15 Stunning Hiking Trails to Add to Your Outdoor Bucket List

Until we all get to travel again check out this fun guest post from Geraldine and whet your appetite for your next adventure.

One of the best ways you can find the most beautiful sights worldwide is hiking. Not every gorgeous spot in the world is accessible by car, which many avid hikers know already. Aside from that, it helps that it makes you more self-reliant and independent when you finish each hike.

It’s always exciting for any hiker to try out new hiking trails, especially ones that come with a stunning view. If you’re a hiker looking for another gorgeous hiking trail to leave your footprints on, here are 15 such trails that you have to include in your outdoor bucket list.

Everest Base Camp, Nepal

When people think of hiking achievements, one of the first things people think of would be to be able to hike atop Mount Everest. This achievement is difficult in itself, and only a few people dare to do it, but more are willing to take on this challenge.

If you want to hike the Nepalese landscape without committing to such a massive undertaking such as going up Mt. Everest, you can hike up to the Everest Base Camp instead.

Although you won’t see Mt. Everest from there, you can still enjoy the hike. Before you go there, make sure to bring some altitude medications with you.

Tour du Mont Blanc, France

One of Europe’s most famous long-distance hikes would be the Tour du Mont Blanc in France. Mont Blanc is about 110 mi or 170 km, and this hiking trail offers different views for each day of the hiking trip. You can expect verdant valleys around you as well as snow-capped mountains and forests along the way.

Inca Trail, Peru

The Inca Trail in Peru is one hike that lets you see one of the best human-made sights in the world: the Machu Picchu. This trail is one of the most popular undertakings in South America. If you want to take your time to enjoy the sights, you should allocate about five days to finish this trail.

The Appalachian Trail, United States

The Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking trail in the world, with a length of 2,200 mi or 3,500 km. You’re going to need to be an expert hiker if you want to take on this trail that will take you months to accomplish. However, once you finish it, you’re going to feel a sense of joy and pride.

It will get you through 14 states in the US, so you’re going to see a variety of sights going through the entire trail.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is a part of the renowned Seven Summits. It is the most accessible hike of the seven. Providing a fantastic view of the Tanzanian landscape from a high point, make sure that you bring your hiking poles with you.

Since hiking up Mt. Kilimanjaro is quite famous, people have left a lot of their waste and garbage behind. Please be responsible and don’t leave anything but footsteps behind.

Banff Highline, Canada

The Banff National Park in Canada is home to the Banff Highline trail that spans 64 mi or 104 km. It will take you about five days or so to complete this trail. Make sure that you enjoy the alpine views and to stop by and enjoy the various lakes that you’ll pass by while you’re there.

Laugavegurinn Trail, Iceland

One of the best hikes in the world is the Laugavegurinn Trail in Iceland. If there’s any hiking trail that’s going to make you feel like you’re in another world altogether, it would be this trail.

You’ll find bright and green valleys, gorgeous lakes, ice caves, enchanting gorges, and more. You definitely wouldn’t want to leave behind your camera for this hiking trail.

Kungsleden (The King’s Trail), Sweden

The King’s Trail or Kungsleden of Sweden is another mountainous hiking trail that offers fantastic views. If you time your trip right, you might find the Aurora Borealis weaving its way through the night sky above you while you’re in the Swedish countryside.

This hike is open to both experienced and beginner hikers. Choose your hiking plan based on your competency.

The Milford Track, New Zealand

The Milford Track in New Zealand is around 33 mi or 54 km and takes you through breathtaking sights that people all over the world have fallen in love with before. This track will lead you to one of New Zealand’s, a stunning cove that is the country’s most popular tourist spot, and for a good reason. You’ll have to see it for yourself!

The Great Ocean Walk, Australia

The Great Ocean Walk in Victoria, Australia, is a coastal hiking trail that’s increasingly becoming one of the most popular spots in Victoria. The entire hike will provide you with that beautiful ocean view for about seven days. Aside from the beautiful ocean view, you can also find local fauna around if you like high and low.

Lycian Way, Turkey

Turkey’s first-ever long-distance hiking trail is the Lycian Way, which is another coastal trail. The entire trail is around 540 km long or 336 mi. If you want to take your time and hike the entirety of the path, you can break it up to reach 29 days of walking.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Gracing many postcards for Japan is the graceful view of Mount Fuji. To hike up to the peak and back down can take you between eight to 12 hours. A lot of people start the hike up during the evening so that they can get a view of the sunrise atop the mountain.

Once you reach the top, you can eat ramen, pray at the shrine, or even send a postcard to your loved ones!

Whale Trail, South Africa

There’s nothing like hiking with a companion, and it’s even better if your companion along the hike are whales! This experience is what you get when you take on the 56-km Whale Trail in South Africa. As you walk along the Western Cape coast, you’ll see the Southern Right whale during specific seasons.

Even without the whales accompanying you, you’ll find that the coastal trail is still a gorgeous five-day hike.

Dragon’s Back, Hong Kong

When you think of Hong Kong, you think of cities and skyscrapers. However, the Dragon’s Back hiking trail will show you a side of Hong Kong you didn’t know before.

The Dragon’s Back is a part of the Hong Kong Trail. If you want a short day trip of a hike, then the Dragon’s Back is the best urban hike in Hong Kong. It won’t take you more than three hours to finish this hike.

Fitz Roy Trek, Argentina

Fitz Roy in Argentina is a mountain known for being one of the hardest peaks to climb in the entire world. At most, you can get near the base of Fitz Roy. The hike to the mountain base is only a kilometer or a little more than half a mile. However, it’s the incline that’s going to challenge you.

Nonetheless, the view of the Fitz Roy behind you is worth the hike as it stands grand and proud above you.

Adventure awaits!

There are plenty more gorgeous hiking trails around the world that you should include in your bucket list. However, the 15 paths on this list are one of the best there is in the world. Therefore, if you’re a hiker looking to check several items off of your hiking goals, these are the trails you should hike.

Remember to be safe and to do your research before each hike so that you enjoy the trail and the views that come with it without compromising your safety!

Love Bodyboarding? Here Are The Top Destinations

Bodyboarding is a super accessible form of surfing and ideal for people who want to get out on the water and start having fun immediately. What’s more, you can pretty much do it anywhere. Bodyboarding is just as fun off the coast of northern Europe as it is in Bali (although some locations are colder than others. You have been warned). 

Ocean Wave at Blue Hour

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10 Wild Travel Destinations For Animal Lovers

Love animals and travel? Here are 10 destinations that could allow you to get up and close with some of the world’s most exotic and rate wildlife.

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Singapore Destination Guide

Originally published on IHG’s Guide to Singapore.

Visiting Singapore – A City Guide

Modern, prosperous and dynamic, Singapore is a global hub for finance, high-tech industry and international trade. If you’re visiting on holiday, it’s a shopper’s haven and a foodie’s dream, with gleaming malls and a legendary food scene that takes in everything from Chinese, Malay and Indian street food to sophisticated fine-dining restaurants.

If you’ve an urge to explore, you can discover the island’s multicultural heritage in Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam and the grand colonial buildings of the Civic District. You’ll also find plenty of beachside activities, rainforest parks, a thriving arts scene and 21st-century attractions like Gardens By The Bay.


Singapore: city layout

Shaped like a diamond, Singapore combines towering skyscrapers, traditional communities and modern waterfront developments.

image via Flickr by ^Joe

Restored 19th-century colonial buildings are clustered in the city and Civic District near the Singapore River, with Chinatown close by. Little India and Kampong Glam are found to the north of the city and head east for the popular local suburbs of Geylang and Joo Chiat.

There’s an extensive network of nature reserves and parks throughout the island. Holidaymakers are drawn to islands such as Pulau Ubin for nature trails and bike tracks as well as Sentosa island, connected to central Singapore via a bridge, for seaside entertainment and theme parks.


Top attractions in Singapore

The beautifully landscaped Gardens By The Bay is home to the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome greenhouses, filled with blooms from across the world. Don’t miss the OCBC Skyway, a walkway set among 18 ‘supertree’ sculptures, which comes alive after dark with a magical light display.

For a relaxing day out, head to Sentosa island to soak up the sun on the beach, enjoy a leisurely round of golf or brave the thrilling rides at the Universal Studios Singapore theme park.

image via Flickr by Jira Matousek

Singapore Zoo is home to white tigers, honey-loving sun bears and African lions. You can spot the giant pandas, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, at the River Safari, or nocturnal leopards on the Night Safari.

For a bird’s eye view of Singapore head to the Singapore Flyer, a 165-metre observation wheel with 360-degree views of the island.


The concierge recommends…

  • A walk around Marina Bay to enjoy the city’s night lights.
  • A stroll through the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing lush themed gardens with more than 1,000 species of orchid.
  • A food tour through the well-loved haunts in Chinatown, Geylang Serai, Joo Chiat or Kampong Glam.
  • A visit to Pulau Ubin, a kampong (traditional) village off the coast near Changi Airport.
  • Booking tickets for a traditional dance performance, a play or a concert at the iconic Esplanade arts centre.


Hotels in Singapore

For your stay in Singapore there are hotels that will suit every budget and travel need. The city’s efficient transport system makes travelling around a breeze, and it’s easy to find hotels within walking distance of a train station.

If you want to be in the thick of the action, pick a central location like Orchard Road, Singapore’s most famous shopping street, or close to the energetic nightlife hubs around Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay or Club Street. For a budget hotel in Singapore you’ll find good choices in Little India and Kampong Glam.

Singapore hotels in the central business district (CBD) or at Bugis, Outram Road and North Bridge Road are good for business travellers, with plenty of entertainment nearby.

Families might appreciate the quieter residential areas with easy access to the centre, like Tiong Bahru and River Valley, or a beachside retreat on Sentosa.


Eating Out in Singapore

Singapore’s culinary scene lies at the heart of local life. Choices range from Chinese, Indian and Asian street food at budget-friendly hawker centres in Maxwell Road, Lau Pa Sat and Tiong Bahru Market to award winning fine-dining restaurants like Restaurant Andre or Tippling Club.

For a special night out, try a rooftop restaurant such as Stellar at 1-Altitude to enjoy panoramic city views while you feast on modern European or Asian fare.

If you’re looking for an authentic Singaporean experience, BonAppetour organises trips to local families’ homes for a traditional meal, as well as gourmet cooking classes.


The chef recommends…

  • Chilli Crab: Sweet, savoury and spicy, this dish is prepared by stir-frying crabs in tomato and chilli sauce. Best eaten with fried mantous (Chinese buns).
  • Hainanese Chicken Rice: Steamed chicken, rice cooked in rich chicken broth and cucumber slices make up this beloved national dish. Spicy chilli and ginger paste is the perfect accompaniment.
  • Laksa: This delicious Peranakan soup consists of rice noodles, spices and seafood cooked in creamy coconut milk.
  • Bah Kut Teh or “meat bone tea”, prepared by simmering pork ribs in broth filled with herbs and spices.

image via Flickr by Calgary Reviews

Shopping in Singapore

Singapore’s vibrant local shopping streets and glitzy international malls should satisfy even the most demanding of shoppers.

Around Orchard Road you’ll find glamorous malls like Takashimaya, Paragon and Ngee Ann City, filled with high-end boutiques, luxury labels and gourmet food products. For popular local brands try exploring central malls like Marina Square, Millenia Walk or Raffles City Complex.

If you’re on the lookout for souvenirs, you can pick up Asian antiques, artworks and colourful fabrics along the quirky streets of Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glam.


Local shopping in Singapore:

  • Ann Siang Hill: The historic streets around Ann Siang Hill and Telok Ayer are lined with independent boutiques selling unique clothing, fashion accessories and home ornaments.
  • Haji Lane: Designer boutiques selling modern and vintage fashion and lifestyle accessories have transformed this narrow alley in Kampong Glam.
  • Bugis Village: Its crowded lanes are home to a labyrinth of stores in restored shophouses, selling everything from fashion to food and electronics. Ideal for shoppers on a budget.


Culture & Nightlife in Singapore

Singapore’s cultural scene reflects its unique racial mix. The streets of Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India are filled with traditional shophouses and temples. A trip to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple or Sultan Mosque provides a glimpse into the religious traditions of the local Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim communities. You’ll find throngs of devotees in traditional garments playing musical instruments at Sri Mariamman’s frequent temple processions.

You can trace Singapore’s history through the art, artefacts and multimedia displays at the National Museum of Singapore. Traditional Chinese beadwork, porcelain and sarong kebaya dresses are on display at the Peranakan Museum.

Singapore nightlife takes in everything from sleek rooftop bars to chic beachside hangouts and stylish nightclubs. For an evening of feasting and late-night revelry head to Clarke Quay orClubStreet. The vibe is quieter at Robertson Quay, or at Dempsey Hill, where a relaxed evening can be enjoyed.


Live music venues in Singapore

  • Blu Jaz Cafe: Jazz lovers flock to this funky bar for its live music, as well as R&B, hip-hop and Latin dance parties.
  • Timbre: There are three Timbre venues in Singapore, with regular performances by local and international bands.
  • Catch a free concert from the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, held at venues such as the Botanic Gardens.


Leisure in Singapore

Lovers of the outdoors can find plenty to please in Singapore’s parks. You can rent a bike and follow the island-wide park connector network. You’ll enjoy coastal views, tropical greenery and cooling breezes on a ride from East Coast Park to the popular Changi Village Food Centre, which dishes up some of the best nasi lemak (coconut rice) on the island.

Nature lovers can take a treetop walk on the suspension bridge at MacRitchie Reservoir, a leisurely stroll around the hilltop at Fort Canning Park or enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Southern Ridges.

For families, the landscaped roof of the Marina Barrage, looking out over the city and Marina Bay, is a popular spot for picnics and kite flying. Ride the Singapore Cable Car over to Sentosa resort for beach watersports, golf, theme parks and views of the harbour from the Imbiah lookout.

Thrill seekers can try indoor skydiving at iFly Singapore on Sentosa or hurtle through the air in a reverse bungy or GX-5 extreme swing at Clarke Quay. Get closer to nature in the Bedok Reservoir and tackle the family friendly treetop ziplines at the Forest Adventure.

To eat as the Singaporeans do, head to a local cafe for a breakfast of kaya toast and soft boiled eggs. For a Sunday treat, try one of Singapore’s famous Champagne brunches at Garibaldi or Catalunya.


Best eats in Singapore

    • Tong Ah Eating House: This cafe serves up slices of crispy kaya toast and cups of smooth, fragrant kopi (traditional coffee).
    • Chinatown Food Street: Great for street-side dining on local delicacies like hokkien mee and roti prata.
    • Kok Sen Restaurant: This old-school dining establishment turns out some of the tastiest Cantonese wok-fried dishes on the island.
    • Din Tai Fung: This Taiwanese dumpling house has taken Singapore by storm with branches throughout the island.

 

A Bucket List Weekend in Jakarta

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A Restless Mind

What drives us, we nomadic types? What causes us to leave stable jobs, lovely homes, friends and family, to throw ourselves out into the world? To force discomfort upon ourselves by the mere act of having no home base, no tribe to reach to for comfort? To live a life outside our comfort zone, both mentally and literally?

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A Look Back ~ and Forward

Time is always surprising; It seems like just yesterday, not nearly 27 years ago, that I first locked eyes with Jim, in Ken’s living room. Jim, full-bearded and scruffy, just off the boat from Alaska. Myself, fully focused on going to school for international law and moving to Paris. An unlikely pair? Apparently not~ Six days after our first date Jim asked me to marry him, and the rest, as they say, is history. Astonishingly, June 2nd we will be celebrating our 25th anniversary. 25 years… it seems unreal, and presents a very literal example of how fast time moves by.

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Phnom Penh beyond the Killing Fields

Cambodia remains one of the countries that ranks highest on our list of those places that most pulled at our heartstrings, and makes us long to return. There is, undeniably, the crown jewel of the ruins of Angkor Wat, the long boat trip to Battambang, and the traumatic and powerful sites of Tuol Sleng and Choueng Ek at Pol Pot’s Killing Fields. There are gorgeous beaches, that we still need to get to ourselves. But, during our time in the country we experienced so much more of this very poor, and yet vibrant country, particularly in the capital city of Phnom Penh.

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Stopover ~ Singapore Style

Stopovers. In our experience, they’re generally a waste of time, money, and effort. At various times we have decided to break up a long flight with a stopover in, say, JFK, and I have to say, they never live up to our hopes. Instead of a luxurious sleep in, for instance, before a 17 hour flight to South Africa, we were advised we needed to check out by 10am or pay a late check out fee, which amounted to an entire additional night at the hotel! After an expensive, not great night, we still spent hours sitting at JFK. Not my idea of a great time.

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