13 travel experiences that will change you

Team Wanderlust | 27 December 2018

25 enriching travel experiences that will change your life.

From saving a species to expanding your skills (and your mind), there’s always a good reason to get away – and if you can’t think of one, read on as we round up the trips that may change your life…

1: Travel alone

Setting off on a solo adventure in Turkey (Dreamstime)

No compromises, no limitations, no back-up. Travelling by yourself can be daunting but empowering; there is no greater freedom. You’ll have to rely on your own wits, but you can do whatever you want – and you might discover more about yourself along the way.

Where? Newbie solos can play it safe in regions well set up for travellers: English-speaking Australia and New Zealand; laid-back South-East Asia; South America’s ‘gringo trail’. Frenetic India or lesser-trodden West Africa or Central Asia provide bigger challenges.

Take our advice: Stay open to other people – put that book down, choose a seat at the bar, strike up conversations. Who knows what might happen? But remember to have fun.

2: Travel with strangers

Taking a punt on people you don't know: A group climbing Kilimanjaro (Dreamstime)

Our best friends don’t necessarily make our best travel companions – it can be more fun and less fractious to join like-minded strangers instead. So sign up for a small-group trip, especially one with a clear focus. Sharing a particular interest or goal – whether that’s a physical challenge or a shared love of opera – will help you and your new travel-mates bond. You may even make new friends for life.

Where? Small-group trips probe all corners of the globe; they’re especially useful for taking the hassle out of travel to remote or bureaucratic destinations. Enjoy the team spirit of a Kilimanjaro climb, the cheerful camaraderie of a hands-on Outback camping trip (perhaps overlanding across the Kimberley in rugged Western Australia) or the mutual appreciation of an expert-led art tour in Italy.

Take our advice: Be ready to compromise – if you accept a group trip won’t be 100% perfect, you’ll definitely enjoy it much more.

3: Take a self-propelled journey

Feel the freedom of travelling under you own steam on a walk along the South West Coast Path (Shutterstock)

You experience a place differently when you travel more slowly. Travelling on foot, by bike or in a kayak, you see more, soak up more; you can access out-of-the-way places, meet more local people. There’s also a sense of freedom in being in charge of your pace, detours and destination. It’s more the kind of travel associated with early explorers, with a sense of discovery to match.

Where? A continuous long-distance hike delivers a big buzz, so maybe try England’s spectacularly undulating South West Coast Path or Patagonia’s W Trek. Novice cyclists should consider a flat, traffic-free ride such as France’s château-dotted River Loire or New Zealand’s Otago Central Rail Trail, or maybe channel Canada’s early gold-rush prospectors by canoeing the Yukon River.

Take our advice: Look into companies that transport your luggage while you undertake your adventure, so you can travel lighter.

4: Go epic on your doorstep

Plot big adventures close to home: Camping on the shores of Dunvegan Loch, Scotland (Shutterstock)

You can enjoy world-class experiences without even leaving the country. Not only is there plenty of great stuff here, there are ways of making even the everyday seem like an adventure. Add a twist or head a little out of your comfort zone and even the streets you know best can blow your mind.

Where? Your doorstep. Wild camp atop the nearest hill, take a hike after dark, paddle your local river, cycle the edge of your county – micro-adventures are everywhere!

Take our advice: Try something you’ve never done before – maybe your first wild swim, 50km hike or nocturnal wildlife stakeout.

5: Do something after dark

Challenge your senses by exploring at night by participating in a night dive searching for manta rays, Hawaii (Shutterstock)

Whether you’re on a walk, dive, drive or safari, everything feels di­fferent when the lights go out. Your senses become more alert, familiar objects feel alien, di­fferent animals come out to play and you get a new perspective. It can also be a little bit scary – but it’s no bad thing to spook yourself.

Where? Night safaris in African game parks yield a di­fferent crew of creatures. Good spots for night dives include Hawaii’s Kona coast (for manta rays) and the Maldives.

Take our advice: If you’re afraid, look for guided activities – for example, the Sierra Club leads evening hikes in LA’s Griffith Park.

6: Don’t just visit, engage

Become part of the community by staying in a ger with Mongolian Nomads (Shutterstock)

By getting involved with local life – whether that’s signing up as a volunteer or spending time in a family home – you’ll be viewed less as a tourist, more as a fellow human being. This means gaining a more authentic cultural insight; you won’t learn only about a destination’s landscapes and architecture but also about the people who make it tick.

Where? Volunteering opportunities are worldwide, but it pays to seek a cause you’re passionate about and a project where your presence is helpful. Alternatively, trek with Berbers in Morocco, stay in a ger with Mongolian nomads or book into a casa particular (homestay) in Cuba.

Take our advice: If staying with a family, know the local rules – what you should wear, how to eat. It’s respectful to know the social norms, such as the local word for ‘thank you’.

Life-changing travel moments

 simon reeve.

“Glencoe in Scotland was my first real adventure after I left school. I’d never been anything like that distance on my own before. When I arrived it was too late in the day to go anywhere. But I thought I’d go for a quick hike. When I started my journey I was an insecure teenager. But the climb changed me. I passed hikers and climbers on the way. More than one eyebrow was raised. I reached the ridge in the dark, and stood there feeling euphoric and a bit brave. I made it down unscathed and spent a freezing night in the car, but I didn’t care. I was elated.”

Hilary Bradt 

“In 1964, I went to see a production of Ibsen’s The Master Builder, but I’d muddled the dates and instead saw a new play called The Royal Hunt of the Sun, about the conquest of the Incas. I knew nothing about Peru but wanted to learn more. I found out that there were still Inca ruins there, so I took a job to earn money for a South America trip. Five years later, I stood gazing down on Machu Picchu; another five years on and I returned with my husband to write a backpacking guide to Peru that started Bradt Travel Guides.”

7: Join the crowd

Get caught up in festival fever by attending Holi in India (Shutterstock)

While escaping from the masses is often a good thing, sometimes it’s better to join in. There’s nothing quite like being swept up in a great gathering – you’ll see the local people letting their hair down, performing old rituals, cooking up specialities and honouring their saints, relatives, spirits or samba bands. Noisy, hectic, messy mayhem? Quite possibly. Informative fun? Hell yeah!

Where? It’s best when you happen upon a local knees-up, but you might want to plan ahead to make sure you’re in the right place at the right time to ‘play mas’ (joining a masquerade band) at Trinidad Carnival, get paint-splattered at Holi in India or booze it up at Munich’s Oktoberfest.

Take our advice: Hook up with a local who can fill you in on the event dos and don’ts.

8: Eyeball an animal

Get up close to the most impressive species, such as polar bear in Svalbard (Shutterstock)

Coming face to face with a big, beautiful, powerful creature will put you firmly in your place. Also, the best wildlife experiences often happen in the most beautiful spots. Prepare to feel awed, vulnerable and humbled – and maybe even question your responsibility to the planet.

Where? Head to Rwanda or Uganda to track mountain gorillas, spot tigers in India, look for jaguars in the Brazilian Pantanal, cruise Svalbard for polar bears or snorkel with whale sharks in Western Australia.

Take our advice: Appreciate little critters, too – a good guide will point out smaller, equally enthralling wildlife wonders.

9: Make a personal pilgrimage

Follow your passion, whatever it may be, like these pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago, Spain (Dreamstime)

For some, it’s saying a prayer in the Vatican’s St Peter’s Basilica. For others, it’s eating a peanut butter-and-bacon sandwich by Elvis’s Graceland grave. We all have our passions – follow yours.

Where? The Camino de Santiago is the classic pilgrimage trail, but you might find more spirituality on the UK’s St Cuthbert’s Way or the Via Francigena to Rome. Music fans might like to hit the Blues Highway from Nashville to New Orleans, while bookworms could follow in Phileas Fogg’s footsteps.

Take our advice: Don’t be dissuaded. If you really want to visit the childhood home of every Beatle, just go ahead and do it.

10: Learn something new

A sitar player in India (Shutterstock)

Studying while you’re overseas could change your life – maybe you’ll enjoy your PADI course so much that you’ll ditch your day job to become a diving instructor. Even if it doesn’t, it will give you new, potentially useful skills, whether they be conversational French, bread-making or salsa dancing. Chances are you’ll gain a deeper insight into everyday life, too.

Where? Learning a language in a country in which it’s spoken is more beneficial and fun – try Spanish lessons in Guatemala or a combination Portuguese-and-samba course in Brazil. Learn sitar-playing in India, cowboy skills in Montana or gelato-making in Italy.

Take our advice: Stay with a local family during your learning holiday, so you’re fully immersed in the language and culture.

11: Travel slowly

Relish rather than rush by planning a culinary break in Italy's Piedmont region (Dreamstime)

Heed the words of Carl Honoré, author of In Praise of Slow , who writes: “The Slow philosophy is… about seeking to do everything at the right speed. Savouring the hours and minutes rather than just counting them. Doing everything as well as possible, instead of as fast as possible.” Apply that to your travels: linger longer in one place rather than dashing from spot to spot; eat sustainably, regionally and seasonally; take the time to chat, absorb, walk and explore. It can lead to geographically limited but arguably more enlightening experiences.

Where? Plan a glorious culinary break in Italy’s Piedmont region, HQ of the Slow Food movement. Alternatively, cruise along Alaska’s Inside Passage, walk between villages in the Indian Himalaya or hire a city apartment for a fortnight to blend in locally.

Take our advice: Trust in serendipity – put the guidebook and smartphone down for a while and just see where life takes you.

12: Seek out a spiritual place

Visit a site that will succour your soul, like the temples of Kyoto, Japan (Dreamstime)

‘Spiritual’ means di­fferent things to di­fferent people. It might mean worshipping a deity at a temple or even immersing yourself in the wilderness, so that you feel a connection to nature. Some places just have a way of seeping into your being; of making you ask new questions about yourself, about others, maybe even human existence as a whole.

Where? Choose a site filled with devotees, such as the ghats (riverside steps) of India’s holy city of Varanasi or the temples of Kyoto, Japan. Or seek the spirituality of nature on a stroll around Tibet’s Mount Kailash or a camp-out at Australia’s Uluru.

Take our advice: Remain respectful. Don’t cross off­-limits areas and ask if there is a dress code or if an o­ffering is required.

Life-changing travel moments 

Mark carwardine.

“I was just out of university and in California f or the summer when I went on a whale-watching trip. For the first two hours, there was nothing – I didn’t see a thing. And then suddenly, without any warning at all, a grey whale – it must have been 40 foot long – leapt out of the water. I was 21 at the time, but I still remember it in slow-motion: this whale appearing out of nowhere and falling back into the water with a huge splash. I remember thinking: this is what I want to do with the rest of my life! It all came from that one moment.”

Jonathan & Angela Scott

Jonathon:  “So what do the ‘Big Cat People’ do when they’re not tracking wildlife in Africa? We’re not divers but we love snorkelling. Angie, my wife, was born in Alexandria in Egypt but brought up on the coast of Tanzania. So, when we were in Tonga and our friend and fellow wildlife photographer Griet Van Malderen invited us to join her to swim with humpback whales, we were overjoyed.

“This was something Angie had always wanted to do, though I had a bit of a problem putting on a facemask because of my moustache – I basically swallowed a lot of ocean water. But we did have some unforgettable encounters. One moment in particular was absolutely sensational, and so different to the wildlife we normally encounter in the savannah – for both of us, it was life-changing.”

Angela: “I hadn’t been in the water for more than a few minutes when, looking down into the blue, this mother and calf materialised out of the depths towards me. It was as if time had slowed and all my senses were wrapped in that moment – one I will cherish forever. This photograph captures perfectly a kinder, more considerate and loving relationship between humans and their wild relatives.”

13: Go on a massive journey

Don't just settle for a quick getaway – extend your travels. Try exploring India by rail (Dreamstime)

A two-week trip provides a fantastic dose of otherness. So just imagine how much better it might be to go for longer: a month, six months, six years! Extended travelling doesn’t just mean covering more ground, it provokes an all-round attitude shift. You can ultimately move more slowly and take more detours; you’re also forced to cope with catastrophes and, at times, even boredom. Eventually, though, you will start to forget the stresses of home and sink into a different mindset. It’s the ultimate freedom.

Where? Everywhere! Maybe attempt a round-the-world trip, stopping off in Asia, Australia and the USA. Or perhaps focus on one region, such as India by rail, overlanding in South America or walking across the whole of Europe.

Take our advice: Don’t over-plan – things will always go awry in some way. Have a basic itinerary, but allow wiggle room for spontaneity and cock-ups.

14: Go far from anywhere

Travel somewhere truly off the grid like the Namib Desert (Dreamstime)

According to a 2018 Ofcom report, Brits spend an average of 24 hours a week on the internet. Just think how you could be spending that day. Take a digital detox by going completely off-grid; travel somewhere wild and remote to free yourself from the online world and enjoy engaging with the real world instead.

Where? Tourists aren’t allowed online in North Korea. Or feel your own insignificance in an enormous wilderness such as the Canadian Yukon, the high Himalaya, the Namib Desert or the Amazon.

Take our advice: You can find internet access in even the most unlikely places these days, so self-discipline may be required. At least disable social media and leave your phone for emergencies only.

15: Travel creatively

Turn your journey into a memorable piece of art, like making a video of a cycle trip across Asia (Shutterstock)

We all like taking holiday snaps, but how about taking your creativity a little further? Write a blog or travelogue, paint a picture, pen a song or make a video about your trip and it will force you to look at everything differently; to consider other angles and perspectives; to really look. Plus, you’ll have a unique souvenir at the end.

Where? Book a trip specifically focused on a creative pursuit, such as an art safari in Malawi or a travel-writing retreat in Spain. Or perhaps try making a short film of a long-distance cycle trip across Asia.

Take our advice: Don’t get hung up on quality, just create. Write, sketch or compose whatever comes into your head – you can edit it into perfection afterwards.

16: Be wowed by nature

Delight in the planet's most dazzling spectacles, such as the northern lights in Finland (Dreamstime)

For all humankind’s incredible inventions, there are many natural phenomena that knock them all for six. No movie special effect can match seeing first-hand the magical sky-dance of the aurora borealis (or aurora australis – if you’re in the southern hemisphere), the ethereal glow of bioluminescence, the flash and fury of a lightning storm or the rage of a tornado. Witnessing any one of these will make you bow down to Mother Nature.

Where? For aurora thrills, head to the light-pollution-free, less cloudy parts of the Arctic Circle – Abisko in Sweden, Finnish Lapland. For bioluminescence try visiting the lagoons in Puerto Rico and Tobago.

Take our advice: Increase your chances of sightings with planning and research: bioluminescence is brighter around a new moon; aurora regions issue forecasts predicting the likelihood of displays.

17: Follow an ancient trail

Feel the force of our forebears by cycling along the remains of the Berlin Wall (Shutterstock)

Tracing the routes of erstwhile explorers, emigrants, merchants, monarchs, pioneers and pilgrims offers a connection back to the past. Following their formative footsteps brings the history of the world to life, and can imbue your modern-day travels with greater meaning.

Where? Hike Hadrian’s Wall or the 15th-century paving slabs of Peru’s Inca Trail, or even cycle graffitied concrete remains along the Berlin Wall Trail. Plot an overland expedition along the Silk Road or from St Louis to the Pacific in the wake of Lewis and Clark, whose 1808 expedition first opened up the western USA. Or just bag a flight to the ultimate explorer homage: the South Pole.

Take our advice: Read up before you go, and know how to recognise a strip lynchet (earth terrace), Roman road, Neolithic tomb or a caravanserai (old inn).

18: Do something for the first time

Invigorate your travels by doing something for the first new, such as stand-up paddleboarding in Greece (Shutterstock)

Don’t go back to the same old places in the same old ways. Head to a country you’ve never visited, use a mode of transport you’ve never tried, eat a dish you can’t pronounce – and have the time of your life.

Where? The travelsphere is always dreaming up adventures. Try stand-up paddleboarding in the Greek Islands, fatbiking over the UAE’s dunes or using an app such as EatWith to join a dinner party in Paris.

Take our advice: These days it’s easy to find unique experiences. Follow local bloggers/ papers on social media to see what’s new.

Life-changing moments 

Kate humble.

“My most formative life-changing experience was going to South Africa in the late 1980s. I went to a township called Alexandra and walked around with a young black man who took me to meet his family. All I’d heard about apartheid South Africa was that black people hated white people and vice versa. What I discovered was that could not have been less true, and that human beings have an amazing capacity for joy, even in difficult circumstances. It made me think: don’t just believe what you read – go and experience it for yourself.”

Simon Calder

“To my wide-eyed amazement, the Woodcraft Folk organisation volunteered to take a six-year-old from the streets of Crawley to the wonders of Westmorland (Cumbria) for a week’s camping. After one day exploring a landscape carved by rivers and dry stone walls, I became lost amid brooding fells and stormy skies, and I learned travellers can rely on the kindness of strangers. Decades later, I have been lost and rescued many times. I am no better at lighting a fire from twigs than I was when I was six. But I am always thankful for the Woodcraft Folk.”

19: Scare yourself

Push your limits for the most memorable experiences – you could walk one of China's glass suspension bridges (Shutterstock)

Leaving your comfort zone is how you learn and grow – you’ll be surprised what you’re capable of. Travel encourages such boundary pushing, and can build confidence. Embrace it!

Where? Arachnophobes could sleep in a hammock in the Amazon. Heights-haters could walk across a glass suspension bridges in China. You could even cage dive with great whites off South Africa.

Take our advice: There’s no need to utterly terrify yourself – pick a challenge that will ultimately give you a buzz, not a coronary.

20: Sleep under the stars

Stare up at the heavens to reset your world view in Jordan's Wadi Rum (Dreamstime)

There’s nothing like contemplating the huge, dark unknowableness of the universe for putting us in our place. It’s a reminder of how teeny-tiny we are. It’s also healthy to get away from light-polluted civilisation, not to mention how magical it is to lie back and be dazzled by a billion stars.

Where? Official International Dark Sky Reserves – such as Jasper in Canada or Namibia’s NamibRand – are a good start. Wild camp on Exmoor, spend a night with Bedouin in Jordan’s Wadi Rum or splash out on a five-star safari lodge that has four-poster beds you can wheel outside.

Take our advice: Download an astronomy app such as Night Sky to help you identify the stars. Consider coordinating your sleep-out with the next meteor shower.

21: Abandon your inhibitions

Go on – throw caution to the wind! Try an onsen in Japan where no clothes are allowed (Shutterstock)

Us Brits can be a reserved bunch. But away from the social conventions and judging eyes of our brethren, why not loosen up a little? No one knows you, after all. So go for that skinny dip, shake your stuff at the local festival, sing like no one’s listening in that packed karaoke bar. Set yourself free!

Where? Swim naked on the azure-lapped beaches of the Greek isles. Steam in a Japanese onsen (clothing not allowed). Dance outrageously at a Rio Carnival bloco (street party), learn how to haka (war dance) in New Zealand or hit Havana’s salsa clubs.

Take our advice: While it’s good to let go, be sure not to break any laws at the same time. Not all beaches welcome birthday suits...

22: Save a species

Help conserve wildlife by paying them a visit: Look for elephants in Africa (Dreamstime)

The rallying cry of many conservation organisations is that animals are ‘worth more alive’. Prove that’s true by going to see the species that need help. Your presence – and pounds sterling – can help convince local communities and governments that there is value in protecting habitats. Tourism can be a powerful force in providing the kind of incentives that may turn hardened poachers into potential tour guides and threatened landscapes into national parks.

Where? Spotting turtles in Tortuguero, on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, can have huge local benefits. One year of turtle-based tourism here can generate around US$6.5 million (£5m), says the World Wildlife Fund. Alternatively, spend your days looking for elephants in Africa. According to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a live elephant is worth US$22,966 (£17,750) a year to the local economy through eco-tourism.

Take our advice: Do your research and use guides and companies that offer sustainable and responsible animal interactions.

23: Travel for the greater good

Put your money where it's needed, when its needed: visit earthquake recovering Nepal (Dreamstime)

After a natural disaster or terrorist attack, an entire country is often struck off the travel map. Sometimes the Foreign Office (FCO) warns against returning – and these warnings should be heeded when in effect. But sometimes it’s only media hype that keeps travellers away, which can leave local people dealing not only with the initial disaster but loss of livelihood, too. By visiting such places, you might have to cope with a less-than-perfect infrastructure but you’re also assured the warmest of welcomes.

Where? Dominica, Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands hit by 2017’s devastating hurricanes; earthquake-recovering Nepal; rebounding Egypt and Tunisia, most of which is now off the FCO no-go list.

Take our advice: Don’t go back too soon – in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, your presence may be more of a hindrance.

Nick Baker 

"On the Katmai peninsula in Alaska, a brown bear sauntered to within a couple of metres of me, gave a loud ‘harrumph’, as if utterly unimpressed by my presence, then strolled back to hooking salmon out of the river with his great paws. In that single moment, I not only felt more alive than I had ever done before, but my whole life and all the wildlife I’d experienced prior to this suddenly made sense. I finally understood what the true definition of ‘wild’ was, and also how it was missing from most of our lives.”

Michael Palin

“There was one voyage that changed the way that I looked at the world: going from Dubai to Mumbai on a dhow boat. It was in 1988, a time before sat nav and mobile phones, and as we made our way down the Gulf, through the Strait of Hormuz and across the Arabian Sea, we were entirely dependent on our crew of 16 Gujaratis, only one of whom spoke any English. But we struck up a rapport, and I was a different person after that journey. My guard was down and my fear of the unknown had begun to evaporate.”

25: And finally, travel more!

Get away as often as you can (Shutterstock)

Nothing opens your mind, broadens your horizons and revives your body and soul quite like travel. Exposure to new sites, societies and experiences is formative in the best of ways, we believe, so do it as often as you can. Forgo buying designer shoes and fancy meals and save for trips instead – when you look back years later, you’ll surely have far fonder memories of your time spent abroad than of a half-forgotten pair of Gucci brogues. Find creative ways to carve out more time or money for travel, or simply squeeze in little microadventures where you can. Negotiate a four-day week, so you can set off on mini-breaks; stockpile holiday for a big trip; work out of a campervan while you’re on the road; or maybe housesit for locals when they go abroad. There’s always a way!

Where? Everywhere!

Take our advice: In between trips, be sure to travel vicariously – look out for news of various travel talks and events, watch the many TV travelogues that arrive on our screens every season and, of course, read Wanderlust !

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50 Travel Experiences That Will Change Your Life

Traveling the world is an experience that can be stressful , exhilarating, terrifying, exciting, and more. In essence, travel can change your life by giving you an education unlike that you might receive in any classroom.

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Cruising down the Nile in Egypt

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Dancing tango in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a wonderful destination for an affordable winter vacation , particularly since it's the warmer time of year in Argentina. It's also the best place to learn and enjoy the Argentine tango. Head to La Boca, a district famous for its artistic pedestrian street, to witness skilled dancers, or try Boedo, where you'll find plenty of tango houses for your own practice. Tango clubs abound in the city, and you can even take some classes to work on your steps.

Eating pizza in New York

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Seeing the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City

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Riding an elephant in Chiang Mai

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Watching the sunset in Santorini

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Swimming in cenotes in Cancún and the Riviera Maya

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Going to Walt Disney World in Orlando

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Bungee jumping in New Zealand

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Exploring the Amazon in South America

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Seeing the northern lights in the Arctic

The Arctic region, which consists of parts of Alaska, Greenland, Iceland, Scandinavia, and the Yukon, is home to the absolute best places in the world to view the northern lights . Also known as aurora borealis, this stunning natural phenomenon is worth braving the cold just to see amazing bright green, blue, purple, red, and pink lights color the sky.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

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Eating sushi in Tokyo

One of the most fun and action-packed cities in the world, Tokyo is a top bucket list destination and a great place to discover all kinds of interesting and unique foods and snacks. Sometimes traditional cuisine is the best way to go, however, and you really can't leave Tokyo without trying the sushi. For budget-friendly sushi, try some kaitensushi (conveyor belt sushi) or buy it at Tsukiji Fish Market. Tokyo is also home to some super-fancy sushi restaurants serving up some of the best in the world, if you have a bigger budget.

Following the Jordan Trail in Jordan

One of the most underrated tourist spots in the world , Jordan is home to sights such as the ancient city of Petra, the desert of Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, and many Bedouin camps where one can experience native Jordanian cuisine and culture at its finest. Opened in 2017, the Jordan Trail runs 400 miles from north to south, taking travelers through most of these sites. Those interested in religious history will find it fascinating too, as Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed are all said to have walked this trail as well.

Visiting the Louvre in Paris

Art can give you quite a bit of perspective on history and humanity, and at the world's largest art museum , you'll have access to some of the greatest art in the world. The Louvre Museum is home to many iconic works such as Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," and Delacroix's "Liberty Leading the People," as well as pieces by legends such as Michelangelo, Caravaggio, van Dyck, Vermeer, Velázquez, and Raphael.

Getting close to nature in Ecuador

Located right on the equator, Ecuador has a fascinating location and a diverse landscape. Visit Quito, where you can stand on Mitad del Mundo — a monument where a yellow line is painted on the ground to designate the equator — and watch your shadow disappear for three minutes if you're there on the fall or spring equinox. The famous Galapagos Islands are part of Ecuador and home to an impressive number of plant and animal species you won't find anywhere else in the world. Ecuador is home to many other impressive natural wonders as well, such as the Bellavista Cloud Forest and the snow-capped Cayambe volcano.

Participating in Burning Man in Nevada

The famous annual festival of Burning Man is held every year in northwestern Nevada, where Black Rock City is temporarily constructed for the festivities; the Burning Man organization refers to the ephemeral municipality as an "experiment in temporary community dedicated to radical self-expression and radical-self reliance". As a result, the fesitval is full of amazing visual and performance art, as well as spiritual and holistic workshops. Held in late summer, the event is so-named on account of the large wooden effigy, known as "The Man" which is burned on the Saturday before Labor Day .

Exploring Angkor Wat in Cambodia

Originally built as a Hindu temple in the first half of the 12th century, Angkor Wat was soon converted for Buddhist use and has since then remained one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Withstanding the test of time, its extremely complex architecture is a marvel that continues to impress travelers from around the world.

Appreciating the Alhambra in Grenada

The stunning Alhambra palace and fortress complex was built in the mid-13th century and remains a testament to the cultural and architectural legacy left by the Arab Muslim rulers of Spain. Every day, approximately 6,000 visitors come to this southern Spanish city to appreciate the best of arabesque and Islamic art and architecture, which means tickets sell out fast.

Taking a natural spa bath in Pamukkale

Located in southwestern Turkey, the breathtakingly beautiful thermal waters of Pamukkale seem like something out of this world. The gorgeous cliffs have calcium-filled hot water flowing over them and then cooling down into the travertines that form the pools. This natural spa has been in use since the Romans built the ancient city of Hierapolis around it.

Flying over volcanoes in Hawaii

You'll find plenty of stunning natural scenery throughout Hawaii , but you can get an especially impressive view with a Hawaii volcano tour that will take you via helicopter to see the state's three active volcanoes: Lo'ihi, Mauna Loa, and Kilauea, the most active volcano in the entire world.

Staying at a riad in Marrakech

Learn hospitality at a whole new level while staying at a riad, a traditional Moroccan home characterized by a central garden or courtyard, that's been converted into a hotel. Providing a stay that's both culturally authentic and luxurious, you'll find the best riads in Marrakech , where there's impressive architecture and beautiful views for alfresco dining or just relaxing in the Moroccan sun.

Watching a Broadway show in Manhattan

Broadway has been the world's leading theater district for nearly a century now, making it a definite New York bucket list attraction . With hit shows like "The Lion King," "Hamilton," "Wicked," and "Chicago," you won't find better actors, singers, dancers, and overall productions anywhere else in the world.

Going on a safari in Botswana

Botswana is a top destination this year , especially for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Check out wonderful creatures such as antelopes, elephants, leopards, lions, zebras, and over 450 kinds of birds while on a bushwalk, game drive, or horseback safari.

Indulging in chocolate in Switzerland

Switzerland is a chocolate lover's dream , with the country being home to many international, world-renowned chocolate brands. The nation's reputation for producing high-quality milk chocolate makes it a definite must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Walking the Great Wall in China

A destination just begging to be on your Instagram feed , the iconic Great Wall of China was built over 2,300 years ago and is made up of several massive walls, giving you plenty of space to talk on this ancient structure depending on how intense of a hike you can take. From whichever vantage point you're at, however, you'll be able to take in quite a bit of just how vast China's land and history are, as well as gain an appreciation for mankind's abilities before modern technology.

Celebrating Carnival in Rio de Janeiro

While Carnival is celebrated throughout the world, the most famous iteration is in Rio de Janeiro . Dating back to 1723, the festival is famous for its elaborate parade floats and colorful costumes, with approximately 2 million people attending each day of the celebration to sing, dance, and drink.

Wading into a sea of stars in the Maldives

If you're ever in the Maldives, a visit to Vaadhoo Island's beach will have you bear witness to a stunning, albeit strange natural phenomenon . The water here glows with specks of blue as a result of bioluminescence, a chemical reaction caused by marine microbes known as phytoplankton, producing what is known as the "sea of stars."

Strolling through a futuristic nature park in Singapore

Like something straight out of a sci-fi movie , Singapore's Gardens by the Bay is a nature park made of 250 acres of reclaimed land as part of a green initiative by its government. Characterized by its iconic and awe-inspiring Supertrees — which are actually vertical gardens — and biodomes consisting of gardens with more than 800 species of plants, it's a great example of how to appreciate and protect nature within an urban environment.

Taking a countryside train ride in Scotland

Scotland's countryside is absolutely beautiful, particularly in the Highlands, and possibly the best way to enjoy it is through a train ride. You can spend anywhere from two nights to an entire week journeying through quaint Scottish towns on trains such as the 90-minute West Highland Line, known for taking passengers over the Glenfinnan Viaduct of Harry Potter fame, or the Royal Scotsman, known for being one of the best European train rides .

Hiking to Machu Picchu in Peru

Machu Picchu is such a popular destination that UNESCO and the Peruvian government have had to set a 2,500-visitors-per-day limit in order to preserve this gorgeous site. You'll be amazed at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization, and the countryside in Peru is quite stunning, which makes the trek here totally worth it.

Tasting wine in Napa Valley

The premier winemaking region of the United States, the Napa Valley region of California has over the past few decades risen to become a serious competitor to European wines, particularly those of Italy. Any wine-loving traveler will revel in the wine tours here, which make for a wonderful, relaxing getaway full of wine amidst a gorgeous countryside.

Seeing the ‘big 5’ in South Africa

South Africa's Kruger National Park covers more than 7,500 square miles of land, making it one of the largest game reserves in the world. You'll find more species of large mammals here than in any other African game reserve, and Kruger is especially notable for being the one place you can get a glimpse of the "big five" game animals: Cape buffalos, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinoceroses.

Riding a hot air balloon in Cappadocia

The Cappadocia region of central Turkey is a destination that seems like something out of a storybook , and the experience is even more breathtaking when taken in from a hot air balloon. Soar over this moon-like landscape with its fascinating rock formations and architecture such as cave churches and houses carved into rock. You'll also likely catch a glimpse of some beautiful orchards and vineyards.

Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef

Located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is made up of over 2,900 reefs and 900 islands — making it the largest coral reef system in the world. Go scuba diving or snorkeling here so you can swim among all kinds of fishes, turtles, dolphins, and more. The experience will remind you of the wonders and mysteries that lie beneath the ocean as well as how fragile they are; due to global warming and carbon pollution, the Great Barrier Reef is at risk of disappearing far too soon .

Viewing cherry blossoms in Japan

You'll find stunning cherry blossoms throughout the world , but the ones that bloom throughout Japan from late March through early May are particularly famous. The most acclaimed cherry blossom festivals are held in Hirosaki, Osaka, Tokyo, and Yokohama.

Dining out in Lyon

Many consider Lyon to be the gastronomic capital of the world . Indeed, Lyonnaise cuisine — developed in the early 20th century by renowned French chefs Eugénie Brazier and Marie Bourgeois — has greatly influenced French cuisine as well as fine dining as a whole. Eat at the top restaurants here, and you'll have a fine dining experience like no other.

Zip lining in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a beautiful destination with an incredible amount of biodiversity. The most fun way to enjoy the island's gorgeous parks and forests is by ziplining through them for an experience that's both exhilarating and breathtaking.

Strolling through the villages in Cinque Terre

Situated on the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre (literally "five lands") is a breathtaking area that consists of five villages: Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Vernazza. You won't be able to drive between them, however, so you'll have to make the trip by boat, train, or foot to go through all five. Take in their gorgeous and colorful architecture as well as some great local cuisine — Cinque Terre is known for its olive oil, lemons, pesto, and seafood, especially their calamari and anchovies.

Exploring the pyramids in Egypt

You'll find more than 100 pyramids in Egypt, many of which are open to tourists so that you can see exactly what these architectural marvels look like from the inside. They're also quite stunning from the outside, which makes for a great photo up .

Partying in Ibiza

Ibiza is a popular party spot, and for good reason. You'll find some fantastic nightlife and the world's best electronic music on this Spanish island, and many famous DJs have been known to play weekly here, many using it as a venue to try out new music.

Hiking the Grand Canyon in Arizona

The United States is full of great natural beauty, much of which is preserved through its national parks . The most famous of these parks is the Grand Canyon National Park in northwestern Arizona, where you can see this witness this famous natural landmark up close. Hiking down the canyon, you'll come across all sorts of beautiful scenery, impressive rock formations, and fascinating critters.

Visiting the DMZ in Korea

Commonly referred to as the DMZ, the Korean Demilitarized Zone is a buffer zone that runs across the Korean peninsula, serving as a buffer zone between North and South Korea. When visiting South Korea , one can go on a tour to the zone — the USO DMZ Tour, in particular, will even take you into the famous "Blue Room," where you can be in both countries at once.

Floating in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is actually a lake that borders Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. It gets its name from its high salt content, which results in uninhabitable conditions for fish but also makes the water quite dense and therefore easy to float and relax in.

Walking through ancient ruins in Pompeii

In A.D. 79, the Roman city of Pompeii was buried under 13 to 20 feet of ash by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, and its ruins lay forgotten until they were discovered in the 18th century. Today, tourists can visit the site of this ancient city, located not far from Naples , and see the remains of homes, temples, roads, and even a brothel, as well as plaster casts made of victims frozen at the moment they were overtaken by ash. 

Sleeping under the stars in Namibia

As it's one of the least densely populated countries in the world, Namibia 's skies are stunningly clear. Because of this, the NamibRand Nature Reserve is one of the few gold-certified Dark Sky Reserves, which means stargazing here is absolutely breathtaking.

Eating street tacos in Mexico

Nearly everyone loves tacos , and there's no taco like the ones you can get off the street in Mexico. Like much street food around the world , these tacos are not only wonderfully cheap and fresh but also extremely delicious.

Trekking Mount Everest in Nepal

The tallest and one of the most incredible mountains in the world , Mount Everest is an extreme challenge that very few can conquer, which perhaps makes it all the more rewarding. Fees for foreigners have increased by at least $1,000, while Nepalese tourism officials have banned novice climbers, and there has also been talk of further restrictions such as setting minimum and maximum age limits.

Relaxing at a wellness resort

Throughout the world, you'll find amazing resorts focused on the rejuvenation of mind, body, and spirit through luxurious spa treatments. Often based on ancient principles and using natural ingredients in their products, wellness resorts often utilize treatments geared towards specific issues and will augment their spa packages with foods, supplements, and exercises meant to reinvigorate and reconnect you with your body. The best wellness resorts are often surrounded by breathtaking scenery, so you can relax to the sound of the ocean, within a serene rainforest, or in one of many gorgeous mountain retreats .

For a fulfilling travel experience that gets you in touch with both the land and locals, consider volunteering for the World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, also known as WWOOF, which gives you the opportunity to work on a farm in exchange for food and accommodation. WWOOFers sign up for the national organization in the country they wish to visit and pay an annual membership fee of around $30 per country, of which there are 99. Not only will you learn what goes into sustaining the destinations you visit as a tourist and take in a different, more local perspective, but you'll also be experiencing one of the 101 things every American should do abroad before they die .

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37 Travel Experiences That Will Transform Your Life Gallery

37 Travel Experiences That Will Transform Your Life

Travel can be exciting , terrifying, stressful, and more. More than anything, the act of travel can be truly life-changing. There's no better education than trotting the globe, and certain experiences are sure to change you forever.

Believe it or not, some of the most clichéd travel experiences you've ever heard of can be transformative in how you look at the world or even yourself. Just surviving a long flight can change your perspective on things, but how about trekking through far-flung forests or attending the celebrations of people from a completely different cultural outlook than yours? Push the boundaries with the food you eat, the physical activities you take on, or the places you stay, and you may go back home a different — and possibly better — person. So if you're looking to take away more than just souvenirs from your next trip, consider these 37 travel experiences that will transform your life.

Attending Burning Man

Every year, there's an entire temporary city by the name of Black Rock City constructed in northwestern Nevada for Burning Man, a late summer gathering that gets its name from the burning of a large wooden effigy, or "The Man" on the Saturday before Labor Day. The Burning Man organization calls the gathering an "experiment in temporary community dedicated to radical self-expression and radical self-reliance." This openness to creativity often results in amazing visual and performance art, and it's a great place to tap into your artistic side. Bond with strangers or bond with your friends in an entirely different way as you wake up in the desert and participate in spiritual and holistic workshops that may change the way you look at life entirely. Just make sure you stay well-hydrated and well-fed while you're there , as it can get seriously hot even without the burning of the Man.

Bungee Jumping in New Zealand

Traveling is about taking risks, and what better way to take risks than adventure travel activities like bungee jumping? Bungee jumping was popularized in the 1980s in New Zealand, and in 1988 the country was home to the first ever organized bungee jump, consisting of 28 people. Discover your daring side, and find out just how far you're willing to push yourself for a thrill. Queenstown in particular is an exciting destination where you can take a leap among the gorgeous scenery of the Southern Alps.

Celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Over a decade after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans is ready to celebrate its bounce-back, especially this year . Like Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, New Orleans knows how to party before Lent with its famed Mardi Gras celebrations, held on every Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras as it's known in French. The parade is a sight to behold and the live music and amazing cuisine that comes with the festivities showcases the best of Louisiana's Creole and Cajun-influenced culture. Witness the comeback of a great city and learn how to stay resilient and carefree no matter what life throws at you.

Chilling With Penguins in Antarctica

It may sound a bit preposterous to suggest a vacation to the continent that holds 90 percent of the ice on Earth, but Antarctica has actually become much more accessible over the past decade or two, thanks to the first-ever commercial flights there, added in 2017, as well as multiple cruises headed for the continent from South America. One of the wildest spots on the planet, Antarctica offers the chance to experience truly unspoiled nature (although global warming seems to be doing the job of spoiling it fast). Despite its seeming barrenness, there's plenty to do here, such as camping, sea kayaking, swimming in hot springs, and visiting the penguins and other indigenous creatures. A visit here is sure to inspire you to kick into action in order to save the planet and this vast, awe-inspiring continent. Hurry before it gets too popular; currently, fewer than 200,000 people visit every year.

Cruising Down the Nile River

Egypt is a bucket list destination for any serious traveler, especially this year , and a great way to see it is through a cruise down its famous Nile River. Witness the beautiful scenery of the Nile Valley and ancient Egyptian ruins, notably the iconic Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza, as you relax on a felucca, a traditional wooden sailboat. Most trips will take you from the busy southern city of Aswan to Luxor, where you can visit the ancient city of Thebes. Such a trip will be sure to cause reflection on the passage of time and how far humans have come, as well as how much we were able to accomplish even without modern technology.

Día de los Muertos in Mexico

Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday held from October 31 to November 2, in which people gather together to remember their friends and family who have passed away. Whereas death is a mournful occasion in much of the rest of the Western world, in Mexico, it is seen as a more positive thing. Get a new outlook on life from the Day of the Dead celebrations, which will remind you that a life is meant to be celebrated, not mourned. Among the best destinations for the Day of the Dead are Cuernavaca, where they celebrate for eight days; Mixquic, which has a fantastic mock funeral procession; and Oaxaca, which hosts rollicking nighttime parades.

Eating Pizza in New York

There's absolutely no pizza like New York pizza. New York City prides itself on this iconic slice, and the rest of the world loves it too. If you're ever in any of the five boroughs, make sure to try a local hand-tossed pie, made with a large crust layered with light tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella. You'll never look at pizza, or food, the same way again. We should note, however, that you don't necessarily have to be in New York to get a taste; New York Times food critic Pete Wells declared that the best New York pizza can actually be found in New Jersey .

Experiencing Luxury in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates are known for their luxury, and as the country's cities grow, so do its tourist numbers. For the first time ever, there's a branch of the Louvre outside of Paris, and this past November, it opened its doors and its more than 700 exhibits in the safest city in the world , Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is also home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and meticulously kept, its bright white exterior and 82 domes positively sparkling. Take a ride on the world's fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World on Yas Island, just off the coast, where you can also visit the water park and gigantic shopping mall. An even bigger mall, however, exists in Dubai, home to the largest in the world. This shopaholic's paradise is a great place to purchase gold, textiles, and electronics, with the latter being particularly cheaper here than in most other places.

Exploring Japanese Culture in Tokyo

You can't leave Tokyo without trying the best sushi in the world or exploring its shops full of funky fashions, anime paraphernalia, the latest electronics, and snacks in literally every flavor you can imagine . In addition to the city's many quirky attractions, Tokyo also offers the best of traditional Japanese culture, full of Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, and opportunities to participate in or observe tea ceremonies, martial arts, or calligraphy lessons. Tokyo is bound to open your eyes to aspects of food, art, music, and history that you never even considered before.

Exploring the Amazon

The Amazon rainforest lies mostly within Brazil, although there are smaller portions in Peru and Colombia, with even smaller parts in Bolivia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela. You can explore this vast, extremely biodiverse tropical rainforest in any of these countries and marvel at just how much we don't know about life on Earth and how much we stand to lose from its destruction. Many tour companies will take you on an expedition to see the local flora and fauna, but a cruise is a pretty comfortable alternative as well .

Gazing at the Northern Lights

You can see the northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, from Alaska, Greenland, Iceland, the Yukon, or Scandinavia, but your odds of catching them are higher the closer you are to the Arctic Circle. Take along our guide to stalking this natural phenomenon and marvel at the bright green, red, blue, purple, and pink lights. It may be freezing out there, but the experience is absolutely worth it; just make sure to stay warm.

Going Back to Where You Came From in Ethiopia

Said to be the place of origin of modern man, Ethiopia is Africa's oldest independent nation and the only one on the continent to have never been colonized. Ethiopia has an impressive history, both politically and religiously, as the second oldest officially Christian nation in the world and the destination of the First Hejira, the first flight of Muhammad's followers from Mecca. Start in the capital of Addis Ababa, a great shopping destination and home to a wonderful museum chronicling the nation's ancient history and housing the skeleton of the famous early hominid, Lucy. But make sure you visit other places, too, such as the monasteries of Lake Tana, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the medieval castles of Gondar, and the ancient city of Aksum, which claims to be home to the Ark of the Covenant. The ancient walled city of Harar is also worth a stop; it's home to 82 mosques and some of the world's best coffee (and beer).

Going to Disney World

The Happiest Place on Earth is a great place to remember your childhood and to remember that it's alright to connect with your inner child. A lot goes into the well-oiled machine that is Disney in order to make sure that your trip brings you hope and makes you feel as if your dreams can come true.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Trek through the bush of Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park for a rewarding visit with the area's gorillas. There are only approximately700 mountain gorillas left on Earth, and as a result there are only 10 groups in Rwanda that human visitors can meet with. You'll go in a small group, which will afford you the ability to get pretty close to these magnificent creatures — which will, somehow, remind you of your own humanity.

Hiking Down the Grand Canyon

You can't truly appreciate the vastness or the beauty of the Grand Canyon until you see it in person and up close. Hiking the canyon will lead you to come across all sorts of stunning rock formations, interesting creatures, and natural scenery. A trip here will remind you of the natural beauty of the United States and how much it has to offer outside of the city and suburbs. You can also enjoy the Grand Canyon from the top with a nice meal at Sa' Nyu Wa restaurant , located next to the skywalk.

Hiking the Jordan Trail

While we do advise caution when traveling through the Middle East , that doesn't mean travel is completely inadvisable in the region as a whole. Jordan, in particular, remains a stable nation with much to offer in the way of history and activity. The historical city of Petra, possibly established as early as the fourth century B.C., is a site to marvel at with its gorgeous, rock-cut architecture and impressive water conduit system. Jordan is also home to both the Dead Sea and Red Sea, as well as Wadi Rum, an impressive, Mars-like red desert, and many Bedouin camps, where you can experience true native Jordanian cuisine and culture. Hiking enthusiasts will love the new Jordan Trail, a route that runs 400 miles from north to south and takes you through most of these sites as well as some of Jordan's most breathtaking nature. Lovers of religious history will revel in it too — Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed all supposedly walked this trail too.

Hiking to Machu Picchu

Peru is one of this year's must-see destinations , and one of the reasons is the famed site of Machu Picchu. With over a million visitors every year, the 2,500-visitors-per-day limit set by UNESCO and the government has been far overrun, but it's not hard to see why. Peru's countryside is particularly beautiful, making the trek more than worth it — once you're there, prepare to be amazed at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia

The serene relaxation that comes with a hot air balloon ride combined with the amazing lunar-like landscape of the Cappadocia region makes for one of the most breathtaking experiences one can have in Turkey. You'll see beautiful orchards and vineyards as well as all sorts of interesting rock formations and architecture such as cave churches and houses carved into rock from high above. The ride is sure to rekindle your awe at the natural wonders of the Earth.

Learning Ottoman History in Istanbul

This old capital of the former Ottoman Empire is home to gorgeous mosques, great Turkish cuisine and possibly even religious relics such as the staff of Moses and sword of David. Istanbul is a must-see Middle Eastern destination and a reminder that the region has had a long and varied history with many contributions to our modern world. Make sure you don't leave without a visit to the Grand Bazaar , one of the planet's oldest and largest markets, established shortly after the beginning of Ottoman rule.

Nature Travel in Ecuador

Quito is not only beautiful but absolutely fascinating. Ecuador is so named because of its location directly over the equator, and when you stand on Mitad del Mundo — a yellow line painted on the ground to designate the equator itself — on either the fall or spring equinox, you can watch your shadow disappear for three minutes. Quito also offers attractive colonial and Latin American architecture that echoes its fascinating history, and from here you can explore the rest of the country's stunning natural environs, such as the Bellavista Cloud Forest, the snow-capped Cayambe volcano, and of course, the famous Galapagos Islands.

Partying in Ibiza

As chronicled in modern-day pop songs, Ibiza is a popular place to party, as it's home to some fantastic nightlife and its accompanying electronic music. Famous DJs have been known to play weekly in Ibiza, many of them using the island as a place to try out some of their latest music. Cala Jondal, one of the best beaches in the world , is also located in Ibiza for the days when you're looking for a bit of a break from the non-stop party.

Playing Holi in India

While big American cities with sizeable South Asian populations, like New York, have respectable festivities of their own , there's simply no place like India to celebrate Holi, a spring festival observed by Hindus and Sikhs, as well as certain sects of Jains and Buddhists. On the night before Holi, festivities start with prayers and religious rituals, but it's the next day's festivities that are truly, and quite literally, colorful. People of all ages take to the streets with dry colors and water guns and balloons filled with colored water to throw on each other. Musicians and dancing fill the streets, and revelers fill their stomachs with many delicious local treats and soft drinks. The holiday is meant to be a reminder of love, forgiveness, and the triumph of good over evil.

Rebuilding in San Juan

Puerto Rico is officially open for business and tourists are needed more than ever to help the island get back on its feet.­ Witness the rebuilding and resilience of San Juan, where old and new coexist in the architecture as well as the city's culture. Nightlife, beaches, and a growing arts scene have all helped San Juan earn its reputation as a strong tourist destination, but it's the food here that's really worth coming for .

Relaxing at a Wellness Resort

Some of the best resorts in the world are focused on rejuvenating and recalibrating your mind, body, and spirit through luxurious and natural spa treatments. Often based on ancient principles, the practices at wellness resorts are geared towards specific treatments, foods, supplements, and exercises that are meant to reinvigorate you and connect you with your body in a whole new way.

Riding an Elephant in Chiang Mai

The number of active and nature-centered things to do in Chiang Mai make it one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world . Among the most notable activities here are the elephant tours provided by many different tour companies, in which you can trek Chiang Mai's hills and forests on the back of a pachyderm, appreciating the surrounding scenery and maybe even visiting with local hill tribes. Not all tours treat their elephants well, however, so make sure you find a responsible elephant tour company by asking other tourists or doing research online.

Safari in Zambia

Another destination for some truly unspoiled nature, Zambia is the place to go this year . While there's much more to Africa as a continent than safaris, Zambia really does have fantastic opportunities that allow travelers to truly appreciate nature in all its glory. Experience a safari in the birthplace of the walking safari, with a guided tour company or through a safari lodge such as the King Lewanika Lodge which just opened up as the first permanent camp in Liuwa Plain National Park.

Seeing the Sistine Chapel

Absolutely worth the trip if you're ever in Rome, the Vatican Museums in Vatican City have 54 galleries of some of the world's greatest works of Western art by legends such as Da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio. The most famous and most impressive work of art, however, is in the last gallery: the Sistine Chapel itself. The ceiling and the altar, the latter of which is covered with the famed "The Last Judgment," were painted by Michelangelo in the sixteenth century. Most guided tours through the museums end with the Sistine Chapel, where you can take as long as you like to study the intricate and fascinating details of the many frescoes inside the room and marvel at the talent and tenacity it took to complete them.

Snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef

Made up of over 2,900 reefs and 900 islands and located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. This World Heritage Site is not only biodiverse but truly amazing to see. Although one can see the reef from space, swimming among the turtles, dolphins, fish, and more as you scuba dive or snorkel is the best way to experience it. It's a good reminder of what our world has to offer and how fragile it is, as global warming and carbon pollution may cause the Great Barrier Reef to disappear alarmingly soon .

Summer Solstice at Stonehenge

Thousands of people visit England's Stonehenge every year on the summer solstice to see the sunrise. Once daylight breaks and the sun is directly above Stonehenge's "Heel Stone," the festivities begin. Singing, dancing, and general revelry takes over all day as people celebrate it being the longest of the year, and it's a great chance to get in touch with nature and reflect on the significance of the warmer months and the good they bring with them.

Tangoing in Buenos Aires

You need to visit Buenos Aires in 2018 , and while you're there you need to enjoy the marvel that is Argentine tango. Catch tango dancers in La Boca, a district famous for its artistic pedestrian street, or Boedo, where tango houses abound. Tango clubs are also quite popular here, and you can even take tango classes to get yourself up to speed. It's a great chance to look at art in a way you hadn't considered before, especially considering Buenos Aires was recently dubbed the first ever Art Basel City. Try some Argentinian cuisine while you're there, too, as the locals sure know how to eat right .

Visiting Auschwitz

A grim reminder of how far mankind can go when it forgets the humanity of others, a trip to Auschwitz isn't inspiring in the way one typical thinks of when they consider transformative travel. Hearing the stories of what happened here during the Nazi Holocaust in World War II and seeing what was left behind is sure to change how you consider the effects of politics on our lives.

Visiting the Taj Mahal

Built in the seventeenth century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a world-famous 42-acre landmark that consists of not only the tomb, but a mosque, guest house, and gardens as well. The Indian monument is a testament to love and great architecture, as well as the legacy of the Mughal Empire.

Volcano Tours in Hawaii

Hawaii is an absolutely gorgeous place with plenty of great spots for stunning scenery . Get an especially spectacular view of the Aloha State with a Hawaii volcano tour which will take you by helicopter to see the state's three active volcanoes: Lo'ihi, Mauna Loa, and Kilauea, the most active volcano on the planet. The experience is a thrilling one, and it's sure to bring you a new perspective on the might of the Earth and how helpless one can be in comparison .

Walking the Great Wall of China

Built over 2,300 years ago, the Great Wall of China is finally starting to show signs of age and may disappear in as few as 20 years . That's why we suggest heading out to see it as soon as you can. Given the fact that it's made up of several massive walls, there are plenty of places you can walk this ancient structure, depending on the intensity of the hike you're seeking. Wherever you do choose to explore it, however, the Great Wall gives one a lot of perspective on the vastness of both China's land and history as well as an appreciation for mankind's achievements before technology.

Watching the Sunset in Santorini

Santorini has become such a popular destination that Instagram photos of sunsets among the white and blue-domed buildings of the town of Oia have become a total cliché. There's a reason for that cliché, however, as the views here really are stunning and the sunset only heightens that beauty as well as your appreciation for the feats of architecture and location that brought you here, as well as how wonderful nature can be.

Wine Tasting in the Napa Valley

Located in California's Bay Area, Napa Valley is the premier winemaking region in the United States. Given recent fires that have been devastating for the area, tourism is more needed than ever . That suits any wine-loving traveler perfectly, as the wine tours here are wonderful for a laid-back, relaxing vacation amidst a beautiful countryside. They're a great reminder of the United States's overall strength as a wine destination , as well as what this country has to offer economically as well as culturally.

WWOOF, or World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms , is a federation of organizations that give you the opportunity to work on a farm in exchange for food and accommodation. WWOOFers, as their volunteers are called, sign up for the national organization in the country they want to visit and pay an annual membership fee of around $30 per country. There are 99 countries that participate in WWOOF, so your options are extensive. Learn what goes into sustaining the destinations you visit as a tourist, and take a different perspective of the reality on the ground. WWOOFing is a great way to connect with both the land and the locals, as well as one of many ways you can save on a hotel room .

Transformational Travel: Experiences That Can Change Your Life

Travel can change your life in ways you never imagined! Check out this guide for some of the best life-changing travel experiences from destinations around the world.

You often hear people talk about how travel changes you in unexpected ways. Whether it’s feeling like you’re more worldly, gaining a new level of self-confidence, or discovering a true passion, everyone is impacted in a different, yet important, way.

Here at Let’s Roam, we strongly believe in the transformative power of travel since many of us have experienced it firsthand. So we’ve compiled a list of some of our most notable travel experiences. These have been curated from my own travels as well as those of friends and co-workers. I hope they have as big of an impact on you as they have had on us!

Put the extra into extraordinary with Let’s Roam!

With hundreds of scavenger hunts, destination guides, and must-see lists, Let’s Roam can help you find the things that make every destination extra special. To learn more about amazing destinations around the world, make sure to check out the Let’s Roam Explorer blog where you can find everything you need to plan the perfect trip. You can also download the Let’s Roam app to access hundreds of great scavenger hunts for locations across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand!

15 Transformative Travel Experiences

Below you’ll find a list of travel experiences that can change your life. Whenever you embark on a new adventure, it’s important to remember what you get out of an experience is directly related to how you approach it. If you want to really “feel” something, you have to be open to it. Go into everything with an open mind. You may be surprised at how quickly the stresses of everyday life can morph into a feeling of child-like wonder!

1. Go on a National Park road trip.

There are few things more all-American than a cross-country road trip. Throw in a few stretches of Route 66 and some of America’s most spectacular national parks and you have the perfect recipe for the vacation of a lifetime! The United States is home to 424 national park sites including national parks, national historic sites, and national recreation areas. Regardless of whether you hit two parks or 20, a national park road trip gives explorers to learn more about the beautiful country we live in and can be a life-changing experience. 

Adventurous travelers can go hiking, camping, kayaking, or rafting in many of the parks. Meanwhile, people looking for a more relaxing trip can go stargazing or sightseeing. The opportunities for outdoor activities are endless. While these adventures are certainly great for your physical and mental health, the confidence that you gain from completing an epic hike or overcoming something that really scares you can have a tremendous impact on you in the future.

If you’re traveling with kids, this can give them a chance to learn more about nature and their place in it. You can bestow a love of adventure and respect for our environment in these little learners that will last a lifetime. As a bonus, it can also give them lots of cool stories to tell their friends!

Expert tip: If you’re planning on visiting three or more national parks, make sure to pick up an America the Beautiful National Park Pass. Offered by the National Park Service, it costs just $80 per year and gives access to more than 2,000 different NPS-managed areas including the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Zion National Parks. Since many of these parks cost anywhere between $30 to $35 to enter, this could provide a very cost-effective alternative to buying expensive park tickets. 

2. Take a journey through India.

India is one of those places that is exactly like you’ve read and heard while still being nothing like you expected. From the sounds, the smells, and the sights, it’s all-encompassing from the moment your flight touches down on this fabled land.

Most visitors will start their Indian odyssey in New Delhi. As the country’s capital, it has some of India’s most important buildings as well as some of the most fascinating ruins. The labyrinth of narrow streets in Old Delhi gives you a fantastic introduction to the chaos that awaits in this spellbinding country while also giving you an inside look at the daily lives of people in one of the world’s biggest cities. 

Meanwhile, the surrounding area of New Delhi provides a glaring juxtaposition to Old Delhi’s chaotic streets with its wide avenues and meticulously maintained houses and yards. This is where most of the city’s British colonial-era buildings are located, and you may find yourself wondering if you’ve somehow been transported to London as you wander around!

From Delhi, you can head in virtually every direction and find something amazing. If you’re short on time, you can easily reach the breathtaking Taj Mahal from Delhi via an express train, or you can include Jaipur in your itinerary and travel along the famous Golden Triangle. While the overall experience is slightly less majestic than what thousands of Instagrammers and travel bloggers try to show, this doesn’t actually take away from the experience. Instead, it adds to it. 

However, if you really want to experience incredible India, you need to venture off the beaten path a bit and visit places like the small town of Bundi, the ancient fort city of Jaisalmer, and the lakeside city of Udaipur. These very different cities can give you insight into how multifaceted the country is. 

If you want to venture even further off the normal tourist itinerary, you can travel overland to Mumbai and then onwards to the beaches of Goa and Valkarna, the tropical backwaters of Kerala, or the bustling city of Bangalore. The southern section of India is much more laid-back than the bustling north, and this is a great alternative for people who find other parts of the country a little too overwhelming. 

Expert tip: Train tickets tend to sell out really quickly in India thanks to the 1.4 billion people who all seem to want to ride the train at the same time. It’s also a little challenging to buy tickets with a foreign credit card as the main government train website doesn’t take international cards. Luckily, you can buy a special quota of tickets that are available only for foreigners. These can usually be purchased last minute. Although they’re a little more expensive than normal tickets, it’s definitely worth it!

3. Hike to Machu Picchu.

As one of the most famous ancient ruins in the Americas, it’s almost impossible to find a must-see travel list without this mind-blowing attraction included. Despite the impression that it’s in the middle of nowhere, Machu Picchu is surprisingly easy to get to. While it’s possible to take a train to Machu Picchu from Cusco, if you want to have a truly mind-blowing experience, we highly recommend following in the footsteps of the Incas and walking there via the ancient Inca Trail.

Most visitors start their trip to Peru in the capital city of Lima. You can then take a bus or flight to Cusco. It’s a good idea to spend a few days there getting used to the elevation before attempting anything strenuous. After you get acclimated to the altitude, you can begin your trip to Machu Picchu. The starting point for the Inca Trail is in Ollantaytambo. From there, it’s a four-day hike to Machu Picchu. With any luck, you’ll arrive early in the morning on the fourth day before any of the other tourists get there. 

Expert tip: Hiking to Machu Picchu is on the travel bucket list of many people. As a result, the Inca Trail tends to sell out very quickly. If you aren’t able to get a booking on one of these hikes, don’t despair. The Salkantay Trail is there! The Salkantay Trail is a five-day hike that leads you through the beautiful Andes Mountains to the town of Aguas Calientes. 

Rather than trekking along the old Incan pathways, you cover trails that lead through breathtaking passes and alongside meandering rivers. It’s a different experience than the Inca Trail but magical all the same! 

4. Explore the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

The Galapagos Islands are one of the world’s most biologically diverse places on the planet. Hundreds of species of plants and animals call this Pacific island chain home. It’s one of the world’s best places for snorkeling and scuba diving thanks to the pristine waters and abundance of marine life. 

Getting to the Galapagos Islands is much easier than you may think. First, you need to fly to Quito, the beautiful colonial capital of Ecuador. From there, you can take a short flight to one of the main inhabited islands. You can then travel between three of the biggest islands by public ferry and stay in local accommodation. 

Alternatively, you can join one of the multi-day island cruises. These will take you to some of the smaller, more pristine islands that are only accessible by private boat. However, they do tend to be much more expensive than creating your own DIY experience. This could put them a bit out of reach for people traveling on a budget. Make sure to compare both options before making a final decision as this can have a huge impact on the kind of experience you have. 

5. Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

Even though I had wanted to go to Australia since I was a little girl, Finding Nemo is what made me really want to go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef. And to be completely honest, it certainly didn’t disappoint! 

The Great Barrier Reef stretches a whopping 1,400 miles along the northeast coast of Australia and is the largest coral reef system in the world. While you’re there, you can see schools of fish swirling around you and hear coral cracking. If you’re lucky, you may even see sharks and sea turtles as they glide on by.

You have a few different options when it comes to snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef. The first option is joining one of the daily snorkeling trips that leave from Cairns. The other option is to join a live aboard. These boats are much smaller than the day tours which makes being in the water at the reef much more enjoyable. 

6. Spend a romantic week in Italy.

From the canals of Venice to the ornate details of Florence’s voluminous Duomo, there’s something about Italy that exudes romance. Whether it’s the cobblestone towns, the mouthwatering food, or the copious amounts of cheap wine available, a trip to Italy is bound to make anyone feel a bit amorous. Spending a romantic week (or a month!) in Italy could just be the life-changing experience you’re looking for!

If you aren’t in a relationship or have anyone to go with you, don’t worry. You can easily have a romance with yourself! Take this time to reflect on the things that you’re super proud of and the things that you love about yourself. Have that extra glass of Chianti or an extra scoop of gelato. This is the time to romance yourself, and you should take advantage of it. Besides, everyone knows that calories don’t count when you’re on vacation!

7. Journey through Tanzania.

There’s something about Africa that brings out a humbling and grounded feeling in many visitors. The rawness and beauty of life is up front and center here. There’s no denying how insignificant you, and your problems, are. Oddly, this is a very freeing experience. That bad work appraisal, the negative Facebook comments, the snide remarks from someone you’re about… these things all fall to the wayside, at least temporarily, and give you the mental space that you need to look at life a little differently. 

My first trip to Africa was one of my most life-changing trips to date. Up until that point, I had a very two-dimensional view of the continent. I imagined vast grasslands and savannahs dotted with animals and a handful of cities. While this is exactly what I found in the two weeks that I spent there, I also realized just how little I knew of this amazing continent. I have now been back to Africa five more times, and it still continues to shape me in new ways during every visit. 

For many first-time visitors, Tanzania is one of the best places to start your African odyssey. The country is safe, and it has decent infrastructure which makes getting around much easier than it is in other parts of the continent. You can begin your trip in the modern capital city of Dar es Salaam. From there, you can travel to Arusha. This rough-and-tumble city serves as the gateway to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Most safaris depart from here. After a week of watching some of the world’s most amazing animals eat, sleep, and hunt in their natural environment, you can make your way back to Dar es Salaam. 

From Dar es Salaam, you can board a flight or ferry to the Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar. This beautiful island was once an important commercial center on the African, European, and Asian trade routes, and the ancient city of Stone Town embodies this economic heyday. Today, it’s an important tourist destination, and it’s easy to find onward buses to the many beach destinations scattered around the island. After a few days spent relaxing in the white sand and turquoise water, you can make your way back to the mainland for your flight back home.

8. Take a cruise to Antarctica.

Penguins, seals, and whales… oh my! Tucked far down at the bottom of the earth, there’s something almost otherworldly about the continent of Antarctica. The gargantuan icebergs, the fascinating wildlife, and the seemingly endless sheets of snow and ice provide a year-round winter wonderland for anyone hoping to see something different. 

Cruises to Antarctica generally include a few landings on the continent as well as Zodiac rides. These are great opportunities for wildlife spotting. You can see hundreds of penguins and seals and dozens of whales in just a few hours. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also opt for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and camping. I did the paddle boarding and can honestly say that it was one of the most unique experiences of my life!

Most people who visit Antarctica do so on a cruise from the Argentinian port city of Ushuaia. Cruises generally last anywhere between 10 and 14 days. If the high prices of these cruises make you weep, then you can always try your luck by going to Ushuaia and booking a last-minute spot on a cruise. 

You can also opt for a cruise that includes the Shetland and South Georgia islands. These are usually around a week longer and are one of the only ways to reach these far-flung destinations. 

Expert tip: When I went to Antarctica, I booked a last-minute, 14-day cruise with Quark for around $7,000. This was about half the normal price of the cruise, and I was given my own cabin since I was traveling alone. I booked online from New York City through a tour operator based in Ushuaia and was luckily able to get all the way down there in time for my departure. 

9. Wander through the casbahs of Morocco.

Lying on the northwestern edge of Africa, the country of Morocco has long been a melting pot of African and European culture. The casbahs, or historic city centers, of Marrakech, Fes, and Essaouira are the epicenter of culture and history in these ancient cities. Taking a stroll through the markets, madrassas, and mosques gives you an almost bewildering look into a distant past that isn’t actually quite so distant here!

Morocco is a great option for first-time travelers to North Africa or the Middle East as it gives you a small taste of both regions. If you want to explore the Great Outdoors, you can always venture out into the High Atlas Mountains for breathtaking scenery and exhilarating trekking.

10. Have a walkabout in New Zealand.

When it comes to lands “down under,” New Zealand has pretty much everyone beat. Lying south of Australia in the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is about as far away from the United States as you can get. Thankfully, the country is relatively compact, and it’s easy to see most of the main attractions within a few weeks. If you have the time to stay longer, you can go to some of the smaller, lesser-known, towns and cities. Here, you’ll be able to get a taste of what makes New Zealand tick. 

Most visitors arrive in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. Auckland is situated at the northern end of the North Island. From there, it’s just a 3-4 hour drive to the touristy cities of Rotorua and Taupo. Here, you can get a glimpse into the local culture of the indigenous Maori through some interesting cultural experiences and see some of the country’s most unique geothermal wonders. You can then proceed about another six hours down to Wellington and take a ferry to the South Island. Otherwise, you can hop on a domestic flight and head to Christchurch or Queenstown. These two cities serve as the gateways for the myriad of outdoor activities and epic scenery waiting for you on the South Island.

Expert tip: New Zealand is highly developed with great infrastructure. It’s much safer than most of the United States. However, it can be very expensive. If you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind missing out on some of the creature comforts of a hotel, we highly recommend renting a van that you can sleep in and touring the country that way. This is how many backpackers explore New Zealand, so there’s lots of information online about it.

11. Hike to Everest Base Camp, Nepal.

The Himalayas are one of the most impressive mountain chains in the world, and the incomparable Mount Everest lies at the heart of it. One of the best ways to see this incredible peak is by hiking to Everest Base Camp. 

The hike to Everest Base Camp takes around 14 days round-trip and departs from the Nepalese town of Lukla. Along the way, you will pass breathtaking vistas, and experience local culture, and warm hospitality from the Nepalese people. It’s sure to be something that you’ll remember forever. Plus, it’s a feat that not many people can say they have accomplished.

Since it isn’t that strenuous in terms of elevation gain or technical skills, it can be accomplished by anyone with a decent level of fitness. However, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. The high altitude and cold air can make the hike seem extra exhausting. The peak climbing season runs from March to May and then again from September to December. You can hire local porters and guides who will make the ascent and descent easier.

12. Drive the coast of South Africa.

South Africa is famous for many things—magnificent wildlife, vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and mouthwatering wines to name a few. While many people flock straight to Kruger National Park or Cape Town, a journey along the coast can give you a unique look into the beauty and unique culture of South Africa. 

I personally did this journey from Durban to Cape Town, following the Wild Coast and the Garden Route, and staying in small guesthouses and glamping sites. It was an interesting experience to see how the cultural and geographical landscape changed as I made my way toward Cape Town. I always felt safe as a solo female traveler, and it completely changed my perception of South Africa. 

Expert tip: While it’s very easy to rent a car in South Africa, you may find yourself paying a huge premium for an automatic transmission. Even if you’re relatively confident driving a manual, you may want to practice a bit before your trip. It can be a bit challenging driving on the opposite side of the road and shifting gears when you aren’t used to it!

13. See the Northern Lights.

Every winter, one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular celestial performances takes place. Across the skies of Scandinavia, Iceland, Canada, and Alaska, you can find a sea of colors dancing through the night sky. It’s an amazing sight and one that very few people get the chance to see. 

Since the Northern Lights can only be seen in destinations in the far northern stretches of the globe, the best advice to see them is to go as far north as possible. They can only be seen on a dark, clear night, so there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to spot them. In a way, this makes it even more meaningful when you do!

14. Go on a Nile River cruise.

The civilization of Ancient Egypt has had an undeniable impact on the world. Luckily, many of the most amazing archaeological sites left behind by this fascinating civilization are easy to visit! River cruises ply along the waters of the Nile River between the cities of Luxor and Aswan, stopping at many ancient ruins along the way including Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and the Valley of the Kings. Most of the trips last between three and four days, so they’re a good option even for people who are short on time. 

If you would prefer to travel by land, there are frequent trains that connect Luxor and Aswan. Traveling through Egypt can be a little tough if you aren’t an experienced traveler, so it may be worth it to fork out the money for the river cruise. This helps take away a lot of the normal stress of traveling and gives you more opportunities to enjoy the sites!

15. Fall in love with a beautiful stranger.

Yes, yes, we know it’s a bit cliche. And we’re sure you have visions of people strolling along the banks of the Seine or kissing under the Eiffel Tower. However, falling in love (or like) with someone from another country can be life-changing. Regardless if it’s for one week with a local you met in Tokyo, a month with a fellow traveler in Indonesia, or a lifetime with that perfect person you were lucky enough to meet while hiking the Camino in Spain, this time can completely change the way you look at a destination as well as relationships in the future. In many ways, it will also show you just how similar people are all around the world. 

When you travel, make sure to be open to new experiences and to meeting new people. This doesn’t mean you should throw caution to the wind and make silly decisions like marrying a person you just met in Las Vegas. But it does mean that you keep an open mind and see where this road takes you! 

Ready to roam? 

We hope this list of unique experiences that can change your life has left you inspired to pack your bags and hit the road! As always, we would love to hear your feedback, and please let us know if there’s anything we may have missed!

If you’d like to read more great travel articles, head over to the Let’s Roam Explorer blog . Here you’ll find hundreds of blog posts, destination guides, and must-visit lists written by our very own in-house travel experts. You can also download the Let’s Roam app to gain access to our long list of app-based scavenger hunts. With more than 400 different city tours, ghost hunts, art walks, and more for destinations around the world, there’s sure to be one that is perfect for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

This can be different for everyone. However, some of the most eye-opening travel experiences can include everything from cultural experiences to wildlife encounters.

If you adore nothing more than being outdoors and are looking for a life-changing travel experience , you should jump at the chance to go on safari in Tanzania or snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef!

Travel can change lives ! It helps people to try new things, meet people, and learn about different cultures. Each experience is different and transformative in its own way.

Traveling can change your life by exposing you to new things, helping you build confidence, and making you more humble. It can also make you very grateful for how lucky you are!

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, or going on your own New Zealand or South African adventure are all unforgettable and life-changing travel experiences !

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3 Travel Experiences That Will Change Your Life

Travel is one of the most exciting ways to enrich your life, whether you’re taking a much-needed break to recuperate and rest or are embarking on a backpacking adventure to experience a wide range of different cultures.

If you’re preparing to plan your next trip, then consider doing something a little different. When you move beyond the typical week-long getaway, you’ll have the chance to discover an inspiring experience that you won’t forget.

Discover our top three travel experiences that could be the perfect way for you to change your life for the better.

1)    Travel Solo

Many of us are reluctant to travel by ourselves; whether we’re prevented from doing so by fear of negative experiences, or the worry that we might find ourselves bored. However, not only do you stand a better chance of meeting and making new friends, but solo travel can do wonders for building your confidence.

If you’re worried about finding plenty to do, consider starting with capital cities, somewhere where you know for sure that you’ll have plenty of attractions to visit.

2)    Volunteer Abroad

Volunteering abroad is an incredible way to give back to the world around us and embark on an experience that will not only change your life but help to better the lives of others.

With companies such as Conservation Travel Africa , you’ll have the opportunity to help protect some of the world’s most endangered animals, prevent poaching, and educate local communities on how to live in harmony with their four-legged neighbours.

  Volunteering will not only allow you to create memories that will last you a lifetime, but when you’re putting together a CV for your next career hunt, you’ll have something to help set you apart from your fellow candidates.

3)    Maximise Your Time Away

If you’re looking to make the most out of your travel, then consider embarking on a nomadic lifestyle. Of course, not all of us are in the position to quit our jobs and travel the world, but luckily, many of our jobs can be completed remotely.

Consider talking to your boss about taking your career on the go. Alternatively, depending on your industry and personal capabilities, you could consider working as a freelancer instead. With sites such as Upwork , you can connect with clients and start to build up a name for yourself.

When you freelance, you can work on a schedule that suits you, from anywhere in the world, just be sure that you have a reliable internet connection and that you meet your deadlines!

And, if you’re looking to find a way to fund your adventures – particularly if you’re going to be away for a while ­– consider renting out your property on platforms such as Airbnb . This way not only will your home not sit empty, but you’ll be able to bring in a little extra income.

Have you embarked on a travel experience that changed your life? Share your story in the comments below!

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10 Unique Travel Experiences That Will Leave You Speechless

by Robert Riesmeyer | Feb 3, 2024 | Adventure Travel , Bucket List Trips , Destinations , Epic Experiences , Hiking , International Travel , Passion Pursuits , South America , Wanderlust Chronicles

Are you tired of the usual tourist hotspots and seeking something extraordinary? Look no further! In this post, we’ll take you on a virtual journey to some of the most unique travel experiences around the globe. From hidden gems and cultural marvels to adrenaline-pumping adventures, these extraordinary destinations will redefine the way you travel. Buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable ride!

Sleeping Under the Northern Lights in Finland: Imagine drifting off to sleep beneath a sky illuminated by the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. In Finland, you can stay in glass igloos or snow hotels, providing you with front-row seats to this ethereal natural phenomenon.

Walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain: Embark on a spiritual pilgrimage by walking the Camino de Santiago, a network of ancient trails that lead to the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Along the way, you’ll meet fellow travelers, experience breathtaking landscapes, and discover hidden villages.

Exploring the Glowworm Caves in New Zealand: Venture deep into the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the underground caverns like a starry sky. Take a boat ride through the mystical glowworm grotto and be captivated by this otherworldly spectacle.

Trekking to the Lost City of Machu Picchu, Peru: Uncover the secrets of the Incas as you hike through the lush Peruvian jungle to the awe-inspiring Lost City of Machu Picchu. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas, ancient ruins, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this mystical place.

Diving with Whale Sharks in the Maldives: Plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives and come face-to-face with the gentle giants of the ocean: whale sharks. Snorkel or scuba dive alongside these magnificent creatures, observing their graceful movements and experiencing a sense of awe.

Living with Nomadic Tribes in Mongolia: Escape the modern world and immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle of Mongolia. Stay with local families, learn their customs, ride horses across vast plains, and gain a profound appreciation for a simpler way of life.

Sailing through the Norwegian Fjords: Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Norwegian fjords. Sail past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, experiencing nature at its most awe-inspiring.

Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua: Seeking an adrenaline rush? Try volcano boarding down the black, ash-covered slopes of Cerro Negro in Nicaragua. Strap on a board, slide down the volcanic terrain, and revel in the unique thrill of this extreme sport.

Stargazing in the Atacama Desert, Chile: Escape to the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, and witness a breathtaking celestial show. With its clear skies and minimal light pollution, this remote destination offers an unparalleled stargazing experience.

Discovering the Hidden Temples of Angkor, Cambodia: Unearth the secrets of the ancient Khmer Empire as you wander through the magnificent temples of Angkor. Marvel at the intricate carvings, moss-covered ruins, and the enigmatic faces of Bayon, transporting you to a mystical world.

Traveling is not just about visiting popular landmarks but also about seeking unique and awe-inspiring experiences. These ten extraordinary travel adventures will take you off the beaten path and introduce you to incredible wonders that will leave a lasting impression. Embrace the unfamiliar, step out of your comfort zone, and create memories that will stay with you long after the journey ends. Happy travels!

Introducing Robert Riesmeyer: The Visionary Behind Travel Unrivaled

Robert Riesmeyer, a passionate traveler, and experience curator extraordinaire is redefining the way we explore the world. For Robert, travel isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s an exhilarating journey that begins the moment you step out of your comfort zone. Born and raised in the Midwest, he left behind an insurance business to create Travel Unrivaled, a venture that combines his expertise in personal protection and safe travel with his insatiable wanderlust. Robert’s unique talent lies in crafting one-of-a-kind group experiences, where every moment is meticulously curated, leaving clients with unforgettable memories.

If you’re seeking more than just a vacation, if you crave extraordinary experiences that transcend the ordinary, and if you’re ready to embark on journeys that redefine adventure, then Robert Riesmeyer and Travel Unrivaled are your gateways to the extraordinary. Join Robert on his quest to make every travel experience an unforgettable tale, and you’ll soon discover that the world has so much more to offer when seen through his adventurous eyes.

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Travel Experiences that can change the world

by Insight Vacations | 4 May 2021

It was announced today that MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences by The Travel Corporation (TTC) and its family of brands has been named an honoree in the Corporate Social Responsibility category of Fast Company’s 2021 World Changing Idea Awards. Fast Company is the world’s leading business media brand, with an editorial focus on innovation in technology, leadership, world changing ideas, inspiring readers to lead with purpose and embrace change. Now in its fifth year, the Fast Company Award honors ground-breaking ideas launched in 2020 that are deeply committed to pursuing innovation for the good of society and the planet.

Selected from thousands of applicants, we are honored  our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences have been recognized along with the other notable individuals and brands doing incredible, world-changing work. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences were developed as a tool for TTC’s brands to advance positive change around the world through the direct participation of travelers. They’re meant to transform the way we think about the travel experience, for the mutual benefit of travelers and the people and places they visit. It is our hope this transformation can shift the way we travel for good, through long-lasting and meaningful impact.

Our everyday choices and actions have an impact on the world around us, and the way we travel is no exception. This has never been clearer than in the present era of COVID-19, with the entire world experiencing an unprecedented pause in travel. Never before have people across the globe collectively appreciated the gift of travel in its absence, in addition to its economic value to communities worldwide.

What sets MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences apart from other travel experiences?

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are chosen for the ways in which they directly advance the United Nations Global Goals (UNSDGs), widely accepted as the blueprint to address issues such as poverty, inequality, biodiversity and more. Established in 2016, the goals were quickly adopted by governments, businesses and society as those we should all be working towards. We used the UNSDG’s and their specific indicators to develop a set of our own criteria , endorsed by leading industry sustainable development experts, which allow our family of brands to identify transformative experiences that go beyond being a feel-good experience. This means we are building travel experiences that display genuine social and environmental good.

To identify MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, we built a proprietary assessment tool that identifies if an experience meets a Global Goal, and if so, which goal or goals it supports.

How Can an Experience Change the World?

Choices are critical. From the clothes you buy, the food you eat and the businesses you support, to the trip you’ve been waiting to take since COVID-19 made itself known. Our portfolio of MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences can change the travel industry, which is one of the world’s largest, accounting for 10.3% of the global GDP ( WTTC, 2019 ). By choosing to participate in one of these experiences and actively seeking out travel designed to make a positive impact, you are helping us to prioritise community-based enterprises – from supporting women-owned businesses, experiencing unique farm stays that utilize regenerative agriculture practices or learning about ancient cultures that carry on their traditions by sharing their stories with others. You have the power to choose these experiences and support sustainable practices, while setting the tone for the purpose-driven offering you expect of the wider travel industry.

Why and how are MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences designed around the Global Goals?

Our goal in developing our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences was to positively impact broader environmental and social issues, so it was a natural fit to look to the United Nations Global Goals to help narrow our focus and ladder up to international efforts.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

How you can start today

As part of our sustainability strategy How We Tread Right , our goal at Insight Vacations is to include at least 1 MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on 100% of our itineraries worldwide by 2022, and we are well on our way there. For your next adventure when travel resumes, browse our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences and join us in making travel a force for good.

Experiences to discover with Insight Vacations 

Cristina Heeren Foundation, Spain:

The Cristina Heeren Foundation promotes the teaching and conservation of flamenco and is a TreadRight Foundation grant recipient. Meet the students of the foundation, learn some basic flamenco steps, and then feel the passion as the students perform an emotional show.

Available on Best of Spain & Portugal

Sheroes Café, India

Visit the Sheroes Cafe, a local structure run by women who have survived acid attacks. Be inspired by their resilience in rebuilding a life for themselves, while supporting their efforts to reintegrate back into the community.

Available on Classical India 

Trattoria Terra Madre, Italy

Dine at Trattoria Terra Madre, where owner Alessandra and his nonna have built a restaurant that focuses on sustainability and creating jobs for locals. Everything is grown organically and harvested on site, and excess produce is donated to their community.

Available on Grand Italy & Sicily 

Fonda Fish Farm, Slovenia

Meet Irena Fonda, a passionate and awarded biologist carrying out important conservation work in the Gulf of Piran. Join her on a short boat ride to see her family’s fish farm and learn about their journey breeding sustainable Piran sea bass of the highest quality.

Available on Venice and the Croatian Coast

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Six travel experiences that will change your life

Emma Lavelle

People talk a lot about travel being ‘life changing’, but what does that actually mean? We’ve pulled together a list of six travel experiences that really will change the way you live your life, altering your perspective on the world.

Whale watching

The first time I ever saw a whale in real life, I felt humbled in a way that I had never felt before. There’s something about being stood on a small boat in the middle of the ocean, watching nature’s giants up close and personal that makes you think about how small you are in the grand scheme of things. There’s also a great trust shared as the whales approach your boat. These animals were hunted almost to the point of extinction not too long ago, yet they are still gentle creatures that have learned to trust humans again. It’s also a welcome reminder that if we ever want to observe animals it should always be in the wild, in their natural habitat, watching from a distance.

Travelling solo

Travelling on your own will teach you things that you would never learn if you only travelled with companions. Solo travel can be scary and unpredictable, but you will learn an unrivalled independence that will change the way that you live your life. You have to be responsible for yourself and all aspects of your trip, constantly making decisions on your own and adapting to new places without the comfort of a friend or partner by your side. In difficult circumstances you learn to think on your feet and look after yourself. Everyone should travel on their own at some point in their life, if only to gain a deeper understanding of who they are.

Taking a road trip

You may prefer meticulously planned getaways or package holidays where you spend two weeks relaxing on a beach, but taking a road trip will completely change you as a person. You have to learn to be more flexible and more resilient, dealing with anything from breakdowns to unexpected detours. Taking a road trip is a good way to encourage your own independence, even if you travel with a companion.

Watching the Northern Lights

Similar to an experience such as whale watching, witnessing a natural wonder such as the Northern Lights really changes you as a person. Watching something ethereal that we have no control over puts everything in perspective and alerts you to the brilliance of nature. After witnessing the Northern Lights, you will come away with a greater respect of the natural world.

Travelling with strangers

Whether you go on a trek, an organised tour or a culinary experience, travelling with a group of strangers is a great way to become more confident. You will have to speak to and make friends with complete strangers – some of whom may be from different countries and speak different languages. You will also have to become more independent. Similar to travelling on your own, you will have to take responsibilities for yourself and make a lot of big decisions while also getting to grips with meeting different people from all around the world.

Visit a spiritual place

Visiting a spiritual place can mean different things to different people. It could be taken literally – visiting a holy city or temple that makes you ask questions about yourself and human existence. It could be walking a pilgrimage, such as Spain’s El Camino de Santiago , which challenges you physically as well as mentally. Or it could mean travelling to a place of natural wonder that makes you ponder thoughts about our connection to nature.

Emma Lavelle  is a UK based writer and photographer and has her own blog Field and Nest .

Categories: Travel

Tags: Travel Travel Experience Things to do Whale Watching Solo Travel Road Trip Northern Lights Around The World Spiritual Journey Pilgrimage

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Travel Experiences that can change the world

It was announced today that MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences by T he Travel Corporation (TTC) and its family of brands has been named an honoree in the Corporate Social Responsibility category of Fast Company’s 2021 World Changing Idea Awards. Fast Company is the world’s leading business media brand, with an editorial focus on innovation in technology, leadership, world changing ideas, inspiring readers to lead with purpose and embrace change. Now in its fifth year, the Fast Company Award honors ground-breaking ideas launched in 2020 that are deeply committed to pursuing innovation for the good of society and the planet.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by TreadRight (@treadright)

Selected from thousands of applicants, we are honoured our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences have been recognized along with the other notable individuals and brands doing incredible, world-changing work. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences were developed as a tool for TTC’s brands to advance positive change around the world through the direct participation of travelers. They’re meant to transform the way we think about the travel experience, for the mutual benefit of travelers and the people and places they visit. It is our hope this transformation can shift the way we travel for good, through long-lasting and meaningful impact.

Our everyday choices and actions have an impact on the world around us, and the way we travel is no exception. This has never been clearer than in the present era of COVID-19, with the entire world experiencing an unprecedented pause in travel. Never before have people across the globe collectively appreciated the gift of travel in its absence, in addition to its economic value to communities worldwide.

What sets MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences apart from other travel experiences?

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are chosen for the ways in which they directly advance the United Nations Global Goals (UNSDGs), widely accepted as the blueprint to address issues such as poverty, inequality, biodiversity and more. Established in 2016, the goals were quickly adopted by governments, businesses and society as those we should all be working towards. We used the UNSDG’s and their specific indicators to develop a set of our own criteria , endorsed by leading industry sustainable development experts, which allow our family of brands to identify transformative experiences that go beyond being a feel-good experience. This means we are building travel experiences that display genuine social and environmental good.

To identify MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, we built a proprietary assessment tool that identifies if an experience meets a Global Goal, and if so, which goal or goals it supports.

How Can an Experience Change the World?

Choices are critical. From the clothes you buy, the food you eat and the businesses you support, to the trip you’ve been waiting to take since COVID-19 made itself known. Our portfolio of MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences can change the travel industry, which is one of the world’s largest, accounting for 10.3% of the global GDP ( WTTC, 2019 ).

By choosing to participate in one of these experiences and actively seeking out travel designed to make a positive impact, you are helping us to prioritise community-based enterprises – from supporting women-owned businesses, experiencing unique farm stays that utilize regenerative agriculture practices or learning about ancient cultures that carry on their traditions by sharing their stories with others. You have the power to choose these experiences and support sustainable practices, while setting the tone for the purpose-driven offering you expect of the wider travel industry.

Why and how are MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences designed around the Global Goals

Our goal in developing our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences was to positively impact broader environmental and social issues, so it was a natural fit to look to the United Nations Global Goals to help narrow our focus and ladder up to international efforts.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® – How you can start today

As part of our sustainability strategy How We Tread Right , our goal at Trafalgar is to include at least 1 MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on 50% of our itineraries worldwide by 2025, and we are well on our way there. For your next adventure when travel resumes, browse our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences and join us in making travel a force for good

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• Global Vision Awards

3 Travel Experiences That Will Change the Way You Think About Tourism

These Global Vision Awards honorees are re-envisioning what tourism looks like, and what it’s for — making travel more accessible, and more meaningful, for us all.

Jeff Chu is an editor-at-large at Travel + Leisure .

The Travel + Leisure Global Vision Awards aim to identify and honor companies, individuals, destinations, and organizations taking strides to develop more sustainable and responsible travel products, practices, and experiences. Not only are they demonstrating thought leadership and creative problem-solving, they are taking actionable, quantifiable steps to protect communities and environments around the world. What's more, they are inspiring their industry colleagues and travelers to do their part.

Three of this year's Global Vision Awards honorees are in the business of creating perspective-shifting experiences — tour operators and travel outfitters that want to expand your horizons, and not just in the literal way. One channels the power of the outdoors into transformative group trips for those facing adversity in their lives. Another invites visitors to explore a rewilded cattle ranch, showing that going back to the land is more possible than we might think. And a third makes the world easier to navigate for those historically marginalized by tourism infrastructure by planning accessible trips for travelers with disabilities . We love to wax poetic about "the power of travel," but these visionaries remind us what it means to truly make an impact. — T+L Editors

Gladiator Trek

Ten years ago, Jeff Bonaldi was feeling disenfranchised at work, disconnected socially, and in the midst of a divorce. Then he went on the first hike of his life: up Bear Mountain, just north of New York City, "It was a very small summit," he says. "But it made me feel accomplished. I felt a deep connection to nature that I'd never felt before." The hike inspired Bonaldi to imagine ways he could share the healing power of nature with others. Today, he and his team at Gladiator Trek lead multiple expeditions annually, giving new meaning to the old line that the journey is the destination. Each 10-day trip takes a group of 15 to 20 people up Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania. "Adventure has been such a healing part of my life. I thought that if other people could have those same breakthroughs, that would be a win," Bonaldi says. "A win is meeting someone who becomes a new friend; a lot of people are really lonely. A win is improving your confidence; climbing Kilimanjaro is an extraordinary accomplishment. Maybe you had some mental blocks about what you thought was possible, and now challenges back home are a little easier; the mountain is a metaphor for the rest of your life." Bonaldi hopes to add more treks in different parts of the world — perhaps the Inca Trail, in Peru, or Mount Aconcagua in Argentina. "They key is getting people immersed in nature," he says. "Then they let the journey do the rest of the work."

Las Torres Reserve

In 1979, Antonio Kusanovic Senkovic, the son of Croatian immigrants to Chile, bought a sprawling ranch in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park , in Chilean Patagonia. For years, his family ran a successful cattle-ranching operation. In 1990, they added a small inn, which later grew into Hotel Las Torres , to serve travelers drawn to Torres del Paine's striking mountains and abundant wildlife, including puma and condor. ( Torres is Spanish for "towers," and paine means "blue" in Tehuelche, an Indigenous language of Patagonia.) Then, in 2013, aware of cattle farming's environmental toll, the family made a radical change: they moved all livestock off the land, turned the ranch into a nature reserve , and went all-in on sustainable tourism and lodging — a remarkable investment in the future of a fragile ecosystem. Guides lead excursions into old-growth beech forests and deep valleys tucked amid the towering granite mountains.

Planet Abled

In 2009, Neha Arora visited a temple in Kerala, India, with her parents. Her father is blind, her mother a wheelchair user, and they encountered persistent inaccessibility, as they did whenever they traveled. "My parents said, 'Accept it,'" she says. She wouldn't — and her loud advocacy for them incited what she calls "a mob fight" at the temple. The incident inspired Arora to start her Delhi-based travel company, Planet Abled . "It's not the disability that disables a traveler. It's the environment and thought process of society," she says. In each destination, her team trains hotel staff, drivers, and guides; maps accessible routes; lobbies officials for better infrastructure; and even creates 3D-printed models of monuments to offer blind travelers tactile experiences. She now sends travelers to 40 Asian destinations — " Singapore is most accessible" — and also plans to branch out to Europe. (One repeat client is Australia's national blind cricket team.) Arora hopes that her work will benefit all visitors. "People with disabilities should have the freedom to travel just like anyone else," Arora says. "My mission is to change how travel happens, so that we don't need a separate travel company."

How to Unlock The Joker

To unlock the Joker in Suicide Squad you'll need to do a bit of grinding, or you can simply purchase him in the Store for 1,000 Luthor Credits. This page covers how to make this easy -- you need to get to level 35 so it will take some effort. The Joker was released on March 28, 2024.

How to Level Up Quickly to 35 to Unlock the Joker

To Unlock the Joker for Free in Suicide Squad You'll need to reach level 35 for the new season and fight Brainiac.

The new Season of Fear or Season 1 starts you out at level 0 for the new event. To level up quickly you should start by doing open-world events with a shield on top that has a number 2 in it as it'll offer the most experience points. After you've completed all of these, you will likely find yourself grinding incursion missions to level 35. The fastest we've found is the Knock Em' Dead Incursion mission which we could complete in about 3 minutes and 30 seconds. We estimate it will take you about 2-3 hours of nonstop grinding to get the Joker.

How to Unlock The Joker for Free

Suicide Squad: Episode 1 - Fear allows you to unlock the Joker for free but it will take a bit of grinding.

Here it is broken down into easy steps.

Complete the missions with a +2 icon above them first. This should give you nearly 2 levels toward level 35 for each completion, but in our experience sometimes you'll only gain a single level so it's best to look around the map for what gives the most experience points.

After you've completed all the +2 missions, you should farm Incursion events next. These will give you the most XP and can be completed quickly.

This is the location of the Knock 'Em Dead Incursion mission that offers 25k XP per clear on the highest world tier difficulty.

We can complete a single run of these in about 3 minutes and 30 seconds.

Once you've hit rank 35 of the Episode you should be able to take on the Brainiac boss fight. We will update this guide once we've completed the necessary grind to unlock the character. It is locked out until you've hit at least rank 35.

Once you've rescued the Joker a brief cutscene will play at the Hall of Justice. At this time there are no additional story moments beyond this story beat.

How to Purchase The Joker

Easiest Option: Buy the Joker in the shop for 1,000 Luthor Credits. Once purchased, the Joker will be waiting for you at the Hall of Justice.

You can buy the Joker in the store for 1,000 Luthor Credits, or $9.99 USD. To grind for the joker you should begin with open world Missions.

Up Next: How to Change Characters

Top guide sections.

• Walkthrough
• Boss Guides
• Endgame Explained - Mastery Levels and Finite Crisis Rank
• Which Character Should You Choose

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In this guide.

Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

Minneapolis

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

Los Angeles

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, wear green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Outlook for Eclipse Day? See if History Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, your shot at seeing the spectacle could be lost.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

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These 13 Cruise Hacks Will Change the Way You Vacation

Posted: September 8, 2023 | Last updated: September 8, 2023

If you’ve been planning a cruise for a while, the last thing you want to do is waste a second of your dream vacation, especially considering how much money you end up spending on a single week (or less). 

To help you get the most out of your cruise, and avoid wasting your money , we’ve put together a list of tips to make your vacation as fun and affordable as possible.  

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Find the right package

Keeping more money in your wallet when buying a cruise starts the moment you start planning. Instead of booking the first cruise that catches your eye, research your options and compare prices.

You could learn that the popular cruise line isn't the most affordable, or that you’re willing to pay more to reach your dream destination even though it’s pricier than you thought.

No matter what, taking the time to be extremely selective about the cruise you take will pay off in memories you know you’ll treasure.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

Book as early as possible

Like airline flights or hotel prices, cruises tend to cost more the longer you wait to book. Once you’ve decided on the perfect cruise, go ahead and book it — a year in advance, if you can.

Don’t forget that cruises scheduled for either summertime or the holiday season fill up quickly and cost more than off-season cruises. And if you want to take a holiday cruise, book your trip ASAP.

Take advantage of travel deals

Are you a Costco member? You might qualify for discounted fares with certain cruise lines or specific destinations.

Similarly, booking through some credit cards with travel rewards can pay off in immediate discounts or help you earn miles so you can travel more later.

6 ways to build a life where you can travel any time you want

Budget for more than the cost of your ticket

Like any other type of vacation, plan for more expenses than just the price of a ticket. There are plenty of things for sale and a lot of potential add-ons that you might talk yourself into. 

Cruise ships have several stores on board where you can buy everything from duty-free goods and toiletries to clothes and souvenirs.

If you plan to disembark at key destinations (and we’re guessing you do), you’ll want a spending budget for those trips as well.

Write a packing list and stick to it

If your typical packing style is to throw everything you think you’ll need in a bag the night before your trip, you’ll want to change your last-minute habit for your cruise.

Planning in advance ensures you’ll have all the essentials so you can spend as little as possible on items at your cruise ship’s mall, which almost always cost more than the same items on land.

Pack a separate carry-on bag

Along with your main pieces of luggage, pack a small carry-on bag that you can walk on board with.

Include anything you want easy and immediate access to, like a week’s worth of medications (neatly organized in a pillbox), and anything you’ll need for a trip onshore, like a swimsuit.

That way, you won’t have to wait for your checked luggage to arrive in your cabin to start feeling at home on your ship.

13 legit ways to make extra cash

Look for fun activities ahead of time

You already know which ports your cruise is stopping at, so as soon as you book the cruise itself, start planning your shore excursions.

Internet access can be both pricy and slow on a cruise ship, which means doing your research ahead of time can save you money. And since ships only dock for a few hours at a time, you need to know in advance what you want to see.

Be sure to calculate how long it will take you to reach them and whether you can get there and back again before the ship leaves — because it isn’t going to wait around if you’re late.

Scope out your ship’s amenities and activities in advance

Along with planning your shore adventures, don’t forget to plan your oceanside adventures.

Get to know your ship’s layout, especially the location of the mall and dining areas. Read up on any activities the cruise line has planned and decide which ones you want to attend.

You’ll enjoy knowing exactly what to look forward to, and you’ll be able to plan a more accurate budget too.

Decide if you want a drink package before boarding

Cruise lines often offer drink packages where you can pay in advance to have nearly unlimited access to the bar.

If you’re planning on enjoying a tipsy cruise, you’ll probably save more in the long run by buying a drink package upfront.

On the other hand, if you’re fine with a drink (or less) a day, you’ll save money bringing your own beverage. Just make sure to find out if your cruise line has a corkage fee and plan accordingly.

9 nearly secret things to do if you fly Southwest

Get to the city you’re embarking from at least a day in advance

What’s the easiest way to ruin a cruise? Failing to make it on board before the ship sets sail.

Travel slowdowns happen, from bad weather on the road to delayed flights, so you don’t want to arrive in town the day of your departure.

Even though it requires you to budget for an extra night at a hotel, you’ll save a lot of stress if you give yourself a day of leeway.

Don’t overschedule every moment

Unstructured moments are often the ones where the most memorable experiences take place. Plus, if you're on vacation you deserve a little bit of time where you don't have to be anywhere or do anything.

While you’re organizing activities and planning your shore excursions, don’t forget to leave time to simply explore, lounge, and relax.

Use your cruise line’s app

There’s a lot to keep track of on your cruise, from sailing times to onsite entertainment.

Instead of trying to memorize all the dates, times, rules, and regulations on your own, download your cruise line’s app so you can access crucial information on the go.

Most importantly, you can use the app on your cruise without paying for a Wi-Fi package. You can make reservations, book massages, and (depending on the app) communicate with other people in your party without wasting data or money.

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Minimize your phone time

As we said above, cruise lines have notoriously slow, expensive internet. Taking a break from tech can save you money, not just because you won’t have to pay for internet, but also because your phone won’t eat up your data roaming the high seas for a signal.

If you need internet access, consider paying for Wi-Fi for just a few days out of the entire trip. It’s cheaper and will also help you stay in the moment and enjoy your cruise while it lasts.

And if you plan on using your phone’s camera to document the trip, make sure to keep the phone in airplane mode so you can keep more money in your bank account . 

Bottom line

No matter if you're looking to cruise for the first time, or you’re a seasoned cruise pro, you’re practically guaranteed to have a fantastic time on your trip if you plan ahead.

Following the 13 tips we listed here will simply make it that much more enjoyable, and you'll be able to save some money during your vacation. 

Take along a credit card that helps you earn travel rewards to maximize the benefit of the money you're spending.

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