Get ready to explore some of the most breathtaking and significant destinations in the world! From scenic natural wonders to rich cultural landmarks, we've handpicked seven must-visit places that offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're an adventure-seeker, a history buff, or just looking to escape to a beautiful and peaceful setting, this list is sure to inspire your next travels. So pack your bags, grab a camera, and join Jess as we tour a of these amazing destinations!
1. Mont Saint-Michel, France:
Mont Saint-Michel is an awe-inspiring Benedictine abbey located on a rocky outcrop in the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel on the border of Normandy and Brittany. It is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, and considered as the "Wonder of the West" during the medieval period. The abbey, which took 500 years to complete, is situated in an area with Europe’s largest tidal range, with the tides reaching close to 50 feet in spring. This unique location, combined with the beauty of the abbey, draws pilgrims from across the world to this mystical place. At low tide, it's possible to walk barefoot to the abbey, crossing the vast sandflats that surround it, and at high tide, the abbey appears to float on the sea like an ocean mirage. The combination of sea and stone is truly remarkable, making Mont Saint-Michel an architectural and natural wonder.
2. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina:
Perito Moreno Glacier is considered by many to be the most beautiful glacier on Earth, located in Los Glaciares National Park in southern Patagonia. This massive wall of jagged turquoise ice covers over 100 square miles and reaches almost 200 feet high. A visit to Perito Moreno is a truly powerful experience, as visitors can hike to a viewpoint or take a boat to the edge of the glacial wall, where they can hear the thundering sound of cracking ice as enormous icebergs are calved into the deep blue waters of Lake Argentino. The sight of the icebergs floating across the bay, glittering in the sun like crystals, is truly breathtaking and dwarfed by the vast tongue of ice from which they’re formed. If you see one glacier in your life, make it Perito Moreno.
3. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia:
Salar de Uyuni is a vast, otherworldly salt flat in southwestern Bolivia. It's the largest salt flat in the world, covering over 10,582 square kilometers and is the remnant of an ancient lake that went dry thousands of years ago. In the dry season, the salt flat is a seemingly endless expanse of white, with a sky-reflected mirror image so bright it can be seen from space. The salt flat is surrounded by towering Andean mountains and is home to flocks of pink flamingos, making it one of the most unique and breathtaking landscapes on the planet. During the rainy season, the salt flat transforms into a shallow lake, creating a mesmerizing and surreal vision of reflections, colors and shapes that can only be found in this one-of-a-kind location.
4. Tiger's Nest Monastery, Bhutan:
The Tiger's Nest Monastery is a breathtakingly beautiful and significant Buddhist temple located in Bhutan. The temple is perched on a cliff and can only be reached by hiking, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Bhutan. The temple holds great spiritual significance for Bhutanese Buddhists and is considered one of the most sacred places in the country. The long-awaited Trans Bhutan Trail, a 250-mile trekking route that crosses the country from Haa in the west to Trashigang in the east, was completed at the end of 2022, making the Tiger's Nest Monastery more accessible to visitors. A visit to the temple offers a chance to experience Bhutanese culture and spirituality, as well as some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
5. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia:
The Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 km and covering an area of roughly 344,400 km². The reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish and 600 species of hard and soft corals. The vibrant colors and unique species of the reef make it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, attracting millions of visitors each year. The reef is also important for the local fishing industry and the tourism industry, making it a significant economic asset to Australia. However, the Great Barrier Reef is facing threats from climate change and pollution, making it all the more important to protect and preserve this beautiful natural wonder.
6. The Grand Canyon, USA:
The Grand Canyon is a geological wonder located in northern Arizona, USA. It is a vast canyon that was formed by the erosion of the Colorado River over millions of years, creating a dramatic and beautiful landscape that spans over 277 miles. The Grand Canyon is up to 18 miles wide and over a mile deep, offering visitors stunning views of the colorful rock formations and breathtaking vistas. The canyon is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, and numerous bird species. The Grand Canyon is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year, making it an important economic asset to the surrounding area. Additionally, the Grand Canyon is also significant for its geological and cultural history, and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Great Wall of China:
The Great Wall is a testament to the remarkable architectural and engineering skills of ancient China, as well as its rich history. Stretching over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall is the longest wall in the world and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can hike along sections of the wall and learn about its construction, defensive purposes, and historical significance. With its cultural, architectural, and historical significance, the Great Wall of China is an unforgettable experience for travelers.
And as always, if you're looking for someone to research and book all of this for and create a custom travel plan for you, you call Jess.Travel.