From seeking out adventure to getting up close and personal with a range of wild animals to taking on an epic journey, travel bucket list experiences have become ever more possible thanks to travel companies offering special itineraries for those once-in-a-lifetime trips.
After Covid-19 induced lockdowns, it seems that we are raring to get back out there and fulfil our dreams once again when it comes to the world of exploration, and here at LLM – Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, we are here to help you figure out just how to achieve this. From trekking ancient sites to coming face to face with some of the world’s most elusive creatures to witnessing nature at its finest, we take a look at five of the more popular travel bucket list experiences available to you. Which one of these makes it onto your list?
Witness the Northern Lights in Scandinavia
It’s a popular one, and for great reason, as anyone who has been lucky enough to witness the dancing illuminations that are the Aurora Borealis will know just how special observing the sight is.
The elusiveness of the Northern lights show somehow makes it all the more appealing for travellers seeking out the natural phenomenon as there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to tick them off your list on any trip. Having said that there are ways to narrow down the odds of spotting the dancing green lights in the sky, and the best way to do this is to let the experts do the hard work for you.
One company that specialises in Northern Lights holidays is The Aurora Zone, the UK’s specialist at trips to Scandinavia to catch a glimpse of the night-time show. From three-night breaks to eight-night explorations, expect to enjoy a range of exquisite experiences in stunning surroundings, all topped off with (finger’s crossed) a viewing of the Northern Lights spectacle.
Set off on an African safari
There’s little quite as exciting as seeing animals in their natural habitats and Africa is the continent to visit if you wish to see a selection of the most interesting mammals, birds, reptiles and insects in the world.
Kenya is a popular choice for travellers to spot the big five and their friends, but LLM’s travel editor Natasha Heard can safely say that South Africa offers quite the safari experience too, especially when it comes to choosing the right place to stay. Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve offers guests an incredible stay across a selection of luxurious properties to suit their individual desires, all topped off with twice daily games drives, all-inclusive delectable dining with succulent South African wines and the friendliest of staff to make any stay a memorable one.
Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru
Exploring the wonders of the modern and ancient world often make it onto many a bucket list, and it really isn’t difficult to see why, with structures chosen for their ingenuity and impressive nature. Adventurers will no doubt have Peru’s 15th century Inca citadel Machu Picchu on their radar as it’s considered to be quite the feat, perched on top of an 8,000ft mountain in a tropical forest. Those looking to make the 26-mile-long trek will be rewarded with magnificent views and will be able to spot significant flora and fauna. Book with a travel specialist for the best experience.
See penguins in the wild in Antarctica
There are a few places you can travel to across the world if you watch to catch sight of these fascinating creatures, but why not make your trip a truly exceptional one and combine it with a visit to the White Continent? A true once in a lifetime experience, this voyage would be one that will surely impress all who hear about it and also one that you’ll treasure for life.
The best time to see emperor penguins in Antarctica is in October and November and expect to undertake quite the expedition setting sail from South America’s most southerly point, Ushuaia, before crossing the infamous Drake Passage to get there.
Snorkel in Bora Bora, French Polynesia
There are plenty of impressive locations across the globe where you can don your snorkelling gear and bask in shallow waters while spotting stunning marine life, but the paradisiacal island of Bora Bora has to be one of the finest.
Spend your nights in a plush overwater bungalow and your days swimming among sea life in the lush lagoons. The best bit about snorkelling in Bora Bora is that the surrounding waters provide a range of environments for all levels, so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy what this enchanting location can offer.
