Our Updated Bucket List

We all dream of that one exotic place we’d like to visit before we kick the bucket. Chances are, however, you keep putting off planning your getaway for the same reasons we all do – too busy and not enough money. But now may be the perfect time to set aside some time and start planning.

1. Iceland

If you’re looking for one of the best natural phenomenons of the world look no further than the northern lights in Iceland. The mysterious, multicolored show in which the night sky is lit up with a glow is not only a beautiful experience but a spiritual one as well. Between November and March is the best time to see the lights. You can take an organized tour or you can simply drive or walk to a dark area and stare at the sky. Some recommend staying somewhere that has an outdoor hot tub so you can sit in the warmth and watch the sky light up. 

2. Great Wall of China

This popular tourist attraction is thousands of miles long and passes through 156 counties with 7,062 lookout towers. It is the largest cultural relic humans have ever built. As you climb through the vast countryside, which stretches from Shanhaiguan in the east to Lop Lake in the west, you will be treated to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. The less costly time to go is in the spring and fall, which is when you will get to see pink cherry blossoms and red leaves.  

3. Taj Mahal 

This massive marble temple in northern India is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. It was built in the first half of the seventeenth century by Mughai emperor Shah Jahan to hold the body of his third wife. The building however is now a mausoleum for both of them. Visiting this temple will give you a lesson is architectural history, considering the construction took more than 22 years to complete and required as many as 20,000 workers. Artisans came from all over to help create the beauty you will see, along with about 1,000 elephants that were used to transport materials. Be prepared to walk or hire a battery-powered vehicle to get around though because vehicles that emit pollution are not allowed nearby. 

4. Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Iguazu National Park, which is situated on the international border of Argentina and Brazil, features one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The Iguazu Falls is a majestic sight of roaring water with rainbows adorning the cascades. You can get up close to these falls by walking one of the wooden walkways that stretch out over the river.  

5. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Charles Darwin once called the Galapagos Islands a “little world within itself.” In fact, the famed naturalist developed his theory of evolution by natural selection soon after his visit to these isles in 1835. This area is known as a melting pot of marine life because of its location at the confluence of three ocean currents. It’s home to an abundance of colourful species, including the pink iguana and giant green tortoise.