My Travel Bucket List

I’m the person who plans her next vacation while on the flight home from my latest travel adventure. I can’t help it. My love of travel is fierce. So, I’m sure you can imagine how heartbroken I was when the next three trips I had planned were cancelled because of Covid 19. How do I cope? Well, I still dream. I stay inspired. I take this time to fine tune my plans, so when the storm passes, I’m ready for the trip of a lifetime.

I dug down deep within my travel soul and picked my top 10 destinations. Here they are in no particular order:

1) See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern lights – a unforgettable natural light show. It is also one of the best places for adventure travel. Plus, not only do people visit here in the winter, it is encouraged. Your best chance of seeing the Northern Lights are between October and April.

2) Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an Incan Citadel built in to the Andes mountains in Peru. It’s stone walls and terraces lie within a tropical forest engulfed by mist. Even though I’d love to be able to do the 4-day hike to Machu Picchu, I know I am far more likely to do the two-day trek. I love the idea of getting up early on the second day and entering the Lost City at dawn. The panoramic views from the top will make the trek worthwhile. Talk about Majestic! I plan on doing this sooner rather than later because those that know me know that my knees don’t always cooperate (but to be fair, it hasn’t stopped me before).

3) Experience the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos are a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. A visit to the Galapagos Islands is a unique experience. Because of its isolated position off of  the coast of Ecuador there are plant and animal species which can’t be found anywhere else. Where else can you find animals who don’t fear humans? You will be able to get up close and personal with the most unique wildlife. I am most excited to swim with Sea Lions. Just typing it excites me!

4) Taking an African Safari

This is an experience you need to have at least once in your lifetime.  It is a great way to see all of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat – up close and personal. Plus, the pictures you come home with will make for great wall art. This is my next big trip around the world. In November, I will travel to Kenya! I can’t wait to share my experience with all of you!

5) Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

There are less than 900 mountain gorillas that live in the wild today. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is most done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park where 18 gorilla families reside. Because they only sell 100 permits a day, this rare opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat is one that can’t be missed. This exciting adventure is a great add on to anyone visiting Africa to experience a safari. I have the privilege of experiencing this trek in November. I can’t wait to share my experience with all of you.

6) Stay in an over-water bungalow in Bora Bora

To be fair, who doesn’t have this dream? Bora Bora is a small South Pacific island in French Polynesia. Bora Bora is known as a luxury destination and is popular for honeymooners. Most people opt to stay in a bungalow which sits on stilts over the water. From your deck you have direct access to the water and views of the lagoon for miles. This is one of the most serene and pure places on the globe. It is literally paradise on earth. From the pristine beaches to the crystal-clear turquoise water, you can’t find a more stunning backdrop anywhere.

7) Get a massage overlooking the rice fields in Bali

I believe that Bali is one of the most under rated destinations in the world. Bali’s diverse landscape has it all: lush greenery, majestic rivers, iconic rice fields, stunning beaches, free flowing waterfalls, and glorious temples. What better way to end a day of sightseeing than with a massage in Bali’s gorgeous terrain?

8) Volunteer at Elephant National Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Elephant National Park is a rescue and rehabilitation center in Northern Thailand where you can visit and volunteer. I want nothing more than to watch elephants play and get the opportunity to feed and bath them. This is just 1 of 100 things I want to do in Thailand.

9) Stay in a hotel room with an infinity pool overlooking the Caldera in Santorini, Greece

Santorini is an island in Greece on the Aegean Sea. It is best known for the whitewashed, blue roof houses, set in the cliffside overlooking the underwater caldera (crater). People come here for the gorgeous views and the priceless sunsets. In my opinion, the best place to watch the sunset in Santorini is from the infinity pool in my hotel room. An added bonus? I will enjoy Spain’s famous sparkling wine, Cava, while taking in the view of the sun setting over Santorini’s half-moon shaped bay.

10) Visit the countryside of Ireland

Even though I’m not fond of Guinness and I’ve already visited Dublin, it’s been a goal of mine to get to the Irish countryside. From the Cliffs of Moher to The Ring of Kerry, Ireland’s dramatic coastlines and untouched landscapes is something I need to experience. Plus, the people of Ireland are some of the friendliest I’ve ever met.

What is the next place YOU will visit? Tag Tina Knows Travel in your Facebook or Instagram posts or leave me a comment below.

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Tina Salloum
Tina Knows Travel, LLC
P: (607) 592-9975
Tina@JillsGreatEscapes.com
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