Things like visiting the Eiffel Tower, Antoni Gaudi's Sagrada Familia, or admiring the artwork collection of the Louvre are on everyone's bucket list but the world is an amazing and enormous place with thousands of stunning places and interesting things to do. So, take a break from your basic wish list and follow off-beaten paths, places, and attractions. We present to you some of the things you need to experience once in your life.
1. Swim with the jellyfish (Palau)
Jellyfish Lake in Palau is home to millions of jellyfish that are considered fairly harmless due to their mild sting. Being surrounded by jellyfish for the first five minutes is bound to be terrifying, with some pressing up against your body. However, as the terror subsided, this will be one of your all-time favourite travel experiences.
2. Take a Junk Boat cruise (Halong Bay)
Halong Bay is a quiet collection of 1,600 islands and islets located three and a half hours from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. This UNESCO World Heritage site has served as the setting for numerous award-winning movies. Spend a day or a week on an ancient style junk boat floating through the green-topped limestone islands and emerald waterways.
3. Spend a night in an Ice Hotel (Sweden)
Hotels made of natural ice and snow are developed every year in various frigid areas across the world. They are both art displays as well as hotels, with canvases spanning the entire length of the building. Spend the night in one of their negative degree rooms, surrounded by finely sculpted ice. It's an added advantage that you have the potential of witnessing the Northern Lights from these sights.
4. See the changing of the Guard (London)
London, The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a fascinating sight in which the Old Guard relinquishes security to the New Guard. This is done in conjunction with coordinated marching, precision drills, and band playing. It's a one-of-a kind show that you should not miss.
5. Walk the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most well known and enormous building projects erected to defend the Chinese Empire. Take a stroll along a section of the 13,170-mile long wall, pausing at picturesque sites with views of flowing rivers and historical antiquities.
6. Drive through Route 66 (USA)
Route 66, the legendary route from Chicago to Santa Monica, is a great place for a road trip. It is also known as the Main Street of America, and was one of the first US highways, providing a way for the country to travel for business or pleasure. With neon-sign hotels, mom-and-pop cafes, and quirky roadside attractions, driving through the route is sure to give you kicks.
7. Explore the temples of Petra (Jordan)
No tours of the Jordan are complete without a stop at the ancient city of Petra and its elaborate temples and tombs. Over 1,500 candles light the mile trip from the Siq to the Treasury, an exquisite two story tomb, three days a week. A group of about 200 people can travel through the tight rock cracks, which will be illuminated by candles. At night, walking through the Siq is a surreal experience. But don't forget to explore Petra during the day.