Too often we dream of destinations we see in magazines or on travel shows and merely put them aside as a ‘bucket-list’ wish which, let’s be honest, almost always never becomes a reality. But why shouldn’t they? Why are we not treating ourselves to exploring the world, seeing what beauty nature has created in other countries? Life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and travel is the ultimate and perfect way to fulfil the void.
Immersing ourselves in the rich cultures, heritages, and bespoke traditions of other nations is a truly eye opening experience, and could be the transformative adventure you have always wanted to take. So before you grab your back pack and sneakers to travel the world, essentials you do not want to compromise quality on, because trust us, once you hit the ground running and see the picturesque landscapes of lands beyond the horizon you can be sure you will be achieving your daily step count and good footwear is a must.
Let’s dive in and see why this is one experience to make a reality, and the options considered some of the best journeys in the world.
If you only have a handful
It is no secret that there are endless places and countries to visit across the globe, and trying to see and visit them all, while a true-dream, is most likely not achievable for many of us. What you can achieve, however, is seeing the most beautiful regions where you get so much more than you could imagine. These top curated destinations across the world will offer you a glimpse of something special in each place;
South Africa
Undeniably one of the most popular destinations in the world, and for good reason. There is something for everyone to enjoy, all ages and demographics, and the landscape is equally as picturesque as the top sites and traditional stories you hear. From vibrant colors of African art and fabrics, you can walk the city gardens and be surrounded by flora and fauna unlike anywhere else all the while feeding curious squirrels who seemingly thrive on the attention of foreigners.
The rolling hills of the Cape Winelands stretch endlessly before you, dotted with centuries-old vineyards that produce some of the world’s finest wines. In Kruger National Park, dawn breaks with the thundering sound of wildebeest migrations, while elephants gather at watering holes as the African sun paints the sky in brilliant oranges and purples. The country’s history runs deep through its veins, from the sobering Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, to the vibrant streets of Soweto where the rhythm of daily life pulses with an infectious energy that captures the spirit of modern South Africa.
The Tokaido Road – Japan
This ancient road once walked by feudal lords, now a high speed train route, offers you a quick excursion out of colorful Tokyo with its modern day wonders to the ancient imperial capital of Kyoto. You have the best of both worlds in one excursion.
Along this historic pathway, you’ll find yourself tracing the footsteps of countless generations, passing through small towns where traditional craftsmen still practice arts passed down through centuries. The route reveals itself like pages from an ancient scroll – each station town telling its own story through preserved temples, traditional ryokan inns, and local delicacies that haven’t changed since the Edo period. In spring, cherry blossoms create natural tunnels of pink and white, while autumn transforms the landscape into a canvas of red and gold maples. The contrast between bullet trains rushing past and ancient stone markers standing silent witness to history creates a uniquely Japanese dialogue between past and present.
America – West and North
There is no denying the Americas are as vast in reality as they are on geological maps, but something not to miss. Western US takes you through rich cultural storylines of Sacagawea with trails through 11 states all the way to Yellowstone. North America showcases the iconic route 66 which is a journey all on its own.
The landscape transforms dramatically as you go on a road trip in the US – from the towering redwoods of California that have stood watch for millennia, to the haunting beauty of the Badlands where every sunrise reveals new colors in the stratified rocks. Native American heritage sites dot the journey, telling stories of ancient peoples who first called these lands home. The Pacific Coast Highway hugs dramatic cliffs where waves crash endlessly below, while the deserts of the Southwest hold secret canyons and ancient pueblos that seem to emerge from the very rock itself. In Montana’s big sky country, stars pierce the darkness with an intensity rarely seen in our modern world, reminding travelers of nature’s raw magnificence.
Cantebury – England
A medieval trip that concludes at the Cathedral itself standing proud in the town center. Bathed in tales and stories, even some saucy fine print along the way, England is as beautiful here as it is all over. A location not to be missed and a true top 3 contender.
Walking through Canterbury’s cobbled streets feels like stepping into a living history book, where every corner holds echoes of Chaucer’s famous tales. The ancient city walls, built by the Romans and fortified through the ages, still encircle much of the old town, offering elevated walks with views over medieval rooftops and hidden gardens. In the evenings, traditional pubs that have served travelers for centuries come alive with the warmth of crackling fires and local ales, while street performers and modern cafes create a vibrant atmosphere that bridges the centuries. The Canterbury Tales come to life not just in the cathedral’s stained glass windows, but in the very spirit of the place, where pilgrims both religious and secular still gather to marvel at this preserved slice of English heritage.
South East Asia
The Mekong river is the perfect spot to rest the mind, body (and feet) and soul as you breathe in the crisp air of the outdoors and bob along the waters wake while being surrounded by forests and nature that looks like a movie set.
This mighty river serves as the lifeblood for millions, its banks lined with floating markets where vendors in traditional conical hats paddle their wooden boats laden with tropical fruits and fresh flowers. Ancient temples peek through the morning mist, their spires reaching skyward as if to touch the heavens, while Buddhist monks in saffron robes make their morning alms rounds through villages that seem unchanged by time. The delta region spreads like a complex web of waterways, where rice paddies stretch to the horizon in a patchwork of emerald green, and local fishing communities live in harmony with the river’s rhythms. Here, each sunrise brings the sound of temple bells mixing with the calls of exotic birds, creating a symphony that embodies the soul of Southeast Asia.
It’s a must
Traveling is not as easy for everyone as it is for some, but it isn’t impossible. Even taking a hike or walk a few hours from your home time to embrace a different part of the land is a good starting point. There are so many benefits of ‘getting out the house’ as they say, including;
- Improved health and wellness
- Meeting and making new friends in new locations
- Language learning opportunities
- Transformative experiences
- Cultural exposure right on your doorstep
- Adventuring (because why not)
There truly is no time like the present and what better way to enjoy your life than a stress-free adventure to new and exotic places. You can unwind and let go of the weight of everyday life with its deadlines and schedules and take a well-deserved moment for yourself.
All you need is to light the spark, grab a quality pair of sneakers because you can be sure you will be stepping into many cultures across the continents, and keep an open mind. Oh, and water and sunscreen because who knows where your journey will take you.
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