Everyone has an idea of special places that they’d love to travel, but have you ever dreamed of that one place where you know you must visit at least once in your lifetime? Our readers shared their bucket-list destinations, and here’s why we think you should get out and make those travel plans!
1. MALDIVES
If the ocean is your happy place, the Madives has everything you need for a laid back ocean-front vacation. The islands in the Maldieves are full of culture and heritage to give you a vacation that has a little taste of everything. Bonus? You can island hop and experience a new beauty just a ferry boat ride away.
2. TOKYO
If you’re a flower lover, then Japan is where you need to travel. From late March to early April, you can experience the beautiful cherry blossoms which are in season at this time. If you’re also into city life, then you can experience an array of attractions, museums and so much more!
3. HAWAII
I’m sure you’ve heard about Hawaii over and over again. But have you ever experienced what makes people come back for more? With eight islands to choose from, the Hawaiian way of life is something that you’ll bring back with you for the rest of your life. Tropical palm trees, luaus and Mai Tai’s are just the mere basics of what life in Hawaii is really like. If you can swing it, take a helicopter ride of one of the islands or take a swim in the crystal clear water that is as exciting as it is refreshing.
4. ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA
According to their website, saint-petersburg.com, there are enough things to do to keep people busy for weeks and even months. This on-your-feet vacation will leave you in awe at the beautiful landscapes and everything this European city has to offer. If you’re a lover of fine art then the Winter Palace is something you won’t want to miss.
5. FIJI
It has been said that Fiji is one of the world’s happiest countries. Could it be because of the constant blue skies and vibrant turquoise waters? Might it be the little villages with low crime rates and some of the freshest food you’ve ever tasted? Maybe it’s because the term “hurry” doesn’t exist in Fiji. People don’t seem to worry there, and that could be the exact reason why you should travel there!
6. RIO DE JANEIRO
Soccer, samba and some pretty breathtaking views are the types of things you’ll experience when you step off the plane in Rio. If adventure calls your name, you’ll never be disappointed with the amount of fun you can have here. Board a gondola on the Crocovado mountain tour or ride in a jeep on the Tijuca Rainforest jeep tour. Adventure never sleeps and neither does Rio apparently!
7. BARCELONA
A week might not even be enough time to experience all that Barcelona has to offer. With live flamenco, museums, art galleris and La Sagrada Familia, Spain is the destination that offers just a little bit of everything. If you’re a lover of all things wine and food, then you have come to the right place. Barcelona and its wine is a beautiful love story waiting to be told.
8. SOUTH AFRICA
If a safari, shark diving or hot air balloon rides are your kind of adventure, then South Africa is a definite must on your bucket list. There is nothing like being able to go on an African safari and hit the beach on the same day. After a full day of adventure, grab a picnic basket and head to Kalk Bay. The view of the mountains and the sea aid in creating the most beautiful sunset you might see in your entire life.
BY RENEE CASTRO | ILLUSTRATIONS BY GRACE DOWNEY
