Sometimes we need to get away: say goodbye to our 8 to 5 job, our routines, our stresses; grab our passport, and jet off to new and exciting destinations. It may feel like the world is shrinking- thanks to social media- still, there’s a whole lot of world to see, and a ton of adventures to be had. So here are 12 breathtaking places sure to satisfy your wanderlust.
1. Iceland
Iceland, the land of the midnight sun, where fire and ice coexist, and wild horses run. With its rich viking history and more waterfalls than people, Iceland is a magical destination. No wonder productions like Interstellar and Game of Thrones filmed here. Top attractions include: The Northern Lights (sightings may begin as early as September and last through March), Gullfoss waterfall, The Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Hveravellir Hot Springs. Beautiful Iceland Video
2. Pamukkale, Turkey
Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish. Once the ancient Greco-Roman Byzantine city of Hierapolis, It has been visited for thousands of years by people drawn to the healing power of its thermal pools. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the perfect place to sit back, soak, and take in the charming Turkish countryside. Pamukkale Video
3. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
To the Maasai people of Africa, Serengeti means “the place where the land runs on forever”. It is Tanzania’s oldest national park and covers almost 6,000 square miles of grasslands and woodlands. If adventure’s what you crave, you’re bound to spot lions, cheetahs, rhinos, elephants, and giraffes grazing in their natural habitat. The sunsets are truly spectacular. Tanzania Video
4. Maldives, India
From stunning white-sand beaches to serene cyan-blue waters, the 1200 islands of the Maldives are an ocean lover’s paradise. Known for pristine warm waters and an abundance of ocean life, it’s no wonder the Maldives are considered a top diving and snorkeling destination. Maldives Video
5. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Built in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Originally built to honor the Hindu god Vishnu, the temple changed from a Hindu house of worship to a Buddhist one. While never fully abandoned over the centuries, the surrounding jungle hid and preserved it. Today, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning over 200 acres. If you wish to see ALL of its impressive architecture, sculptures,and art, plan to stay several days. Even then, it’s nearly impossible; this place is vast! While meandering, don’t be surprised if you make friends with temple monkeys. Angkor Wat Video
6. Morocco
From sweeping deserts and high mountains to the windy alleyways of its ancient cities, Morocco is unlike any other. Top attractions include: a hike up North Africa’s highest peak, camel treks, shopping in the souks (for local flavors and awesome deals), wandering the old cities’ narrow streets, and relaxing in the hammam (Turkish bath). Let the sweet scents of saffron, orange flower, and other spices carry you through the crowds to mosaic tiled courtyards and decadent fountains. Morocco Video
7. Inverness, Scotland
Considered the “Gateway to the Scottish Highlands,” Inverness is a city steeped in fantastical lore. Drink enough Scotch and you just may catch a glimpse of Nessie or a kelpie waterhorse haunting Loch Ness. For nightly entertainment, check out one of several pubs where you can Celtic dance or listen to bagpipers play. Looking for plaids? Stroll the shops along River Ness and stop at a restaurant for a Scottish delicacy- haggis. Inverness Video
8. Zermatt, Switzerland
At the foot of the The Matterhorn lies this charming Swiss village famous for chocolate, fondue, and Bernese Mountain dogs. Because Zermatt is a car-free zone, it has maintained its alpine character in spite of the many tourists who visit each year. With over 400 km of hiking, biking, and climbing trails, this region is legendary among mountaineers. Many adventurers lost their lives trying to scale the infamous Matterhorn; a visit to the Mountaineers’ Cemetery is a must. Zermatt Video
9. Santorini, Greece
Still an active volcano, crescent-shaped Santorini is considered to be the most romantic getaway in Greece. From its picturesque white-washed clifftop towns to its volcanic red and black sand beaches, Santorini wows. Enjoy a glass of wine made from local grapes, relax in your cliff-side pool, and watch the bursting colors of a sun set over the Aegean. It’s something truly magical. Santorini Video
10. Cappadocia, Turkey
Turkey, where the continents of Asia and Europe collide, is the gateway to antiquities: the Silk Road, Troy, Ephesus, the Roman and Ottoman empires. With such a vibrant history it’s no wonder Turkey is home to many diverse religions including Islam and Christianity. During the Roman Empire, many Christians hid in the underground cities of Cappadocia. This region is best known for its honeycombed rock cities, underground churches, and hot air balloon rides. Due to Turkey’s surreal landscape and superb flying conditions, ballooning is an excellent way to witness this stunning landscape firsthand. Cappadocia Video
11. Patagonia, Argentina
Patagonia is sparse, wild, and beautifully rugged land traversing Chile and Argentina. From gauchos (Argentinian cowboys) to Magellanic penguins, Patagonia has it all. Make sure to visit Bariloche for some delicious freshly made chocolate and a horse back ride through this breathtaking land. Patagonia Video
12. Zion National Park, USA
Southern Utah’s Zion National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. It is where sandstone cliffs meet endless blue skies and the Virgin River runs. With miles of hiking, biking, and canyoneering trails, Zion is a place where mother nature meets the world. Zion National Park Video
The Earth is full of beautiful places. Go! Explore!
Featured photo credit: Balloons over Cappadocia/Patrick Down via flickr.com
