12:54 21 December 2015
While you may not be planning to leave this world just yet, writing out a list of dream destinations can be a great way to start exploring the world. What better time to start planning that amazing getaway than the New Year! Here are just a handful of places you should be thinking about going to soon:
Rio de Janeiro: You will no doubt be familiar with images of the Christ the Redeemer statue, bustling slums, the famous Copacabana Beach, and the brightly coloured carnival, but Rio is so much more. Explore Ipanema, Sugarloaf Mountain, the botanical gardens, a magnificent football stadium, and Brazil’s national parks; stay for a fortnight but be lost in Rio’s vibrant atmosphere forever.
Lapland: Home of Father Christmas, the Northern Lights, endless snow and ice, and a vast, untamed wilderness, Lapland is a bucket list favourite for kids and adults everywhere. There is nowhere quite as magical as this.
Athens: If history, spectacular mountain views, warmer climes, and exploring ancient ruins are your thing, then Athens should be at the top of your bucket list. Across the continent in Greece, it’s also not far away, and as the home of modern civilization and the Olympic Games, it has to be experienced to be appreciated
Bali: Beautiful sandy beaches that stretch on forever, clear, tropical waters, and ancient temples that are yours to explore, Bali is heaven on Earth. From private tours, walking and cycling routes, and snorkelling, to scuba diving, surfing, relaxing in spas, and trips to visit the country’s cheekiest inhabitants, Bali should be on every bucket list.
But hang on, wouldn’t such adventures be too expensive to fulfil? These days, with more and more luxury holidays at attainable prices it’s never been simpler to realize your bucket list – make 2016 the year that you travel further.
Travel tips for your bucket list break
Regardless of where your bucket list will take you next year, there are a few travel tips that you should follow, particularly if you’re heading off into unknown territory.
Research: Whether you’re travelling to a different country, exploring a continent that you’ve never set foot in before, or journeying just up the road, it is essential that you conduct proper research. Aim to read up on your chosen destination as much as possible, familiarise yourself with modes of transport, and plan everything that you’re likely to need with care.
Travel: Getting there can be half the fun, especially if flying, experiencing a cruise, or driving across country are also on your bucket list. What is the best way to reach your chosen destination? Who will you be travelling with? Is travel paid for or do you need to consider such expenses for your budget?
Accommodation: Choosing the right accommodation is a huge part of any holiday, and can make or break that dream getaway. Don’t simply settle for the first place you find, but enjoy these bucket list destinations as your dreams intended.
We hope that your 2016 is filled with adventure, travel, and so much more. While nobody really wants to think about kicking that metaphorical bucket, it’s certainly fun to plan how you’d like to spend your remaining time, particularly if you’re keen to get out and see the world.