Travel bucket lists are something all travelers create at one stage in their lives. Whether it’s a bucket list of the top countries you want to visit, natural wonders you want to see, or adventures aiming to push you out of your comfort zone, a bucket list can help define your travel future. Luckily, we’ve rounded up the top 5 places that should be on your travel bucket list.
Iceland
Iceland is one of those countries you arrive in and are slightly overwhelmed by the endless amount of things to see and do. Almost everything in the country is a natural spectacle and breathtakingly beautiful. From staying out in the freezing cold night to catch a glimpse of the famous Northern Lights to soaking in the thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, Iceland is postcard-worthy in every sense. If you prefer less strenuous activities, head to the haunting yet lovely black beaches for a day unwinding, or visit the spectacular Dynjandi waterfalls in the Westfjords part of Iceland.
Bali
Over the past few years, Bali has become a place that everyone has put on their travel bucket list! This Indonesian island is being added to backpacking itineraries without a second thought, and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning beaches, many, many beautiful temples, and a huge range of healthy food options wherever you go, Bali ticks so many boxes. Exciting activities include taking an early morning trek and sunrise at Mount Batur and visiting the Bali Swing, the Ubud Monkey Forest and the Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple. Bali is also close to the gorgeous Gili Islands, where you can go snorkeling and scuba diving with the local turtles.
Japan
Made up of a mixture of modern cities boasting fantastic food spots, endless shopping, and traditional towns celebrating ancient culture, Japan is a true marvel. See the geisha, temples, and shrines in Kyoto, ride the insanely fast bullet trains across the country, or catch a beautiful view of Mt. Fuji. If you’re short on time and want a true taste of Japan, head to the bustling capital, Tokyo. Here you can spend a few days soaking in novelties like robot cafes and cuddle hotels, or alternatively recapture your childhood at the Tokyo Disney Resort.
Australia
Australia’s culture, scenery, and ocean towns are so varied it’s no wonder tons of travelers have the Land Down Under as a top pick for their bucket list.
Take in the views of the harbor from the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge or sleep under the stars in the outback and watch the sunrise at the incredible Uluru — Australia is the perfect combination of cosmopolitan and natural beauty.
Melbourne is known for its great coffee and street art, and for keen surfers, the east and west coasts of the country have some of the best swells in the world. Wine lovers are covered, too. Australia is famous for its wine regions and incredible tasting opportunities. If you’re in Victoria, head to Yarra Valley, or if you’re nearby in New South Wales, Hunter Valley should be your choice. Cheers!
Peru
Most visitors to Peru are there for one thing and one thing only — to hike to the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. You may or may not be surprised to know the site receives over one million visitors every year, making it a hugely popular tourist destination. But aside from Machu Picchu, Peru has so much more to offer.
Huacachina, close to the city of Ica, is South America’s only natural desert oasis and is a prime location for budding photographers. Alternatively, head to the Ballestas Islands off the south coast of Peru, where you may spot a penguin or two. Or, if you want to embrace your inner history buff, spend a few days in the capital of Lima and learn about the country’s wonderful culture.
