Top 7 Bucket List Travel Destinations

Since my childhood, visiting 100 countries has been a big dream of mine. Now, in my 40s and without the responsibilities of raising children, I finally have the disposable income and time to turn that dream into reality. With 54 countries explored across 7 continents, I've compiled a list of my favourite destinations, each still leaving me in awe to this day.

Petra, Jordan

Located in the Jordanian desert, Petra is an architectural marvel. The Treasury Temple instantly blows your mind as you first step into this UNESCO World Heritage site. Gigantic sandstone manmade structures flanked by towering cliffs makes you wonder how the Nabateans tribe built all these structures back in 312 BC without any modern technology. You need at least half a day to explore the site including climbing up to the equally stunning The Monastery.  There are 850 steps up to the Monastery so make sure you have comfy shoes! I would highly recommend coming back after nightfall- it is simply so surreal as the entrance leading to the Treasury is lit up with hundreds of candles. 

Uluru, AustraliaUluru, also known as Ayers Rock is located in the Northern Territory of Australia. Uluru is not just any rock- it is a massive monolith rising out of the outback, creating a mind blowing silhouette against the glowing desert. It is a must to go there during sunset or sunrise as Uluru changes from a deep red to an ochre colour. Take a walking tour around the Uluru to learn about its cultural and spiritual significance for Ingenious Australians and have a peek at the ancient rock art. If you have the opportunity, try sleeping outdoors in an Australian swag for a night- you would not regret it.

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Ever wondered how Charles Darwin came up with the theory of evolution? Well, you will just have to travel to The Galapagos Islands to find out! Located off the coast of Ecuador, these 20 islands are home to a vast array of endemic plants and animals. You will see tortoises, iguanas, penguins and birdlife that you will not see anywhere else on the planet. Although close in distance, the islands are very diverse in their landscape- from sandy beaches to rugged coastlines to rainforests. The plants and animals on these islands have evolved over time to survive in their environment- something Darwin witnessed and coined the theory of natural selection. If you are a lover of nature and science like me, this place is a must on your list.

Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

The Iguazu Falls are stunning- it is the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfall system. You can explore the falls from the Argentinean side where you are above the falls or scoot across the border to the Brazilian side where you have panoramic views across the falls. For those who enjoy having a shower while sightseeing, take a speed boat which takes you directly under the falls. The hiking trails offer a chance to meet the local wildlife in the tropical humid rainforest. I would recommend taking a guided tour that takes you to both sides of the falls in a day, rather than negotiating the borders (which can take a long time) by yourself.

Namib Desert, Namibia

The Namib Desert has some of the most beautiful landscape I have ever seen. The red towering sand dunes in Sossusvlei are awe inspiring and not to mention Deadvlei, a flat clay area within the desert that is surrounded by fossilised trees. These trees contrast sharply against the red sand dunes and bright blue skies. If you have seen any Instagram shots of the Namibian desert, chances are that Deadvlei is in it. If you fancy a morning workout, you can also climb the infamous Dune 45- a massive sand dune worthy of at least two bacon butties. But hold onto your mobile, camera or anything important tightly- once you drop it in the sand, there is no way you can retrieve it.

Antarctica

Antarctica, the last remaining wilderness area and the 7th continent. It is certainly not easy or cheap to get there but the continent’s breathtaking landscape, amazing wildlife and extreme weather makes it all worthwhile. Depending on which month you go (the expedition season is from November to March), you may see penguins, seals, whales and some birdlife. Most of Antarctica is vertical and impossible to land and depending on which expedition tour you are on, you will have the opportunity to hike, kayak, go on zodiac cruises and even camp. Stock up on sea sickness pills- to get to Antarctica and back, you will be crossing the infamous Drake Passage, one of the roughest stretch of water in the world. 

Great Wall of China, China

According to folklore, The Great Wall of China is so vast that it can be seen from space. Well, I can confirm that once you are at this UNESCO World Heritage site, you will see the walls jutting out of the rolling landscapes nonstop. It is simply mind blowing. The Great of China was built over 2000 years ago to keep out the foreign invaders and although much of the Great Wall is not accessible, there are about 10 sections which are open to tourists. I would highly recommend the 10km hike from Jinshanling to Simatai as it offers to see wild sections of the wall which are inaccessible to tourists. There are food street vendors prying their wares on even the most difficult and dangerous part of the hike and they can also act an informal guide as well. 

What destinations top your travel bucket list? We're eager to hear about your dream adventures! Join our community and share your travel aspirations with fellow enthusiasts. Let's explore the possibilities together!

By Jennifer Yong

Join Our Community