The mid-20s is a time to be selfish, a time to grow as a person, a time where you live presently and joyfully in today, but also start dreaming of a better tomorrow. It is when you move on from being careless to where you start realizing what it is that makes you excited with purpose and passion. What a better way to do this than by traveling to other countries and experiencing different cultures? Here are ten destinations that will broaden your sense of the world and yourself:
1 Open your eyes to the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef
In north-eastern Australia, we find the world’s largest coral reef – a beauty that is famous for being the only living thing that can be seen from space. Take a friend, or better yet, go alone and explore this wonder of the world through snorkeling, scuba diving, helicopter and boat rides.
2 Take a hike on the Inca Trail
Rated in the top 5 treks in the world – the classic 4-day Inca Trail Trek combines mountain scenery, tropical jungle, lush and mystical cloud forest and of course the combination of Inca paving stones, ruins, and tunnels. Not only will the journey leave you in awe, and allow your mind to open in new ways you never thought possible, but so will the final destination: Machu Picchu, also known as ‘The Lost City of the Incas.’
3 Come alive in South Africa
There is no place on earth that you will feel more in touch with your soul and nature than in Africa, more specifically South Africa. Feel infinite whilst camping under the stars, become the surfer you always wanted to be at the breathtakingly beautiful beaches and explore the country like a true gypsy of the world. This will definitely be a trip for the books!
4 Find your inner warrior in South America
The wilder sibling of the America will test your strength in ways that are fun and unforgettable. You will see the world’s biggest rainforest, the highest mountain range, heavenly beaches, secluded islands, widespread deserts and the world’s tallest waterfall. Did I mention you could swim with Sea Lions? Your inner child can only come alive through allowing yourself the joy of swimming with these intelligent, playful and yes, loud beings.
5 Take the famous Eurotrip
See dozens of countries filled with history and culture, merely in a few weeks’ time. Explore those buried fantasies you had as a child whilst reading Jane Austen, the Bronte Sisters, Leo Tolstoy and Vladimir Nabokov. Find yourself in the art, architecture and the mouthwatering cuisine.
Read also – 8 Most Underrated Countries in Europe
6 Settle your spirit in Southeast Asia
Fertile, culturally rich and mesmerizing. These are some of the adjectives that you can use to describe Southeast Asia, which is known for its paradise beaches, spellbinding historical sights and awe-evoking adventures. Explore points of interest such as Angkor Wat, Cambodia, the city of Bangkok, as well as the beaches of Thailand, and the scenic views of the islands of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam – all on a reasonable budget. This is the place where you will immerse and find yourself in the old and the new.
7 Chase the Northern Lights of Lapland
In the largest and northernmost region of Finland, you will find Lapland. Lapland is the exact depiction of what is known as Winter Wonderland with its ‘Aurora Borealis’ or Northern Lights, which are considered to be one of the natural wonders of the world. Have a cup of tea, or in my case, coffee put on your warmest gear and go chase these magical lights by snowshoes, snowmobile or even go old school with reindeer.
8 Explore the Easter Island
Rapa Nui or Easter Island is a Chilean Island in the middle of the pacific and is known for its silent stone figures; which is a monument to the maritime skills and unique culture of ancient Polynesian people. Although flights to Rapa Nui are scarce, the place itself is not undiscovered and remote and can be best explored by horseback, making it the perfect peaceful and informative adventure.
9 Visit the place that overflows with Hakuna matata
Bob Marley is not the only great thing that Jamaica is famous for. It is also known for its spirited Adventure, colorful beauty, and open-armed compassion. A place that will have you saying that ‘Everything is gonna be all right, man.’ Go feel the vibrant vibe on Jamaica’s beaches, hiking trails and festive parties; the food will also give you an idea of their Rastafarian religion and the compassion and love behind it. Jamaica is an island that is booming with art, culture, and rhythm. Why not become one with it?
10 Enjoy the happiest place on Earth
Costa Rica is a place that emanates wellness from all its angles. You will find authentic beach experiences and rhythmic rainforest trails – all of which does wonders for the body, mind, and soul. Enjoy romantic sunsets, paddle through majestic channels in Tortuguero or romp through muddy trails on an ATV (who says it is only for guys?) Whatever you choose to do, a Costa Rican experience of a lifetime is guaranteed.
Read also – 10 Most Popular Private Jet Destinations
Allow these destinations to inspire you, shape you and yes, change you. Open not only your eyes to the wonders of the world, but also your heart. This is your time, do not let anyone convince you otherwise. Go pack your bags – adventure awaits!
