is one of the most famous and vibrant carnival celebrations in the world. Held annually in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this event is known for its lively atmosphere, colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and energetic samba music! It typically takes place in the days leading up to Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and reflection before Easter in the Christian calendar. It is an unforgettable experience that showcases the creativity and spirit of the Brazilian people that couldn’t not be in my list!
14.Discover the ancient wonders of Petra in Jordan
Petra is a renowned archaeological site located in the southwestern desert of Jordan. It is often referred to as the “Rose City” due to the color of the stone from which it is carved. Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, soooo stunning! Read more for my Jordan trip here!
15.Admire the Tulips field in the Netherlands
Fields of tulips are a colorful and iconic sight, especially in regions where tulips are cultivated and celebrated. One of the most famous locations for tulip fields is the Netherlands, known for its vibrant tulip season. The peak season for tulips in the Netherlands typically occurs in spring, usually from late March to early May.
16.Swim in the crystal clear waters of the Maldives and Bora Bora in French Polynesia
The Maldives is a tropical paradise comprised of 26 atolls, situated in the Indian Ocean southwest of Sri Lanka and India. Known for its stunning coral reefs, turquoise waters, and luxurious overwater bungalows, the Maldives is a popular destination for honeymooners, scuba divers, and those seeking a tranquil island getaway. The absolute paradise to relax!
17.Island hopping in Greece.
Greece is amazing during all seasons! But its summer is absolutely spectacular with incredible islands you can visit, each one with its own charm! Island hopping in Greece is a popular and delightful way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories. Greece is an archipelagic country with over 6,000 islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas. However, only around around 250 islands are inhabited. Some of the most popular island groups for island hopping include the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Ionian Islands, and the Sporades.
18.Witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat in Cambodia is a mesmerizing and spiritual experience. Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic and well-preserved temple complexes in the world. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is a bucket-list experience for many travelers, offering a chance to witness the beauty of this ancient temple against the backdrop of a stunning sunrise. It’s a magical moment that captures the essence of the rich history and cultural significance of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
19.Visit an ice hotel & restaurant!
Visiting an ice hotel or an ice restaurant can be a unique and memorable experience, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in a frozen wonderland. Ice hotels and restaurnats are temporary structures made entirely of ice and snow. They are typically rebuilt every winter season in regions with cold climates. I visited a hotel and a restaurant in Lapland! Read more about my trip there in the relevant post I wrote here.
20.Discover the Taj Mahal in India.
The Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic and renowned landmarks in the world, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. It is located in Agra, in the northern part of India, along the banks of the Yamuna River. It is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements of Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural traditions.
21.Discover the Amazon Rainforest & river.
The Amazon Rainforest and River are 2 of the most remarkable and biodiverse natural features on the planet. The Amazon Rainforest is located in South America, spanning across 9 countries: Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
It is the largest rainforest in the world, covering an area of approximately 5.5 million square kilometers (2.1 million square miles). The Amazon is home to an incredibly diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world!!
22.Swim in a cenote in Mexico
A cenote is a natural sinkhole or pit resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock, exposing the groundwater beneath. Cenotes are a distinctive geological feature found in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico and they are absolutely impressive! Every single of them is unique and different than the other, try to visit as many as you can! Read more about Quintana Roo state where you can find many cenotes in my blog post here.
23.Admire the Moai statues in Easter island in Polynesia.
Easter Island is a remote island in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, known for its archaeological sites and the iconic Moai statues. It is a territory of Chile. The Moai statues on Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, are iconic and mysterious monolithic figures that hold great cultural and historical significance.
24.Sail on Ha Long Bay in Vietnam.
Hạ Long Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a breathtaking natural wonder known for its emerald waters, thousands of limestone karsts and islets, and lush greenery!
25.Drink wine with the view of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Paris, often referred to as the “City of Light,” is a global cultural hub known for its iconic landmarks, art, and culinary delights. The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, is a must-visit attraction!! You have to visit and admire it at least once in your life! Read more about Paris here.
26.Dive on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
Diving on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is an extraordinary experience, offering the opportunity to explore one of the world’s most diverse and vibrant marine ecosystems. It is located off the northeast coast of Australia, stretching over 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) and encompassing a vast area of coral reefs, islands, and marine life.
27.Explore the historic wonders of Machu Picchu in Peru.
Machu Picchu, located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level is one of the most iconic and well-preserved archaeological sites in the world. This ancient Inca citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year.
28.Enjoy the view from MBS rooftop in Singapore.
The MBS rooftop in Singapore refers to the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands, an iconic integrated resort located in the heart of Singapore. The rooftop of Marina Bay Sands is absolutely stunning, home to the spectacular Sands SkyPark, an architectural marvel that offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding areas.
29.Trek to Everest Base Camp for breathtaking views.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a challenging and rewarding adventure that offers breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest. It is situated in the Khumbu region of the Himalayas in Nepal.
30. Visit a Christmas market in Europe during late November/December
Europe is known for its enchanting Christmas markets, offering festive atmospheres and a variety of seasonal delights. Some popular Christmas markets are in Strasbourg, Alsace, Brussels, Munich, Prague, Vienna, Cologne, Budapest , Zurich and many more! A must do for me, I am trying to visit at least one every Christmas period!
31. Explore the glaciers and landscapes of Patagonia
Exploring the glaciers and landscapes of Patagonia is a breathtaking adventure that takes you to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the southernmost regions of Argentina and Chile.
32. Have a ride with a vintage car in Havana
Havana, the vibrant capital of Cuba, is a city known for its rich history, lively culture, and colorful architecture!! When I was there, I felt like I was back in time! Stroll around Old Havana and have a ride with a vintage car from the 1950s!
* Check my Instagram profile for more *
IG: angeliki.a_