The world is beautiful. It’s filled with vast oceans, mountains and valleys and so much more than most of us will ever know. Traveling while you’re young has so much more of an impact on your life because it shapes your view of the world. It can even help you figure out who you are and who you want to be before it’s time to make all those adult decisions. This list of must-see places is guaranteed to help you do some soul searching on your travels and give your memories to last more than a lifetime.
1. Gobi Desert, Mongolia
This vast desert is unlike anything you have ever seen before. Sand dunes, ice filled canyons and camel treks are only some of the things to see and do. The Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park is laden with mountains that are met with desert sand at the base. The desert’s largest sand dune can be visited in the park, and explorers are encouraged to look for desert wildlife which includes camel, snow leopards and sheep.
2. Marstrand, Sweden
The beautiful island holds a harbor, museums and forts that are sure to captivate. Those who climb to the tower of the Carlsten Fort are rewarded with a breathtaking view of Marstrand. Hiking trails are located along the coast and tourists can sail, kayak, and go on seal excursions.
3. Milford Sound, New Zealand
Escape to one of New Zealand’s most stunning attractions. Located in the Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is bounded by steep cliffs and dense rainforest. Penguins, dolphins and seals can often be seen in the waters, as well as the occasional whale. There are numerous waterfalls to visit too, and on a stormy day, if the wind is powerful enough the water from the falls can catch in the wind, causing the water to go upwards.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a city that straddles Europe and Asia, and has very much been influenced by both continents. Visit the underground Basilica Cistern and watch fish swim between the columns, or explore the Dolmabahce Palace and enjoy the trimmings of gold, crystal and marble. The Galata Tower provides a beautiful panoramic view of the city for you to enjoy.
5. St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada
As the capital of the most eastern province in Canada, St. John’s is considered to be the oldest English-founded city in North America. Multiple museums and urban parks make it a popular place to visit in Newfoundland. Colorful row houses line the streets and the view over the cliffs provides a captivating skyline.
6. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is one of the original imperial cities of Morocco. It is home to the largest traditional market in Morocco. The historical wealth of the city can be seen in the large number of palaces and mosques that attract thousands of visitors every year. The most popular of these sights is the Badii Palace, or the Sultan’s Palace, that only survives as its ruins today.
7. Garden of the Gods, Colorado, USA
These geological formations were naturally created millions of years ago and are the ancient sedimentary beds of deep red, pink and white sandstone and limestone. Multiple tribes of Native Americans called the Garden of the Gods their home for hundreds of years. It is a popular place for hiking and rock climbing, as well as mountain biking and horseback riding. If you love the outdoors, this is definitely a place worth visiting.
8. Cuzco, Peru
The Incan capital of Cuzco is the country’s oldest city. It is decorated with Incan temples and a trail that leads to Machu Picchu. The ancient citadel is popular for its extensive terraces and architecture, as well as the view it provides. Moray, located northwest of Cuzco, is the site of unusual, circular Incan ruins.
9. Innsbruck, Austria
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck was the scene of the imperial court during the 15th century. The Imperial Palace is open for tourists to explore. Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a favorite among tourists. Discover a mix of art, music and culture in the Chambers of Wonder and the Garden of the Giant. The Crystal Cloud is a magnificent attraction, with 8,000 hand mounted crystals.
10. Aswan, Egypt
This southern setting is graced with the most beautiful setting along the Nile River. Several islands in the river face Aswan. Elephantine Island is the largest of the group and is the sight of many monumental ruins, such as the Nilometer, which was used by Ancient Egyptians to measure the height of the Nile. Philae Temple can be visited on Philae Island. Beautiful wall carvings and architecture make this a popular tourist attraction.
11. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
This bay consists of more than 1,000 limestone islands that jut out of the water at heights of almost 300 feet, each topped with jungle vegetation. Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves inside. The bay is home to almost 200 species of fish, making fishing a popular sport in the area. Kayaking on the waters of the Gulf of Tonkin and rock climbing on these giant rock structures are also popular among tourists.
12. Choroni, Venezuela
Leave everything behind when you visit this beautiful coastal scene in the Aragua region of Venezuela. This town is a great place to stay if you also want to explore the jungles and cloud forest and the Henri Pittier National Park. The park is a wonderful place for wildlife adventurers to search for hundreds of bird and butterfly species, as well as monkeys, deer and reptiles. Beautifully painted houses are located inland from the Choroni Beach for guest accommodations.
13. Peloponnese, Greece
Experience the peninsula of Peloponnese and all of its ancient history. It was once the heart of Sparta and now holds its many ancient ruins. Visit Ancient Olympia, home of the first Olympic Games, and the Epidaurus Theatre, where theatrical performances still occur. The coastal town of Nafplio is home to two popular tourist attractions in the northeastern part of the peninsula: the Palamidi Fortress and Bourtzi Castle.
