If you have an appetite for travel, and adventure then you have probably already added a few of these to your list. But, just in case you’re in the planning stages of your trip, these are some of the most celebrated travel experiences in the world. 

Photo by Angela Compagnone on Unsplash

Northern Lights

If the idea of watching different colors dance across the sky, while clutching warm cocoa has you entranced, then there are a few options you have. Tromsø, Norway is going to be high up on your list of places to go to. It is located in northern Norway, and from September to March, people come to see the lights. If you want to tie the trip in with seeing some midnight sun, then aim to arrive between May 20th and July 20th. If you are big on exploring, then you’ll be delighted to know that Tromsø city is just minutes away for the wilderness. 

Sea-kayaking with Orca

This one is exciting, and there is nothing else like it in the world. You are more likely to hear them before you see them as they shoot air and take deep breaths before heading back down to the deep. If you do opt for this one, you would probably be wise to take lessons on how to kayak. This will give you much more confidence in what can be choppy waters. Vancouver is the place to go, and any time between June to October will provide you with the opportunity to see the whales in action. 

Hoi An

If you have a thing for history, beauty, and water, then Hoi An is going to take your breath away. This 18th-century Vietnamese waterfront harbor is a sight to behold. One of the most enjoyable things when you find this little piece of paradise is the fact that you can have elegant, exquisite dresses, suits, shirts, and more for less than £20. And most of the time, those will be perfectly fitted to you. Careful not to overbook yourself! 

Yucatan

If a view overlooking a wild running river or an expanse lake gets a bit old from time to time, then you are going to love the hidden waters in Yucatan. It is peppered with cenotes. Cenotes are sinkholes that are filled and fed by underground springs. There are a few popular chasms that you might want to check out Kankirixche, Azul, and Ik-Kil. They are all atmospheric and pretty deep. You should always dive with an experienced guide, and be aware of your surroundings.

Kerala’s Backwaters

Taking a cruise on a Kettuvallam houseboat is going to be something that you never forget. Calmly floating down the 900km of canals, rivers, lakes, and lagoons will be one of the most relaxing things you’ll ever do. Almost all of the cruises will come with meals, and the food will lend itself wholeheartedly to the experience. There is a local fish that will most likely be on the menu, karimeen – and should certainly be something you try. Many of the backwater cruises will depart between Kollam and Alappuzha. To make the most of it, stay overnight on the peaceful waters. 

Kyoto

If you don’t picture Tokyo as your kind of fast-paced fun, then perhaps Kyoto is what you had in mind when talking about Japan. It is brimming with ancient temples and steeped in tradition too. If you are looking for peace and perhaps some of those quiet moments of reflection, then Kyoto will be for you. People who visit particularly enjoy visiting Kinkaku-Ji – the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. 

The Outer Hebrides

When you think of atmospheric, breath-taking scenery, snow-capped mountains, and icy waters – you are probably thinking about Scotland. The place is pretty isolated. However, there are still plenty of visitors, and you will be inundated with exciting wildlife spotting. There is a photography trail that you can find on the Visit Outer Hebrides website, that will take you from the bottom to the top – and even off to the further afield St Kilda. 

Timbuktu

You have probably heard the phrase “from here to Timbuktu” is typically used to describe somewhere far off and remote. However, if you head to the market, you wouldn’t have the same opinion at all. Salt used to be worth as much as gold in these parts. One of the most fun things to do here is to hop on a camel and ride off into the sunset. Then slowly fall asleep under the stars. It is often the case that there are advisory reports about Timbuktu, so make sure you do plenty of research before booking travel. 

Bora Bora

One of the most relaxing and life-affirming experiences if snorkeling in Bora Bora. The waters are clear and blue and filled with wildlife. In fact, don’t be surprised if you bump into an eagle ray, a leopard ray or even a bat! You are in for a treat when it comes to the diving here, there is such a diverse marine life. The photos you will be able to take are going to be other-worldly. The best thing you can do is buy a waterproof house for your camera or phone, so you can take photos in the water as you explore. 

Bagan

The temples of Bagan in Myanmar are a sight you won’t forget in your lifetime. Home to the remains of 2,217 ancient stone temples which are littered across a vast copper-toned landscape. It is a 41sq km completed and was the most significant religious and cultural center on the globe. It has long since been abandoned, and while you might be tempted to walk around, you’re better off on a bike or a horse-drawn cart. 

Angkor Wat

With a wow factor likened to the other temples of the world included in this list, Angkor Wat is stunning. This vast and beautiful complex includes Buddhist and Hindu temples in their hundreds. If you want to have some peace, then you’ll want to arrive nicely and early. You can watch the sunrise from across the water and see the view in all its glory. 

There are, of course, many other travel experiences in the world that are worth your consideration for your next big adventure. These are just some that are deserving of a mention.