Every place you will go to will offer a unique experience and cultural differences. You should take advantage of them, because when will you have another opportunity to experience another culture. And isn't that part of the point of travelling, to gather a deeper understanding an appreciation of another's culture and way of life. Also, some of these activities and places are just plain fun, awe inspiring, or breathtaking. So, why not?
South/Central America
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
This seems to be one of the most popular destinations in South America, mainly because of the intrigue of an estate abandoned at the top of a mountain. This sight is a testament to the will power and the ingenuity of the peoples that made up the Inca Empire. There are many other amazing Incan and Mayan structures left throughout the Americas that are an important part of understanding South American life.
2. Attend a festival
Plan your trip around the time of a large festival like Day of the Dead, Carnival (and its equivalents), or festivals around saints. These are times when the entire community comes together and celebrate. The festivals combine the mysticism of their indigenous belief systems and the Catholic Church into one, creating a unique experience.
3. Explore the Amazon
The longest River in the world, the largest Rainforest, the Amazon River basin is mostly unexplored and holds thousands of species. There are river treks that take you deep into the forest. There is even the chance to stay in furnished "cabins" in the rainforest as well.
Europe
4. The Northern Lights
In the more northern countries like Iceland, Sweden, Finland, the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights is visible on clear nights. This should be on every one's to do list as the dazzling colors are awe-inspiring. Plus it requires no physical activity.
5. Eiffel Tower
While this appears to be a clichéd activity to do in Paris, it is necessary. The views of Paris are beautiful. And if you don't climb the Eiffel Tower, did you really go to Paris???
6. Watch the sun set on the Mediterranean
Whether you are in Spain, Greece, or Cyprus, the sun still sets. The color of the sun and the sky reflecting off the warm waters is spectacular anywhere on the Mediterranean Sea. Nothing quite compares to the beauty; it leaves you speechless.
Africa
7. Devil's pool
For the more daring, there is this pool above Victoria Falls in Zambia, Africa. You can swim right up to the edge of the waterfall. The water is forceful, but there is a rock structure that holds people back. Plus, there are guides for safety. The view down the falls is quite exhilarating, as you can imagine, and sends chills up your spine. Did I mention these were the highest Falls in the world?
8. The Sarah Desert
As the Sarah Desert is the largest desert in the world, it spans across many countries in Northern Africa, and it continues to grow through desertification of the land. Many places like in Morocco you can go on camel rides into the desert, an even stay the night.
Asia
9. Walk along the Great Wall of China
This amazing structure still hold together even after more than 2000 years and several attacks on China. This wall was built entirely by hand. The wall is said to be over 13,000 miles long including all the branches! It is in threat in some areas do to expansion, erosion, and human vandalism.
10. Temples of South East Asia
The most famous temples would probably be the temples of Angkor Wak. They were built in the 12th century. This Buddhist complex has many temples of various stages to walk through as well as an extensive art collection. The beauty of the designs and architecture is exquisite as well.
Of course, there are many other great places and things to do around the world. Some will appeal to you and others not so much. But, I think we can all agree that food is something we all enjoy. Try a local dish, taste the flavors and spices. Sometimes, you can even take classes to learn how to make local food, for example, pasta making classes in Italy or chocolate in Belgium.
Open your mind to new cultures and sights, find a destination and start traveling!
