Now that the world is slowly starting to reopen, you might already be mapping out your next trip abroad. We can’t blame you for wanting to give in to wanderlust so soon — the isolation has made everyone crave life-changing adventures more than ever.
But before you book those coveted flight tickets that just went on sale, consider browsing the travel experiences that you’ve never thought about adding to your itinerary before. Even the savviest of the travelers would be surprised by how many thrilling experiences they haven’t got the chance to embark on just yet.
Below are our cream of the crop picks you’ll be happy to put on your already jam-packed travel agenda.
1. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania
This bucket-list adventure is the one worth pursuing if (literally) reaching big heights gives you adrenaline. You can’t go wrong with either of the 7 routes backpackers take to climb the mount as they all provide you with the to-die-for views on your way to the summit.
Wild animals, exotic plants, and rainforests are just a few of the examples of the scenery you’ll be witnessing along the way.
2. Enroll in a silent meditation retreat in Thailand
There’s nothing more revitalizing than awakening to your spiritual purpose while trotting the globe. Silent meditation retreats that are also known as Vipassana are designed to help you with just that.
You’re virtually guaranteed to find your zen by the end of the retreat — the meditation practices organized multiple times per day will teach you how to be more conscious of your thoughts and not let the stress of life get to you.
3. Go on an authentic safari in Botswana
Dreaming about seeing the wildlife in its natural habitat? Look into booking a once-in-a-lifetime safari trip in pristine Botswana, the heart of Central Southern Africa. This is where you’ll see black rhinoceros, lechwes, wildebeests, impalas, velvet monkeys, and many more wild animals.
The best part — there are plenty of safari lodges to choose from to make your trip that much more memorable.
4. Scuba dive in Indonesia’s archipelago Raja Ampat
The Great Blue Hole in Belize isn’t the only diving spot in the world with crystal clear water and dozens of species of fish — Raja Ampat in West Papua is one of them. This remote archipelago is home to massive sharks, manta rays, and corals that often give divers the impression that they’re exploring a real-life Jurassic Park.
One way to explore more of the 3.155 km₂-wide islands is to join a liveaboard and cruise through the area for multiple days in a row.
5. Participate in India’s sacred spring festival Holi
To engage with local traditions and get the feel of the Indian culture, visit the country during the spring when Holi is being celebrated. This celebration of the spring arrival is held on the full moon day in the month of Phalgun in the Hindu calendar.
On this day, people take over the streets to throw dry colors along with balloons and water guns on each other while dancing and filling their stomachs with local delicacies.
6. Watch penguins in Antarctica
For an out-of-a-fairytale travel experience, embark on a trip to Antarctica. There you’ll be able to not only chill with penguins and learn how to walk like they do but also try sea kayaking and swim in hot springs.
You can get there by booking a cruise from South America or taking a flight that’s still a novelty among travelers.
7. Hike one of the Torres del Paine treks in Chilean Patagonia
Nature lovers, rejoice — Torres del Paine national park is unlike anything you’ve ever visited. Located in Chile’s Patagonia region, it’s notorious for being a challenging place to trek but also one of the most worthwhile ones out there.
No matter what starting point you’ll choose, there’s no way you’ll miss out on the breathtaking ice fields, tower-like rock formations, and scenic lakes with bright blue water. Pack proper gear and food to fuel, plan the route ahead of time, and you’re bound to have the best time of your life in Patagonia.
8. Gaze at the Aurora Borealis in Canada
There’s a reason why the Northern Lights are always on the travelers’ minds. They’re rare and in high demand which makes the Northwestern territories of Canada the best places to gaze at them.
If you visit these territories in the fall or in the winter, you’re more likely to witness them in full force. Visible 240 nights a year, Aurora Borealis is as mind-blowing as people make them seem to be.
9. Assist in building an outdoor activity camp in Nepal
Don’t shy away from doing good when traveling. Volunteering abroad is one of the best ways to help out while still getting to check off the box next to exploring a new place. This experience in particular gives you the opportunity to get involved in the Nepalese community and discover the spectacular valleys, rivers, and mountains of the country at the same time.
Familiarize yourself with what the typical day as a volunteer in Nepal entails and embark on this journey with nothing but a thirst for a new adventure.
10. Learn how to bake pastries in France
If you’re an avid foodie, you’re well aware of the reputation France has for its decadent desserts. But did you know that you can take a pastry cooking class — or, to take it a step further, a full-on course — and learn how to bake those lemon tarts and berry macarons all by yourself?
This travel experience is the perfect add-on to your existing itinerary as it both helps you hone your cooking skills and opens up a whole new world of career opportunities for you.
There’s hardly a shortage of travel experiences to be had if you approach them with an open mind and an interest in new adventures. Choose the spots wisely and you’ll surely discover your new go-to’s that you’ll be telling your friends all about when you arrive back home.