Anyone can take a trip to a famous tourist attraction like the Grand Canyon. But how many people really push themselves out of their comfort zones with a trip somewhere far, far away? Here are just nine far-flung destinations that are worth the travel time.
1. Daniel Campos, Bolivia
Daniel Campos is home to the world's largest salt flats. While this might not sound exciting in print, take a moment to look at pictures that visitors have snapped of places like Salar de Uyuni. The ground is so reflective of the sky above that it looks like everyone is literally walking on clouds! Now that's something that you can't get out of an ordinary vacation.
2. Seoul, South Korea
Some people think of South Korea as a simple, traditional place full of straw huts and rice fields, and while there are certainly rural locations like that, Seoul isn't one of them. Seoul is a thriving metropolis where cutting-edge fashion is advertised on gigantic billboards that make the most out of expensive technology. If you're looking for a fun, flashy vacation, consider the heart of South Korea.
3. Lisse, Netherlands
Lisse is home to Keukenhof, one of the world's biggest and most bountiful flower gardens. Millions of tulips are planted each year, and by springtime, they've blossomed into never-ending fields of yellow, red, orange, blue and pink. In fact, you've probably seen pictures of Keukenhof even if you've never heard of it before. It's a famous sight that has been printed on all kinds of postcards and immortalized in all kinds of travel blogs.
4. Niigata, Japan
Certain parts of Japan are known as "snow country" because of their heavy, powdery snowfalls. Niigata is firmly located in snow country. It becomes a winter wonderland every single year, and whether you're interested in death-defying mountain sports or just cozy cups of hot chocolate as you watch the snow fall outside of your cabin windows, Niigata will provide.
5. Belize City, Belize
Put on your swim trunks when you visit Belize City! This seaside destination is a favorite of beach bums everywhere. It also offers an endless amount of resorts, restaurants, museums, movie theaters, art galleries and shopping districts to fill your days when you're done sunbathing. You'll never run out of things to do in Belize City, and what's more, it will all be done under bright, happy sunshine.
6. Marrakech, Morocco
Home to everything from Ouzoud Falls to the Majorelle Garden, Marrakech is one of the greatest destinations in Africa. It's also a convenient layover spot if you're looking to continue your adventures in Europe or South America. See the sights; enjoy the foods; take breathtaking pictures for your scrapbook. Then contact somewhere like the Come to the Sahara Tour Company for even more travel opportunities.
7. Paro Taktsang, Bhutan
Paro Taktsang is a sacred monastery for Buddhists monks. It also happens to be more than 10,000 feet above sea level because it's located on a cliff in the Himalayas. Known to locals as the "Tiger's Nest," it's a site of great spiritual significance, so it's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in history, culture or world religion.
8. Algarve, Portugal
Nothing beats Algarve for a beach vacation. With white sands, blue skies, green trees and rainbow umbrella drinks, you'll get to relax down to your bones when you lounge in its tropical paradise. For the thrill-seekers out there, Algarve is also home to an extensive network of underwater caves where the brave can go swimming, snorkeling and exploring.
9. Auckland, New Zealand
You probably know New Zealand as the filming location for Lord of the Rings, but the country has so much more to offer than just trees and mountains! For example, Auckland is rich with the history of the Maori people, and it also boasts incredible views from its harbors and skyscrapers. You can even go bungee-jumping off its Sky Tower!
These are just a few destinations that will get you off the couch and into the world. Whether you're looking for a crazy trip overseas or a simple, quiet getaway for your honeymoon, let this list guide you.
1. Daniel Campos, Bolivia
Daniel Campos is home to the world's largest salt flats. While this might not sound exciting in print, take a moment to look at pictures that visitors have snapped of places like Salar de Uyuni. The ground is so reflective of the sky above that it looks like everyone is literally walking on clouds! Now that's something that you can't get out of an ordinary vacation.
2. Seoul, South Korea
Some people think of South Korea as a simple, traditional place full of straw huts and rice fields, and while there are certainly rural locations like that, Seoul isn't one of them. Seoul is a thriving metropolis where cutting-edge fashion is advertised on gigantic billboards that make the most out of expensive technology. If you're looking for a fun, flashy vacation, consider the heart of South Korea.
3. Lisse, Netherlands
Lisse is home to Keukenhof, one of the world's biggest and most bountiful flower gardens. Millions of tulips are planted each year, and by springtime, they've blossomed into never-ending fields of yellow, red, orange, blue and pink. In fact, you've probably seen pictures of Keukenhof even if you've never heard of it before. It's a famous sight that has been printed on all kinds of postcards and immortalized in all kinds of travel blogs.
4. Niigata, Japan
Certain parts of Japan are known as "snow country" because of their heavy, powdery snowfalls. Niigata is firmly located in snow country. It becomes a winter wonderland every single year, and whether you're interested in death-defying mountain sports or just cozy cups of hot chocolate as you watch the snow fall outside of your cabin windows, Niigata will provide.
5. Belize City, Belize
Put on your swim trunks when you visit Belize City! This seaside destination is a favorite of beach bums everywhere. It also offers an endless amount of resorts, restaurants, museums, movie theaters, art galleries and shopping districts to fill your days when you're done sunbathing. You'll never run out of things to do in Belize City, and what's more, it will all be done under bright, happy sunshine.
6. Marrakech, Morocco
Home to everything from Ouzoud Falls to the Majorelle Garden, Marrakech is one of the greatest destinations in Africa. It's also a convenient layover spot if you're looking to continue your adventures in Europe or South America. See the sights; enjoy the foods; take breathtaking pictures for your scrapbook. Then contact somewhere like the Come to the Sahara Tour Company for even more travel opportunities.
7. Paro Taktsang, Bhutan
Paro Taktsang is a sacred monastery for Buddhists monks. It also happens to be more than 10,000 feet above sea level because it's located on a cliff in the Himalayas. Known to locals as the "Tiger's Nest," it's a site of great spiritual significance, so it's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in history, culture or world religion.
8. Algarve, Portugal
Nothing beats Algarve for a beach vacation. With white sands, blue skies, green trees and rainbow umbrella drinks, you'll get to relax down to your bones when you lounge in its tropical paradise. For the thrill-seekers out there, Algarve is also home to an extensive network of underwater caves where the brave can go swimming, snorkeling and exploring.
9. Auckland, New Zealand
You probably know New Zealand as the filming location for Lord of the Rings, but the country has so much more to offer than just trees and mountains! For example, Auckland is rich with the history of the Maori people, and it also boasts incredible views from its harbors and skyscrapers. You can even go bungee-jumping off its Sky Tower!
These are just a few destinations that will get you off the couch and into the world. Whether you're looking for a crazy trip overseas or a simple, quiet getaway for your honeymoon, let this list guide you.