WITH travel well and truly back on the radar, it’s time to make those big bucket list trips come true.
Yes, some of these suggestions are expensive, but you’ll never regret going there.
These places are all hits with Aussie tourists for once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Ride on a gondola in Venice
There are many amazing cities in the world, but there’s none quite like Venice. Even Woy Woy, which once marketed itself as the Venice of Australia, pales in comparison. The Italian city is known for the canals between its houses. Once a powerhouse of the trading world, Venice’s architecture is a sight to behold. And what better way than relaxing in a gondola as you’re taken through the maze-like waterways?
Once you’re in Venice, it’s tempting to see what else Italy and Europe has to offer, so you may well be able to tick off two (or more) bucket list destinations this year. Rome and Athens, here we come!
Dive the Great Barrier Reef
You don’t have to go far to see one of the world’s best natural features, Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef is in our backyard after all.
Most visitors make their trip out from Cairns, but there are also cruises leaving from Airlie Beach, Port Douglas and Townsville.
Maybe catch those blues of every hue by making your way to one of the small islands near the reef with a flight from many of Queensland’s airports.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s best diving and snorkelling spots. Plunge underwater to see a wide range of colourful reef fish as well as large creatures like manta rays, turtles and reef sharks.
Visit the old temples of Bagan
Word is slowly getting out about the beauty of Myanmar and now is the time to go if you want to beat the crowds.
Still something of an undiscovered gem, the country reveals Southeast Asia without the crowds. One of the best examples can be found in Bagan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its millennia-old temples.
For an extra bucket list item, consider running the Bagan Temple Marathon while you’re there.
Snorkel in the Maldives
The Maldives is a dream destination for many and for good reason.
The remote island group is a paradise and it’s particularly popular with honeymooners and couples celebrating anniversaries. Maybe it’s the white sand, the warm waters and luxurious rooms that make it easy to forget the worries of day to day life.
Loved up travellers can (and should) stay in an overwater bungalow where crystal waters are just a quick ladder climb away from a private balcony. Lounge in your room or book a boat trip to one of the many islands and lounge on the stunning beaches instead.
Go on safari in Kenya
An African safari, and the chance to see the big five, is an incredible way to spend your next holiday.
Although rhinos can be incredibly rare to spot, the other four (lion, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes) are common to see in the Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya.
Once you arrive, you have a few options for how you can explore the natural wonderland. A guided tour by Jeep is generally the best way to see the animals, but a hot air balloon gives another perspective on the Kenyan landscape.
