How lucky are you to be alive at this very moment in this wonderful world! A world full of amazing destinations, too many to list, too many to fathom but guaranteed most of us have short-listed the vast options of places that we want to visit in our lifetime to our Travel Bucket List. Although they may change now and again and some repeat, the idea is to actively, mindfully create intentions to visit these special places, to live a life full of amazing experiences and self-discoveries from all corners of the earth!
What is on your bucket list?
Bit of a snapshot to my current Travel Bucket List:
Peru: It has been my dream to trek the Inca Trail in Andes Mountains to view the Machu Pichu in Peru since high school. I read a book called “There’s more to life than surface” it was an autobiography and the author describes her journey to this mystical place as a big milestone in her spiritual life and it all sounded extraordinary and magical. Besides the Incan citadel itself which holds so many secrets, there is so much to explore in the surrounds. From the beautifully accessorized llamas and alpacas to the gastronomy experiences in Lima, Lake Titicaca believed to be the birthplace of the sun where you can spend a night on a floating island or flying over the Nazca Lines!
Reunion Island: This hidden gem was introduced to me a few years ago through some of our industry training when they announced the South African’s no longer need Schengen Visa to visit, because, you may not know, it is a French Territory. The island is home to 2 volcanoes, one dormant and one friendly active volcano, which is fascinating! While everyone runs from most erupting volcanoes, on Reunion Island you can take a helicopter to view the brewing lava! The island boasts one of the worlds 30 biodiversity hotspots and The Reunion National Park accounts for 40% of the island’s surface area. With so much nature the adventures are endless from hiking, scuba diving, kite surfing and beautiful scenery!
Sri Lanka: sneaky little place this, you start looking into it and then discover there is so much more than you ever thought on one island, little but of a show off. Sri Lanka’s diverse experiences start with beautiful paradise beaches, they have ancient ruins, they have loads of elephants (my favourite animal), good flavourful food and … lots of TEA! Those who know me, know I like my tea. This island also boasts 8 Unesco World Heritage Sites.
Japan: They hosted the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the one thing that repeatedly got my attention between the matches was the Japanese people. Watching them sing South Africa’s National Anthem, Nkosi Sikelela, just made me feel all fuzzy inside. Japan offers such contrasting experiences with Ancient Culture versus New World Tech. There is just something about visiting a country that differs so vastly from your own, trying to navigate intricate Japanese mannerisms and dining etiquette. The best way to step out of your comfort zone is to travel to a country that does not speak your language.
Iceland: I travelled to Iceland in 2017, so why have I included it on my list again? Because Iceland is spectacularly distinctive during its 2 seasons, winter and summer. I had made my visit in the summer month of August. It was an amazing experience with beautiful waterfalls, expanding and ever changing landscapes. I would however love to experience this country in the winter months when the snow falls thick and heavy. I want to climb in the glaciers and experience those same waterfalls FROZEN solid. You could also have a chance to see the Northern Lights, although if this is the sole purpose of your journey, I would recommend travelling further north into the Arctic circle to increases your chances. Reykjavik, the capital is full of quirky visuals of street art and lively bars to keep you going to early hours.