on travel experience

19 Inspiring Travel Experience Stories About Life-Changing Trips

Love inspiring travel experience stories ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Grab a snack and your favorite beverage and get ready to settle in, as you’re about to read some truly inspiring travel stories about life-changing trips.

In this roundup, some of my favorite bloggers share their best travel stories.

You’ll hear about travelers embarking on sacred pilgrimages, growing after a first solo female travel trip, deeply connecting with locals on the road, and getting out of their comfort zones in ways that completely alter the course of their life.

And if you’re looking for a unique travel experience, you’ll likely find it in the short stories about travel below.

Table of Contents

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On that note, let’s dive into the inspiring travel stories .

1. Travel Experience Stories In South America

My travel story takes place in South America, back when I used to travel solo for months at a time.

I was in my mid-20s, and even though I’d backpacked Europe, Southeast Asia, and China and had studied abroad in Australia, the mix of intense excitement and nerves I had leading up to my South America backpacking trip was different.

And despite family and friends warning me that South America wasn’t a place for a solo female traveler , it ended up being my best trip ever and one of my life changing trips!

There are so many interesting short travel stories and unforgettable travel experiences woven into this trip, like:

• Getting invited to have dinner with my Brazilian plane seatmate and her grandma
• Having a group of complete strangers on Couchsurfing take me out for dinner and dancing on my birthday in Mendoza
• Attending a small house party in Argentina and learning about the tradition of mate
• Getting stuck on a broken-down bus and having an impromptu language exchange with an elderly woman in Peru
• Having a love interest back home break up with me via text, and then experiencing the kindness of strangers as a woman in my hostel who I barely knew treated me to ice cream to cheer me up
• Having a romance with a hostel mate in Ecuador and then traveling through the country together
• Living in a giant treehouse with a group of strangers during a solo trip in Brazil and spending our days exploring hiking trails and swimming and our nights drinking and exchanging stories about traveling
• Taking a 4×4 from Chile to Bolivia across the Siloli Desert to see otherwordly sites like rainbow lagoons and train graveyards in the middle of nowhere
• Experiencing some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, like Iguazu Falls, Torres del Paine, the Amazon River, Uyuni Salt Flats, and Perito Moreno Glacier

At times the trip was also challenging, from dealing with long bus rides and car sickness to flipping over my bicycle handlebars in Peru and getting my body (and ego) badly bruised.

But, I was okay.

In fact, I was more than okay, as the trip showed me how independent I could be and what I was truly capable of. It also showed me the beauty of immersing yourself in cultures different than your own and connecting with locals who want to share them with you.

Years later, when people ask what my best travel experience has been this is the trip that comes to mind.

-Jessie from Jessie on a Journey

2. Traveling With An Open Mind

Many people think of travel as an experience and rightly so. Sometimes, however, you cannot choose the places you travel to.

This happened to me in 2019.

My husband found himself posted in Brunei for work.

Three months pregnant meant that I had a choice:

Either stay with him in Brunei for three months before returning back to India or remain in India, alone.

I chose the former. Not because of my love for the country but because I wanted to be close to him.

Brunei had never held any appeal to me. Whatever research that I pulled off the Internet showed me nothing other than one beautiful mosque.

The flights in and out of the country were expensive so traveling frequently out was not an option either.

I was engulfed by a sense of being trapped in a remote place.

Needless to say, I reached Brunei in a pretty foul mood. I think one of the things that struck me the most even in the midst of that bad mood was the large swaths of greenery that surrounded us.

Mind you, we were not staying in the big city but as far away on the outskirts as you could imagine. I’m not a city girl by any stretch and the greenery eventually soothed my nerves.

It took a week, but I soon found myself interacting with people around me. Fellow expats and locals all went out of their way to make me feel comfortable.

The more comfortable I felt, the more we explored. We trekked (yes, while pregnant!), we joined the board game community, and we enjoyed the local cuisine.

Three months later when it was time to leave, I found myself reluctant to say goodbye to the warmth of the country I had called home for a short while. I ended up having some of the most meaningful travel experiences there.

I think that my time in Brunei taught me a valuable lesson:

Don’t judge a place by what others say or a lack of information.

Sure, you may not always like what you see, but there will always be something that you will like. You just need to look hard enough to find it!

-Penny from GlobeTrove

3. From Half-Day Hiker To Walking Holiday Enthusiast

I’ve always enjoyed walking but never in a million years did I imagine I’d end up walking over 200 kilometers (~124 miles) in 10 days, become a fan of walking holidays, and end up developing self-guided hiking routes in Portugal with a local tour operator as part of my business.

The shift from being someone who was content with an easy three-hour walk to an experienced multi-day hiker began with a brief taste of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago, an ancient pilgrim trail through Portugal to Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain.

Back in 2013 I did a guided one-day hike along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Camino, north of Ponte de Lima. It’s also one of the most challenging sections so it was hard work, but the views from the top of Labruja Mountain made the climb worthwhile.

My guides were so enthusiastic about the thrill of arriving at Santiago de Compostela Cathedral after the challenges of day after day on the Camino that I began to think I might want to give it a go, despite not being religious.

Fast forward a few years and I set off from Barcelos with a friend of mine to follow the Portuguese Camino de Santiago.

Apart from suffering from chronic back pain, I thought I was quite fit but nothing had prepared me for how utterly exhausted I would feel at the end of each walking day.

This was truly a slow travel experience, as we were averaging about 20 kilometers (~12 miles) per day and by the time we reached our hotel, I would barely have enough energy to get cleaned up and find food before collapsing. I had envisioned plenty of sightseeing but that ended up being minimal.

Quickly, I realized the moral of this unique travel experience:

The Camino was all about making the most of the journey rather than the destination.

For me, that was quite a shift in thinking as I am usually all about getting to where I want to be as soon as possible so that I can start exploring. It was, perhaps, also my first step on the path towards mindfulness.

I will never forget the sense of achievement and progress at the end of each walking day, and the relief and pride I felt when we finally made it to Santiago de Compostela.

We met people who had walked the Camino several times and I can totally understand how it can become addictive. 

Walking the Camino is one of the life changing travel experiences for many people!

-Julie from Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal

4. A Story About Traveling & Its Ripple Effect

Tucked away in far eastern Indonesia is a tiny archipelago of islands called the Banda Islands.

Apart from world-class snorkeling and some crumbling colonial buildings, the Banda Islands are mostly forgotten and would be described as a backwater by all accounts.

However, the Banda Islands are possibly the main reason that I am who I am today. 

Well, the Bandas are the original Spice Islands.

Nutmeg used to grow on this tiny group of islands alone and nowhere else. The Dutch colonized Indonesia and promptly became the owners of islands where money grew on trees.

The only problem was that Indonesia was so far away that they needed a halfway stop to and from Indonesia.

That’s where my travel experience story comes in.

The same Dutch East India Company that traded in spice set up a halfway station at the foot of Table Mountain to break up their long journey. As a result, my Dutch ancestors arrived in the southernmost point in Africa , and generations later we are still there.

When I visited the Banda Islands, it dawned on me how something happening on the other side of the world can ripple out and affect people on the other side of the planet.

And I’m not the only one!

The spice trade was so important to the Dutch that they even traded a tiny island in the Banda archipelago for a much bigger island…Manhattan.

Yes. That Manhattan.

Before visiting the Banda Islands I never really knew about this part of my history.

Along with the spice that the ships carried back to Amsterdam, it also carried slaves. These slaves, more often than not, ended up in Cape Town.

Just like my European ancestors, they too became a part of Africa and added another shade to our beautiful Rainbow Nation.

It was in the Banda Islands that I realized how much of my culture, food, stories and even words in my mother tongue, Afrikaans, actually originated in Indonesia.

Because of these tiny islands, I am a true mix of Europe, Africa, and Asia. While I always thought I knew how all things in life are somehow connected, I didn’t really grasp it until my visit to Indonesia.

This could have been a resort travel experience story, as I went to Indonesia to swim and snorkel and relax on the world’s best beaches. And while I did get to do that, I also learned a lot about who I am as a person, my people, and my country…on another continent. 

It is a travel experience I will never forget!

My visit to the Bandas has sparked a fascination with Indonesia, which I have visited seven times since. I’m already planning another trip to this spectacular country!

-De Wet from Museum of Wander

5. Awakening My Spirit In A Costa Rican Cloud Forest

In February 2017, I was just coming out of a decade of mysterious chronic illness that had shrunk my world.

And one of the things that finally helped me to resurface during the previous year was an online Qi Gong course I stumbled upon: 

Flowing Zen .

To the casual observer, Qi Gong looks a lot like its better-known cousin, Tai Chi — the ancient art of moving meditation — but it’s actually energy medicine for healing.

In fact, it’s commonly used in Chinese hospitals.

My daily practice that year made such a difference for me that I dangled a reward for myself:

If I stuck with it all year, then I’d head to Sifu Anthony’s annual retreat in a cloud forest in Costa Rica the following February.

And I did! It was my first trip out of the country for more than a decade.

Just like that, I booked a solo trip — something I hadn’t done since I was an exchange student to Europe 30 years earlier — to San Jose where I met up with a dozen strangers and Sifu Anthony, our Qi Gong master.

We boarded a tiny bus and rode up, up, up around carsick-inducing curvy mountain roads into a magical cloud forest jungle where we finally arrived at The Blue Mountain (“La Montana Azul”) for a weeklong Qi Gong retreat. 

There were no Internet or distractions here — just delicious organic vegetarian meals made with love and shared with the community under a gorgeous open-air palapa.

There were also colorful tropical birds singing in the jungle, as well as the largest arachnid I’ve ever seen in my gorgeous (but also roofless) room for a little extra adventure.

I’d felt a little energy movement during my year of online practice, but during that week on The Blue Mountain, my body began to really buzz with Qi — life force energy — as I Lifted the Sky, stood in Wuji Stance, and practiced Shooting Arrows.

I felt electrified and joyful. 

And that was when everything changed for me.

At home, I had a successful career as a freelance writer, but I decided during my week in the cloud forest that I wanted more from life.

I wanted to explore the beauty, diversity, nature, and culture in every corner of the world.

And I wanted to share this intoxicating joyful feeling of life-giving freedom and adventure with anyone who wanted to come along for the ride.

Shortly after that, at age 53, I launched my travel blog.

Dreams really do come true. They are just waiting for you to claim them.

-Chris from Explore Now or Never

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6. From Rome With Love

This wasn’t the way I wanted to see Rome. 

Sure, I was happy to spend Christmas in Rome and stand in awe of the city’s many iconic attractions. But, life wasn’t meant to turn out like this.

I was supposed to go to Rome with my mom back in 2012; however, life had different plans, because a week before our trip, I got a double kidney infection. A condition that required a week of hospitalization.

Although I was annoyed I had missed my trip, it wasn’t the end of the world since I was fine and everything seemed okay…until my mom developed a cough.

A cough that later became a heartbreaking diagnosis of stage four ovarian cancer. 

My mom spent the final months of her life in chemo, desperately trying to fight a horrific disease so that she wouldn’t let her family down.

And she didn’t.

Instead, she showed us how to never give up on life, even if it was a losing battle. 

So, when she eventually passed away, I booked a trip to Rome. 

Sure, it wasn’t the trip I had hoped for. But, I knew that as her daughter, it was my job to live enough for the both of us. 

And that’s exactly what I did.

Was I an anxious, sad, angry mess of a person?

Absolutely. I was still getting used to a world that my mother wasn’t a part of. 

And honestly, you never get used to that world. You just deal with it because you don’t really have a choice.

But I also knew that I wanted my mom to live on through me and that I didn’t want to live a life where the haunting phrases “should of,” “could of,” and “would have” swirled through my head and ate away at my happiness.

So, I went. I packed a boatload of tissues, sobbed my heart out, and attended Christmas mass at the Vatican. 

I also threw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, walked through the Colosseum, chowed down on gelato, and spent two weeks doing all the things my mom and I had wanted to do. 

And that’s when it hit me. I had never gone to Rome alone because my mom had always been there with me. Maybe she wasn’t physically there, but I thought of her and felt her presence every minute of every day. 

Her presence also reminded me that life isn’t about the things we buy or the money that we have.

It’s about making memories with the people we love; people that never really leave us since they are constantly influencing our lives in countless ways.

And after my trip to Rome, I finally knew that my mom would always be there because she had forever changed my life in the best possible way. 

-Kelly from Girl with the Passport

7. Studying In Finland

One of my major life-turning points happened during my exchange studies in Finland.

Until then, I was studying at a university in Prague, had a part-time job at a renowned management-consulting firm, and thought I was on the right path in life.

At the University of Economics where I studied it was notoriously difficult to get on an Erasmus exchange trip abroad since the demand was huge. Everyone wanted to go!

Regardless, I decided to sign up early for my last semester, just to see what the process was like to be better prepared for applying again in a year.

I did make it through all the three rounds and surprisingly got a spot at a University in Turku, Finland! I was ecstatic. The success brought its own challenges, but once you set your eyes on the goal, nothing can stop you.

And I had the time of my life in Finland. It was a fantastic personal travel experience.

I met the most amazing people, traveled a ton, partied a lot, and bonded with friends from all over the world.

Given I was one of the few people there who really needed to pass all her courses and additionally write her thesis, I managed to run on an impossible sleep schedule of four hours per night. But I made it!

My studies in Finland opened up my horizons, too.

The summer after, I wrapped up my life in Prague and went on to study in Germany and China . The whole time I traveled as much as possible, often going on solo adventures. It was only a matter of time when I’d start my own travel blog.

My Finland adventure led me to a life of freedom made up of remote work, travel blogging , and plenty of traveling. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. And it gave me one of my favorite true adventure stories that I can now share with others.

-Veronika from Travel Geekery

8. How Cuba Changed My Life

One of my favorite inspiring stories about travel takes place in Cuba.

I visited Cuba in February 2013 and it changed my life — and I like to think it did so for the better.

Interestingly, I expected a completely different country and was compelled to write about it when I got back home.

But let me tell you more.

I read copious amounts of blogs and travel diaries to prepare myself for the trip to Cuba so I thought I’d go in with a fairly good idea of what to expect. Each and every post I read spoke of marvelous landscapes, pristine beaches, crumbling but charming cities, and welcoming locals.

All of it was true, in my experience — except for the locals.

I didn’t find them so welcoming. At least, not genuinely so. They only seemed to welcome me as far as they could get something in exchange: money, clothes, pens, soap, you name it. 

Each and every day in Cuba was a challenge to avoid the scams, to avoid being ripped off, to fight off each and every attempt of people trying to take advantage of me. I usually managed, but it was exhausting and it left a sour taste in my mouth.

Once I got back home I felt the urge to write about my experience — not for other sites or papers as I’d often do. This time I was afraid I’d be censored.

So I opened my own blog. With zero tech knowledge, zero understanding of online content creation and SEO, I started writing and telling people what they should really expect during a trip to Cuba.

I’d put up the occasional post, but continued with my usual job.

At the end of the year, my contract as a researcher in international human rights law at the local university ended, and I decided to stop pursuing that career for a while.

I packed my bags and left for a long-term trip to Central and South America . I started writing on the blog more consistently and learning, and eventually took my blog full-time , turning it into a career.

As of today, I have never looked back and have no regrets. This was a life changing traveling experience.

The one thing I’ll do, as soon as I can, is travel to Cuba to say thank you — because it changed my life in a way nothing else has ever done. 

-Claudia from Strictly Sardinia

9. A Short Travel Story About Finding Inner Peace In Patagonia

Life in London is hard.

Life in London as a gay single brown refugee is harder.

Juggling between work, my passion for traveling, and the prejudices that I dealt with on a daily basis eventually took their toll on me and I reached a breaking point.

The fact that I couldn’t return home to see my family and being away for them for almost nine years was enough to hammer in the final nail in the coffin.

I almost had a nervous breakdown and in that moment of desperation, which I knew would define the rest of my life, I took a month off and headed to Patagonia.

It was probably the best decision I’ve ever made in my life. The 36 hours it took me to get to El Chalten from London were tiring but Patagonia blew me away.

On my first day there I did a 28-kilometer (17-mile) hike which included a steep mountain climb. It was incredible how moving through the forest helped me clear my mind. And as I stood in front of Laguna de Los Tres, the rain and clouds gave way to sunshine and a rainbow.

I felt at peace.

The countless hikes, great food, and the warmth of locals in Chile and Argentina helped me get back in my skin and find the peace I was missing in my heart.

Nature is indeed the best medicine when it comes to stress relief and I won’t be coy about hugging trees to speed up the process (it did).

Patagonia was life-changing for me.

The beauty of nature struck me at each point and every time I thought it wasn’t possible to beat the view, the next one did just that.

I came back a changed, resilient, and most importantly, a happy person.

-Ucman from BrownBoyTravels

10. Looking Inwards & Making Connections With Strangers

It was decades before I traveled solo for the first time in my life.

This trip — a six-day escape to Colorado — was the first trip that was not for business or family reasons but just to travel and discover.

As I prepared for it, I had a strange feeling of excitement and nerves at the same time. I had all sorts of thoughts and doubts:

Would it be fun?

Would I be bored?

Would I stay in bed all day or would I bounce with excitement to do the next thing?

I wasn’t sure. Little did I know that it was going to be a memorable journey of self-discovery. 

As a good wife and mom, for me travel is always about the family; always thinking of who would enjoy what. It’s about family time and bonding. It’s about creating memories and travel stories together. It’s all so wonderful.

But on a solo trip who would I connect with? What would I say?

Well, I found that I got to do anything I wanted!

Usually when I travel with my family, if I feel like going on a drive that’s not on the itinerary or getting a snack no one else is interested in, we simply don’t do that.

So it was weird to just go do it. Really, that’s a thing?

As for making connections, it was so easy to meet locals while traveling and also to connect with other travelers. Honestly, I had conversations everywhere — on planes, while hiking, in restaurants, in the hotel lobby.

It was quite an eye-opening experience to meet a mom of 18 kids and hundreds of foster kids, a cookie baker, a professional photographer, a family of Fourteener hikers, and an internationally ranked marathon runner.

The inspiring stories I discovered were amazing and nothing like my wonderful safe life at home. 

In terms of travel safety , I got to go rock climbing, solo hiking, driving up a Fourteener, eating alone.

And it was all fine. Actually, it felt surprisingly normal.

It was was just me, my SUV, and my backpack for a week. Most of all, it was a breath of fresh air that I didn’t know existed. 

It’s wonderful to be back home and know that possibilities are endless and there is so much more out there to explore and be wowed by!

-Jyoti from Story At Every Corner

11. A Solo Hike To Find Connection

I have traveled solo many times, but I admit I was a bit uneasy booking my trip to Colombia . In part, due to the country’s dark past. But also because I desperately wanted to do the Cocora Valley hike, and if I’m honest, I was terrified.

This hike is located in the Coffee Triangle, an area recognized for its beauty as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features both rainforest and a stunning green valley speckled with cartoonishly-tall wax palms rising 200 feet or more.

It’s incredibly beautiful.

It’s also a long hike and quite challenging — it generally takes between six and eight hours and there is a steep area with over 3,000 feet of elevation within a quarter of a mile.

I wasn’t in hiking shape, so I was a little concerned. But, worst of all for me were the seven dodgy-looking suspension bridges. 

I’m terrified of heights.

And, I’d be going alone.

I decided to go anyway and I met an incredible woman on the bus to Salento, the town near Cocora. She was also traveling solo and we agreed to hike together.

The town is a backpacker enclave and we met up with a small group of people all traveling solo. As the days passed, our group got larger and it was such a magical experience.

As much as I love city travel, this small town won my heart.

My new friend and I set off on the hike and met two other women who were nervous to do the hike. We all went together.

When we got to the first suspension bridge, I paused. I was embarrassed to admit my fear, but the bridge swayed widely and there was nowhere to hold onto.

When they realized how out of my comfort zone I was and how scared I felt, everything changed. Instead of me dealing with it alone, they were all there to encourage me.

One crossed the bridge to encourage me from the other side and they stayed off of it to limit the sway. Crazy enough, I not only crossed the seven suspension bridges, but I also crossed one an extra time when we went the wrong way on the trail.

I did it! 

I was prepared to be blown away by Cocora Valley’s beauty, but what I wasn’t expecting was what a life-changing travel experience my time there would be.

 -Sam from My Flying Leap

12. How A Pet Sitting Travel Experience Led To A Passionate Career

We wanted to go to the Caribbean but didn’t know much about the islands or how we were going to afford it.

By chance, a friend of ours in Australia mentioned “pet sitting” and that it is something you can do all over the world.

We quickly created an account on a pet sitting website and began searching for options. There were only a couple of sits available in that part of the world, but we tried our luck, sent a request, and to our surprise landed a three-month gig in a beautiful house in the US Virgin Islands — with an infinity pool overlooking the British Virgin Islands.

A month into our sit, we had explored the destination pretty well and so had a lot of time on our hands. We managed to secure another sit in Grenada, so our year was going to be taken up with Caribbean pet sits.

Inspired by a Canadian couple that had previously stayed at our Grenada housesit, we decided to start our own travel blog. We began by writing about The Virgin Islands, highlighting the beautiful beaches and funky bars.

But for every photo of a beautiful beach there were 10 photos of trash.     

It was hard to ignore the plastic pollution issue, especially on such pristine and remote beaches.  So, we began to share photos of the trash we saw and how much we could pick up on our daily dog walks.

The more we looked into plastic pollution, the more we realized the severity of the global plastic pandemic. From that point, we used our platform to create awareness and highlight ways to say no to plastic and travel plastic-free .

We changed our daily routines, our way of living, and even our diets to accommodate more organic foods and little to no plastic packaging.

It’s been over three years now and we continue to do what we can. This journey has led us to some amazing places, working with great conscious brands and even organizing a country-wide beach clean-up campaign in Grenada.

Our aim now is to keep on going.

We love connecting with like-minded people and love the shift over the last few years that brands have made towards creating more sustainable products and services.

It’s been an amazing few years that was sparked by a conversation about pet sitting. Who would have guessed?

-Aaron & Vivien from The Dharma Trails

13. Learning To Slow Down The Hard Way

On Christmas of 2017, I was born again.

We like to spend our Christmas holidays somewhere warm abroad, and that year we chose Uganda.

Nature, wildlife, and sunny days were a blessing when it was so cold and dark in Europe. Life was beautiful, and we had a rental car and a busy schedule ahead to explore the country.

This is where this short travel story turns into one of my more scary travel experiences :

At Murchinson Falls National Park, we had a car accident.

I lost control of the car, and it rolled over, destroying windows, chassis, and engine.

But we were alive! My right arm was severely injured, but we managed to walk to our lodge, not far inside the park.

In the lodge, I was happy to learn that there was a pretty decent American hospital in Masindi that was just a one-hour drive from the lodge. Moreover, one of the lodge’s guests was a nurse who cleaned the wound while we were waiting for the taxi from/to Masindi.

The hospital took care of us, and after a couple of injections and stitches, I was ready to head to our new hotel in Masindi; however, my wound required daily dressing and more injections, so we were asked to stay in town for a few days.   

Masindi is the kind of place where you may want to stop to buy some food or water, but that’s it.

The town’s highlights were the market and our daily visit to the hospital, so we ended up looking for the small things, chatting with the medical staff, the hotel staff, the people in the market, and learning more about their customs.

We learned to slow down the hard way.

When we were allowed to leave, we took a road trip south through the country to see something else. We did not care about our travel bucket list anymore — we were alive, and we wanted to enjoy Uganda’s unique nature and its people. 

In the end, our Uganda trip was not about the places that we saw, but the people that we met. It was travel for experience vs sightseeing.

I hope to revisit Uganda one day, with a stop at Masindi for some food, water, and maybe something else.

-Elisa from World in Paris

14. A Cycling Trip To Remember

During the summer of 2019, I cycled solo from London to Istanbul. This huge bicycle tour took me 89 days and through 11 countries.

As you might expect, it was a challenging yet incredible journey, which saw me pedal along some of Europe’s greatest rivers, pass through some of its best cities, and witness some of its most beautiful scenery.

It’s becoming more and more important for us to think about the impact that travel can have on our environment. This was the inspiration for my bicycle tour; I wanted to find more responsible ways to explore the world and avoid flights where possible.

I discovered that bicycle touring is one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel, as using nothing but a bicycle and your own pedal power you can carry everything you need while covering surprising distances each day.

The simplicity of life and the sheer amount of time I spent cycling alone gave me a lot of time to just think . This really helped me to come to terms with some personal problems rooted in my past and, as a result, I arrived solo in Istanbul with newly found confidence, independence, and liberation. 

Cycling across the entire European continent may seem like an impossibly daunting task, but I assure you, it will make you feel like a new person, just like it did for me.

-Lauren from The Planet Edit

15. How The Caribbean Shaped Me Into A Fully Sustainable Traveler

One of my first international trips as an adult was traveling around the Caribbean .

I checked into my hotel in Jamaica and asked for a recommendation for a local place to eat. The receptionist told me that under no circumstances should I should go into the town because it was really dangerous, but that — to my luck — the hotel’s restaurant offered wonderful Caribbean food.

I pondered my options:

Did I really want to spend all my time on the beach without getting to know a single local?

I was a very inexperienced traveler and very young, but there was only one answer to my question:

Absolutely not. I was not going to be visiting a new place and staying hostage in a hotel chain. So out I went.

The poverty hit me in the face. After only seeing fancy resorts, the reality was hard to swallow.

A few locals approached me and were super curious as to what I was doing there alone, since most tourists didn’t go there.

I told them I was interested in meeting them and experiencing their culture. And just like that, I was embraced.

We met more people, had some food, and then we danced the night away. They had so little, yet they wanted to share it with me. They wanted to make me feel welcome.

And they undeniably did.

The next morning all I could think about was how all the money most tourists spend goes to big corporations. The locals have to be thankful if they get a job that pays minimum wage, while foreign businesses earn millions.

I have always been environmentally conscious, but this trip made it clear that sustainability goes well beyond nature and wildlife.

It’s also about communities.

From then on I always look for locally owned accommodation, eateries, guides, and souvenirs.

Sustainability, with everything it entails, became a motto for me and changed the very essence of the way I travel.

-Coni from  Experiencing the Globe

16. Lessons From My Students In Peru

One of the most life-changing trips I’ve ever been on was a volunteering experience in the stunning city of Cuzco in Peru.

In this last travel experience, I spent a month there teaching English and Italian to a group of local adults. And even though my time there was short, the travel experience was so humbling that it changed my outlook on life.

My lessons took the form of active conversations, which essentially turned into a massive multilingual cultural exchange between me and my students. Hearing my students talk about their lives — and realizing just how different they were from mine — made me look at my own life with a fresh new perspective.

One person spoke about the three years he spent living in a jungle with his dad, where they fed off of animals they hunted in order to survive.

Another student told me about her ultimate dream of mastering English so that she could become a tour guide and have a more stable future.

For me, these stories were a reminder of just how small I am in this world and how much we can get consumed by the small bubbles we live in. 

Most of all, my students showed a passion and appreciation for life that I’d never witnessed before.

This is true for the locals I met in Cuzco in general. The quality of life in Cuzco is very modest; hot water is scarce and you learn to live with little.

But the locals there do way more than just that — they spontaneously parade the streets with trumpets and drums just because they’re feeling happy, and their energy for the simple things in life is incredibly contagious.

It was impossible to not feel inspired in Cuzco because my students always had the biggest smiles on their faces, and the locals showed me again and again that simply being alive is a blessing.

I went to Peru to teach, but ended up learning more from my students and the locals there than they did from me.

Ever since I got back from that trip, I made it a goal to slow down and not take the simple things in life for granted.

Every time I get upset about something, I think about the Peruvians in Cuzco parading their streets in song and pure joy, and I tell myself to stop complaining.

-Jiayi from  The Diary of a Nomad

17. Braving Travel With Chronic Pain

Santiago de Compostela is a beautiful city with a prominent cathedral positioned centrally within the city.

While the historical cathedral attracts numerous visitors, even more well-known is the route to Santiago de Compostela, Camino de Santiago –- the world-famous pilgrimage route that has a plethora of trailheads and ends in Santiago. 

Home to locals, students, English teachers, and those on a spiritual pilgrimage, personal conquest, or a great outdoor hiking excursion, Santiago is a magical city.

My introduction to Santiago de Compostela doesn’t begin on the pilgrimage route, yet ends with a spiritual awakening analogous with those other unique pilgrimage stories.

It was my first solo trip abroad teaching English in Spain, a country that’s always been on my travel bucket list. A small town outside of Santiago was selected as the school I’d be teaching at for the year.

Unknowingly, this teach abroad program chose the perfect city for me to live in. 

A year prior, I suffered a traumatic brain injury that left me unable to function normally and complete average tasks. Migraines, headaches, and dizziness became my body’s normal temperament, a hidden disability invisible to the naked eye. 

Braving travel with chronic pain was the first lesson I learned during the trip.

The vast green outdoors and fresh dew from the morning rain enlivened me daily and reminded me about the importance of slowing down so I could enjoy traveling with my hidden disability. 

I also learned to stop often for daily tea breaks and to embrace the long lunch hour,  siestas , with good food, company, and a nap to rest.

Meeting locals , indulging in local food, and learning Spanish allowed me to connect deeply with the beautiful culture of Santiago. After all, my dream was to travel to Spain, and I more than accomplished that dream.

Difficult or not, I learned to own my dream and I was more than surprised with the results.

Who knew that a year after my injury I’d be traveling the world with chronic pain, and for that, I’m eternally grateful.

-Ciara from Wellness Travel Diaries

18. A Blessing In Disguise

2020 has been a wild year for all of us and foreign students in China are no exception. As soon as the malevolent virus began to make its rounds in China, our university sent us home for “two weeks.”

However, within a short time, countries began to shut their borders and these “two weeks” turned into months, a full year even.

Crushed by the burden of online lectures and virtual labs, my boyfriend and I packed our bags and caught one of the first flights to his home country of Pakistan.

I had always been an over-ambitious traveler. I believed numbers were everything — the number of countries I visited, the number of hours I spent on a plane, the number of international trips I took in a year. These numbers were what defined me.

My feet were constantly itching and I never liked to spend more than a few days in a place before heading to the next country. Revisiting a place felt superfluous to me.

That’s why I was hoping to spend a month or two in Pakistan and then continue to check new countries off the list — after all, my online classes finally granted me the freedom to “work on my numbers.”

But as is usually the case in 2020, things turned out quite different from what I had expected. Borders remained closed and worldwide infections stayed rampant. At this point, I have already spent nearly half a year in Pakistan.

During this peculiar time, however, an amazing thing happened:

My mindset about travel started to change and I began to look at my long stay in Pakistan as perhaps my most valuable travel experience ever.

I may not have visited dozens of countries like in previous years but my experiences were deeper than ever before.

From trekking to one of the world’s tallest mountains to sharing tea with heavily armed officers at nearly 5,000 meters altitude to exploring hidden beaches in the most secluded regions to spontaneously being invited to village homes, my adventures in Pakistan couldn’t have been more incredible. They opened my eyes to the sheer diversity of many countries and completely transformed my idea about traveling. 

It took me nearly a full year of heavy restrictions on international travel and a few months in one of the world’s most fascinating countries to give up on my superficial ideals and become a more mature traveler.

This time will always have a special place in my heart.

-Arabela from The Spicy Travel Girl

19. What The River Taught Me

My travel story takes place in the summer of 2017 — the final summer before I graduated university — as it continues to play a significant role in the person I’ve become.

When I say that, people ask me if it was the portion of the summer I spent solo backpacking in Europe . And to their surprise, it wasn’t. It was actually the latter portion of the summer where I stayed closer to home.

For July and August I worked as a canoe guide leading whitewater canoe trips on remote rivers in Canada. It was here that I got to canoe the powerful and iconic Missinaibi River, a river that continues to influence me all these years later.

The Missinaibi River flows from the powerful Lake Superior to the even more powerful salty waters of James Bay. Here, I led a group of eight teenagers through dozens of whitewater rapids over 500 kilometers (~311 miles).

With no cell service for 25 days, we were forced to disconnect from anything other than the river.

During this trip I learned two important lessons:

First, I learned to be confident in my own abilities as a leader and problem solver.

There were a few rapids where my campers’ boats flipped and I had to rescue the campers and the canoes. One rescue saw two boats flip on a mile-long rapid. It took six hours to make it down the rapid, and during this time I managed stuck canoes and crying campers.

And while this was one of the most difficult rescues I’ve done, I was amazed at how calm I was throughout it. I gave clear directions, prioritized effectively, and kept my campers safe throughout the entire experience. Following the rescue, I had a newfound sense of confidence in my abilities.

The second lesson I learned on the Missinaibi was the power of disconnecting from society and connecting with the people around you.

A wild river commands all of your attention. Each day, you and your group must take down camp, load canoes, paddle up to eight hours while navigating both rapids and portages, get to a new campsite, set up camp, cook dinner, and go to bed.

And without the distraction of technology, your attention has nowhere else to be. You focus on the river and your teammates.

As someone who had wrestled with anxiety and depression prior to this summer, I felt at total ease on the trip. Now I seek societal disconnection and human connection as much as I can. 

Sometimes the most profound, life-altering trips are the least expected trips closer to home.

-Mikaela of  Voyageur Tripper

More Short Travel Experience Stories

Looking for another story about travelling? Check out these short and unique travel stories!

25 Crazy Travel Stories You Need To Read To Believe

23 Inspiring Travel Stories Sharing The Kindness Of Strangers

17 True Short Adventure Travel Stories To Inspire Your Next Trip

38 Inspiring Travel Love Stories From The Road

16 Short Funny Travel Stories That Will Make You Laugh

20 Embarrassing Travel Stories That Will Make You Laugh & Blush

21 Travel Horror Stories About Scary Travel Experiences

Do you have any inspiring travel experience stories about life-changing trips to share?

Enjoyed these inspiring stories about travel? Pin this blog about travel experience stories for later!

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These stories are so much fun to read! Thanks so much for putting a post like this together. It’s great to be able to check out other people’s blogs and read about other people’s experiences!

Always great to read about travel experiences of others. Some great stories to read over coffee. I’ve Pinned your post for future reference and to share with others. Will check out each story author’s blog as well. Great Job! 🙂

Amazing story for new traveler like me thanks for your contribution

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21 Life-changing Trips Everyone Should Experience at Least Once

From African safaris to must-visit cities, these once-in-a-lifetime trips will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

What's next on your travel list? With so many places worth traveling to, it can be hard to narrow down your top spots to visit.

Sometimes, it's the famous attractions, delicious food, and stunning hotels that draw us to a certain destination, and other times, it's the bragging rights that come with checking off every continent, country, or state. Whatever your motivation, we've rounded up 21 incredible trips, complete with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and iconic sights you won't find anywhere else in the world.

So, what makes a trip truly life-changing? That answer varies from traveler to traveler, but one thing is for sure: From African safaris to classic road trips, this list will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Deciding between the historic cities of Rome, Venice, Naples, and Florence for the top destination to visit feels impossible, so the entire country of Italy deserves a spot on your list. Start in the Eternal City and head north through the rolling hills of Tuscany to visit Florence, followed by Milan or Venice, or go south to the beaches of the beautiful Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

New York, New York

Visiting the Statue of Liberty , standing at the top of the Empire State Building, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge: These are just a few of the things you can only do in New York City. Whether you dream of visiting all the places you've seen on screen, catching a Broadway show, or eating your way through the city's diverse neighborhoods, there's no doubt that NYC deserves a spot on your list.

Tokyo, Japan

Old and new come together in Japan's bustling capital city. Historic temples and shrines, busy shopping districts, delicious food, and some of the world's best theme parks and attractions — whatever your interests, there's something for you in Tokyo.

Paris, France

From watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle and viewing famous works of art at world-renowned museums to eating delicious French pastries, there are innumerable reasons that Paris deserves a spot on your list. Of course, other dreamy French destinations like Mont-Saint-Michel, Chamonix, and the Riviera are well worth a visit, too.

Busy medinas, intricate architecture, and a unique combination of cultural influences make Morocco unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're traveling to bustling Marrakesh, pretty coastal cities, or remote desert towns (or hopefully, all three), a trip to Morocco is bound to be one to remember.

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

From the whitewashed homes of Santorini to the Ios party scene to the relaxing atmosphere of Milos, there's a perfect Greek Island for every type of traveler. Island hopping gives you the chance to experience more of what the country has to offer, but plan to spend a couple of days in Athens at the beginning and/or end of your trip.

T+L Backpack Quiz

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Machu Picchu

Seeing the historic ruins of the Incan Empire set among the breathtaking Andes at Machu Picchu is an undeniably life-changing experience. The stunning citadel ruins of Machu Picchu are worth the journey — and for some travelers, that trip, often taken by train or on foot as a multi-day trek , is a big part of the experience. Editor’s note: Machu Picchu is currently closed due to civil unrest in Peru. Visit the  official website  for the latest news and reopening details.

African Safari

Seeing majestic animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos in the wild is a dream best accomplished with an African safari . South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya are among the most popular safari destinations — and in each of those countries, you'll find incredible lodges and tour operators who can help you spot these creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you dream of cruising down the famed Nile River, seeing the Pyramids of Giza, or visiting the ancient Valley of the Kings, Egypt's historic wonders make the destination completely unique (and worthy of a spot on your travel list).

Unlike many of the action-packed trips on this list, the Maldives is synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and romance. A stay in an overwater bungalow set atop turquoise blue waters is the ultimate getaway that's worth the long-haul flight and oftentimes pricey accommodations.

Antarctica Cruise

Hoping to visit all seven continents? Cross Antarctica off your list with a cruise. Several major cruise lines have journeys to Antarctica, offering incredible views of the ice and wildlife from the comfort and safety of a ship. Travelers typically fly in and out of Buenos Aires en route to Ushuaia (where most cruises depart from); we recommend spending a few days in the fascinating Argentine city before your expedition.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Dubbed one of the natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a can't-miss for many wildlife lovers. Of course, Australia's gorgeous coastline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and fuzzy creatures like kangaroos and koalas are also reasons to head to the destination. Fly into Sydney and spend a few days there before heading out to explore more of this expansive country teeming with natural beauty.

Galapagos Islands

Incredible and diverse plant and animal species make the Galapagos Islands another must-visit for nature-loving travelers. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador is best explored by cruise, so you can take in as many breathtaking landscapes and animals as possible during your trip.

Like the other countries on this list, India has countless destinations worth exploring, but one of the most famous attractions that travelers dream of seeing for themselves is the Taj Mahal. This 17th-century white marble mausoleum has drawn visitors to Agra for years. Luxury travelers might consider a train trip aboard the Maharajas' Express (with a stop at the Taj Mahal) as the ultimate experience. Travelers planning to visit the Taj Mahal or take the luxurious train ride will want to fly into Delhi, India's capital territory.

Petra, Jordan

The stunning ancient city of Petra is made up of several impressive structures carved into sandstone rock faces, including the famous Al-Khazneh. The city dates back thousands of years, making this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit for history buffs.

Passing through India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Bhutan, and Nepal, the Himalayas are home to some of the world's highest peaks — and that means breathtaking mountain views, too. For adventurous and active travelers, climbing Mount Everest (or at least trekking to Everest Base Camp) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

American National Park Road Trip

The classic American road trip is a mainstay on many travelers' lists — and for good reason. The country's incredible national parks , including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, are best explored on road trips with stops at charming small towns and kitschy roadside attractions.

Great Wall of China

Stretching across China for thousands of miles, with sections dating back nearly 2,000 years, the Great Wall is regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can hike along parts of the wall — some areas are located within driving distance of Beijing, so it's a perfect day trip from the city.

Easter Island

The hundreds of monolithic moai statues have drawn curious visitors to Easter Island for years. This remote Polynesian island is worth the lengthy trip for travelers hoping to see these impressive human figures, while also soaking in some incredible coastal views.

Northern Lights Trip

Catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights is possible in several destinations close to the Arctic Circle, including Alaska, Iceland, Canada, Greenland, Finland, Sweden, and Norway. All of these places have incredible viewpoints (and even hotels where you can see the phenomenon from your bed ), in addition to great, wintry scenery. (The lights are best viewed from late fall through early spring.)

Thailand and Vietnam

A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to expansive Angkor Wat.

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Life-changing travel experience stories

There’s nothing like other travelers’ tales to get inspiration . When you are home longing to be on the road, or when you are on a journey wondering why you left the comfort of your house, submerge into these life-changing travel experience stories, beautiful tales of how a trip can alter the trajectory of your life .

I’m sure my regular readers are used to me talking about travel experiences . But for those who are discovering this little window to my soul called Experiencing the Globe , you can see that it all started with a bucket list of all the –surprise, surprise– travel experiences I want to have around the world.

The list is my goal in life, so I’m spending as much time as I can on the road. But when I’m home in between trips I seek inspiration in other travelers’ tales. I’ve read as many books about exciting journeys as I could put my hands on. And recently I got a hold of Lonely Planet’s Travel Goals: Inspiring Experiences to Transform Your Life .

It got me thinking of my own life-changing travel experiences . Like my transformation into a sustainable traveler after fully grasping what that meant for the planet and all the life in it. I have a trip to the Caribbean to thank for that. The first trip I took alone, when I was starting to test my boundaries, empowered me as a solo female traveler, and opened my eyes to a new world of possibilities! I’m so thankful I chose Italy , an amazing destination to explore on your own! I reaffirmed my faith in human kindness after spending a month in Iran , meeting the loveliest people I’ve ever encountered.  And the most literal life-changing travel experience, moving to Croatia after meeting the love of my life in this beautiful country that now I call home.

The book also encouraged me to ask other travelers if they had a story in their own travels that changed their lives in one way or another. I was overwhelmed with the beautiful tales… some of the best life-changing stories that’ll inspire you to travel!

Life-changing travel experience stories that’ll inspire you to travel

Collecting memories, not counting countries.

I want to start this series of tales with my own. As I told you, many aspects of my life have changed over the years due to a travel experience, but the one I want to elaborate on is the one that defined what my life would be. Traveling hasn’t changed me, it has made me. It’s who I am. Several trips to the south of Chile showed me where I was going. This is the story of how I became the person I am today:

My parents took me camping to the Chilean Lake District every summer while growing up. This was in the dark age, before the internet. Back then we had to rely on maps and guidebooks. So through the endless hours of our road trips, I kept myself entertained glancing at a map, reading about the small towns we passed, and convincing my folks to take a detour to visit some place that caught my attention.

During one trip I told them that I have decided I wanted to go everywhere in the world. After a few laughs, my dad told me about the Travelers’ Century Club (TCC), a group for people who have visited 100 or more of the world’s countries and territories. My eyes sparkled with the thought of being a member, and I made it my goal.

Obviously, I started asking to go to another country instead of the same National Park we always visited. They laughed again –conscious of the monster they have created– and offered a compromise: they’d take me to our neighbor Argentina, my first trip abroad, but I had to see more of my own country before I embarked on my adventure of visiting another hundred. I happily accepted.

See, what I immediately realized is that –as much as I wanted to be part of the TCC– the main reasons to travel should revolve around what I’ll get out of a trip –whether that’s meeting locals, tasting the typical cuisine, exploring nature, or adventuring into an activity– it shouldn’t be just to count countries . I know the “why you should travel” is super personal, but ticking countries off a list only because you put your feet there feels meaningless to me.

Why do people travel? Well, there are as many reasons as people traveling, but even if it is to get a tan while you’re permanently sipping from a cocktail, that trip will always be part of your story, so you should make the most of it.

After visiting every region in Chile, I started to go abroad. Nowadays, getting closer to 100 countries and territories of the TCC list properly visited, what I knew instinctively, transformed into lessons I learnt during my travels … What inspires me the most to hit the road is experiences, because they feed my adventurous soul –the TCC list (and my own bucket list) became the means to guide my journey, not an end themselves.

Spreading the word about the truth of traveling

Claudia’s life story is remarkably similar to my own. Being avid travelers changed the way we perceive a destination, and the story that should be told about it. We both left behind an academic career and repurposed our research abilities towards travel writing. Now we both blog from a distinct point of view. This is the story of how in a visit to Cuba she found her true calling:

“Cuba changed my life because it was nothing like I had expected it to be –quite the opposite, in fact. You see, being the avid traveler that I am, before my trip to Cuba I spent months reading just about anything I could put my hands on. If it talked about Cuba, I had to read it. Everything made it sound like traveling to Cuba would be easy, and locals would be generous and welcoming.

My time in Cuba was less than fabulous. Don’t get me wrong, it is a gorgeous country and now, a few years later, with much more traveling experience and understanding, I am ready to go again. But back then, it was awful. My 23 days there were a constant challenge to avoid scams –a challenge that a few times saw me succeed but that other times saw me fail miserably. It was frustrating. I felt I could not trust anybody. Where were the lovely Cubans everyone talked about in their blogs?

Cuba taught me that people lie, even (or especially) online. Because nobody really wants to say they have had a bad experience, and nobody is really interested in reading about others’ bad experiences –but is that really the case?

I decided there and then to be different. I decided that I had to warn others, tell them the truth, let them know what they should expect and what they should do to avoid scams. That’s why I opened my blog. It was just a pastime at the beginning.

Fast-forward 2 years and I realized that I did want to make an effort to make it work out. After all, what did I have to lose? My contract as a research fellow at the university had expired and I had no real prospect if not a series of menial short-term teaching jobs I was less than interested in. So, I gave blogging my heart and soul. And it worked. I’m a much happier person now. I love what I am doing. I wake up in the morning to face a long list of to-do things and I read it with a smile on my face, which is priceless.

Cuba changed my life. And despite all the frustration I felt back when I was there, it changed it for the best.”

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Encountering wildlife to find yourself

Camilla was looking for something, but she wasn’t sure what it was. Her heart lead her to India , and after that trip her life would never be the same. Animals can have different impacts in our life, but for this former vegan chef, one particular big cat meant more than anything. This is her story:

“January 2017. That’s the date I first arrived in India. By that time, I used to work as a freelance vegan chef in the hustling city of Paris. Having attended a 4-weeks course on yoga and Ayurveda, I had planned to spend the following month exploring this amazing country.

Little did I know that a special encounter would change my life forever.

Always an animal lover, over the years I had developed a passion for the most majestic of big cats: the tiger. The striped animal had somehow summoned me. To what reason and to convey what message I do not know, but to such a call one can hardly resist.

India is home to more than 60% of the world’s remaining wild tigers. The critically endangered species is highly protected, and the country has given to many of its national parks the status of Tiger Reserve.

It was time for me to see my first one in the wild.

With zero safari experience and many hours of research, I booked 4 drives in Ranthambhore, one of India’s most famous Tiger Reserves .

I will always remember the excitement before that first drive in the jungle, and I will never forget the distress of realizing that finding the elusive cat is no easy task. 

But all of a sudden, there it was. Glorious in its fierce black striped orange coat, a killer look and an attitude to die for. My first wild tiger.

That fleeting moment was enough to make me want more. Today, I have moved to Central India, prime tiger landscape of the world, and I have seen 103 different individuals. But every time I see those eyes, I feel the same excitement that I felt as a total beginner that day in Ranthambhore.”

Finding love in an unexpected place

Traveling is full of surprises. A spontaneous detour can change your life forever. Don’t I know it! A quick, unplanned stop in Split after exploring Dubrovnik ended up seeing me move continents for love. A simple recommendation of a town in The Philippines had the same in store for Alya. This is the tale of the trip that lead her to her husband:

“Meeting my future husband was definitely one of the most life-changing travel experiences I’ve ever had. We met 6 years ago in the Philippines. I was traveling alone around Southeast Asia for a couple of months. After completing my dive course in Gili Air Island in Indonesia and didn’t know where to go next. I was looking for a good place to learn to surf. My dive instructor told me about a small town on Luzon Island in the Philippines. It sounded like the perfect place for me. I bought a plane ticket immediately and two days later arrived in San Fernando.

The hostel I stayed at had a big dormitory with many beds. I met many travelers including Campbell. In fact, we had neighboring beds in the dormitory. He traveled alone as well and we liked each other, so we started going together to the beach, surfing and going out at night. By chance we had very similar travel plans and decided to continue our trip together.

We both like doing the same things, like surfing, diving and hiking. We left San Fernando and traveled around the Philippines together for 2 months. From there we went to Singapore. Unfortunately, I had to go back home, my 4-month holiday was over. We arranged to meet up again two months later in Nepal since we both had trekking to Everest Base Camp on our bucket list. So we did, it was our first multi-day trek together.

We met up a couple of times on the road again in different countries. After 6 months of on and off I decided to quit my job and join Campbell on his around the world adventure. Three years later we got married and decided to start a travel blog . In the last 6 years we’ve done hundreds of hikes, spent a year hitchhiking through Latin America, drove thousands of kilometers across Africa and walked seven Camino de Santiago routes.

Now I can’t imagine how my life would look like if I hadn’t gone to that place in the Philippines and had never met my husband.”

Giving is better than having

A trip to South East Asia gave Corritta’s life a whole new meaning. Possessions are overrated, true happiness comes from giving. She and her family left a comfortable life in the United States behind to fill their souls while making the world a better place. This is the tale of their journey:

“My life changing experience prompted me to sell our house, car and possessions to take off on a journey to see the world. That may seem a little extreme but let me explain. My first international trip was to Bangkok in 2018. I thought this trip would be a great way to get away from the stress in my life. It turned out to be a life altering experience that made me realize I was existing, not living. 

While in Bangkok we took a day trip to Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand and it changed my life. We learned how cruel animal tourism is and how we, as tourists, are unwitting accomplices. We support illegal pouching and animal cruelty by taking part in animal tourism. This includes taking pictures with large cats or monkeys and riding elephants. When we do these things, we are not only hurting the animals, we are ensuring things will never get better. I must admit I was never an animal lover but being up close and personal with elephants changed something within me. It made me want to give back.  

So, two years later, with my partner and our one-year old baby boy, decided to take off for a  family gap year .  We sold everything and left San Diego to live a life of service. We will use this time to give back to those less fortunate. 

When I left Thailand my definition of happiness changed. It was no longer associated with material possessions, but by the quality of life I wanted to live. I realized what truly matters is the love of your family. The Thai people with their families were happier than most Americans. So I decided to take back one of the most invaluable things in the world, time. Never forget, all the money in the world can’t buy you more time.” 

Small changes can make the world a better place

A trip to Australia developed plastic-issue awareness in Simona. Seeing how the tides brought tons of plastic to the shores made her change her approach to traveling. From carrying her own grocery bags and water bottle, little adjustments made her a much more responsible traveler. This is how her journey towards sustainability started:

“The first time ever I realized that plastic was a serious matter for our planet was during a road trip in Western Australia, almost 12 years ago.

We stopped at a supermarket along the Coral Bay coast to buy some groceries and the lady at the counter told us they didn’t sell any shopping bags to prevent plastic in the ocean and to help preserving the endangered turtles living in that area. After a first reaction of surprise, we gathered all our shopping in our arms and left, reflecting on what we had been told.

This was just one of the many experiences I’ve lived that made me more conscious about my impact and pushed me to adopt various habits to live and travel more sustainably. For example, after that trip, I am always carrying a cotton bag when I go shopping.

Our eco-honeymoon to Borneo was another life-changing experience that has strengthened my resolution to turn to a zero-waste lifestyle. I selected three ecotourism projects to visit. In Asia finding safe drinkable water is always a challenge, but we traveled with our water bottle, and we chose the right service providers engaged in sustainable travel so, with a little effort, we managed to avoid almost entirely the use of plastic during our trip.

However, we were seriously struck by our stay on Libaran Island, where a sustainable and turtle conservation project was launched 10 years ago. Despite the big efforts carried out by the project and the community in cleaning up the beaches and creatively re-use plastic, the shore is washed daily with tons of plastic coming from the tides. Walking on a carpet of plastic that almost prevented us from seeing the beach underneath was quite shocking.

Facing this global issue in person, raised in me a contrasting feeling of sadness and anger that soon turned into determination: to do as much as possible to reduce plastic in our life. Sometimes we may feel helpless in front of big problems, but we should be aware that small changes can actually make a difference!”

• The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel
• Sustainable Travel Photography
• Eco-friendly hiking: sustainable tips and packing guide
• Plant-based diet & Sustainability

Discovering happiness in simplicity

When her career and personal relations were failing, Soujanya decided to retreat to the mountains. The Himalayas were the perfect setting to get away from everything and regain perspective. In a small village she discovered that technology is overrated, and that what counts are real connections. This is how a trip to India changed her take on life:

“Back in mid-2019 I wasn’t in a good place in life. I was getting out of a serious relationship, I was burn out at my job, I had problems within my family, and the ever-increasing sense of loneliness had thrown me into a pit of depression. During that time, I turned to the only positive thing I had going on for myself, which was travel and blogging.

After some contemplation, I decided to quit my job to travel. I had saved up enough money that would last me 8-10 months so I didn’t give it much thought because I knew it was the only thing that would keep me from tipping over the edge.

The first thing I did after leaving my job was to head to the Himalayas in India. I spent a month in the Kinnaur and Spiti valleys in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The Kinnaur district was a breath of fresh air. The snow-clad mountain range in the distance, the lush green vegetation all around, the sparse population and the friendly people spoke to my soul.

There was one village called Chitkul , which lies on the Indo-Tibet border and has no cell connectivity, that helped heal me the most. A remote village with a population of less than a thousand people and only a handful of tourists, with nothing around it for many miles.

I spent my days sitting by the river, hiking to the nearby hills and walking through meadows. Just being there surrounded by the Himalayas, without any social media due to lack of connectivity, and making real connections with other travelers and the villagers had some sort of magical effect on me. Not only I have the best travel experience of my life, but the place also healed my mind. I came back happier than ever, with a renewed spirit, ready to enjoy everything that life had to offer.”

Uncovering a braver version of yourself

We all have that one thing we’d love to do but we’re too scared to try. A trip to Thailand taught Allison that life is what we made of it. Pushing her boundaries not only allowed her to have a ton of fun, but also gave her a new path, one in which she gets to do what she loves. This is her story, an encouragement for you to get out of you comfort zone too:

“Shortly after I graduated from college, I moved to a new state to start a full-time job. One day at work, I found myself wanting to go traveling. As I didn’t have any friends there, I decided it was the perfect opportunity to go on my first ever solo trip. So I quickly started doing research on where I’d like to go.

I had never traveled alone before, especially overseas, so I decided to sign up for a guided group that was going rock climbing in Thailand . This gave me a sense of security, being new to solo traveling. It felt like a great way to dip my toes into being alone and meeting strangers, but also doing something that sounded really fun and engaging for 2 weeks.

The entire Thailand trip forced me out of so many comfort zones that ended up being one of the big turning points of my life. The time I spent in Thailand navigating airports and taxis alone, meeting a group of complete strangers, and spending 2 weeks climbing with them in often remote parts of the country, ended up being one of the greatest experiences of my life. Up until this point I had always considered myself a ‘shy’ and ‘cautious’ kind of person, but this travel experience lit me up to become different. It showed me a brave, strong, and self-sufficient side of myself that went on to influence my life in dramatic ways when I returned home.

When I got back, I pretty much dedicated my life to spending as much time as possible outdoors whether that be climbing, hiking, or backpacking… essentially doing things that I once thought I wasn’t ‘capable of’ or was ‘too scared of’. Today, roughly 6 years later, I’m an outdoor empowerment coach and backpacking educator.

My trip to Thailand was the spark that I needed to make that change. It showed me what was possible. I don’t know if it was the people I met, the experiences I had, or the beauty of traveling in Thailand – likely a bit of all of it– but whatever it was, it changed the trajectory of my life, and I’ll forever hold Thailand (and all the people I met) in a special place in my heart.”

A leap of faith towards a new life

Getting to visit a new place after a business trip is nothing out of the ordinary. For most people. For Derek and Mike it was literally life-changing. After a quick trip to Copenhagen , they packed up and started a new chapter of their lives as expats in a different continent. This is the tale of their journey:

“In November 2016 we had a life-changing travel experience in Copenhagen, Denmark. My partner Mike was asked to make an unexpected business trip to the city to help with a project. His company had recently acquired another company in Denmark, and he was asked to help with the integration. He flew there from our hometown, Philadelphia, with only a few days’ notice, and on his first day in the office they asked if he would stay a few weeks longer. He agreed but asked for time off during the American Thanksgiving so that I could fly to Denmark and take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy a cheap trip to Europe with no-cost lodging and some meals expensed.

We loved getting to check out a city that we didn’t have on our travel bucket list before this opportunity came about. We did a few tours, visited the Christmas markets and dined out. At one restaurant we got to try the Christmas traditional Danish meal . I enjoyed Copenhagen for 5 days and Mike remained there for work until the end of November.

On his last night in Denmark, he had dinner at his boss’ home. They shared a meal with a lot of wine and then Mike called me when he got back to his hotel. I could hear the excitement in his voice. He asked if I liked Copenhagen, which seemed odd because he knew I enjoyed myself when I was there. Then he asked if I liked it enough to move there, because on that final night, his boss asked if we would take an expat assignment in Denmark.

We didn’t hesitate to accept and our life abroad began almost right away. That trip to Copenhagen was certainly life-changing!”

Learning to fully appreciate what’s in front you

No matter how much you have traveled, there are places that will bring up the best of you. No matter how much there is still to see, some places will take your breath away and will forever stay in your heart. A trip to Antarctica transformed Wendy into a student. She acquired as much information as she could to fully absorb the beauty that she was about to witness. And now she is longing to go back. This is her story:

“Before my cruise from Ushuaia to Antarctica , I was already quite well-traveled. I had visited about 75 countries and seen plenty of natural beauty before. But all of that paled in comparison to the White Continent. The Perito Moreno glacier in Argentina had mesmerized me just days earlier, but now I was seeing dozens, even hundreds, of sparkling white glaciers practically everywhere I looked. These landscapes were so different from anything I’d ever seen that it felt like I’d traveled to another planet.

On the times when the weather was bad, and on the long days of crossing the Drake Passage between Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica, I soaked up every bit of knowledge that I could about this snow-and-ice-covered land. Our ship, the MV Ushuaia, was manned by a full staff of scientists and lecturers who were experts in a number of relevant topics, from geology to ornithology. When we were out on the high seas with nothing to do, these experts held lectures on the flora, fauna, history and geology of Antarctica, and I attended every single one.

When we stopped at the British base at Port Lockroy on Goudier Island, I grilled the staff there with questions about how I too could go live and work on the island. And while that dream never materialized, my memories of Antarctica are still sharp in my mind 11 years later, and I still dream of returning one day.

Such an expensive voyage would normally be the trip of a lifetime, not a return destination. But if you’re willing to try your luck, sharply discounted last-minute deals can be found at the port in Ushuaia a day or two before departure. In recent years, these huge discounts have become few and far between, as most ships fill up months in advance. But still I’m thinking of a return trip to Antarctica for some more adventure!”

No matter where you go, every single place in the world has the potential to change your life! Tell me in the comments if you’ve had any life-changing travel experiences!

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16 thoughts on “Life-changing travel experience stories”

Wow this is really amazing,I pray that I will be opportuned to travel around the world one day

Sometimes we think it’s a far away dream because it’s dangerous, or expensive, or because we can’t take time from work. I’m aware that for some people it’s actually quite impossible due to their passport or the political situation in their country. For others, their responsibilities are far too great to leave behind. But for most of us, it’s just a matter of priorities. Don’t wait until you have all the money you think you need, or all the time you’d like to spend on the road. Just go! Even if it’s a weekend trip to your neighboring city, or to the countryside close to your place. You got to start somewhere, and every trip has the potential to be life-changing! Let me know how it goes! 🙂

I was looking for inspiration, and inspiration I found. I can’t travel at the moment, but I’m already thinking of how to be more sustainable on my next trip. Thank you all for sharing!

That’s amazing to hear, Dani! Welcome to the sustainable traveler’s team! 🌱

I googled inspiring travel stories to see if my day could be picked up, and I’m so glad this popped up! Lovely stories, super inspiring! I can’t wait for the pandemic to be over to create some travel stories of my own ❤️

Awww! I’m so happy to read your comment, Monty! Hopefully the pandemic will be under control soon and you’ll get to have some travel stories too. Make sure you tell me about them!

Beautiful tales! I can’t wait to start traveling again. Travel already has changed my life, but I’d be happy living through any of the wonderful experiences described here!

When you get to travel again, keep an open mind and an open heart… amazing experiences will happen! ❤️

Very inspiring stories! Thank you for sharing them!

It was a blast to write this, and collect other wonderful tales!

Love all these stories! Love how travel has shaped everyone!

In one way or another, every trip makes us a bit different. It was great to get these wonderful travelers to share their stories -now I’m sure it’s not only me who is deeply changed by travel!

These are all such inspiring stories! Really goes to show you how much travel can impact your life. Thanks for sharing!

It’s crazy how much travel can change us, and how much we can learn from it, no matter where we go!

I loved reading this! All of the stories are such an inspiration! I can’t wait to get back on the road 😍

In times of armchair travel, nothing like beautiful stories to keep the wanderlust up, right? ❤️

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The 10 most incredible travel experiences in the world, according to Lonely Planet

Oct 7, 2020 • 7 min read

The Monastery of Petra by candlelight © K. Chae / 500px

There’s no two ways about it; 2020 has dealt an unexpected blow to the travel industry. And while our dreams of jetting off for adventure or reconnecting with loved ones in another country may have been dashed, we have to remember that things won’t always be like this – there’s still an array of unique and compelling places around the world waiting to be experienced and appreciated.

Now is the perfect time to start planning for when it's safe to travel again, and to inspire those once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Lonely Planet is proud to present Ultimate Travel List , the second edition of our bestseller that offers a brand new ranking of the greatest places on Earth.

Travel can be a force for good, allowing us to connect with other cultures and communities, educate ourselves and experience how others live. For this edition, extra marks have been awarded to destinations that manage tourism sustainably. From the marvels of human invention to the raw beauty of nature, this inspiring list of 500 places has been put together by our most knowledgeable experts. Here’s the top 10 from the new book.

1. Explore the ancient 'lost city' of Petra  

This Unesco World Heritage Site has long mystified travellers with its stunning sandstone construction and history. Over 3000 years old, it was originally capital of the Nabataeans, a nomadic people from Arabia who were merchants and craftspeople. The city was eventually abandoned, only to be embraced by the Bedouin who began living in the caves up until the 1980s. In 2007 the enigmatic city was voted in as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and any visitor who ventures there can see why. From the Siq, the winding narrow canyon that was once a trade route and a focal point for religious processions, to the iconic 128-ft-high Treasury building, visitors to the sprawling 102-sq mile site are overtaken by the wonder of it. Historic and intriguing, Jordan enjoys a reputation as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the Middle East.

2. Visit the Galápagos – the islands that have astounded scientists

A literal wonderland of science, the Galápagos hold secrets of nature not seen anywhere else in the world. Famed as the place where Charles Darwin’s ideas on evolution by natural selection were shaped, the islands inspire thought and wonderment. Many of the native creatures are unique to the stretch of islands off the coast of Ecuador , with 200-hundred-year-old tortoises, large land iguanas of pink and yellow, and flightless cormorants. Located at the meeting of three separate ocean currents, the Galápagos also hold a bounty of marine species. Ecotourism has become a booming industry in the last few years, with the airport being built from mostly sustainable and recycled materials, and running on solar and wind power.

3. Learn from the Aṉangu at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park 

Blushing like an epiphanic, sun-baked chunk of coal on the shimmering horizon, there’s something haunting about witnessing the golden and umber hues of Uluru at sunset. Standing proud at 348m tall and stretching nearly 4km wide, the sandstone leviathan is not only an impressive spectacle and popular tourism spot, it’s a sacred site. The area’s native inhabitants, the Aṉangu people, hold the belief that spiritual ancestors reside here. An icon to Australia , the site has long been a draw. Up until 2017 it was possible (against the wishes of the Aṉangu) to ascend the summit, but there are still rich and rewarding experiences open to travelers. The Aṉangu cultural center is a highlight where there is a display on tjukurpa, the creation period.

4. Embrace a slower pace of life on the Okavango Delta

A marshland that is home to some of the world’s most endangered animals, this beautiful wilderness is a compelling destination for an African safari. Expanding up to 7722 sq miles (20,000 sq km), this is one of the world’s largest inland deltas and an important lifeforce for huge numbers of wildlife. The area can be appreciated in a number of different ways, including by powerboat, mokoro (a traditional canoe), and via 4WD safaris. You'll spot wildlife big and small – the most thrilling sight is no doubt the proud African elephants that can be spotted bathing and drinking. In order to protect the environment, visitor numbers are regulated, making it an exclusive but truly rewarding experience. 

5. Gaze upon geysers and grizzlies at Yellowstone National Park  

Home to 60% of the world’s geysers, (including Old Faithful – the park’s most famous one) Yellowstone offers a full an assault of the senses. From eggy whiffs of roaring, hot springs that explode over a searing landscape to the exciting sight of bison, elk, bears and wolves running past, there is always something to thrill. On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park in the US, and today welcomes an impressive 4 million people every year. It also boasts rugged canyons, mountains and forests perfect for hiking, walking, climbing, trail running, and other outdoor activities.

6. Emulate a pilgrim's journey to the astounding Lake Bled

With its white bell-towered church atop an island on a glassy lake, and a medieval castle that clings to the side of a green precipice, Lake Bled is picture-perfect. The eye-catching beauty of the Slovenian retreat has always made it a draw, from early pilgrims to 19th-century royalty. Backed by the Julian Alps and the Karavanke, the route around the lake makes for an easy and enjoyable walk or cycle, while swimming in or diving beneath the stunning waters is also popular with the throngs of visitors who venture here. A jewel of the Alps and a symbol of the country’s beauty, Lake Bled continues to be a popular choice for those who enjoy inspiring surroundings.

7. Marvel at the overwhelming power of Iguazú Falls 

Easily reached from both Brazil and Argentina , the furious Iguazú Falls are an awe-inspiring demonstration of the power of nature. The cascades are formed by a chain of hundreds of waterfalls nearly 2 miles (3km) in extension that join forces to create something magnificent. The expanse of the surrounding national park, a protected area over 67,720 hectares (the majority of which is a rainforest with unique plant and animal life) adds extra value to a visit. Multiple rainbows can be spotted when the spray and falling water is backlit against the sun as Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) thunders over the rocks.

8. Find heaven on earth at the temples of Angkor 

A symbol of ingenious resourcefulness and religious dedication, Angkor’s temples encourage admiration in anyone who sees them. The most famous of the sites – Angkor Wat – represents Mt Meru, the home of the Hindu gods and the center of the universe. It is a place of pilgrimage for all Cambodians , and the largest religious building in the world. Angkor includes over 1000 shrines and temples, including Ta Prohm, with its large, jungle-engrossed towers. The sunrises here are unmissable. Avoid busier crowds by visiting in the wet season.

9. Float on a mirror surface at Salar de Uyuni

After rainfall, Salar de Uyuni, the biggest salt lake in the world, is transformed into an enormous mirror where the boundaries between sky and earth disappear. The flat salt surface reflects the clouds, and the horizon disappears. Measuring 4085 sq miles (10,582 sq km) and sitting at an altitude of 3653m (11,984 ft) in the Bolivian altiplano, the lake is just as compelling when dry, with the white cracked surface having the appearance of another planet. There’s even geyser fields to visit, while high-altitude lakes of aquamarine attract flocks of flamingos.

10. Take a classic teahouse trek around Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit

A dream destination for hikers, serious walkers and trekkers, the Annapurna region has stunning mountains and hidden hilltop villages. There are also charming lodges serving food and pots of delicious tea. Hikes here offer everything, from farmland and rice paddies, through pastures and fields to craggy summits and snowy embankments. Tilicho Lake and the village of Ngawal are highlights, with the latter offering beautiful views across the valley of snowy summits. There are experiences to suit everyone, from short treks to month-long journeys of the Annapurna Circuit and Sanctuary trails.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

My 7 Most Unforgettable Travel Experiences

Heather Markel

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Food and Drink
• History and Culture
• Sightseeing

I’ve just started my fourth year of nomadic life. In the past three years, I’ve been to 25 countries (if not for the pandemic, it would have been at least 10 more!) and had some of the most wonderful experiences of my entire life. Here are a few of my favorite experiences in some of the countries I’ve had the privilege to visit:

1. Seeing My First Leopard In South Africa

I was deeply moved by the visceral connection I felt with the land and the people while in South Africa. However, I didn’t expect to become obsessed with seeing a leopard before I left. I went out on several safaris, including Chobe and Etosha national parks, where I missed out on seeing a leopard the first time and was robbed of seeing leopards the second time. Thus began my obsession.

It wasn’t until I got to Kruger National Park that I finally saw one. In fact, I saw five. The first was a mother and cub, but it was dark so impossible to take good photos. The next day, we stopped for one by the side of the road, stalking an impala. Its perfect, sinewy muscles quivered in anticipation, and I felt like I saw the most beautiful animal I had ever encountered. Lean, the perfect killing machine, and yet also stunningly beautiful. Eventually, she walked with a swift, confident gait, and disappeared into the tall, dry grass. I will never forget that leopard.

2. Drinking Yerba Mate And Malbec In Argentina

Last year was my first in Argentina, and it became one of my favorite places in the world. Drinking yerba mate was an experience of sharing culture, intellectual conversation, and making new friends. In Bariloche, I took a class and learned the proper way to prepare it, and that there are many different brands and flavors. I shared many cups with strangers and learned about their lives, and even developed lasting friendships. In my opinion, you cannot truly understand the culture of Argentina without trying at least one cup of this drink, which boosts many healing properties as well!

Before heading to Argentina, I was an avid fan of malbec wine. But there’s no comparison to drinking it in Mendoza. I went to the Uco Valley, famed for the best malbec wines in the world, and they were all excellent. The experience is divine — you can take a bus, a local train, or a bike, depending which vineyards (called bodegas) you plan to visit. I had a glass most days of the four months I spent in Argentina.

3. Nail Art, Massages, And Learning Motorcycle Culture In Vietnam

Vietnam was a combination of sights, sounds, and smells. Prices were so cheap I simply couldn’t comprehend how I could make it through an entire day spending so little.

One day, a friend treated me to a manicure and pedicure with nail art. I pulled up complex nail art photos on Instagram I liked, thinking they would make a modified version. Instead, my manicurist made a perfect, highly detailed copy of the designs I showed her. In fact, they looked better on my nails than they did on Instagram. The whole process took her two hours, and cost $20 USD. It remains the most incredible manicure and pedicure I’ve ever had.

When I look back at my time in Vietnam, I still can’t believe I managed to cross a street, ever. And yet, somehow, I found the rhythm of the motorbikes and survived. Looking at my photos, I’m amazed that entire families rode their motorbikes together. The motorbike seemed to be a mode of transportation as well as a way families spent time together. One of my favorite photos is of a woman kissing her son as she drives along.

Who doesn’t love a massage? How about a really excellent, hour-long massage for less than $10? I got a few massages a week, they were so good and affordable. My favorite massage parlor was in Hanoi.

4. Eating Honey And Red Kiwifruit, Seeking Greenstone, And Learning About Maori Culture In New Zealand

Now marooned in New Zealand for almost a year, I’ve had a lot of time to get familiar with the culture. I’ve had a few surprising lessons on the food front. Firstly, being raised in America, I thought kiwifruit only existed in green. As it turns out, it comes in gold and red as well. The red is the sweetest, and perhaps one of the best, fruits I’ve ever tasted. It is only available during March and April, so you have to time your visit to New Zealand just right! The other surprise for me was honey. When I’ve gotten it at home, it crystallizes long before I finish a jar. In New Zealand, I’ve learned to use honey almost every day. Whether that be in my tea, on toast, plain, or as a skin remedy, I’ve gone through many jars.

When I first arrived, I noticed all the stores sold jewelry made out of a green stone. I learned it’s called pounamu and is found on the South Island. While, at first, it seemed like a tourist souvenir, it now seems like a rite of passage. I had no idea the greenstone came in so many shapes, colors, hues, and varieties. I’ve already bought two pieces because they represent a deeper connection to the country for me, and my time here, which I will never forget.

I didn’t realize the movie  Moana  was based on this area of the world. Locals I’ve spoken with believe the fictional Polynesian island of Motunui is based on New Zealand, since the story is partly based on Maori legends. Looking at the landscapes, I can certainly believe a demigod pulled mountains out of the sea!

The indigenous people came here via the sea, as Moana’s community did in the film, and their history and culture are fascinating. This is the first country I’ve been to where tattoos signify family and tradition and are specific to the tribe each person descended from. In fact, the Maori tattoo artists have to study the designs of over 100 tribes to do their job properly.

5. Playing With Highland Cows And Getting Heathergems In Scotland

If you’ve read any of my other articles, you may know that I love cows! I have to admit that the Highland cow stole my heart. With a crop of hair over their eyes leaving one to wonder how they see past it, and babies that look like giant blobs of fur, it’s impossible not to fall in love with them.

Scotland is also known for my namesake growing on hills. I’ve seen the Heather plant, but what’s wonderful in Scotland is that a company found a technique to color the roots of the Heather plants and make beautiful jewelry. Heathergems is located in Pitlochry, Scotland, where you can visit the factory store, but their jewelry is available throughout the country. I still treasure the pieces I bought there.

6. Seeing The Moai On Easter Island

Easter Island struck me as one of those places most people see photos of but don’t actually go. It’s a tiny island, a four-hour flight from Santiago, Chile, and seems so remote and impossible to get to from the U.S. that I’m sure I wouldn’t have gone if I didn’t quit my job. On my way to Santiago, I found a round-trip flight on a Dreamliner for less than $300 USD. I snapped it up and had an incredible experience.

The island is expensive and touristy, but no matter, there are layers of intrigue to it. Most people stay only a few days, but I stayed almost a week, giving me more time to see the stone statues, called Moai, and learn about the island’s history and people. Seeing the Moai in person, you really understand how huge they are — and that they weigh a lot. Therein lies the intrigue. They were built long before we had the modern technology to move them (and it’s still not easy, proven by the tsunami that knocked many down in the 1960s). All the statues were built in the one quarry on the island and then moved to their current resting places. But at the time they were built, there were warring tribes inhabiting the island. So not only did the statues get moved, they got transported safely. The mystery will make you believe in aliens.

7. Learning Monks Aren’t That Different Than The Rest Of Us In Cambodia

While in Asia, especially in Cambodia, I developed a minor obsession with the monks. I loved the orange color of the robes most of them wear, and the energy they carry with them as they walk. Even the young boys with shaved heads seem somehow dignified and full of purpose. Their robes provide a beautiful contrast to the aging stone of the temples they live in.

For me, it was the contrast of holy and normal life blending together that really fascinated me. Seeing a monk shop for groceries like any non-holy person was humbling. For a moment, we had something in common. I had some silly idea that monks still led more sequestered lives, so seeing them smoke cigarettes and use smartphones was a real surprise! I enjoyed their presence everywhere I went.

There are so many beautiful experiences to be had in every country. I feel lucky and blessed to have had these, and know many more await me!

Inspired? Here are the destinations mentioned in this article:

• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Easter Island

Heather is a full-time travel coach who is passionate about helping professionals seeking more freedom and flexibility to ditch their desk and discover their destiny through full-time travel. She provides her clients with the path to the mindset, money, and mastery to make a full-time travel lifestyle possible. Since quitting, she's become an international best-selling author and is about to do her first TEDx talk! Learn more about Heather's travel adventures on her website, Heather Begins.

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updated 15.05.2024

The information in this article is inspired by the The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.

1. Witnessing elephant bath time - one of the most exciting travel experiences in Nepal

2. go volcano-boarding in león, 3. conquer an icelandic glacier, 4. steam in a temazcal, mexico, 5. sail around the galápagos, 6. eat steak in buenos aires, 7. tickle whales in mexico, 8. take the trans-mongolian express, 9. watch ballet in cuba, 10. hike china’s great wall, 11. spend a night in wadi rum, 12. climb cadair idris, wales, 13. take a slow boat up the nam ou, 14. drive from viñales to cayo jutías by scooter, 15. witness tibet’s true spirit, 16. hike in brazil’s chapada diamantina, 17. sleep wild in central sweden, 18. sleep beneath the stars in the sahara desert, 19. swim with pink river dolphins, 20. visit tikal in guatemala, 21. get lost in fez el bali, 22. see the northern lights in norway, 23. take a hot air balloon ride in cappadocia, 24. visit yosemite national park in the usa, 25. watch the sunset from table mountain in cape town, 26. snork in the great barrier reef in australia, 27. swim in the dead sea in jordan, 28. get amazed by the angel falls in venezuela, 29. drive along the amalfi coast, 30. visit costa rica national parks, travel ideas for nepal, created by local experts.

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13 days  / from 2200 USD

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, the landlocked South-Asian country of Nepal is home to a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From wild jungles to ancient civilisations, Nepal offers a combination of history, culture and nature; perfect for the most well-seasoned of travellers.

Every morning a procession of dusty elephants is led to the Rapti River, on the edge of Chitwan National Park, for a good scrub down – and travellers are welcome to help out.

The pachyderms delight in shooting jets of water from their trunks, wallowing on their sides while layers of mud are scraped off. Occasionally, they even dump unsuspecting riders into the river. It’s a magical experience that the elephants seem to enjoy almost as much as the travellers.

Experience Nepal's hill villages and jungle lowlands as you embark on this tailor-made Himalayan Family Adventure of a lifetime . Expect mini mountain treks, overnight camps, river rafting and wildlife safaris. Come here for action, stunning mountain scenery and a look around bustling Kathmandu too.

Elephant bathing © adrenalinrnb/Shutterstock

Nicaragua’s former capital, León, is the birthplace of the Sandinista revolution. This vibrant city offers lovely colonial architecture and superlative fried chicken.

You can also take an unusual tour to the steep ash of nearby Cerro Negro, where gas belches from cracks and views stretch over Nicaragua’s Pacific plains. The walk up is a slog, while the descent sees you surf down the dune-like surface as dust rises around you.

Where to stay in León:

• Best for hospitality : Casa de Los Berrios .
• Best for comfort : Hotel Flor De Sarta

Find more accommodation options to stay in León

Boarding from Cerro Negro volcano is one of the best travel experiences you can have in Nicaragua © Milosz Maslanka/Shutterstock

While Reykjavik is an essential base - and the Blue Lagoon is a justifiably popular attraction - for the best travel experiences in Iceland you need to find a glacier.

A short minibus ride from the capital will take you far from the tourist trail of lava fields and waterfalls and into endless icy oblivion. Here, armed with crampons and pickaxes, you can explore the endless crevices and precarious ridges of the country’s vast but receding glaciers.

Try our tailor-made trip along Iceland's scenic Ring Road , which stretches around the outside of the country. Soak in a thermal tub or pool beside gushing geysers or waterfalls, and relish the prospect of whale-watching, bird-watching, and glacier hiking in magical surroundings.

Skaftafell, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland © Jens Ottoson/Shutterstock

The door slid shut, plunging the small domed room into darkness. The drumming started, softly, and the room filled with herb-scented steam. Go into the Maya sweat lodge - known in Mexico as a temazcal - just for the dewy skin. After two hours of sweating in the dark, it is hard not to feel some kind of oneness with the universe. The Caribbean Sea will never feel so refreshing as afterwards.

Yucatán is calling you, and this tailor-made trip to Mayan Heritage is the way to do it; go into the jungle and know it like no one else has ever known it; enjoy incredible food, beautiful sunsets, and the warmth of its communities that will do everything possible to offer you a dream experience. Are you ready?

Getting ready for temazcal ceremony © photographer chicago/Shutterstock

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The Galápagos islands are among the most remote and magical destinations on earth, so the sight of vast modern cruise ships chugging between them can come as a shock. To visit the islands in style pick a smaller vessel, preferably one with sails as well as an engine.

With the sound of canvas flapping in the wind and the creak of wooden decks beneath your feet, you can almost imagine how a certain young Mr Darwin felt when he arrived here in 1835.

The Galapagos islands in Ecuador are a truly special place. On this tailor-made trip to Galapagos Special , you will get to stay on 3 different islands and explore several more on boat tours. Start and end point of your journey is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital of Ecuador - Quito. You can also find more ideas for your future trip in our Galapagos itineraries .

For the best travel experience, check out our guide to the best time to visit Ecuador and our Ecuador travel tips .

Bartolome Island, Galapagos, Ecuador. Bartolome Island is a volcanic islet in the Galapagos Islands with an amazing viewpoint at the top © Seumas Christie-Johnston/Shutterstock

Sampling a slice of bife de chorizo in Argentina is a must. The slice served at the La Cabrera restaurant in Buenos Aires’ Palermo barrio looks pretty standard. Then when you cut it the steak it seems to part before the knife. This is meat and man in perfect harmony.

Argentina is known for its dances and gastronomy scene, both to be discovered on this tailor-made trip to Tango & Wines in Argentina . Explore Buenos Aires on your own and with a guide, including its famous nightlife before heading to the vineyards of Mendoza, one of the most developed wine regions in the country.

Where to stay in Buenos aires:

• For a stay with modern decor: Fierro Hotel Buenos Aires
• For a boutique stay with an old-world feel: Magnolia Hotel Boutique

Or find your dream accommodation in Buenos Aires .

Argentinian beef steak © Foodio/Shutterstock

One of the best travel experiences in Mexico is San Ignacio Lagoon in Baja California, on the Pacific coast. This a breeding ground for grey whales, which love to be scratched and tickled by visiting humans. This is arguably the most extraordinary, awe-inspiring and emotional wildlife encounter on the planet.

Baja California is an off-the-beaten-track unspoiled paradise. The area is home to mountains, deserts and thousands of kilometres of gorgeous Pacific coastline. On this tailor-made trip to Pacific Coast Paradise you will explore, snorkel, dive and do a spot of whale watching (in season). Otherwise, sit back and relax on its soft sandy shores.

Whale in San Ignacio Baja, Mexico © Roadwardbound/Shutterstock

The Trans-Siberian Railway is the granddaddy of all train travel experiences. And easily the most interesting train is the weekly Trans-Mongolian Express from Moscow to Beijing.

This traverses Siberia and rounds Lake Baikal, strikes south across the Gobi desert past camels and nomads' yurts into the mountains of northern China. You can even steal glimpses of The Great Wall in the distance.

Trans-Mongolian train © Jose L Vilchez/Shutterstock

An evening of ballet at the brilliantly baroque Gran Teatro de la Habana invites you into a genre of Cuban music often overlooked by visitors in search of rumba and rum. Sets and costumes are resourceful and inventive, performances are breathtaking and an exuberant home crowd all celebrate Cuba’s position as a hub of world-class ballet.

Havana is like nowhere else on earth: the jewel in Cuba's crown effortlessly blends dishevelled beauty with risqué and vibrant charm. On our tailor-made trip to Havana you will spend a few days exploring the old town, Ernest Hemingway's favourite cigar-smoke-filled jazz club, and a tour of the city in a classic car!

Great Theater, Havana, Cuba © Anna ART/Shutterstock

You’ll never forget stumbling wobbly-legged out of a rickety cable car to see this ancient monolith snaking away across the hills. To make sure you see the original fortifications, bypass the super-touristy reconstruction at Badaling and head on to more remote Jinshanling.

Just don’t attempt the steep-sided scramble in flip-flops as I did. This stunning stretch is mostly un-restored and the hike is as challenging as it as it is scenic in places.

From well-preserved tombs to The Great Wall, this tailor-made tour to The Best of China packs in all the essentials. From the bright city lights of Beijing and Shanghai to breathtaking rolling landscapes, meandering rivers and ancient treasures, there’s much to delight all visitors to China.

Great wall of China during sunset © Zhu Difeng / Shutterstock

Wadi Rum is about as close as you’re going to get to the landscape of Mars here on Earth. The soil is a deep and rusty red, the mountains austere, and the silence almost disconcerting. Canyons and rock formations are scattered across the desert and make for good scrambling.

Join an overnight excursion - by jeep or camel - for the experience of sitting around a crackling fire underneath pearly stars. While here, take time to talk with the Bedouin about their life in this desolate space.

On this tailor-made trip to Jordan Culture in depth you will indulge in the mouthwatering street and local homemade food, meet the owner of the smallest hotel in the world, learn more about the Bedouins and the desert in Wadi Rum and finish off by floating over the Dead Sea mineral water.

The sunny desert with rocks . Jordan. Wadi Rum © Yury_1_2_3/Shutterstock

Standing 2930ft tall, Snowdon’s rugged, shorter sibling – Cadair Idris – makes up in looks for anything it lacks in height. Legend has it that if you spend a night at the top you will die, become a poet or go mad, but the views from here are stunning – a patchwork of greens interrupted by molten-metal slivers of river estuary and sea.

Hardy visitors can have a dip in Cwm Cau too, which changes colour from lagoon blue to inky black as clouds race overheard.

Cadair Idris, Wales © ieuan/Shutterstock

The Mekong may be more famous, but more unique travel experience in Laos is on the Nam Ou. This river which winds its way through the north’s mountains and limestone karsts. Sure, the boats are rickety and old and these days it is hard to predict if they’ll actually be running.

However, this three day journey, from sublime Luang Prabang to the tiny, isolated settlement of Hat Sa, gives you that rare feeling of experiencing a part of the country that few foreigners see.

One of Southeast Asia’s lesser-known countries, Laos is definitely off the beaten track, but it has retained its culture, charm and traditional village life, wild jungle and stunning countryside. Try our tailor-made trip to Historical Laos for tradition and mystery and a unique adventure.

Mekong Luang Prabang © Shutterstock

Viñales, a sleepy little town to the west of Havana, is in many ways typical of rural Cuba. What sets it apart are the mogotes (boulder-like hillocks) that jut out of the landscape and provide a magnificent backdrop.

It’s lovely just lolling around in the sunshine taking in the strange and beautiful vistas. However, to ramp the experience up a notch, rent a scooter and wind your way around these spectacular formations by taking the local road to the beach at Cayo Justía.

Try our moderately challenging tailor-made cycling holiday through Cuban countryside visiting the tobacco fields of Viñales Valley and a pristine Caribbean beach in Cayo Jutias.

Morning view to Vinales valley, Cuba © Zaruba Ondrej/Shutterstock

Tibet is sad in many places now, hideously over-developed and not at all the place you imagine. But it remains the one place that exerts a curious kind of spell and takes you to a different part of your being.

And in some ways its spirit has been strengthened and intensified even as - or sometimes because - its surfaces have been destroyed. Ladakh is more beautiful, Bhutan is better protected, Nepal is more funky. But Tibet is one place from which it's hard to come home unaltered.

On this tailor-made trip to Nepal you will trek in the Everest region of Nepal's Himalayas, absorbing spectacular views at every step, including Everest rising above the Nuptse Ridge, Lhotse, the iconic peak of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants too. Top this off with a shot of warm Nepalese culture for an experience of a lifetime.

Leh Palace the monastery in center of Leh city in Jammu India © sittitap/Shutterstock

The Diamond Highlands are Brazil’s top trekking destination. They lie in the interior of Bahia where three of Brazil’s biomes meet: the Atlantic rainforest, the cerrado – similar to the African savannah – and the caatinga (shrubland), which feels like the American chaparral. You can explore dry caves, swim in underground lakes, dive under waterfalls and climb near-vertical mesas all in the same day.

Discover the world's largest continental flood area - the Pantanal, one of the richest places in biodiversity. Continue this wildlife tailor-made trip to the Amazon River. Your lodges throughout the trip are located right in nature, with easy access to lodge trails around.

Iconic Morrao ridge in the Capao Valley of Chapada Diamantina national park, Bahia, Brazil © Double Bind Photography/Shutterstock

Glassy lakes, pure air and an outside chance of bears: camping in the forests of central Sweden is both wild and free. There’s even a constitutional law protecting everyone’s right to enjoy the great outdoors. So go swimming, drink from a stream, or fill your belly with red berries. Then sip whisky around the campfire and crash out on a reindeer skin, gazing up at the starry sky.

Sunrise and Tent in Autumn in Lapland © Jens Ottoson/Shutterstock

As the sun shifts, the Sahara Desert takes on different colours. Silvery white at dawn, ochre in the heat of the day, and deep gold at sunset. Stay at a Berber camp and fell asleep on your back, counting shooting stars that burned through the darkness like rogue coals from the campfire.

In the morning you can climb a sand dune overlooking Algeria and watch the sun emerge from the horizon, a blazing ball of desert red that turned the sand rose gold. Desolate, but beautiful.

On this tailor-made trip to Moroccan Cities and Ultimate Sahara you will follow the footsteps of Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca. Discover the blue and whitewashed buildings of Chefchaouen before heading on to Fez and consequently the desert. Stay overnight in a luxurious desert camp before continuing to Marrakech.

Sahara, Morocco© Shutterstock

In the vast, swampy grasslands of Pampas del Yacuma, the pink freshwater dolphin is one of the more pleasant surprises hidden in the murky waters of the Bolivian Amazon. With the annual floods, they dreamily glide amidst tree trunks and chase fish between drowned, twisted branches.

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of diving into these muddy, unknown depths to swim alongside these surreal creatures; it’s a far cry from frolicking with dolphins in SeaWorld.

One of only two landlocked countries in South America, Bolivia is full of wonders. On this tailor-made trip through the natural and cultural wonders of Bolivia you will visit Lake Titicaca, the de facto capital La Paz, the actual capital Sucre as well as the fascinating Salar de Uyuni.

Pink dolphin © Shutterstock

A visit to the historical site of Tikal in Guatemala should be on everyone’s bucket list. These ancient Mayan ruins are a testament to a civilization that long passed. If you stay overnight, you can be there without the crowds giving the place an empty, eerie feeling that really makes you feel like you are Indiana Jones. It’s not often you get major historical sites to yourself but I found that it was just me, Tikal, and the jungle.

On our tailor-made trip to the Best Of Guatemala you will visit the most popular destinations including the Western Highlands, Tikal and Antigua Guatemala. Enjoy the different types of activities like exploring the Mayan pyramids in the middle of the virgin jungle or having one of the best cups of coffee surrounded by a unique landscape.

Tikal National Park, Guatemala © WitR/Shutterstock

Fez el Bali is an impenetrable maze of lanes and blind alleys that make up the beating heart of Morocco’s cultural capital. Drop down into the bowels of the Medina, past camel heads advertising the local butchers and vendors bartering in the spice souk.

Let your senses steer you: to the sound of metalworkers hammering away on Place Seffarine; to the brightly coloured yarns drying in the heat on Souk Sabbaghine; or to the thick stench of the tanneries.

For those short on time, this tailor-made trip to Highlights of Morocco allows you to visit Morocco in a little over a week. See the cultural capital Fez, the beautiful city of Chefchaouen, sleeping in a deluxe tent in the desert, as well as discover Marrakech. It's time to explore Morocco!

Where to stay in Fez:

• Best for the spa: Palais Medina & Spa
• Best for interior design: Dar victoria

Find more accommodation options to stay in Fez

Fez, Morocco © Shutterstock

At once eerily disconcerting and bewitchingly beautiful, the aurora borealis flicker across northern Norway’s winter firmament at irregular and unpredictable intervals.

Experiencing the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis is one of the unique experiences in Norway. The country is located in the northern part of the polar region where the lights are most commonly visible.

This tailor-made tour to Aurora Feast in Finland, Norway and Sweden is perfect for people who want to explore the Arctic. Begin your journey from the southern part of Finland via Sweden up to the northern part of Norway. Most importantly, you will be hunting for the Northern Lights in the best locations!

Northern lights, Skagsanden beach, Lofoten, Norway © Shutterstock

A lighter-than-air float gives an unrivalled perspective on the “fairy chimneys” and other features of the landscape and is one of the unique travel experiences in Turkey.

You can get airborne on a paraglider above Ölüdeniz and kaş, or more passively (and expensively) in a hot-air balloon over Cappadocia – champagne breakfast usually included.

3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? This tailor-made trip to the sensational landscapes of Cappadocia is filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia making for an unforgettable trip.

Uchhisar fortress in Cappadocia, Turkey © Shutterstock

Yosemite National Park is a wild wonderland of snow-capped peaks, towering cliffs and giant granite domes that seem to be conjured from a fantasy world. Yosemite Valley is an undisputable contender for showcasing some of the world’s most stunning scenery.

Created by glaciers scoring through the canyon of the Merced River, the valley is walled by 3000ft near-sheer cliffs, marbled by waterfalls and topped by domes and jagged pinnacles. On the ground, deer, coyotes and black bears abound in the grassy meadows and forests.

Explore the diversity of nature reserves in the USA with our guide to the best national parks in the USA .

Yosemite national park, Yosemite Valley, California © christian_b/Shutterstock

The most spectacular way to ascend Cape Town’s famous landmark and one of the most unique travel experiences in South Africa is the revolving cable car. Table Mountain, which forms the backdrop to Cape Town, is the park’s focal point. The views are wholly dependent on the weather, so it is always advisable to visit Table Mountain early in your stay in Cape Town.

Discover the natural beauty on our tailor-made trip to Complete Cape Town . Located on the southwestern tip of South Africa, the area is home to rugged coastlines, undulating vineyards, and expanses of grassland. It is also home to some of the largest, wildest and most majestic creatures on earth.

Table mountain cableway, Cape Town, South Africa @ Shutterstock

The Great Barrier Reef is to Australia is what rolling savannahs are to Africa. Calling it “another world”, as the commonest cliché has it, doesn’t begin to describe the feeling of donning a mask and fins and coming face to face with its extraordinary animals, shapes and colours.

There’s so little relationship to life above the surface that the distinctions one usually takes for granted. For example, the boundary between animal, vegetable and mineral seem blurred. While the respective roles of observer and observed are constantly inverted as shoals of curious fish follow the human interlopers about.

Interested? Read our guide to visiting Australia's Great Barrier Reef for more information.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia © I Shafiq/Shutterstock

A few kilometres west of Amman’s city limits, the rugged highlands of central and northern Jordan drop away dramatically into the Dead Sea Rift. The Dead Sea is famed as the lowest point on Earth. Taking a dip here and relaxing on the beaches is one of the most unique travel experiences in Jordan, not least because of the world-class luxury resort hotels dotted along the shore.

Explore the country with this compact tailor-made trip to Highlights of Jordan . Activities include stargazing in Wadi Rum, exploring Petra and spending a day at leisure at the Dead Sea. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about history and culture and introduce the Bedouin lifestyle to you.

Dead Sea, Jordan © Shutterstock

Angel Falls is a magnificent natural wonder in the Venezuelan rainforest, standing at an impressive height of 3,212 feet. The uninterrupted waterfall creates a dreamy atmosphere, with mist rising from the base and lush green rainforest surrounding it. It is a breathtaking sight to behold. A visit to Angel Falls is a humbling and unique travel experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Angel Falls, Venezuela © Shutterstock

Go southwest in Italy to Campania and see the Amalfi Coast . It is spectacularly beautiful, despite the heavy tourist numbers in summer - spring and autumn are quieter. The Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) lays claim to being Europe’s most beautiful stretch of coast. Its corniche road winds around the towering cliffs that slip almost sheer into the sea.

This tailor-made gastronomic journey in Tuscany and Amalfi Coast will have your sense tingling. Taste the most wonderful and freshly made Italian food in Naples one day and enjoy the most beautiful views of the Amalfi Coast the next. Experience the smells, tastes, feels and sights of Italy when travelling from Florence to the Amalfi Coast.

Positano, italy. Amalfi Coast © iacomino FRiMAGES/Shutterstock

Over a quarter of Costa Rica ’s landmass is National Park, which means you’re more than likely to come across at least one on your visit. Costa Rica is covered by rainforests, volcanoes, cloud forest and more. For many people, exploring the biodiversity of this small but beautifully formed country is a major reason to visit Costa Rica in the first place.

See our tailor-made Costa Rica Eco Adventure and discover its compact jungle, tropical beaches, forests, wildlife and national parks. The country may be small but it’s a land of stunning natural diversity and the perfect backdrop to a veritable eco-adventure.

Sloth in Costa Rica © Harry Collins Photography/Shutterstock

If you are looking for some travel experiences for the whole family, explore our guide to the 30 best places to go with kids .

For more inspirational travel tips for your future trips check our Rough Guide books .

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28 Adventures to Travel For, From Glacier Chasing in Greenland to Sand Surfing in the Sahara

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love lounging on a faraway beach or revisiting our favorite city for the tenth time, sometimes our passports need some adventure travel—we’re talking about those once-in-a-lifetime trips that push us way outside our comfort zones. Adventure travel is a great way to see more of the world, while also testing your physical limits, and coming home with a lifetime's worth of stories to tell at parties.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most incredible outdoor adventures for intrepid travelers, ranging from climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving in Dubai . Even if you don’t consider yourself a daredevil, you’ll still find activities that feel exciting (hello, camping under the northern lights) without too much physical—or emotional—exertion required. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your best pair of hiking boots , and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Boat under the Iguazú Falls

South America’s Iguazú Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, make all other waterfalls look like mere trickles in comparison. The system of more than 200 cascades (reaching heights of around 270 feet) can be viewed from surrounding walkways and catwalks, but we’re fans of the more adventurous vantage-point—hopping on an Iguazú Jungle inflatable raft and sailing directly under the exhilarating, high-pressure falls.

Climb to Machu Picchu

No adventurer’s must-visit list is complete without Machu Picchu , the famous Incan citadel located in the Andes. While the site can be accessed via train and bus, more active travelers can take the five-day trek along the entire 26-mile-long Inca Trail. Or, thanks to local tour operator Sam Travel Peru , you can get dropped at kilometer marker 104 and do the whole experience in 24 hours .

Sand surf in the Sahara

The dunes of the Sahara are colossal, untouched, and tailor-made for extreme sports. The desert’s rows of barchans (meaning “crescent-shaped dunes” in Turkic) have ideal shapes for sand surfing (descending the slopes on a surfboard) and sandboarding (descending the slopes on a snowboard)—and those views don’t hurt, either. Stay at Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp in Morocco, which offers sandboarding in addition to other desert activities like camel rides and quad biking.

Heli-hike in British Columbia

With CMH Heli + Skiing , you can helicopter to the steepest and deepest powder in Canada for backcountry skiing. However, come summer , the company’s guides take guests on multi-day hiking trips to terrain otherwise inaccessible, along ridgelines, through alpine meadows, and to stunning viewpoints. While these high-altitude adventures are not for the faint at heart, the accommodations are quite comfortable, with log-hewn lodges complete with full-service restaurants, spa treatments, and a rooftop hot tub to relax in before another day on the trail.

Sarah James

CNT Editors

Matt Ortile

Emily Saladino

Hot air balloon over Cappadocia

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can't get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons , the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Hunt for glaciers in Greenland

Greenland is relatively expensive and tricky to get to, but well worth the effort—especially since it’s one of the most untouched landscapes on the planet. Exhibit A: the hundreds-year-old icebergs and glaciers floating off the mainland, which you can get up close and personal with during a cruise excursion. ( Hurtigruten and Cruise Norway offer these sailings.)

Hop across Botswana on a mobile safari

While most safari camps stay in one place like a traditional hotel, the private canvas safaris by  Barclay Stenner Safaris are totally mobile, meaning you can pick up and move locations based on weather conditions and wildlife movements. The outfitter’s Botswana itinerary moves across the country to fauna-rich areas like the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—get ready to follow groups of lions, hippos, elephants, and more.

Paraglide over Turkey’s Blue Lagoon

Oludeniz has one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with pebble shores and a “blue lagoon” of aquamarine hues. The beach also happens to be one of the world's best places to paraglide, thanks to stable weather and gorgeous panoramic views. The launch site for most companies is from Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

Divers and snorkelers everywhere need to experience the Great Barrier Reef at least once in their lifetime. Not only does the site have more than 400 different types of coral and 1,500 species of fish, but the natural wonder has been rapidly eroding due to coral bleaching and global warming . That means it’s more urgent than ever to see this sight in all its glory—and to understand what we are losing.

Swim through Mexico’s cenotes

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula features a wealth of unique natural beauty, particularly when it comes to its cavernous cenotes. Floating in one of these natural sinkholes is an incredible experience, as is diving through the underground cave systems . When in Tulum , visit Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) to view one of the planet’s most beautiful underwater sites or Gran Cenote for rock formations that resemble Gothic architecture.

Free-fall over Dubai at 120 miles per hour

Dubai is one of the most over-the-top cities in the world, so are you really surprised that skydiving is one of its most popular activities?  Skydive Dubai is a company located near Jumeirah Beach, offering tandem skydiving for beginners and solo jumps for licensed divers. If you thought Dubai’s skyline was impressive already, just wait until you see it while falling from 13,000 feet in the air.

Scale Half Dome at Yosemite National Park

The Half Dome trail through Yosemite may be one of the most intense hikes you’ll ever take, stretching for 16 miles and ascending more than 5,500 feet. The final 400 feet are the trickiest—hikers must climb up the steep slope with two steel cables as their only support—but the breathtaking views from the top make the effort (and terror) worth it. Afterwards, stay at The Ahwahnee, one of the most beautiful national park hotels in the country.

Swim with great white sharks in South Africa

The fishing town of Gansbaai is often considered to be the birthplace of great white shark cage diving, an activity that would make most adrenaline junkies drool. Cage diving is totally safe (despite what some low-budget shark movies might lead you to believe), but we dare you to keep your heart rate in check as you come face-to-face with an apex predator.  Marine Dynamics is one of the most popular cage diving operators in town, with a marine biologist and videographer joining every tour.

Bungee jump in New Zealand

New Zealand practically invented adventure sports when the Kawarau Bridge Bungy opened in 1988. Here you join around 38,000 annual visitors to take the 140-foot jump from the South Island's historic, steel-framed Kawarau Bridge—an activity in which the views are almost as thrilling as the fall itself.

Climb Mount Fuji

Solitary Mount Fuji is probably Japan’s most iconic natural wonder , rising 12,388 feet above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. You can get views of the landmark from many places, like Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko and even the Park Hyatt Tokyo , but it’s the views from the mountain that will give you the most bragging rights. Visit from early July to mid-September to take advantage of the official climbing season, when the designated trails and paved roads are free of snow.

Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for action sports and adventure, we recommend booking a flight to Nicaragua right now. There you can kayak, surf, zipline through the jungle, and even sled down the side of an active volcano. Intrepid travelers love to climb up the 2,388-foot Cerro Negro and then “volcano board” back down (an activity where you sit or stand on a piece of plywood and slide your way down the slopes). You'll want to go with a guided group tour with this one. Bigfoot Hostels is one of many operators for excursions—for $25, you get transportation to the volcano, boards, safety equipment, snacks, and your speed clocked by a radar gun.

Take a white-knuckle drive in Norway

Who says your adrenaline can’t pump from the comfort of your car? Trollstigen is one of the world’s most popular (and  terrifying ) highways, known for its steep gradient and hairpin turns. The one-lane road passes such impressive wonders as the 1,050-foot Stigfossen waterfall, but be sure to pull over before you gawk and snap photos. There are several viewing platforms along the road that will let you take in the sites without risking a crash.

Dive Belize’s Great Blue Hole

Known for its circular shape and strikingly deep blue color , the Great Blue Hole is a 1,000-foot-wide sinkhole in the middle of Belize’s Lighthouse Reef. While an aerial shot is enough to convince anyone of its beauty, scuba divers are the ones who get to experience the wonders that lie beneath: massive, 40-foot limestone stalactites and stalagmites that formed during the last glacial period.

Go canyoning in the Azores

Portugal’s Azores Islands are equal parts adventurous and beautiful, inviting travelers to get up close and personal with nature while hiking, biking, and swimming. If you want to really push the envelope, try canyoning—an activity that has you rappel down a waterfall while navigating slippery rocks and fast-flowing water. Azores Getaways offers a comprehensive and easy-to-book experience. Training, equipment, on-site instructors, and snacks are all included in the excursion, which will no doubt become one of the most memorable of your life.

Kayak through Torres del Paine National Park

Chile’s Patagonia region is one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area. But while most people experience the sights while hiking, you can get a slightly different view from the water via a kayaking trip.  Kayak en Patagonia offers several tour options ranging in duration and difficulty levels, but all let you paddle past towering mountains, rugged glaciers, and other incredible vistas.

Sleep under the northern lights

Ah, the elusive northern lights . So many factors are at play when it comes to seeing the technicolor phenomenon—location, time of year, weather conditions—but it’s hard to lose with an excursion to Finnish Lapland. The Arctic area is one of the planet’s best for aurora viewing, especially if you get to sleep in an igloo hotel at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or mobile Aurora Bubble Sled . Up your viewing chances by planning a trip between December and March.

Go heli-skiing in Alaska

If you’re a seasoned traveler who’s conquered every black diamond slope in North America, there’s still one snowy adventure left to vanquish: heli-skiing. There’s nothing quite like hopping in a helicopter and being dropped onto untouched snow at the top of a mountain—especially in a setting as formidable as Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. The experienced guides at  Valdez Heli Ski Guides (VHSG) will help make this dream a reality, taking you to some of the best runs of your life and then letting you unwind (hot tub and massages included) at the cozy  Tsaina Lodge .

Snorkel between continents in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for adventure travel , with opportunities for everything from glacier hiking to snorkeling and diving. For the latter, head straight to Thingvellir National Park along the country’s Golden Circle route , where two tectonic plates slowly pull apart at the rate of about two centimeters (0.8 inches) per year. The phenomenon results in the Silfra fissure, a stunning rift valley where travelers can snorkel or dive in impossibly clear (and cold) waters. Tour company DIVE.IS offers tours for divers and every level of snorkeler—including those with no prior experience—and will snap an underwater photo of you touching two continents at the same time.

Float along the Amazon

Some remote destinations are best seen from the deck of a boat, and that includes the upper Amazon River. Aqua Expeditions ’ luxury cruises through the Peruvian stretch of the river tour the area’s wildlife and culture at a delightful, leisurely pace. You'll even have chef-prepared gourmet meals and five-star suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Looking for something a little less luxe? Amazon Adventures offers kayaking trips along some Amazon tributaries, where you can fish for piranhas and camp out in the rainforest.

Surf ‘The Pipeline’ in Oahu

Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline (commonly referred to as The Pipeline) is easily one of the most sought-after surfing spots in the world. Located off the coast of the island’s north shore in Ehukai Beach Park, the surf reef break averages waves measuring nine feet high. This activity is definitely not for beginners, but even non-surfers will get a thrill out of watching the many surf competitions that take place at The Pipeline—all from the safety of a sunny beach.

Spot elusive wildlife in the Great Bear Rainforest

Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world—and one of the most magical, with elusive species like sea wolves and Kermode bears roaming its 21 million acres. Outer Shores Expeditions will take you on a nine-day excursion aboard a schooner, departing from British Columbia’s First Nations community of Bella Bella and stopping for sea kayaking along the way.

Soak in the planet’s most extreme infinity pool

Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls attracts thousands of tourists each year. One of the biggest draws here is the Devil’s Pool , a naturally formed eddy sitting at the very edge of the falls, where daring swimmers can splash around between August and January (depending on water levels, that is). Given that a slippery rock barrier is the only thing separating you from going over the edge, this site is easily the planet’s most extreme infinity pool .

Camp in Antarctica

Antarctica is truly the final frontier when it comes to adventure travel, providing untouched landscapes, unique wildlife, and more activities than you’ll know what to do with (like cruising, caving, and thermal spring soaking , to name a few). If you can get yourself to Punta Arenas, Chile, Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions will fly you to Antarctica for three days of skiing and hiking before setting you up for a South Pole sleepover.

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50 greatest travel experiences on the planet right now

--> BY Megan Arkinstall & Carla Grossetti

Last updated . 21 March 2024

For International Traveller ’s 50 th  issue, we bring you the 50 greatest travel experiences to have on the planet right now, from new hotel openings to adventurous tours with community at heart to destinations that eternally hover at the top of our bucket lists.

Great travel experiences can be the sum of a whole trip or can boil down to a smaller moment, so when we considered what to include on this list, we focused on the micro – such as thought-provoking museums , unique hotels that offer sleep-focused programs or the world’s best bar – as well as the macro – epic railway journeys across Europe , a private jet expedition and an adventurous tour through Mongolia and Kazakhstan . We looked at shiny, new experiences: the first cruise down Colombia’s Magdalena River and the return of Hong Kong ’s most luxurious hotel. And experiences that will leave our world a better place: a community-owned wildlife conservancy in Kenya and Paris ’s hurtle towards being the greenest city in the world . Enjoy and happy travelling!

1. Stay at Kenya’s first community-owned wildlife conservancy

At the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro and in the heart of Kimana Sanctuary, intimate new lodge Angama Amboseli is Kenya’s first community-owned conservancy. The safari lodge is a haven for herds of East Africa’s Super Tuskers, the elephants that saunter through the sanctuary some 45 minutes from Amboseli National Park. There are just 10 suites at the lodge, which all have uninterrupted views of Kili from every corner.

Angama Amboseli is Kenya’s first community-owned wildlife conservancy. (Image: Brian Siambi)

2. Ride the rails through Malaysia onboard the relaunched Eastern & Oriental Express

One of the world’s most luxurious trains, The Eastern & Oriental Express , A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia, has been relaunched to include even more elevated onboard experiences. In addition to the appointment of Taiwanese-born chef André Chiang as culinary curator, the Belmond brand has announced a new Wild Malaysia route for 2024, which captures the country’s history, opulence and natural beauty from rice plantations to sparkling beaches. Its bespoke Veuve Clicquot Journey will include a series of tastings, events and special inclusions.

The Eastern & Oriental Express is one of the world’s most luxurious trains.

3. Join an expert-led art tour for cultural immersion

Scratch below the surface of a destination with Renaissance Tours , whose 2024 expert-led program is curated by special interests and packed with immersive experiences. The French Impressionism Art Cruise is a highlight for arts lovers, exploring the cities and landscapes that inspired greats such as Monet and Van Gogh with a former university art history lecturer and gallery curator. Design buffs can tour Japan with a lens on contemporary arts, architecture and design on the More Than Meets the Eye tour. While budding historians can join an Egyptologist on the Eternal Egypt tour, which includes special access to dig sites and artefacts normally hidden to the public.

Discover the life and works of French Impressionists like Claude Monet with Renaissance Tours.

4. See Italy in a new light on an agriturismo walking tour of the Amalfi Coast

The best way to explore Italy ’s Amalfi Coast is on foot. Cover plenty of ground on Explore Worldwide’s Amalfi Coast Walking – Agriturismo itinerary. Keep your carbon footprint low on the Walk of the Gods, experience generous Italian hospitality at a rustic agriturismo and walk ancient stone stairways that link seaside villages such as cliffside Ravello and picture-postcard Positano.

Explore the beautiful Amalfi Coast on foot. (Image: Getty/Tommasolizzul)

5. Discover Rwanda from a new luxury expedition vessel on one of Africa’s great lakes

See Africa from one of its great lakes onboard l uxury houseboat Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga , which is now cruising on spectacular Lake Kivu, which forms Rwanda’s western boundary. The new eco-friendly vessel has 10 berths, a deck with a plunge pool and separate lounge and bar. Mantis stands for Man and Nature Together is Sustainable and guests onboard will experience this mantra first-hand by seeing diverse wildlife such as the country’s gorillas, chimpanzees and exotic monkeys and engaging with local fishing communities.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure onboard luxury houseboat Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga .

6. Cruise the African continent

Culture, nature and wildlife collide on a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage that loops around the diverse shores of Mauritius, Réunion, Madagascar and South Africa. A 12-day cruise from Port Louis, Mauritius, on Norwegian Dawn includes a game-drive safari in Richards Bay, a visit to a traditional Zulu village and a wine-tasting tour outside Cape Town.

You’ll visit countries such as Mauritius on an Africa cruise with NCL.

7. Live out your pop-star dreams on a luxury private jet expedition

Make like a pop star and circle the globe by private jet as part of the new 2024 partnership between Aman and luxury tour operator Remote Lands. Aman Jet Expeditions offers small private jet trips that include multi-night stays in a selection of spiffy Aman properties scattered around the globe. The itineraries on offer include the Aman Japan Culinary Journey (14–23 May) and A Mindful and Cultural Journey from Nepal to Sri Lanka via Bhutan and India (14–28 October).

Visit luxurious Aman properties via private jet. Talk about travelling in style.

8. Take a wildlife and wine safari in South Africa

Combine community tourism, adventure and comfort on a Geluxe Collection tour, the new roster of small-group itineraries from G Adventures . Offering travellers a more premium experience, these 45 tours have comfort at their core, with OMG Stays (aka unforgettable accommodation) and OMG Days (unforgettable experiences) while providing meaningful interactions with local communities. The South Africa: Kruger Wildlife Tracking & Vineyards itinerary, for example, is a perfectly paced adventure that includes e-biking through vineyards in Franschhoek and tracking wildlife on foot.

G Adventures’ Geluxe Collection combines wine and wilderness on their South Africa itinerary.

9. Be the first to cruise along Colombia’s Magdalena River

Be one of the first to sail Colombia’s Magdalena River when AMA Waterways ’ new ship, AmaMagdalena , launches on the river in November. Sister ship AmaMelodia will also explore the inland waterway between Cartagena and Barranquilla when it sets sail for its inaugural voyage in June 2025. Both ships, which will accommodate just 60 and 64 passengers respectively, boast a sun deck pool, al fresco dining and Colombian-inspired decor. Itineraries include walking tours and jazz performances.

Be one of the first cruise passengers to travel Colombia’s Magdalena River with AMA Waterways. (Image: Getty/Benedek)

10. See the northern lights at their most dazzling in Norway

The remote Arctic Circle Region is a picturesque melange of fjords, glaciers, mountains and islands, and one of the top places on Earth to see the northern lights – which will reach their solar maximum this year, making it your best chance in a decade to see them. The occurrence of aurora borealis depends on solar activity, geomagnetic conditions and atmosphere; so leave the solar seeking up to the experts at Up Norway , which has curated journeys to deliver unforgettable polar light experiences designed to have a net-positive impact on society. Aside from this cosmic phenomenon, the year-round itineraries showcase the diverse destination of Norway, from an epic rail journey through the Arctic Circle to skiing in the Sunnmøre Alps and a sustainable foodie journey in and around Trondheim, a European City of Gastronomy.

Many people flock to Norway to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. (Image: Getty/SJO)

11. Hike, bike and kayak through southern Greece on an adventure tour

Kayak along Kefalonia’s coastline, meander along the Menalon Trail and cycle to a historic castle while on the Southern Greece: Hike, Bike & Kayak tour with Intrepid Travel . The seven-day active adventure is one of 100 new itineraries the B-Corp small group tour operator launched for 2024. It takes in a diverse landscape that includes everything from gnarled olive trees to rugged coastlines and ancient archaeological sites. This trip supports World Bicycle Relief, which supplies school kids, health workers and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare and income.

Chase the sun in Southern Greece. (Image: David C Tomlinson)

12. Explore Antarctica with a boutique operator passionate about protecting it

The best time to see Antarctica is now. And the way to see it is with a company such as HX or Aurora Expeditions , which are passionate about caring for its delicate ecosystems. Likewise, luxury operator Ponant  remains dedicated to protecting our poles and oceans. The Ponant Foundation has pledged an annual grant to the Macquarie Island Conservation Foundation aimed at raising awareness about climate change and the sub-Antarctic ecosystem. Macca, as it is affectionately known, is one of the ‘wonder spots of the world’ and is home to 3.5 million seabirds.

Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. (Studio Ponant/Morgane Monneret)

13. Have a fairy-tale European Christmas

Experiencing a white Christmas is a festive dream for many; make it a reality with Albatross Tours in 2024. The Australian-owned Europe specialist has carefully curated a premium itinerary that revolves around wintry wonderlands in Austria, Slovenia and Croatia. Be it wandering around the snow-covered streets of a Christmas market, finding frozen waterfalls in a magical forest or visiting historical castles, the fully escorted tours are designed to enchant.

Nowhere does Christmas quite like the wintry wonderlands of the northern hemisphere.

14. Take a sleep-focused holiday

Come away from your holiday feeling rested with a Maldives resort stay that is focused on catching up on much-needed sleep. JOALI BEING has jumped onboard the global sleep tourism trend by offering personalised programs that include everything from guided meditation and yoga to sound healing remedies. JOALI BEING’s Tranquil Sleep program is tailor-made for guests with sleep concerns who want to feel rejuvenated after a dreamy getaway to this tropical paradise. Hitting snooze on a sun lounger is also an option.

JOALI BEING is a centre for rest and rejuvenation.

15. Join a new women, whales and wellness tour in Tonga

Majestic Whale Encounters has launched a new female-focused tour in Tonga for 2024. The Women, Whales & Wellness Tours are tailored towards solo female travellers who want to experience a chilled-out week of yoga, kayaking, snorkelling and an enchanting underwater encounter with humpbacks. The eco and wellness tours are scheduled for July, August and September.

Whales and wellness go hand in hand at Majestic Whale Encounters.

16. Go island-hopping in Fiji

Fiji is recognised the world over for its unparalleled golden beaches. But those of us who visit time and again know its true drawcard: the people who call it home. Find the kind of meaningful connection we are all craving in the world right now by island-hopping your way across the country, from Marriott’s Sheraton Resort & Spa on Tokoriki Island to Likuliku Lagoon Resort on Malolo Island. And from Turtle Island , where each day in paradise is crowned by communal cocktails at golden hour and the chance to get to know its passionate team, to a culturally-enriching expedition cruise through the Yasawa Islands with Captain Cook Cruises Fiji .

Fijian hospitality is world-renowned.

17. Discover New Zealand’s hottest new dining destination

Sandwiched between Arrowtown and Queenstown on New Zealand ’s South Island, Ayrburn is a must-visit swanky new food and wine hub. The 160-year-old, 60-hectare estate is the brainchild of developer Chris Meehan (formerly of Australia’s Belle Property) who has thrown a cool $184 million at the precinct since he bought it in 2018. Spend the morning drinking coffee and eating bakery treats. While away an afternoon on the sun-drenched terrace eating pizza. Or hole up in The Manure Room drinking wines from the exclusive Ayrburn range.

Ayrburn is New Zealand’s swanky new wine hub.

18. Cruise the Nile

Exploring Egypt’s most wondrous sites and sights via the Nile remains an eternal fixture on bucket lists. And you can sail in luxury onboard Uniworld ’s S. Sphinx and River Tosca ships on a Splendors of Egypt & The Nile cruise. This captivating adventure-filled itinerary starts and ends in Cairo and includes a visit to the famous Egyptian Museum. Follow in the footsteps of pharaohs at the Temple of Karnak, venture into the Valley of the Kings and journey to Giza to gaze upon the ancient Pyramids on the 12-day cruise.

Encounter wonders of ancient history as you cruise down the Nile. (Image: Uniworld).

19. Have the ultimate family holiday onboard Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is considered one of the most family-friendly cruise ships for a reason. This record-breaking 20-deck vessel sleeps 5610 guests, has eight neighbourhoods, six waterslides, seven pools, nine whirlpools and the largest pool at sea. The cruise company is renowned for its family-focused facilities, including a huge range of staterooms that can fit up to eight guests – making it the ultimate holiday for families with young kids to multi-gen groups.

Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship ever built.

20. Put the endlessly alluring country of Türkiye on your radar

Türkiye is being billed as a key destination to set your sights on this year (not that it ever went away) and the best way to immerse yourself in this exotic destination is with Abercrombie & Kent , known for curating thoughtful itineraries with expert guides and behind-the-scenes experiences. Its Treasures of Turkey journey takes guests on a magic carpet ride around the country, which lays claim to being one of the oldest continually inhabited regions in the world. Highlights include a visit to the hidden world of Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern, a behind-the-scenes tour of Topkapi Palace and an excursion to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.

Immerse yourself in Türkiye, one of oldest continually inhabited regions in the world.

21. Find space on a new Camino in northern Spain

The ever-popular Camino de Santiago is a link that tethers us to our wayfaring, wandering past. But with the trail reaching cult status and beckoning nearly half-a-million pilgrims each year, hikers seeking serenity should set their sights elsewhere. Galicia’s Camiño dos Faros (Lighthouse Way) is a new trail, relatively speaking, that overlaps sections of the iconic Camino but sticks to pristine, secluded beaches and pretty fishing towns. Self-guided walking company On Foot provides luggage transfers, itinerary planning and a local contact to provide intel – such as the best seafood restaurants for a post-hike feed.

There are plenty of pretty vistas along the Lighthouse Way. (Image: Jeremy Zafiropoulos).

22. Explore Mongolia and Kazakhstan with a trailblazing Aussie tour company

Traverse nomadic frontiers of vast empty plains, snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes and ancient cities with trailblazing Aussie company Crooked Compass . The one-off Inaugural Founder’s Tour: Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival & Kazakhstan (departs 11 September 2025) celebrates the company’s 10-year anniversary and will be hosted by founder Lisa Pagotto. It includes culturally immersive experiences such as golden eagle demonstrations and Kazakh games at Mongolia’s famous Eagle Festival, Charyn Canyon and its ancient Valley of Castles, and dining with local families in their homes.

The yurt is an iconic dwelling found primarily in Mongolia.

23. Dive into the heart of Old Delhi at a new boutique stay

Even getting to the front door of The Golden Haveli in Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi is a magical Exotic Marigold kind of experience. The 20th-century haveli, hidden amid a maze of narrow streets and colourful alleys (and just a few doors down from sister stay Haveli Dharampura), has been lovingly restored to provide a peek into the neighbourhood’s past and future. The 12 rooms at the boutique hotel are filled with Mughal motifs and built around a central courtyard. Stay in the Gandhi Suite named in honour of the revered Indian leader, who was a regular guest at the many influential family havelis of Old Delhi.

Explore Old Dehli from the comfort of The Golden Haveli. (Image: Bharat Aggarwal)

24. Stay at a reimagined grand dame ahead of Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary

The very essence of Amsterdam will be distilled when grand dame Hotel De L’Europe unveils ‘t Huys ahead of the city’s 750th-anniversary celebrations in October 2024. ‘t Huys translates to ‘house’ as well as ‘at home’, a nod to the fact this dynamic new Dutch hub will be a place where art, style, luxury and craftsmanship come together. The hotel’s glitzy new wing will feature 16 unique ‘t Huys suites filled with priceless art from the private collection of the Heineken family, who have owned the Hotel De L’Europe Amsterdam since the 1950s.

The Hotel De L’Europe is set to get a glitzy new wing for Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary celebrations. (Image: Andy Tan)

25. Check into the first vertical urban resort in Dubai

One Za’abeel is the perfect example of how Dubai is taking the concept of an urban resort and elevating it to another level. The one-of-a-kind One&Only vertical resort features the UAE’s longest sky infinity pool, 11 unique wining and dining concepts and a three-storey health and wellness centre. The new landmark building also reaches for the sky with its sustainable practices by using passive architecture principles and aiming to use natural resources more efficiently.

Experience this one-of-a-kind One&Only vertical resort in Dubai.

26. Stay in sustainable style in Siem Reap

A stay at the luxe and eco-conscious Jaya House River Park in Siem Reap – Cambodia ’s first single-use plastic-free hotel – is all about giving back to the local community. The stylish boutique hotel donates a portion of its turnover to local NGOs and is known for initiatives such as tree-planting, a Refill Not Landfill program and for launching Jaya Organics, the natural skincare range offered as an in-room amenity.

Jaya House River Park in Siem Reap delivers a luxe, eco-conscious stay. (Image: John W McDermott)

27. Discover the latest in Mexico’s wave of design-led, community-minded hotels

Mexico is well known for attracting a certain type of tanned traveller who likes to stay poolside while clad in a billowing kaftan. And while the latest wave of Design Hotels in Mexico might check a lot of the boxes for rest, relaxation and adventure, the portfolio brings together a new kind of conscious hospitality. Both Hotelito at MUSA and Boca de Agua offer opportunities to connect and support local artists through workshops, retreats and artist-in-residence programs.

Boca de Agua is one of Mexico’s sparkling design-led hotels. (Image: Bookings via designhotels.com)

28. Head to a new culinary hub in the Swiss Alps this season

The iconic Hotel Kulm St. Moritz has reimagined its culinary program to include a roster of gourmet experiences. Diners will find comfort at the new Peruvian eatery Amaru (formerly K) led by Claudia Canessa , with interiors by artist Luke Edward Hall, and enjoy a tribute menu by Michelin-starred chef Tom Booton at Sunny Bar . The reimagined Kulm Country Club is elevated by Mauro Colagreco’s three Michelin star experience, complemented by a soundtrack curated by famous music director, Arman Naféei .

Inside the reimagined Kulm Country Club at the iconic Hotel Kulm St. Moritz. (Image: Gia Giovanoli)

29. Eat your way around Vancouver, Canada’s new foodie capital

There’s a bold new food scene flourishing in British Columbia where Vancouver is vying for attention as Canada ’s new foodie capital. All up, the 2023 Michelin Guide to Vancouver includes 77 restaurants; 17 were awarded Bib Gourmands and nine have Michelin stars. Okeya Kyujiro , led by chef Takuya Matsuda, is the latest eatery to receive the honour in Canada’s third-largest city. Book a table and order the theatrical omakase experience. Chef Andrea Carlson has also put Michelin-starred eatery Burdock & Co on the map for epicureans.

Vancouver is fast becoming a foodie haven thanks to offerings like Michelin-starred eatery Burdock & Co. (Image: Hakan Burcuoglu)

30. Sip a drink at the world’s best bar in Barcelona

There is perhaps no better place to say ‘bottoms up’ than at Sips in Barcelona , which topped the list of The World’s 50 Best Bars in 2023. Surrender yourself to the whim of the bartender in the drinkery house where sipping cocktails is immersive and interactive and akin to performance art. Plump for the Primordial (a blend of 12-year-old Scotch, Ruby Port and pera nashi) so you can enjoy the eccentric concoction served in a metal cast of two hands, rather than a glass.

Order up a drink at the World’s Best Bar for 2023 at Sips in Barcelona.

31. Eat at the best restaurants in the world in Peru

Peru is considered one of the great gastronomic capitals of the world thanks in part to the inclusion of its eateries Central (#1), Maido (#6), Kjolle (#28) and Mayta (#47) on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023. Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino (ex-Malabar, ámaZ) is also credited with fusing Amazonian ingredients with traditional techniques. The award-winning chef will showcase the Peruvian cuisine he is so proud of as part of  Aqua Expeditions’ series of Chef Hosted Departures onboard Aqua Nera from 14–18 May and 17–21 September.

Peru’s Central landed in at number one of the World’s Best 50 Restaurants for 2023.

32. Experience a meal like no other in Copenhagen (and no, it’s not Noma)

Expect all kinds of wizardry at the aptly named Alchemist in Copenhagen where diners are whisked away to a whimsical world of culinary craftsmanship. Cutting-edge chef and chief alchemist Rasmus Munk has reclaimed the kitchen as a place for art; every element of his 50-course feast demands the full attention of diners. The restaurant sits at #18 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list for 2023.

Expect to be blown away by culinary craftsmanship at Copenhagen’s Alchemist. (Image: Kim Holtermand)

33. Dine at Josh Niland’s new restaurant in Singapore

Merimbula rock oysters. Grilled Abrolhos Islands scallops. Shark Bay scampi. Charcoal-grilled Aquna Murray cod. Dry-aged Mooloolaba swordfish. The menu at FYSH at EDITION in Singapore features an impressive array of sustainably sourced Australian seafood. It’s restaurateur and chef Josh Niland’s first foray overseas and, like everything the visionary seafood butcher does, the menu is anchored in sustainability and much greater than the sum of its parts.

Josh Niland makes sustainably sourced Australian seafood the star of the show at FYSH at EDITION. (Image: Josh Niland)

34. Drink Champagne at the source

A bottle can only be labelled Champagne if it is produced in the appellation of Champagne in France .  It’s made in the traditional method, méthode Champenoise , which is a time- and labour-intensive process – hence the price tag. Famous Champagne houses in the region such as Veuve Clicquot and Bollinger offer consistency of style and quality for the price. But you can find nuance, excitement and value by looking for lesser-known ‘grower’ Champagnes, where the grape grower also produces the wine.

Sip your way around France’s famous Champagne houses. (Image: Getty)

35. Get the insider’s view on Shanghai

Shanghai ’s past and present is divided by the Huangpu River: Old Shanghai on one side, where the historical Bund district is filled with a melange of architectural styles from Art Deco to Baroque, and New Shanghai on the other with its shimmering, futuristic skyline. On a half-day tour with Wendy Wu Tours , you can bounce between the parts that shout and the pockets that whisper led by an expert local guide, including 400-year-old temples, neon-lit East Nanjing Road, shikumen (stone gate) houses and bustling markets where you can queue for dumplings.

Let a local tour guide show you the hidden parts of Shanghai.

36. Tap into the cultural heart of London

In iconic Leicester Square, in the thick of the West End, The Londoner   is emphatically London . This five-star hotel was billed as the world’s first ‘super boutique hotel’ for its level of intimacy at a mighty scale. Here you’ll find a style that nods to London’s eclectic character, works by Britain ’s greatest artists, and pinch-yourself panoramas of the city’s icons from Big Ben to Westminster from the comfort of your Corner Suite. The hotel is also a two-minute walk from the newly reopened National Portrait Gallery , which has been completely reframed for the 21st century and tells the history of Britain through portraiture.

The Londoner truly epitomises what the city is all about. (Image: Andrew Beasley Photography)

37. Spend 48 hours in the up-and-coming cultural capital of Manchester

Manchester was at the heart of Britain’s industrial revolution and is home to its most successful football team. And while history buffs and sports fanatics will have the northern city on their radar, Manchester is going through a cultural renaissance that will appeal to all manner of travellers. From award-winning gin distilleries and Michelin-starred restaurants to a multi-million-dollar Aviva Studios art space that hosts immersive theatre and a tour that visits filming locations for Peaky Blinders, Coronation Street and Captain America .

Meander along historic buildings in Castlefield, Manchester. (Image: Chris Curry)

38. Go green in Paris ahead of the Summer Olympics

The French capital has made incredible progress towards reaching its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050. Mayor Anne Hidalgo has made it her mission to transform the City of Light into a cleaner and healthier place since she came into office in 2014. Almost a decade on, Paris was named The Greenest City in Europe – with 530 parks, gardens and squares, 30 urban farms, some 1500 beehives, and more than 300 new green spaces planned alongside the planting of 170,000 trees. Add to that the already laid 100 kilometres of cycling trails, a multi-billion-dollar clean-up of the Seine, 1200 fountains and water-filling stations, a car-free day every month and more, and the 2024 Olympic city proves that being green is possible.

Paris lives up to its title as the greenest city in Europe. (Image: EoNaYa via Getty Images)

39. Explore Seattle through its grunge and coffee scenes

Seattle has never followed the mainstream. It’s the birthplace of grunge and the coffee revolution, both of which represent a generation seeking authenticity and raw expression and were born in an era that valued the underground and alternative. Nowadays these cultural enclaves reside well beyond the fringe, with baristas upping the ante with their pedigreed beans all around town, while local institution, non-profit KEXP radio station  – where Nirvana and Pearl Jam got their start on the airwaves, continues to accept demo tapes and hosts live sessions where bands play mini concerts for free.

Non-profit KEXP radio station in Seattle has paved the way for the greats of grunge to take centre stage. (Image: Nataworry Photography)

40. Recharge and reset at a luxury wellness resort in Ubud

Hidden in the lush, emerald jungle outside of Ubud, COMO Shambhala is a stay that allows guests to choose their own path. Simply escape the hubbub of Bali’s beloved beaches in luxe and tranquil surroundings or partake in one of the resort’s famed wellness programs tailored to individual needs. With breathwork, yoga, spa treatments and wholesome nutrition doused in Southeast Asian flavours on the agenda, guests come away from this stay with a health reboot that lasts longer than a tan.

Craft your own wellness journey at COMO Shambhala in Ubud.

41. Check into one of Marrakech’s new wave of riads

Be it traditional, ultra-luxe or one of the many new design-led digs around the city, a stay at a riad is a quintessential Marrakech experience. These traditional Moroccan homes are often hidden in a maze or souks and alleyways in the medina, and offer respite to the bustle outside, with garden courtyards, water features, rooftop terraces and fine craftsmanship. Take El Fenn , for example, a vibrantly hued riad where Madonna celebrated her 60th birthday; L’Hotel , a discreetly designed riad featuring six romantic suites; and La Sultana , a restored former palace with decorative flourishes. Or Rosemary and IZZA , the city’s newest (and coolest) boutique stays.

El Fenn riad embodies style and sophistication. (Image: Igor Demba)

42. Travel Europe by rail

Traversing Europe by rail is a rite of passage for all travellers: criss-crossing between ever-changing landscapes and cultures from the comfort of a railcar. Travel from Paris to Portofino on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express , a Belmond Train, which recalls the romance of a golden age of travel. Step aboard ‘the slowest train in the world’ – The Glacier Express – to soak up the beauty of the Swiss Alps. Or journey through the French Riviera , an enduring muse that owes much of its prowess to the iconic Blue Train that carried wealthy socialites and artists here in the 20th century.

Spacious suites onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express evoke the golden age of rail travel.

43. Contribute to the community with a Northern Thailand farm stay

Family-operated Ahsa Farm Stay , in the foothills of Doi Mae Salong in Northern Thailand , is set amid 14 hectares of organic working farmland and offers guest cottages to travellers. Its aim is to introduce visitors to hands-on experiences such as rice harvesting, gathering fruit and rubber-tree tapping, as well as cooking Lanna (North Thai) cuisine and trekking to nearby hill tribes. The farm stay creates employment for young people and a sharing of authentic cultural knowledge; a win-win for visitors and locals.

Rice planting at Ahsa Farm Stay, an important farming tradition in Thailand. (Image: Ahsa Farm Stay)

44. See an iconic hotel reborn in Hong Kong

The reimagining of l egendary five-star hotel Regent Hong Kong – which opened last year after a two-year, multi-million-dollar refresh – is a balance between legacy and modernity, unlocking new levels of luxury in Asia. Its enviable position on Victoria Harbour is complemented by a formula of quietude, decadence and function. Not simply a return home of the hotel brand’s Asian flagship, the reopening of Regent Hong Kong is a return of the city itself, after years of lockdowns, political ambiguity, mother country pressures and economic upheaval.

The Presidential Suite at Regent Hong Kong is regarded as one of the best rooftop penthouses in the world. (Image: Courtesy Regent Hong Kong)

45. Help Maui’s recovery with the ultimate Hawaiʻi holiday

The Hawaiian island of Maui is rich in natural beauty and a strong community spirit , which came into sharp focus following last year’s wildfires. Locals are inviting mindful travellers to put Maui back on their itineraries and bring their aloha. Engage with local businesses such as Trilogy Excursions , known as Maui’s best snorkel tours; dine at family-owned restaurants such as Mama’s Fish House ; shop in small boutiques like in Pa‘ia, which exudes a yogic surfer vibe; and tip generously to make a huge difference to this community that is still in recovery mode.

Snorkelling Maui’s reef, where monk seals and turtles can be found. (Image: Hawai’i Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)

46. Find an alternative side of Austria in the 2024 European capital of culture

Covering the Austrian states of Salzburg, Styria and Upper Austria, the region of Salzkammergut blends the ageless beauty of limestone mountains, cobalt lakes and timber A-frame houses with agrarian tradition and – surprisingly – cutting-edge art. The Great Space Walk, which is part of the program for Bad Ischl Salzkammergut’s designation as one of the European Capitals of Culture 2024, guides travellers up the isolated karst landscape of the Totes Gebirge while listening to recordings along the way that touch on everything from arts to agriculture and Buddhism. Traditional dress is also making a resurgence as well as craftsmanship, with watchmakers, bookbinders, coffee roasters and mustard makers as relevant today as they once were.

The Trisselwand is a mountain in the region of Saltzkammergut which has long inspired Austria’s most famous writers. (Image: Karl Steinegger)

47. Walk Japan’s remote and under-the-radar Kunisaki Peninsula

Of the some 25 million international tourists that visited Japan last year, only a fraction of them made it beyond the major urban areas. And even fewer regional areas, such as Kunisaki, a bucolic peninsula that’s the setting for the 73-kilometre Self-Guided Kunisaki Wayfarer walk by Walk Japan . This trail follows the historic footsteps of monks and ascetics in search of solitude as it traces Kyushu’s rural peninsula along raised paths between rice fields, overgrown trails linking long-neglected shrines and country lanes that pass by family homes, with each day ending with multi-course dinners and steam-filled onsens .

 48. Explore an up-and-coming Italian neighbourhood with young local guides

In the 20th century, the Naples precinct of Rione Sanità gained notoriety as a Camorra stronghold labelling the pretty neighbourhood a no-go zone. But change is afoot, and artists, historians and travellers alike are being lured in by classically Neapolitan streets adorned in flags and laundry and bustling with pasticcerias and pizzerias, its famous catacombs and grandiose basilica.

Find out why Rione Sanità is about to be the place to visit in Naples. (Image: Alamy/Laura Di Biase)

49. Watch the solar eclipse

Astronomy fans in North America will huddle around their telescopes on 8 April to catch the solar eclipse when it passes over the United States , Canada and Mexico. Travel publication Atlas Obscura is throwing a festival that extends the three-minute 36-second solar event into four days of music, science, art and cosmic wonder, with a line-up that includes astrophysics pros and indie psych-rock.

Make your way to North America in April to be treated to a solar eclipse. (Image: James Sprankle)

50. Visit Washington DC’s National Museum of Women in the Arts

In 1987 it was the first museum of its kind, and now, after a US$66 million renovation completed by female architects, the National Museum of Women in the Arts is an even grander stage for female creatives to shine. Located in the heart of Washington D.C. the museum is housed in a former Masonic Temple, which was notoriously exclusive of women, and boasts a powerful display of works by women spanning six centuries, from Frida Kahlo to Australian Aboriginal artist Audrey Morton Kngwarreye.

Find artworks by Frida Kahlo inside the National Museum of Women in the Arts. (Image: Self-Portrait Dedicated to Leon Trotsky , 1937)

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10 of the Best Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

  With the time and expense required to travel being prohibitive to many, there are alternative ways of indulging your wanderlust – including via the burgeoning world of Virtual Reality.

(Photo: Cubicle Ninjas)

There are a huge number of VR companies all vying to create ever more unique experiences for consumers – and one of the biggest growth categories has been travel. And what better time to get a taste of exploration and adventure from the comfort of your living room, equipped only with a VR headset, than now, when travel is a luxury that many just can’t stretch to? We’ve picked out 10 of the best virtual reality travel experiences currently on the market.

So which VR headset should you go for? Our favourite is the Meta Quest 3, which launched onto the market in mid-2023 and is the successor to the Meta Quest 2. For immersive games and travel experiences, we believe the Meta Quest 3 is destined to become the leading VR headset over the coming years. It’s pretty affordable, too, and unlike other headsets, doesn’t require cords or a computer. You can purchase the Meta Quest 3 at Amazon.com.

Guided Meditation VR

Developed by Cubicle Ninjas, Guided Meditation VR is designed to bring peace, joy, and calm back into your daily life by teaching you ancient meditation practices in a cutting-edge way. It features over 40 lush environments to escape the everyday, 30-plus hours of guided meditations on anxiety, depression, maternity, resilience, sleep and zen, and hundreds of hours of calming musical audio tracks to help enhance your meditation experience. Users can also customise their sessions to their own specific preferences and needs, including the option to switch into Motion mode and gently float through beautiful vistas like you would on a lazy river, leaving the worries of your life behind before returning calmer and stronger.

PRICE £10.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

Be anywhere in the world with anyone, instantly, in this captivating game developed by Wooorld Inc. Visit hundreds of cities, architectural landmarks, natural wonders, and vacation spots in incredible 3D detail, and get tips about the best places to visit, the hidden gems, where to get the best food and all the tourist traps to avoid. You can also create your own 3D avatars with face and body tracking and test your worldly knowledge by guessing where you are after being teleported to 5 random locations, with only the landscape, flora, architecture, and road signs for clues. The game can played as collaboratively as you wish, with options to explore the world with friends and meet new people, or hop into a Solo World without any distractions.

PRICE Free HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: Wooorld Inc.)

Blueplanet VR Explore

(Photo: Blueplanet VR Explore)

Highlighting sacred and fragile locations of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Blueplanet VR Explore  is a collection of remarkable places across the world. With freedom to move around and explore, the virtual reality experiences are captured in volumetric 3D with great detail and accuracy. The scenes look and feel like these places do in real life, and enable you to freely move around to enjoy and explore these remarkable, fragile, and priceless environments. Concern for the environment often comes from direct experience, and being as close as we can get to experiencing a sense of actually being there, Blueplanet can help encourage people to appreciate and protect these treasures.

PRICE £18.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

BRINK Traveler

Travel to some of the world’s most amazing natural wonders in fully immersive 3D and feel like you’re really there in this awe-inspiring game by Brink XR. Step into a scene akin to a postcard as you visit a total of 28 (with more on their way) of the most breathtaking places on Earth. In-game highlights include room-scale walkable areas in each destination, a virtual guide and assistant to learn about where you’re visiting, and the chance to shoot photos to share with friends. You can either play the game solo or with friends and family in multiplayer mode.

PRICE £11.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: BRINK XR)

National Geographic Explore VR

Created in partnership with National Geographic, a world-leading society in the fields of geography, cartography and exploration, this magical VR experience invites you to discover two of the most iconic locations on Planet Earth. Don your explorer hat and head to Antarctica for an exhilarating expedition. Navigate around icebergs in a kayak, climb a vast ice shelf and survive a snowstorm as you hunt for a lost emperor penguin colony. Visit the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru and get immersed in amazing digital reconstructions of the legendary site. Witness mummy worships, raise a cup of sacred chicha and encounter cute and furry alpacas as you match Hiram Bingham’s photographs from when he rediscovered the citadel. Be sure to take a camera as your best snaps may even make it into the prestigious National Geographic magazine.

PRICE £7.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: Force Field Entertainment B.V)

The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners

Fans of the hugely popular TV blockbuster The Walking Dead can now join the world of zombies in this new VR adventure. Travel through the ruins of New Orleans as you fight, scavenge, and survive, each day unravelling another mystery lurking within the city’s historic quarters. Encounter desperate factions and lone survivors who could be friend or foe. Whether you help others or take what you want by force, every choice you make has consequences. What kind of survivor will you be for the people of NOLA? Scavenge for anything that you can; weapons, food, tools, and clues. Be wary of the living and the dead, with spatial audio drawing attention to any loud noise. Craft makeshift gear out of scrapped material; blades, guns, medicine, and more. Test your morals and make difficult choices for yourself and others. It’s all here, bringing the small screen to life in a big way.

PRICE £29.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: Skydance Interactive)

Narrated by award-winning actress Anna Friel, this trail-blazing VR series opens the door to some of the planet’s wildest environments while redefining the limits of 3D-180 cameras. Meet the humans protecting our most precious wildlife, explore the great savannahs of Kenya, discover the ancient jungles of Borneo and dive into the rich coral reefs of Raja Ampat. Encounter elephants, orangutans, manta rays and some incredible humans, all in stunning cinematic footage filmed from the air and deep into the ocean. The series was produced in partnership with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF),

(Photo: PHORIA)

The world is your oyster with this interactive, immersive VR experience that’s designed to be played by the whole family. There’s global travel and adventure in which your friends and family can join city tours, hot air balloon rides, back-country road trips, and plenty more. Or you can simply kick back and relax, practice meditation and get back to nature – all in the company of a guide or going solo, if you prefer. Other features include photo sharing, soundtracks, a range of fun games and media customisation.

(Photo: AARP Innovation Labs)

Rome Reborn: The Pantheon

Created by Flyover Zone, an American company specialising in virtual travel applications that present the world’s most important cultural heritage sites and monuments, Rome Reborn is one of five applications that present different areas of ancient Rome. This particular one transports users over the entire ancient city, focussing on the Pantheon, perhaps the best-preserved building from antiquity. In the company of two virtual guides, you’ll get to explore the exterior forecourt and interior sanctuary of the reconstructed complex as you listen and learn about the Pantheon’s design and decoration, as well as the nature of the religious cult once housed within it.

PRICE £3.99 HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Rift

(Photo: Flyover Zone Productions)

Monte Fitzroy is Argentina’s most famous mountain landmark and is even used as the logo for outdoor retailer, Patagonia. It is a place that immediately evokes a sense of adventure. At the foot of the mountain is a beautiful and remote glacial lake known as Laguna Sucia. Most people who visit Monte Fitzroy view it from a location that is much easier to access. Laguna Sucia requires a much tougher hard-to-access trail that culminates in one of the most beautiful and remote glacial lakes in existence. You are rewarded with a sense of almost meditative stillness as you approach this untouched natural amphitheatre. This VR experience utilises Pterovision, a 3D technology that integrates computational photography, 360 Video, and gaming and allows you to take off like a bird, fly around the lake, visit the waterfalls along the edge, and fly over glacial formations beneath the mountain peaks. Numerous narrations will tell you about the challenges we faced when filming in this location, as well as educate you about the geology, culture, and history.

PRICE $2.99 HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Rift 

(Photo: Specterras Productions)

Gala360 – Travel & Relax

Taking you on awe-inspiring virtual adventures across the globe, Gala360 is the result of the magic touch of an array of exceptionally talented photographers who have captured their globe-trotting trips in all their glory before being rendered into VR form. In professional 6K resolution, more than 300 tours around the world are featured, with some also including narration which allows you to listen to the stories behind the trips. Most of the tours are free, but you can pay a small fee to unlock more.

PRICE Free HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Go (soon available on Quest 2)

(Photo: Gala 360)

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Tell us: What’s the most extraordinary West Coast experience?

(Lettering and animation by Jacky Sheridan/For The Times; video editing by Li Anne Liew/For The Times; Los Angeles Times)

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Our guide to the 101 best West Coast experiences brings you essential things to do in Baja, California, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. We think it has something for every type of explorer, from the awe-seeking (a hike around the rim of a sleeping volcano at Crater Lake) to the nostalgic (burgers alongside classic cars at the oldest Bob’s Big Boy) to the unabashedly extravagant (a stay at San Diego’s maximalist LaFayette Hotel).

Bring this guide on your adventures! Buy a copy of ‘The 101 Best West Coast Experiences’ special print section here.

Of course, you may have your own favorite adventure that didn’t make the list. We’d love to hear about it. In the form below, tell us what you believe is the most extraordinary experience or destination on the West Coast and why it resonates with you. It can be as simple as a single bench with a view or as vast as a life-changing road trip. We may feature your response in a future story.

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Michelle Woo is the West Coast experiences editor for the Los Angeles Times. Previously, she worked as a senior editor at Medium, the parenting editor at Lifehacker and a staff writer at OC Weekly. She is the author of “Horizontal Parenting: How to Entertain Your Kid While Lying Down.”

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Real Life Stories

15 Travellers tell us their most memorable travel experiences – and how it changed them

By Jaye Hannah

Published on Nov 30, 2017 | 6 min

There’s no doubt that travelling brings you a range of emotions: joy and excitement, but also the feeling that you’re in unknown territory. One thing’s for sure though: travelling is probably the best thing you can ever do. Don’t believe us? Just ask these 15 Travellers, who shared the trips and moments that changed them forever…

RELATED: WHEN YOU TRAVEL FOR THE FIRST TIME, SOMETHING CHANGES IN YOU  

“The most memorable trip I have ever had was when I was 17 traveling to Vietnam alone. I was living and working in Vietnam for 4 months as a bartender (and ended up meeting my amazing girlfriend there too!). The most emotional part of the trip was when I was leaving back to Australia to visit my Grandmother who had been very sick. I felt like I lost everything (and even being able to see the person who I had come to love). I worked hard for 6 months and was able to find my way back here.  3 years later I live in this beautiful country and able to speak the native language while living with my girlfriend.”   – Lachlan Gordon

“A friend and I booked a spur of the moment trip to India after a few drinks. That trip was one of the highlights of my life, teaching me so much about culture, enriching me and teaching me more than any classroom ever could. The smells and sites and sounds will forever stay with me. That trip gave me the travel bug and showed me the true meaning of wanderlust.”  – Bala Walsh 

“My most memorable travel experience was when I was 12 years old I was lucky enough to be sent on a camp to Switzerland with children from all over the world who had also received organ transplants. Growing up being sick and having my liver transplant in 1998 at the age of 7 travel had never been an option for me, so this was such an incredible experience to be gifted. It was my first time on a plane and overseas. It was so special, I remembered being shocked at the sheer beauty of it all.” – Kate Elizabeth

RELATED: I TRAVELLED ON CONTIKI WITH A BRAIN TUMOUR. THIS IS MY STORY  

“Our first night on Contiki, we could see the Eiffel Tower from our accommodation…and we decided to walk to it! 3 hours later it was 2am and we were getting closer and closer – it looks like it was just around the corner every corner! We finally reached it and and we were in utter awe! I don’t think I’ve ever been as happy as finding the Eiffel Tower at 3am covered in sparkles which lit up the night sky. That is what happiness feels like. In that moment, anything in the world felt possible. ” – Emma Walker

“I have only started traveling this year. As a child I wasn’t fortunate enough to travel as my parents worked to keep a roofs over our heads. It was a DREAM of mine since I was very young to go to Japan. I worked, worked and worked my butt off to fulfill my dream all by myself! I finally got to go in April to see the cherry blossom trees, I literally cried as we touched down in Tokyo. To see a whole new world was mind blowing! Travelling is made me so humble since then.” –  Maddi Lomas

“As a coeliac I found it difficult to locate gluten free foods in a lot of places, but I didn’t let that stop me from enjoying my contiki trip through Europe. We wanted some gelato in Italy and opted to walk around the streets to find some gluten free gelato. Finally, we found some – I then asked if there were gluten free cones as well, and when the shop keeper pulled out a gluten free cone, I confessed my love for him and his shop. It was so important for me to find traditional local foods so I could experience my European adventure to the fullest!” – Leslie Wickens

“After my summer study abroad trip to Italy fell through, my best friend and I decided to book a last minute trip to Europe. While searching for trips, we stumbled upon Contiki and decided to book. As Americans, we had never heard of Contiki before and really didn’t know what to expect. From this trip, I got to experience 6 different countries, watch the Euro Cup in Europe, and most importantly I met life long friends. I am dying to go back and as a teacher, although I have to work multiple jobs to even be able to dream of it. I work in an intercity where most students don’t get the opportunity to leave the state for a majority of their lives, due to financial reasons. My goal is to show my students that they should never let money limit their travels. With a lot of hard work, they too can see the world!” – Julia Gulia 

“I have always wanted to explore New Zealand and when the opportunity came up I just couldn’t say no. This group of people made the trip for me and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. They helped me to face my fears and try things I never imagined I’d be able to do. The euphoric rush you get when you compete your first bungy jump is one I will never forget!” – Kira Chow 

“My most Memorable travel memory was from a Christmas I spent in China. I was able to travel to a leper colony in one of the very rural areas outside of Guangzhou. There was one lady in particular who has rocked my world even to this day. After learning that they only have to eat what they can grow and the large bags of rice my friends and I brought them, she offered me and every person I was with this bowl of oranges. She had nothing by our standards – but was still willing to give all that she had. It’s moments like this that keep me hungry for travel.” – Arden Shanklin

“The moment that changed my life was in July 2016. I went on the grand southern contiki tour and I opened up the further into the tour I went (I’m usually quite shy) and have never been the same since. Because of this tour I wanted to be more open, so between this tour and my next tour in April 2017 I took the biggest step in my life and came out to my parents. Not only has travel physically changed me, but it’s helped me come to terms with myself” – Tim Savage

RELATED: WHY SPAIN IS ONE OF THE BEST COUNTRIES TO TRAVEL TO IF YOU ARE LGBT+

“My sister and I went on a Contiki to Scotland and Ireland. There was one night in Loch Ness when it was raining cats and dogs, so we were forced to stay at our hotel. Everyone was bummed at first, but then we didn’t really care, because we were cooped up in a hotel with some pretty awesome people. We sat and played card games and drinking games all night. It was probably one of the most fun nights in the whole trip!” – Kandyce Lauren

Do you have a travel experience that changed you forever? Let us know in the comments…

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• 50 Amazing Travel Experiences Around The World

23 Mar 2023

Travel makes us wealthier. We see new places, meet new people, indulge in new activities. The experiences make us a different person. Travelling isn’t merely about stepping foot on a landmark, but also inhaling the essence of the very place. The culture and the beauty should grow in you.

So, if you are wondering how to go ahead with that, treat this list of most amazing travel experiences as your bible, and you wouldn’t have to maintain a travel bucket list!

Just sit back and scroll through!

1. Hike the Andes to reach Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru

The Inca archaeological ruin of Machu Picchu is one of the Seven Wonders of the world. The trail is 4-day long taking you through some of country’s most beautiful landscapes.

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2. Ride hot-air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey

The hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is among major tourist attractions of Turkey. The ride takes you above a volcanic landscape and pleases you with golden sunset.

3. Release the lanterns in Yi Peng Festival, Thailand

Yi Peng Festival or the Lantern Festival is an important time of the year. Locals return to their home to celebrate this day with their families. They decorate houses and streets, and release sky lanterns, which is symbolic of letting go all the misfortunes.

4. Enjoy a hot spring bath in Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The geothermal spa, Blue Lagoon, is located in a lava field. With steam released from its blue waters, it looks nothing less than a dream paradise.

5. Behold the Northern Lights from Glass Igloo in Finland

Northern Lights obviously is found in many people’s bucket list, but watching Aurora Borealis right from the comfort of your bed, in a luxurious glass igloo is an experience to cherish!

Suggested Read: Glass Igloo In Finland: A Dream Stay That Must Be In Your Bucketlist

6. Spend nights with the penguins in Antarctica’s Emperor Camp

Image Source

Who doesn’t want to visit Antarctica?! The cherry of the top is added when you’re spending nights in the camps amidst several friendly emperor penguins.

7. Go glamping and wildlife viewing in Masai Mara, Kenya

Kenya is considered the pilgrim for wildlife lovers. Right from game viewing to luxurious glamping experiences, you have everything sorted if you are a wild child!

8. Clink scintillating wine glasses amidst the vineyards of Tuscany, Italy

When we say wine, Tuscanian fields flashes right in front of our eyes. Italian wine already has made the world go gaga, but sipping the native wines amidst the vineyards, during a beautiful sunset will spell out Nirvana for you.

9. Scale the highest peak in the world – Mount Everest, Nepal

You must have hiked all your life, but have you thought of reaching the peak of world’s tallest peak? Well if you haven’t, consider it the milestone! But make sure you have sufficient experience and are guided by an expert on your expedition.

Suggested Read: Everest Base Camp Trek: A Guide To A Journey Of A Lifetime

10. Celebrate La Tomatina in Spain

After ZNMD, our travel goals have found a true meaning. People smash tomatoes around like crazy and then head to the bars for an after party. This festival takes place on the last wednesday of August in Valencian town of Buñol.

11. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia

We have seen the Opera House from different angles, but this one is what you will earn. Climbing at the Sydney Harbour bridge is a sport, something that gives you a 360 degree view of the city.

12. Explore the marine wonderland in The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

If you ask where the most beautiful seabed is, the answer has to be the Great Barrier Reef. Spread across an area of 2,300 km, this marine wonderland consists of over a thousand reefs and hundred islands.

13. Walk the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is in fact one of world’s most talked-about tourist attraction. And to walk through the Wall isn’t suggested because of its hype. There are different regions, most of which aren’t even known to tourists, which you can explore and where you can indulge in various amazing adventure.

Suggested Read: Crazy Adventures You Need To Try At The Great Wall of China

14. Behold the Taj Mahal on a full-moon night in India

The Taj Mahal needs no introduction, as we have often seen people posting photographs with the Taj in cliche poses. But to go off the beaten track, you have to behold this masterpiece during a full moon, when the Taj Mahal seems to slightly change its hues complementing the moonlight.

15. Cliff dive off the tallest waterfall in the world, Angel Falls in Venezuela

Don’t say you’re a daredevil if you cannot do this one. Free falling off the tallest waterfall in the world requires more than just inspiration.

16. Dare to dive with the sharks in South Africa

Shark Cage Diving is among the craziest adventure activities. You wear the scuba suit, get inside a cage, and come face to face with the ferocious and furious sharks. These sharks may as well attack you, but you’re in the cage, but it still needs sheer courage to be an inch close to the sharp teeth of this creature.

17. Feel at the top of the world from the top floor of Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the tallest building in the world

Burj Khalifa in Dubai isn’t merely for show sake. The Observation Deck of this building will give you a breathtaking view from a height of 555 meters. This may also be a nightmare for the people with a fear of heights.

Suggested Read: Burj Khalifa: The Tallest Building In The World

18. Surf in the Surfing Capital of Canada, Tofino

Tofino is one of the best places in the world for surfing regardless of how experienced you are. This destination welcomes surfers all year round.

19. Tour the glowing caves of Waitomo, New Zealand

The Waitomo Caves in New Zealand looks like a fairyland with thousands of glow-worms illuminating the dark corners. A boat ride through Waitomo will captivate you.

Suggested Read: Walk Into The Dreamy World Of Waitomo Glowworm Caves, It’s Magical!

20. Try your luck in Las Vegas, USA

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but if you have your luck by your side what you win in Vegas will go home with you too!

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Vegas: Must Experiences For Unforgettable Memories!

21. Ride the camels and mules in Petra, Jordan

The rugged lands of Petra is explored in many ways, but riding the mules and camels will have you travel back in time as well.

Suggested Read: Petra Caves In Jordan: A Rose-Red City Half As Old As Time

22. Chug finest beers in the world in Oktoberfest, Germany

This is unmissable for all the beer-lovers! The Oktoberfest is world’s largest Volksfest that’s not just about beer, but also parades, music and sumptuous food.

23. Smoke freshly-rolled cigars in Havana, Cuba

There is no vibe as the Cuban vibe. Let alone half, all of your heart will be in Havana oh nana! The Cuban cigars is of the utmost quality in the world. The hand-rolled cigars of Cuba go through as much as 222 different processes in order to be ready to be smoked.

24. Take a bike trip from Delhi to Leh, India

The surreal land of Ladakh can be pleasing and beautiful, but there’s also a rugged side to it that challenges even the toughest bikers. A bike ride from Delhi to Leh, Ladakh is picturesque, challenging and allows you to live life and travel in your own terms.

Suggested Read: Leh Ladakh Bike Trip: Everything You Need To Know From The Scratch

25. Walk on the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Often mistaken to be an optical illusion, the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni is world’s largest salt flat that’s spread across an area of 10,582 square kilometers.

26. Glance at the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Egyptian pyramids have the power to move you with its secrets and history. There is so much to learn about the history, each of the aspect is intriguing in every sense.

27. Take a long drive through the Garden Route, South Africa

What’s a long drive, if you aren’t meandering through shoreline, drifting past or stopping by national parks en route, or landmarks, and gardens?!

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28. Rejuvenate and pamper yourself with authentic Ayurveda spa treatments in Kerala, India

The age old legacy, Ayurveda finds its route in India, and Kerala is considered to be among the best places to an Ayurvedic treatment or therapy.

29. Enjoy the Full Moon Parties in Thailand

Your definition of nightlife will change drastically when you will attend the hypnotic full and half moon parties of Thailand. Hosted by the beach, these parties are nothing less than extravaganza filled with music, booze and dance.

Suggested Read: Full Moon Party In Thailand Is Going To Be Beach Madness At Its Loudest

30. Bathe, feed and spend good time with the adorable elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

The adorable creatures called elephants are friendly undoubtedly. But if you have been thinking of spending more time with these creatures in a safe environment, then Chiang Mai is the best place. You get to feed, bathe, play around with elephants in the orphanage.

31. Escape to Maldives with the one you love

One of the top honeymoon destinations in the world, Maldives will bewitch you with its turquoise and calm ocean waters. The luxury follows you as you spend the best of time in your majestic overwater villas.

Suggested Read: 28 Best Islands In Maldives For Honeymoon For An Instant Cupid-Strike

32. Dine in the Parisian landmark, Eiffel Tower in France

Paris, mainly the Eiffel Tower, is the synonym of love. Having a romantic feast in a lovely restaurant looking over this beautifully lit landmark is your very own fairytale moment.

Suggested Read: 10 Most Romantic Restaurants In Paris You Must Visit At Least Once

33. Strike a pose in front of the Petronas Tower in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Standing tall and strong, the Petronas is the tallest twin towers in the world. And when in Malaysia you have to click a picture with this landmark. And if you seek something more, head over to its Observation Deck for a soulful view of the Kuala Lumpur City.

34. Dare to walk at a height of 260 meters above ground, on the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge in China

Walk 260 meters above the ground crossing a glass bridge in the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon of China. Don’t look down or you’ll be crept with fear all over your body.

35. Feast on breakfast with the view in the white paradise of Santorini, Greece

Santorini’s stunning white village is an instagram-worthy landscape. But a nice Greek breakfast savored amidst this very vista is sheer travel goals.

36. Cruise the canal city of Venice onboard a gondola in Italy

One thing that Italy is most famous for is the Gondola of Venice. Sailing you past legendary landmarks and quite canals, the rower will sing folk songs to you to add that Italian touch.

37. Spend a night on-board a houseboat anchored on Dal Lake in Kashmir, India

Dal Lake is something that India is proud of. Sky soaring Himalayan peak coupled with tranquility make it a lovely escape. You may want to live for a longer period, so why not spend the night away in the traditionally built luxurious houseboats?!

Suggested Read: Magical Colors Of Srinagar’s Dal Lake That Change Every Season: In Pics

38. Enjoy the views of London from London Eye in England

The London Eye on the embankments of Thames consists of luxurious glass capsules that let you behold 360 degree view of the great English city.

39. Challenge yourself by base jumping off the Sky Tower of Auckland, New Zealand

Ever wanted to be a bird flying above a concrete jungle? Well, base jump off the iconic Sky Tower in New Zealand will make your dreams come true!

40. Swim in the iconic infinity pool of Singapore with jaw-dropping views of the city

The illusional infinity pool of Singapore will give you the shots that spark envy!

41. Amble through the Vatican Museums in Italy

Renaissance art aficionados! This is it! The Vatican City is bejeweled with museums which not only house masterpieces, but are masterpieces themselves.

42. Live up the night for more than 24 hours, with the startling phenomenon called Polar Night in Alaska, USA

‘Wishing this night never fades’ – Well, experience your dream coming true in Alaska. Here, in a particular time of the year, the Sun doesn’t come above the horizon, resulting in 24 hours of night light.

43. Go dune bashing in the deserts of Dubai, UAE

Dubai’s dune bashing doesn’t merely mean off roading. You have a cultural extravaganza awaiting you. A night desert safari will get you acquainted with local culture through its food, belly dance performaces and more.

44. Watch the dreamy pink lake, Lake Hillier in Australia

You must have seen lakes around the world, but if you haven’t seen the pink lake what are you even doing with your life?!

45. Live the reel life while taking the Game of Thrones Tour in Dubrovnik, Croatia

This is for all the GOT fans who always wanted to live the reel life. Most of the scenes are shot in Dubrovnik and you can actually go for a Game of Thrones tour here.

46. Get on cloud nine while skydiving in Wollongong, Australia

Skydiving is great! But skydiving in Wollongong is the best!

47. Celebrate the festival of colors, Holi in Vrindavan, India

The Festival of Colors, Holi is celebrated in all of India, and even around the world. But Vrindavan’s holi is considered the most colorful, craziest and picture-perfect.

48. Let the child in you come alive yet again in Disney World, Hong Kong

Meet your favorite Disney characters, shop for Disney goodies, and ride the movie-themed rides. If that’s not enough, live the night away in Disney resort in Disney World.

Suggested Read: Disneyland In Hong Kong: A Tailor-Made Guide To Endless Fun For Everyone!

49. Forget about the night sky in Iqaluit, Canada

Remember we talked about Polar Nights, well this one is the exact opposite. The sun here just won’t set!

50. Live life at the edge by staying for a night in the Skylodge, hanging 1200 feet above ground on a cliff in Peru

Ditch the traditional stays, and spend a beautiful night in Skylodge in Peru, a capsule hung on a 1,200 feet tall cliff.

Further Read: Skylodging In Peru: Camping While Hanging Off A 1,200 Feet Cliff

Which of these amazing travel experiences struck the chord for you?! plan a Trip with TravelTriangle without wasting a moment and make the best memories of your life.

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Looking for ‘a Different Kind of Wow’: Next Level Hotel Experiences

From cooking with a Michelin-star chef to taking a chauffeured shopping spree in Singapore, hotels and resorts are offering ever-more-lavish activities for guests.

By Amy Thomas

Heli-hiking on a remote slice of Vancouver Island in Canada. Concocting your own perfume in southern France. Planning a shoot with a New York fashion photographer.

Now that amenities like infinity pools and posh spas (rebranded as wellness centers) are practically de rigueur at upscale lodgings, many properties are trying to distinguish themselves with activities that are ever more bespoke and brag-worthy.

“All of this is part of the trend we’ve seen for a while, especially since the pandemic, when everyone wants what they want and they want everything hyper-customized to their interests and their requirements,” said Ashley Isaacs Ganz, the founder and chief executive of Artisans of Leisure , a luxury tour operator.

Indeed, said Janelle Ruhumuliza, a travel adviser with Embark Beyond , “experiences have to go further than what they were before.” She notes that social media has amplified travelers’ desire to “one-up” what others are doing online.

Hotels are feeling the urgency. “We have guests that are almost aggressive in how they want to experience something,” said Philippe Gills, who oversees the concierge team at the Langham, Chicago . “Even if it’s something that they’ve experienced before, they’re looking to do it new now, so we have to be creative.”

Next-level activities

Activities and experiences have long been part of luxury hotel offerings. But many current offerings come with extra cachet.

“We are constantly trying to find cool things for our guests to do,” said Olivier Lordonnois, who, as managing director of Aman , oversees the luxury resort company’s properties in the Americas, including its newest in New York City . That could mean an invitation to an artist’s private studio to learn about their process ($7,500) or mastering fish butchery and handcrafted sushi ($750).

The resort also partners with the camera manufacturer Leica and offers master classes, such as photography with the fashion photographer Mark de Paola, who will help guests run a true-to-life shoot that includes hair, makeup and styling. Guests photograph models at iconic New York backdrops (starting at $7,000, lunch at an Aman restaurant included).

Set in a rainforest on Vancouver Island, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offers canyoning, horseback riding, salmon fishing and more. You can also take it to the next level and charter a helicopter to whisk you away for mountaintop adventures (650 Canadian dollars, or about $475, per person). “When you get to the top of the mountain, you’re talking to God,” said the general manager, Sarah Cruse. “I’ll send you up there with a bottle of Champagne and say, ‘Just sit down and have a chat.’”

Even resorts that offer a selection of activities included in the room rate take special pains to develop additional offerings. “Guests are paying a high room rate, so we need full programming and activities on the calendar,” said Corey Lens, the assistant general manager of Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, Maine. That means no additional charge for forest-bathing sessions, watercolor lessons, and visits with orphaned owls, turtles and other wildlife. But you can also pay for extra sessions with a forest therapist to take you on a mindfulness hike ($85 per hour) or mixologists ($60) to level up your cocktail-making skills.

Exclusive access

Personalized experiences are something Annabel Rayer, a global communications director for IHG brands, which includes Six Senses , Regent , InterContinental and others, sees as nonnegotiable. “It’s not just the case of going for a Michelin-star meal,” she said. Our guests want to meet the chef, and they want to understand everything that’s going on.” At the InterContinental London Park Lane , that Michelin-starred chef is Theo Randall, and guests can learn from him in a kitchen master class before indulging in a four-course meal (from 185 euros, or about $200).

In France, at Carlton Cannes , a Regent hotel, guests explore the perfume capital of Grasse in a vintage Citroën 2CV and create their own fragrance with some of the world’s best perfumers (from 109 euros), and at the Regent resort on the Vietnamese island Phu Quoc, guests can get lessons from an expert sailing crew aboard a catamaran (64,000,000 Vietnamese dong, or about $2,520, for up to 12 guests).

In Chicago, the city where the architect Frank Lloyd Wright established himself, the Langham tempts guests with an intensive tour of his home, which he built for himself in 1889 in Oak Park, west of downtown.

The three-hour excursion ($1,240) includes a chauffeured ride to Oak Park, which has the highest concentration of Wright-designed houses in the world, along with a tour of Wright’s own home and studio. The experience, said Mr. Gills, of the Langham, gives guests a new perspective on someone they thought they knew. “It’s a different kind of ‘wow,’” he said.

Jesmine Hall is director of communications for Raffles Singapore . “We see a hotel being a destination for not just rest and rejuvenation,” she said, “but a setting for cultural immersion.” The hotel’s Enlightenment Retreat (from 7,800 Singapore dollars, or about $5,745) features four days of holistic treatments — including yoga, meditation, hydrotherapy herbal body wraps — along with personalized menus from the hotel’s restaurants. It also includes visits to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the Intan, a private house museum devoted to Peranakan culture — a mix of local and Chinese heritage. Tea with the owner, Alvin Yapp, well known in Singapore’s cultural circles, gives it that extra insider’s feel.

Exceptional locations

Sometimes the location itself is the experience. Rather than choosing downtown San Diego when it opened a new California location three years ago, Alila Hotels and Resorts went 28 miles north to Encinitas, Calif. “It’s this little beach town that’s always been known as a surf destination, always been known as laid-back and friendly,” said Emily Teachout, director of marketing for the 130-room Alia Marea Beach resort . Through Fulcrum Surf , a top-tier surf school, guests can take a one-hour lesson ($200) on the resort’s beach. Or they can opt for a private coastal tour ($925) to scope out the best breaks, take in the local scene and get an extended lesson on different surfboards.

Other resorts make the most out of their natural environment. When Jon Borschow, 72, and his wife, Galina, 68, of San Juan, P.R., arrived at Amanpulo resort on the private Pamalican Island in the Philippines, they noticed a lot of birds. Being amateur birders, they inquired about them and were offered a tour with the resident naturalist. “I would say we saw at least 30 different species,” said Mr. Borschow, including Thai imperial pigeons and a Philippine megapode.

Personalization. Personalization. Personalization.

“Travelers really just want to be taken care of by hotels and have them provide and arrange everything,” Ms. Hall, of Raffles Singapore , said. Responding to that desire, Raffles offers a personalized shopping extravaganza, in which guests consult with a personal shopper before arrival, and then enjoy a chauffeured four-hour trip to some of Singapore’s best boutiques (from 3,900 Singapore dollars, or about $2,860, which includes two nights in a suite and breakfast).

Hotels also seize opportunities to deliver a personal touch.

When David Anderson, 78, of St. Louis, took his extended family on a trip to the Clayoquot lodge, he emailed Ms. Cruse, the general manager, in advance, sharing a bit on each of the nine family members.

“She guided us toward taking a family hike,” said Mr. Anderson, acknowledging they had been inclined to split up and do different activities. “She knew that we were working on communication as a family. We were going to pass on the hike. She really pushed us,” he said about the outing with experienced guides.

A year and a half later, Mr. Anderson still feels the effects on his family. “I can honestly say after that trip, our communication has gone to a higher level.”

What’s next

Hotel experts say that the arms race for bigger, bolder, more creative experiences will continue. “Guests are starved for something new because everything around them has been turned into an algorithm,” said Mr. Gills, who is constantly digging deeper to come up with the novel.

So, if hotels want to stay competitive, it seems that no experience is too “out there.” Not even a mountaintop chat with the gods.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article inaccurately described Hidden Pond, a resort in Kennebunkport, Maine. It is not an all-inclusive resort.

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52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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• THE BIG IDEA

Why travel should be considered an essential human activity

Travel is not rational, but it’s in our genes. Here’s why you should start planning a trip now.

In 1961, legendary National Geographic photographer Volkmar Wentzel captured two women gazing at the surf off Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia. This and all the other images in this story come from the National Geographic image collection.

I’ve been putting my passport to good use lately. I use it as a coaster and to level wobbly table legs. It makes an excellent cat toy.

Welcome to the pandemic of disappointments. Canceled trips, or ones never planned lest they be canceled. Family reunions, study-abroad years, lazy beach vacations. Poof. Gone. Obliterated by a tiny virus, and the long list of countries where United States passports are not welcome.

Only a third of Americans say they have traveled overnight for leisure since March, and only slightly more, 38 percent, say they are likely to do so by the end of the year, according to one report. Only a quarter of us plan on leaving home for Thanksgiving, typically the busiest travel time. The numbers paint a grim picture of our stilled lives.

It is not natural for us to be this sedentary. Travel is in our genes. For most of the time our species has existed, “we’ve lived as nomadic hunter-gatherers moving about in small bands of 150 or fewer people,” writes Christopher Ryan in Civilized to Death . This nomadic life was no accident. It was useful. “Moving to a neighboring band is always an option to avoid brewing conflict or just for a change in social scenery,” says Ryan. Robert Louis Stevenson put it more succinctly: “The great affair is to move.”

What if we can’t move, though? What if we’re unable to hunt or gather? What’s a traveler to do? There are many ways to answer that question. “Despair,” though, is not one of them.

In this aerial view from 1967, wall-to-wall seaside sunbathers relax under umbrellas or on beach towels in Ocean City, Maryland .

A 1967 fall festival in Guadalajara, Mexico , starred traditionally costumed musicians and dancers.

We are an adaptive species. We can tolerate brief periods of forced sedentariness. A dash of self-delusion helps. We’re not grounded, we tell ourselves. We’re merely between trips, like the unemployed salesman in between opportunities. We pass the days thumbing though old travel journals and Instagram feeds. We gaze at souvenirs. All this helps. For a while.

We put on brave faces. “Staycation Nation,” the cover of the current issue of Canadian Traveller magazine declares cheerfully, as if it were a choice, not a consolation.

Today, the U.S. Travel Association, the industry trade organization, is launching a national recovery campaign called “ Let’s Go There .” Backed by a coalition of businesses related to tourism—hotels, convention and visitor bureaus, airlines—the initiative’s goal is to encourage Americans to turn idle wanderlust into actual itineraries.

The travel industry is hurting. So are travelers. “I dwelled so much on my disappointment that it almost physically hurt,” Paris -based journalist Joelle Diderich told me recently, after canceling five trips last spring.

(Related: How hard has the coronavirus hit the travel industry? These charts tell us.)

My friend James Hopkins is a Buddhist living in Kathmandu . You’d think he’d thrive during the lockdown, a sort-of mandatory meditation retreat. For a while he did.

But during a recent Skype call, James looked haggard and dejected. He was growing restless, he confessed, and longed “for the old 10-countries-a-year schedule.” Nothing seemed to help, he told me. “No matter how many candles I lit, or how much incense I burned, and in spite of living in one of the most sacred places in South Asia, I just couldn’t change my habits.”

When we ended our call, I felt relieved, my grumpiness validated. It’s not me; it’s the pandemic. But I also worried. If a Buddhist in Kathmandu is going nuts, what hope do the rest of us stilled souls have?

I think hope lies in the very nature of travel. Travel entails wishful thinking. It demands a leap of faith, and of imagination, to board a plane for some faraway land, hoping, wishing, for a taste of the ineffable. Travel is one of the few activities we engage in not knowing the outcome and reveling in that uncertainty. Nothing is more forgettable than the trip that goes exactly as planned.

Related: Vintage photos of the glamour of travel

Travel is not a rational activity. It makes no sense to squeeze yourself into an alleged seat only to be hurled at frightening speed to a distant place where you don’t speak the language or know the customs. All at great expense. If we stopped to do the cost-benefit analysis, we’d never go anywhere. Yet we do.

That’s one reason why I’m bullish on travel’s future. In fact, I’d argue travel is an essential industry, an essential activity. It’s not essential the way hospitals and grocery stores are essential. Travel is essential the way books and hugs are essential. Food for the soul. Right now, we’re between courses, savoring where we’ve been, anticipating where we’ll go. Maybe it’s Zanzibar and maybe it’s the campground down the road that you’ve always wanted to visit.

(Related: Going camping this fall? Here’s how to get started.)

James Oglethorpe, a seasoned traveler, is happy to sit still for a while, and gaze at “the slow change of light and clouds on the Blue Ridge Mountains” in Virginia, where he lives. “My mind can take me the rest of the way around this world and beyond it.”

It’s not the place that is special but what we bring to it and, crucially, how we interact with it. Travel is not about the destination, or the journey. It is about stumbling across “a new way of looking at things,” as writer Henry Miller observed. We need not travel far to gain a fresh perspective.

No one knew this better than Henry David Thoreau , who lived nearly all of his too-short life in Concord, Massachusetts. There he observed Walden Pond from every conceivable vantage point: from a hilltop, on its shores, underwater. Sometimes he’d even bend over and peer through his legs, marveling at the inverted world. “From the right point of view, every storm and every drop in it is a rainbow,” he wrote.

Thoreau never tired of gazing at his beloved pond, nor have we outgrown the quiet beauty of our frumpy, analog world. If anything, the pandemic has rekindled our affection for it. We’ve seen what an atomized, digital existence looks like, and we (most of us anyway) don’t care for it. The bleachers at Chicago ’s Wrigley Field; the orchestra section at New York City ’s Lincoln Center; the alleyways of Tokyo . We miss these places. We are creatures of place, and always will be.

After the attacks of September 11, many predicted the end of air travel, or at least a dramatic reduction. Yet the airlines rebounded steadily and by 2017 flew a record four billion passengers. Briefly deprived of the miracle of flight, we appreciated it more and today tolerate the inconvenience of body scans and pat-downs for the privilege of transporting our flesh-and-bone selves to far-flung locations, where we break bread with other incarnate beings.

Landscape architects work in their Rio de Janeiro, Brazil , studio in 1955.

A tourist photographs a towering century plant in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, in 1956.

In our rush to return to the world, we should be mindful of the impact of mass tourism on the planet. Now is the time to embrace the fundamental values of sustainable tourism and let them guide your future journeys. Go off the beaten path. Linger longer in destinations. Travel in the off-season. Connect with communities and spend your money in ways that support locals. Consider purchasing carbon offsets. And remember that the whole point of getting out there is to embrace the differences that make the world so colorful.

“One of the great benefits of travel is meeting new people and coming into contact with different points of view,” says Pauline Frommer, travel expert and radio host.

So go ahead and plan that trip. It’s good for you, scientists say . Plotting a trip is nearly as enjoyable as actually taking one. Merely thinking about a pleasurable experience is itself pleasurable. Anticipation is its own reward.

I’ve witnessed first-hand the frisson of anticipatory travel. My wife, not usually a fan of travel photography, now spends hours on Instagram, gazing longingly at photos of Alpine lodges and Balinese rice fields. “What’s going on?” I asked one day. “They’re just absolutely captivating,” she replied. “They make me remember that there is a big, beautiful world out there.”

Many of us, myself included, have taken travel for granted. We grew lazy and entitled, and that is never good. Tom Swick, a friend and travel writer, tells me he used to view travel as a given. Now, he says, “I look forward to experiencing it as a gift.”

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English Compositions

Essay on Travel Experience [200, 500 Words] With PDF

Travelling plays an important role in our lives as it enriches our experience. In this lesson, you will learn to write essays in three different sets on the importance of libraries. It will help you in articulating your thoughts in the upcoming exams.

Table of Contents

Essay on travel experience in 200 words, essay on travel experience in 500 words.

We travel to get away from the monotony of our daily lives. It’s a refreshing diversion from the monotony of everyday life. It allows our minds to relax and gives our inner child the opportunity to play. Some trip memories are nostalgic and melancholy, while others are daring and exhilarating. A trip to the graveyard, the poet’s corner in London, or one’s ancestral house, for example, is a voyage to nostalgia.

These travels allow them to relive memories and treasure golden memories from a bygone era. People who go on these journeys are frequently depressed and artistically inclined. Travelling instils a sense of adventure and encourages us to make the most of every opportunity. Some people prefer to travel in groups, whereas others prefer to travel alone.

Trips to amusement parks with massive roller coasters or a deeply wooded forest could be exciting. It’s important to remember that Columbus discovered America due to his travels. The journey becomes much more memorable when things don’t go as planned. For example, if a car tyre blows out on the highway and it begins to rain heavily, the trip will turn into an adventure, even though it was not intended to be such. A visit to a museum or a gothic structure, on the other hand, is sure to be exciting.

We travel to get a break from the mundane and robust lifestyle. It is a welcome change from the monotonous routine existence. It helps our minds rest and gives the inner child within us to have a good time.

Not all travelling experiences are adventurous and exciting, and some are nostalgic and melancholic. For instance, a trip to the cemetery or the poet’s corner in London or one’s ancestral home will be a nostalgia trip. Such trips help them re-live the moments and cherish the golden memories of bygone times. People who undertake such trips are often melancholic and have an artistic sensibility.

Travelling experiences bring enthusiasm and teach us to make the best of every moment. While some enjoy travelling in groups, some people love to travel solo. Adventurous trips could be to amusement parks with giant roller coasters or a deep, dense forest. One must not forget that travelling led Columbus to discover America. When things don’t go as planned, the trip becomes more memorable. For instance, if the car tyre gets punctured on the highway and starts raining heavily, the trip, even if not intended to be adventurous, shall become one. A trip to a museum or gothic architecture shall be thrilling. 

Last Christmas, my trip to Goa with my friends was an enriching one. The golden sun-soaked beaches offered a refuge from the humdrum city life of Kolkata. The cool breeze, the rising and setting sun, and the chilly wind all transported me to heaven. It was paradisal and divine. The cuisine was exquisite. The Portuguese culture and the museums offer various historical insights.

Although it was the peak season and most crowded places, people were civilised and cultured. The melodious music was in the air in every nook and corner, and the happy vibes were contagious. I danced, sang, played and had a great time. I tried sky diving, and it was a thrilling experience.

Besides fun and frolic, I found the independent spirit of people commendable. We spent three days in North Goa and two days in South Goa. We stayed at a guest house as most hotels were expensive and very occupied. We booked scooters to travel far and near. We also went on the cruise for the casino night.

My favourite spot was Thalassa, where we enjoyed the spectacular belly dance performance by males and females. We spent Christmas at Curlies witnessing the waxing moon at midnight. The lap of nature enriches one travelling experience and soothes their soul. The chirping of birds, the sound of the waterfall, the waves of a beach or the snow-covered mountain uplifts the traveller’s spirit.

One must not restrict oneself to a specific type of travelling experience. Life, after all, is a long journey that offers us different durations of vacations to make us laugh and learn at the same time. As Francis Bacon puts it, “Travel in the younger sort is a part of education, in the elder, a part of the experience.”

Hopefully, after going through this lesson, you have a holistic idea of the importance of travelling in our lives. I have tried to cover every aspect of a traveller’s experience within limited words. If you still have any doubts regarding this session, kindly let me know through the comment section below. To read more such essays on many important topics, keep browsing our website. 

Join us on Telegram to get the latest updates on our upcoming sessions. Thank you, see you again soon.

Hello summer: 80+ routes, seamless travel and endless Delta adventures

As summer approaches, Delta is primed for a bustling start with nearly 3 million customers set to take flight during the Memorial Day period, May 23-27 – a 5% increase from last year.  

And with its largest international schedule to date in operation, Delta’s latest travel enhancements will ensure a top-notch experience while whisking customers to their favorite travel destinations worldwide. 

Elevating the travel experience 

Delta, frequently recognized for operational excellence, reliability, and innovation, has recently rolled out several enhancements to ensure every journey is as smooth as a summer breeze. 

New this season, customers departing from Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, LaGuardia and New York-JFK can opt in for  Delta Digital ID within their SkyMiles profile to expedite the security process. And passengers can look forward to a seamless boarding experience with Delta's new numbered boarding system aimed at providing more clarity to the boarding sequence. 

Delta also recently debuted the most comprehensive update since 2019 to its Fly Delta app with Fly Delta 6.0 , introducing a suite of improvements aimed at enhancing efficiency and empowering travelers to manage their trips with ease. This includes an all-new Help Center view, always-available access to boarding information and connectivity to our Virtual Assistant. And quickly following in early summer, customers will also soon be able to utilize their Delta SkyMiles credentials from their Fly Delta App to seamlessly connect to Delta Sync Wi-Fi onboard. 

And customers looking to live their best life this summer will enjoy the Miami and LaGuardia (May 15) Delta Sky Club expansions and the much-anticipated Delta One Lounge in New York-JFK , making its debut in June 2024. 

Memorable trips await with new and resuming routes  

This summer, travelers have more opportunities to travel wherever their itineraries take them with over 1,770 weekly flights to 80 international destinations — a ~6% capacity increase in both domestic and international seats versus 2023.  

Delta has launched and restarted more than 80 routes across the globe this year, making it easier than ever to explore sought-after destinations this summer, including routes to popular places like  London , Rome  and Dublin — which all topped Delta’s annual list of most-searched international destinations.

Atlanta: Delta operates 900+ flights to over 200 destinations

+4% summer capacity.

Delta’s daily Tulum service launched in March, offering year-round access to the stunning beaches and ancient ruins of Tulum, Mexico.  

For those enchanted by the allure of Switzerland, Delta will launch nonstop flights from Atlanta to Zurich four times a week, starting May 31. Travelers can also get to Switzerland from New York-JFK with Delta’s year-round service to Zurich and seasonal flights to Geneva. 

Plus, on Jun. 7, customers can enjoy new daily service to Santa Barbara and Fresno with convenient access to the sun-kissed shores of Southern California and the breathtaking scenery of Yosemite National Park. Travelers can also celebrate the return of daily service to Oakland, Reno, and Burbank, commencing on the same date.  

New York-JFK: Delta operates largest summer lineup since 2014

+5% summer capacity  .

Travelers are urged to explore Athens with Delta's route from JFK, which complements existing routes from Atlanta and Boston. As the largest U.S. carrier to Greece, Delta responds to growing demand , shown by a notable 248% increase in searches for Athens on Delta.com compared to last year.    Furthermore, travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the picturesque countryside of Bavaria with a new route to Munich , enhancing Delta's additional service offerings from Atlanta and Detroit. 

As the leading U.S. carrier to Italy, the airline is connecting travelers to culinary treasures with the launch of a new route to Naples , on May 23, along with Delta's existing JFK services to Milan, Venice, and Rome.  

Alternatively, adventurers can set their sights on Ireland's picturesque west coast with the resumption of service to Shannon, Ireland, a route not operated since 2019.  

Minneapolis: Delta to fly 24 international routes, second busiest hub

+6% summer capacity.

One of this summer's standout route additions is Delta's new daily service to Dublin , offering travelers an enticing journey to a land brimming with rich history, vibrant pubs, and breathtaking landscapes. Seasonal routes to Dublin are also available from Atlanta, Boston, and New York-JFK, providing even more options to explore this captivating destination.  

But the fun doesn’t stop there – Travelers can rejoice as service to Reykjavík also returns on May 23, offering seasonal access to Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs. As the top U.S. carrier to Iceland, Delta also provides nonstop service to this destination from DTW and JFK.

Detroit: Delta operates 330 flights to 100+ destinations

+5% summer capacity.

Delta is returning daily flights to Rome from Detroit on May 23, inviting travelers to explore the ancient ruins, art-filled streets, and delectable cuisine of the Eternal City. 

Additionally, Delta’s upcoming additions of daily service to Anchorage, Alaska, on Jun. 7, and Sacramento, California , on Jul. 8, will provide access to both states’ stunning wilderness and outdoor adventures. 

Seattle: Delta offers more choice this summer than ever

+3% summer capacity.

This summer lineup includes two new routes, both renowned for leisure and business opportunities.  

Up first, service to Taipei , launching Jun. 7, will provide travelers with convenient access to its bustling night markets, ancient temples, and scenic landscapes.  

Following that launch, customers can look forward to new service to Dallas-Fort Worth on Jul. 8, where customers can enjoy world-class dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. 

Ways to plan a hassle-free vacation

Customers ready to book their summer adventure can do so through Delta Vacations – with flights, and expert recommended hotels, rides and activities booked all in one place. Only with Delta Vacations, SkyMiles Members can earn toward Medallion Status on the flight, hotel, car rental, and activity components of their vacation, earn bonus miles in addition to flight miles, and use miles to pay for all or part of their trip.  

Additionally, SkyMiles Members who already booked a Delta flight but need a vehicle or place to stay can earn 2x miles per $1 (excluding taxes and fees, additional terms apply) by booking hotels, vacation rental properties and cars with Delta Stays and Car Rentals.   

Below is the comprehensive list of routes from Delta’s key hubs:  

In total, between Feb. 2024 and Jul. 2024, Delta will have launched and reinstated over 80 routes, perfect for summer getaways, whether exploring distant destinations or simply reconnecting with loved ones back at home.  

February 

Atlanta to Dublin 

Atlanta to Madrid 

Boston to Dublin 

Boston to Rome  

March  

Atlanta to Milan 

Atlanta to Tulum 

Atlanta to Athens 

Atlanta to Stuttgart 

Atlanta to Venice 

New York (JFK) to Venice 

New York (JFK) to Athens 

New York (JFK) to Edinburgh  

New York (JFK) to Reykjavik 

New York (JFK) to Nice 

Salt Lake City to Indianapolis  

April  

Atlanta to Hilton Head (HHH) 

Boston to Athens  

Detroit to Burlington (BTV) 

Detroit to Munich 

Detroit to Savannah  

LaGuardia to Arkansas (XNA) 

LaGuardia to Hilton Head  

Minneapolis to Myrtle Beach  

Minneapolis to Richmond (RIC) 

Minneapolis to Savannah (SAV) 

New York (JFK) to Munich 

New York (JFK) to Stockholm 

New York (JFK) to Geneva  

New York (JFK to Copenhagen 

New York (JFK) to London Gatwick 

Atlanta to Anchorage  

Atlanta to Edinburgh 

Atlanta to Nice 

Atlanta to Zurich 

Boston to Edinburgh 

Boston to Wilmington (ILM) 

Boston to Myrtle Beach  

Detroit to Reykjavik 

Detroit to Rome 

LaGuardia to Nantucket 

LaGuardia to Martha’s Vinyard 

LaGuardia to Traverse City (TVC) 

Minneapolis to Dublin  

Minneapolis to Syracuse 

Minneapolis to Reykjavik 

Minneapolis to Wilmington  

New York (JFK) to Nantucket  

New York (JFK) to Martha’s Vineyard  

New York (JFK) to Berlin  

New York (JFK) to Prague 

New York (JFK) to Naples 

New York (JFK) to Shannon 

Salt Lake City to Anchorage  

Salt Lake City to Yellowstone    

Atlanta to Burbank 

Atlanta to Fresno 

Atlanta to Oakland 

Atlanta to Reno 

Atlanta to Santa Barbara  

Atlanta to Traverse City (TVC) 

Boston to Norfolk (ORF) 

Boston to Traverse City  

Detroit to Fort Wayne 

Detroit to Anchorage  

LaGuardia to Halifax   

Salt Lake City to Columbus 

Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara 

Minneapolis to Colorado Springs  

Minneapolis to Buffalo  

Minneapolis to Burlington  

Minneapolis to Norfolk  

Minneapolis to Fairbanks (FAI) 

Minneapolis to Knoxville (TYS) 

Minneapolis to Portland  

Minneapolis to Providence (PVD) 

Minneapolis to Reno 

Minneapolis to Traverse City  

New York (JFK) to Tel Aviv 

Seattle to Taipei  

Seattle to Juneau (JNU) 

Seattle to Ketchikan (KTN) 

Seattle to Stika (SIT) 

Detroit and Sacramento  

Seattle and Dallas (DFW) 

For more information about Delta’s global network and to book your flights, please visit our website:  delta.com . 

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TAHITI TRAVEL GUIDE 2024/2025: Your Ultimate Travel Companion to the Enchanting Islands of French Polynesia - Explore Pristine Beaches, Must see Attractions and Cultural Experiences. Kindle Edition

"Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to paradise? Dive into the ultimate Tahiti Travel Guide 2024 and discover the hidden treasures of this enchanting Polynesian gem. From pristine beaches to lush jungles, Tahiti beckons with its siren song of adventure and relaxation. But where to begin?

Inside this meticulously crafted guide, you'll find everything you need to make your Tahitian dreams a reality. Picture yourself snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons teeming with vibrant marine life, or hiking through emerald forests to cascading waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Tahiti, from traditional dance performances to authentic Polynesian cuisine.

But that's just the beginning. Our comprehensive guide also includes insider tips on where to stay, dine, and shop like a local. Whether you're seeking a luxurious overwater bungalow or a charming boutique hotel, we've got you covered. Indulge your senses with tantalizing flavors at bustling food markets, and browse unique handicrafts at artisanal boutiques.

And for the adrenaline junkies, we've curated a selection of thrilling activities, from surfing legendary waves to skydiving over breathtaking landscapes. Plus, don't miss our exclusive day trip itineraries to nearby islands, each offering its own slice of paradise.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy of the Tahiti Travel Guide 2024 today and let the adventure begin! Your journey to paradise awaits. Buy now and start planning the trip of a lifetime."

• Print length 122 pages
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• Publication date May 11, 2024
• File size 7387 KB
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D416LQ6M
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 11, 2024
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14 May 2024

Romie, the AI-powered travel buddy you want to ‘roam’ the world with, is unveiled alongside 40+ new features in the 2024 Spring Release

Travel Shops open for business; new e-commerce product debuts as first shoppable storefront for content creators

Travel industry’s leading advertising platform is announced with groundbreaking capabilities

Traveling just got a whole lot easier. Expedia Group announced today at EXPLORE™, our annual partner conference in Las Vegas, the travel industry’s most innovative and comprehensive release of 40+ new products and features — making picking a hotel that won’t offend your hotel-obsessed companion or your budget a seamless experience.

“At Expedia Group, we embrace the transformative power of AI to create personalized travel experiences. Our long-standing investments in this space enable us to capitalize on the breathtaking pace of AI innovation, and today’s Spring Release demonstrates our commitment to delivering innovative products and features that enhance the way people explore the world,” said Ariane Gorin, CEO, Expedia Group.

ROMIE – YOUR ‘ROAMING’ AI BUDDY

Let’s face it, we’d all love to have someone help us work out all the details of our trip based on our preferences. Travelers now have that option with Romie™, the travel industry’s first AI assistant designed to ‘roam’ the world with you and have your back at every step of your trip.

Romie assists with planning, shopping, booking and even lends a hand when something unexpectedly changes during a trip — serving as your travel agent, concierge and personal assistant, all in one. Like the ideal travel companion, Romie gets progressively intelligent — learning who you are, remembering what type of trips you like, and even if you prefer Italian food and boutique hotels or an afternoon hiking through nature. The alpha version of the Romie experience is currently available on EG Labs™, a hub for experimental products:  

• Group Chat Trip Planning : Invite Romie to join your SMS group chat and listen to your vacation plans. If you want some advice, just @Romie to get suggestions on where to go or what to do, like you would a travel agent.
• Smart Search : Ask Romie to summarize your group chat and bring what they learned about your trip straight into your Expedia shopping experience. Personalize your search even more by adding your own filters like rooftop views and early check-in to find your ideal hotel faster.
• Building Your Itinerary : Like any good concierge, your new AI buddy is eager to help you build your perfect trip. Romie can pull in travel information from your emails and suggest restaurants and activities near your hotel that they think you and your group will enjoy.
• Dynamic Service : You can rely on Romie to troubleshoot with you when things don’t go as planned. Like the perfect personal assistant, Romie monitors weather changes or last-minute disruptions that may impact your plans and has alternative suggestions ready that are convenient for you.
• Intelligent Assistance : Throughout your trip, Romie updates your itinerary in real time so anyone in the group chat with FOMO can see what you’re up to, and anyone that needs to pick you up from the airport can simply @Romie to check what time you land.

“We believe in re-imagining the traveler experience, and then using the latest in AI to bring it to life, and with Romie, we’ve done just that , ” said Rathi Murthy, CTO, Expedia Group. “We created an AI assistant with hyper personalization in mind so that travelers can choose when they want Romie’s help on their own terms. Romie can assist throughout dreaming, planning and traveling or even when things don’t go as planned, all while getting more intelligent as the traveler interacts.”

2024 SPRING PRODUCT RELEASE

In our 2024 Spring Product Release, we leveraged the power of AI to eliminate confusion and stress for travelers across tasks like planning, booking management, and customer service. Trust us — we want to get you on the plane en route to your destination as fast as possible and free up some of your time to worry about what matters the most, making lasting memories.  

Our travel partners, the cornerstone of our marketplace, can leverage our investments in AI and machine learning with new tools that safeguard their business, control rate integrity, and provide actionable insights on service.

Traveler Product Highlights:

• Personalized Itinerary Builder :For the first time, travelers can create customized itineraries for upcoming trips based on AI-generated recommendations tailored to your trip and saved items. Available this summer on the Expedia app in the U.S.
• Self-Service Booking Management : Navigate hassle-free changes, cancellations, and air credit redemption for your bookings directly in the app or on the web. Available this summer on Expedia and Hotels.com globally.
• Get Help Fast : Who actually reads the fine print? Thanks to our advancements in AI, travelers can find the solutions they need fast in our completely updated Help Center. Available now on Expedia and Hotels.com® in the U.S.
• Price Comparison : Travelers can now compare prices for hotels and flights across dates, so you can travel within your budget. Available this summer on Expedia and Hotels.com in the U.S.
• Destination Comparison : Sit back, relax and let our GenAI tools help you discover and compare new destinations worth visiting for you. Available this summer on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo globally.
• Guest Review Summary : Save time sorting through thousands of reviews. Using GenAI technology, Expedia summarizes guest reviews upfront, so you don’t have to.

Partner Product Highlights:

• Fraud Prevention as a Service (FPaaS) : Our industry has lost over $21 billion annually to fraudulent transactions. 1 It’s time to safeguard your business from financial loss. Our FPaaS solution helps you screen bookings, reduce unauthorized account access and minimize chargeback losses.
• Advertiser- Funded Loyalty : It’s time our destination partners cash in on the loyalty game. And now they can by funding OneKeyCash™ for travelers booking hotels.
• Optimized Distribution for Hoteliers : Optimized Distribution is now available to regional chains and independent hotels, bringing properties more control over their inventory and pricing.
• Guest Experience : AI-powered insights identify recurring negative sentiments in reviews and deliver personalized recommendations to hosts to create a better experience for travelers.
• Seasonal Cancellation Policy : Have more control over your vacation rental with Vrbo’s date-based cancellation policy, all from a single page.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: SHOP INFLUENCER FAVORITES ON TRAVEL SHOPS

Travel Shops debut today as a new storefront, allowing creators to share and save their travel recommendations in one central place on the Expedia app — saving travelers from spending hours scrolling on social media to find past recommendations and new inspiration.

This new storefront allows content creators to earn commission, increase visibility and customize their own personalized space for travel content. Advertising partners will soon be able to spotlight destinations with shoppable links across our social channels or partner with handpicked travel influencers to sponsor a collection via their channels.

“We saw an opportunity to reinvent how consumers interact with travel content on social media platforms,” said Jochen Koedijk, CMO, Expedia Group. “Travel Shops are a first-of-its-kind travel platform that bridges the gap between content creators and travelers, creating a central hub for curated travel recommendations and a seamless shopping experience. Travel Shops give creators the tools to build unique marketplaces, making it easy to share travel recommendations and providing a more personalized experience for travelers.”

WORLD’S LEADING TRAVEL MEDIA NETWORK

Today at EXPLORE, we revealed the world’s leading travel media network. Building on two decades of advertising experience from Expedia Group Media Solutions, the travel media network leverages our first-party traveler intent and purchase data, so advertising partners reach even more travelers across the purchase journey. Advertising partners benefit from:

• In-house Creative Team : Collaborate on inspiring, actionable and shoppable campaigns with our in-house creative team to reach highly relevant audiences across multiple platforms.
• Industry-Leading Advertising Tools : Target high-intent travelers with industry-leading onsite advertising tools such as TravelAds, connecting our travel audience to 200 booking sites in 70+ countries.
• Offsite Capabilities : Leverage our first-party travel intent data to meet travelers wherever they are online, such as YouTube and Connected TV.
• Global Network and Scale : Develop curated media campaigns with our expert media teams, using partnerships such as Netflix and Disney+, and tap into Expedia Group’s vast B2B network of over 60,000 partners to extend global footprints to new markets and audiences.

“We’ve pioneered the travel retail media network model. Our robust, first-party data and network of industry-wide partnerships gives us the exclusive ability to translate traveler shopping behavior to actionable insights for our advertising partners,” said Rob Torres, SVP, Expedia Group Media Solutions. “Our travel media network targets travelers at various touchpoints on the journey with highly relevant travel content, driving conversion. We’ve only just scratched the surface with building bespoke media campaigns for partners, I’m excited for what’s to come.”

Partners can find more information at: partner.expediagroup.com/release

EG Labs™ can be accessed at: expediagroup.com/labs

1 Research from global Edgar, Dunn & Company, on behalf of eNett.

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Congress passes FAA bill with airline safety and traveler upgrades

Legislation will make it easier to get refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and eliminate fees for families who want to sit with their children.

The House on Wednesday passed a $105 billion bill funding the Federal Aviation Administration for five years, including provisions aimed at improving airline safety and making travel less frustrating for customers. The legislation passed the Senate last week and heads to President Biden for his signature.

Some of the reforms are the outgrowth of pandemic-era frustrations with delayed refunds and the massive number of flight cancellations. Others address long standing concerns about the plethora of fees consumers face when booking a ticket.

Passage of the measure was hailed as a rare example of bipartisan cooperation at a time when Democrats and Republicans are deeply split on a wide range of issues. The measure passed the Senate 88-4. The House passed the measure 387-26.

Here are some ways the legislation could impact your next trip:

CONSUMER PROTECTIONS

• If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed (three or more hours for a domestic trip and six hours or more for an international itinerary) you would be eligible for a refund in most instances unless you are rebooked or choose another form of compensation such as a voucher.
• If you’re traveling with your children, airlines can’t charge additional fees if you want to sit together. If you are a passenger with a disability, you can request seating to accommodate your travel needs, including a seat close to a restroom or one next to a companion or assistant.
• Airlines must provide free access to customer service agents by phone, live chat or text message. As carriers pushed customers to use mobile apps to manage service issues, many reduced the number of available customer service agents. The result: hours long waits for passengers who sought help.
• In 2022, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg unveiled customer service dashboards to help travelers understand individual airline policies for hotel or meal vouchers and other types of accommodations when the carriers were responsible for flight delays and cancellations. The FAA funding bill makes those dashboards permanent.
• Airlines will face steeper penalties — $75,000 versus $25,000 — when they violate rules for how they treat customers.

AVIATION SAFETY

• The legislation calls for greater investment and deployment of runway safety technology to prevent “close calls” at airports following a rash of troubling incidents at the start of last year, including one in which a FedEx cargo jet came within 115 feet of a Southwest Airlines plane at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in February 2023. Most recently at Reagan National Airport, an air traffic controllers instructed a Southwest Airlines flight to cross a runway as a JetBlue flight was beginning its takeoff roll down the same runway. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board held safety summits aimed at examining why these instances were occurring. Though the number of serious incidents has decreased significantly in the first few months of 2024 compared to the same time period in 2023, the incidents still remain a concern. The measure will require the FAA to deploy technology that will track aircraft and vehicle movements to prevent accidents and install runway safety technologies.
• The bill will require commercial airplanes to be equipped with 25-hour cockpit voice recorder, which has long been a priority of the National Transportation Safety Board, which is charged with investigating transportation accidents. The independent agency reiterated its call for the longer-duration voice recorders following the midair blowout incident aboard an Alaska Airlines jets in January, noting that they weren’t able to hear what happened during the accident because the recording has been overwritten. It cited at least 14 other investigations, in which data was lost because data was overwritten. Previous rules required voice and data recorder to retain 2-hours of recorded information. The FAA has published a proposed rule to require 25-hour voice recorders last November.
• The measure will boost the effort to hire and train air traffic controllers. According to current estimates, there is a nationwide shortage of nearly 3,000 controllers. The lack of adequate staffing has been cited by several experts as a risk to aviation safety. The shortage has been blamed for causing air traffic delays and for a reduction in the number of flights operating from New York-area airports.
• The measure will increase the FAA’s oversight of commercial air tours and helicopter operations and will require flight data monitoring and equipment upgrades. The NTSB had long recommended these changes.
• The bill adds five additional round trip flights at Reagan National Airport, a move that drew intense opposition from the D.C.-area delegation, which argued that more flights would compromise safety.