If you are looking for fascinating travel experiences to fill out your bucket list, you will find that the world offers a seemingly endless array of options. Whittle down your choices to some of the most iconic, original, and unforgettable experiences on the globe. From the bright lights of Las Vegas to the remote reaches of India, this list of suggestions has it all.
Hike The Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail spans nearly 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine. It passes through 14 states and the mountainous terrain includes enough gains and losses in elevation to equal climbing Mount Everest 16 times if you were to hike the full length.
Completing the entire trail takes between five and seven months, and only about 20% of hikers who start the trek, ultimately complete it. While you may not have time to do the whole trail, you can easily pick your favorite section and enjoy a few day hikes or a week or two of backpacking to get a taste of this famous hiking experience.
Dive The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef comprises almost 2,900 individual reefs. It is the largest structure in the world comprised of living organisms and makes for an unforgettable sight for any adventurer who dips below the surface to take a look. Queensland, Australia, is one of the best places to go for a diving excursion of the Great Barrier Reef. There are myriad tours to choose from, ranging from easy first-timer dives to deeper dives best for experienced individuals.
Raft The Colorado River
The Colorado River is easily the most popular spot for whitewater rafting in the United States. It comprises four sections, stretching from the headwaters in the Rocky Mountains to the Grand Canyon. Departing from the river for side excursions will take you to Native American ruins, outlaw cave hideouts, and picturesque pools. You can start all along the river for various experiences. Colorado Springs rafting, will have a different experience than in Durango.
Look for a reliable state-certified rafting company to guide your excursion for the safest and most knowledgeable experience. Plan your trip around May and June for the biggest thrills, as melting snow increases the river’s speed. If you are looking for a milder ride, visit in August or September.
Try Your Luck On The Las Vegas Strip
Gambling has a long history in the United States, spanning the country from New Orleans to New Jersey and beyond. If you are looking for a truly iconic gaming experience, you can not do better than Las Vegas. The famous Las Vegas Strip spans 4.2 miles. You can easily stroll from one casino to the other, experiencing gaming, live entertainment, decadent buffets, and breathtaking experiences.
Do not miss the city’s most iconic casinos, like The Venetian, the MGM Grand, and Caesars Palace. From the miniature Statue of Liberty at New York-New York to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, this city can take you around the world.
Practice Yoga In Rishikesh, India
Yoga has become so popular that you can practice the ancient art anywhere from your local YMCA to your own living room. However, if you really want to get to the heart of yogic traditions, there is no better destination than Rishikesh, India. Known as the birthplace of yoga, this holy city sits in the foothills of the Himalayas.
You will find many ashrams here offering rich meditative experiences. You can get a minimalist shared room for around $12. Expect 5AM wakeup calls and intensive yoga studies during your time here. If you are looking for a travel experience that’s rich in culture and spirituality, this trip belongs on your bucket list. Spend some time deep in personal reflection and experience yoga in its richest and most authentic form here.
Float Over The African Plains In A Hot Air Balloon
African safaris are popular picks for bucket list vacations, but you do not have to confine your travels to the ground to enjoy this experience. Give your safari a fresh and intriguing twist by taking off in a hot air balloon. Float over Serengeti National Park or Maasai National Park to witness the Great Migration. This is the largest animal migration on earth, encompassing millions of zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles. With a bird’s-eye view, you will be able to appreciate the scene as it sprawls before you.
The Okavango Delta is a prime choice if you want to see the watery delta landscape dotted with hippos. Choose a hot air balloon over Tarangire National Park to see elephants meandering amidst the baobab trees. Taking a hot air balloon safari is a guaranteed way to get a breathtaking look at the wild scenery.
Learn Calligraphy in Kyoto, Japan
Why rely on your local art school when you can learn calligraphy in its place of origin? Get the most authentic experience possible and travel to Japan to try your hand at this beautiful skill. Kyoto is a former capital of Japan and a popular place for travelers to take calligraphy classes. You can find many experiences designed for first-timers with English-speaking assistants to translate the directions of native Japanese-speaking instructors.
Equipment is included, so you will have access to quality ink, thick brushes, and the appropriate paper. Classes typically last between one and two hours. Make reservations early to guarantee your spot.
Explore The Streets Of Rome, Italy
If you are looking for something unstructured for your list of essential travel experiences, try a trip to Rome. This city’s most remarkable highlights are best explored at your leisure. Take a stroll with a cool gelato, uncover locally revered pizzerias, and discover beautiful piazzas at every turn.
From the Colosseum and the Pantheon to Vatican City, there is no shortage of iconic experiences to enjoy in Rome. You do not need to fuss with a structured schedule to fill your days with delights, and you will find that the highly walkable city is particularly suited to the leisurely explorer.
With this well-rounded selection of essential travel experiences, you will get a rich sampling of some of the world’s most fascinating highlights. From historic cities to rustic adventures, you can try a bit of everything to round out your global escapes.
