Mark Twain had it right when he said, “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do.”
But with a world filled with so much splendor, it can be difficult to narrow down a bucket list of must-see destinations.
Not sure which places around the globe you should pay a visit? Here are six must-see international destinations you should visit at least once in your lifetime that are sure to spark awe in every traveler.
1. Alaskan Glaciers
Did you know there are 10 times more glaciers than humans throughout all of Alaska? Talk about an abundance of beautiful, natural ice wonders to check out and see firsthand. Indeed, seeing one or several glaciers up close and personal is a quintessential Alaskan experience — and for good reason.
And by taking part and enjoying one of many 2019 Alaska cruises, you have a multitude of ways to cozy up to them. Watch the glaciers calve from the deck of a boat, kayak through the glacial lakes, don some crampons and climb, or hop aboard a helicopter or bush-plane flight.
2. Moscow, Russia (During Winter)
Speaking of chilly places that evoke wonder, there's nothing quite like the fresh snow falling in Red Square or the sparkle of the Kremlin lighting your path. Stop by the Sanduny bathhouse for awe-inspiring relaxation and which features palatial columns and mosaics, as well as a firewood sauna and fancy cold-water pools.
You should also make it a priority to sip on mulled wine and soak up the festivities at one of Speaking of chilly places that evoke wonder, there's nothing quite like the fresh snow falling in Red Square or the sparkle of the Kremlin lighting your path. Stop by the Sanduny bathhouse for awe-inspiring relaxation and which features palatial columns and mosaics, as well as a firewood sauna and fancy cold-water pools.
You should also make it a priority to sip on mulled wine and soak up the festivities at one of Moscow's many Christmas markets, or let the crisp winter air bathe you as you slip on your skates and circle the icy paths.
3. The Maldives
Nestled halfway between Africa and Asia, the Maldives are where people go to experience crystalline waters, crisscrossing coral reefs and underwater villas. Tiptoe across the blindingly white stretches of silky sand, explore an impressive number of reefs and marine species while scuba diving or snorkeling, or get some shut-eye in a private, over-water bungalow.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
Set in the high altitudes of the Andes Mountains in Peru, Machu Picchu is a top destination for anyone who wants to fuse historical sightseeing with lush jungles and gorgeous architecture.
The best way to explore one of the world's top historic attraction is via Cusco. As the old capital of the Inca Empire, the city itself is worth visiting for a few days before going to Machu Picchu. Check this Cusco itinerary, and catch a train from Cusco or traverse a multi-day hiking trail through deep Andean gullies and spectacular scenery.
Did you know Machu Picchu sits more than 8,000 feet above sea level and is at a higher altitude than Cusco? Thus, upon arriving in Peru, it's best to take some time to acclimate to this extreme elevation before venturing into the “lost city” that was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
5. Yunnan, China
Dotted with hundreds of historical relics and blanketed by a landscape of mountains and lakes, Yunnan is a must-see on anyone's bucket list. Foodies will rejoice with the eclectic cuisine that boldly fuses the notoriously spicy Sichuan food from the north, the light and seafood-based flavors of the east and the fresh Thai cooking of the south.
While visiting Yunnan, you can also travel through the 135-square-mile stone forest, immerse yourself in the ancient romance of the Lijiang people, and roam through the Ganden Sumtseling Monastery that pierces the landscape with its radiant gold appearance.
6. Australia's Great Barrier Reef
Home to one of the oldest and largest living coral reefs in the world, Australia's Great Barrier Reef is a must-see for anyone wanting to scuba dive or snorkel in the area's vast, crystal clear water.
Whether you hover overhead in a helicopter or get up close and personal with the dizzying array of marine life, it's difficult to tear your eyes away from this spectacular natural wonderland. Once you've seen all the dolphins, turtles, giant clams, rays and tropical fish, hop aboard a train destined for the tropical rain forest or interact with creatures at Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas.
Get Out and Enjoy
It often seems that the more someone travels, the more inclined they are to see and experience other unknown parts of the world. After all, it's difficult to resist the allure of a wide-open sea, the comfort of an old log cabin or the sparks of wonder that emerge when visiting a historical landscape. But no matter where your journey takes you, just remember you'll be much more apt to regret what you didn't do than what you did.
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