WORLD TRAVEL: TOP 5 BUCKET LIST IDEAS
1. THE MALDIVES
With their crystal blue seas, overwater bungalows and white-sand beaches, the Maldives is an island paradise that tops our bucket list. These beautiful islands are the perfect destination for weddings, honeymoons and romantic getaways.
Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives consists of nearly 1,200 islands and is home to more than 150 resorts, many on their own private islands.
Visiting these beautiful islands is an experience you’ll never forget. There are many amazing places to stay, but here are our picks for the top resorts in the Maldives or these top island luxury resorts.
For those adventurers, add scuba diving in the Maldives to your list. Many resorts have world-class reefs right offshore.
2. HAWAII (USA)
Travelers searching for an exotic destination don’t have to leave the United States. Gorgeous beaches, sand and surf, romantic sunsets, and endless activities make Hawaii the perfect tropical destination for all ages.
Even in the busy capital city of Honolulu, life slows down and travelers can “hang-loose” as the locals do. Celebrate Hawaii’s unique culture and history.
Couples choose Kauai for its beauty, solitude, and adventures, creating romance at every turn.
Families visit this Hawaiian island for family-friendly things to do, from whale watching to ziplining to surfing. And yes, even teens will name Kauai as their top family vacation.
And the Big Island of Hawaii is also a big must-visit for all ages. It’s home to five national parks, volcanoes and so much more.
3. ITALY
Visit Italy and you’ll discover its beauty, history, culture, and cuisine. With its long Mediterranean coastline and long history, Italy has had a powerful impact on the world.
Its capital, Rome, is home to the Vatican, Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain, as well as other landmark art and ancient ruins.
Other major cities include Florence, with Renaissance masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s “David” and Brunelleschi’s Duomo; Venice, the city of canals; and Milan, Italy’s fashion capital.
But don’t miss the lesser-known but equally amazing towns like: Travel in Torino; Salento Sojourns; Italy’s hidden charms: Umbria, Tuscany, and the Dolomites.
4. FRANCE
The charming country of France tops many travelers’ bucket lists. A unique mix of quaint towns and contemporary cultures makes it easy to fall in love with France.
From its delightful French cuisine, historical landmarks and stunning vineyards from the Bordeaux region to the Loire Valley, it’s easy to see why France has become one of the most-visited countries in the world.
A top bucket-list destination, Paris (also known as the City of Light) is the most popular destination in France and is home to iconic landmarks such as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Versailles, Notre Dame, and Normandy. Don’t miss: Top 20 Things to Do in Paris
While Paris is a great start, some of the most popular tourist destinations and vacation spots in France for the French/Parisians are Nice, Côte d’Azur, Marseille, and Cannes, bordering the country of Monaco.
Southern France offers hidden gems including the Rhône wine region and Claude Monet’s home in Giverny, Normandy. And of course, there is that spectacular scenery. We suggest beginning your research with our France Travel Guide.
5. IRELAND
Ireland still tops my list as the perfect world travel destination. Did you know that Ireland is the third-largest island in Europe? My favorite memory is discovering the magic of the Wild Atlantic Way from the beautiful beaches in Donegal to the stunning West Cork coastline.
This Atlantic country is known worldwide for Guinness beer, pubs, Celtic music, and Riverdance. And of course, Ireland is known all over the world for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, novels, toe-tapping traditional Irish dancing and music, the best whiskey — and their pubs!