Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - Rediscover Europe By River Cruise

A river cruise through Europe's iconic waterways offers a unique perspective on the continent's most storied destinations. Gliding along rivers like the Danube, Rhine, and Seine provides intimate access to Europe's beating heart. Whether meandering past hilltop castles, strolling historic city centers, or sampling regional wines, a river cruise lets you experience Europe at a relaxed pace.

"I'd always wanted to see Europe, but the idea of figuring out trains and buses was daunting," says Susan R., an avid cruiser. "With a river cruise, everything was taken care of. All I had to do was enjoy the scenery."

River cruises keep you close to the action, docking right in the heart of cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Paris. This enables easy exploration on foot and via included motorcoach excursions. "Being able to just walk off the ship into these amazing European cities was incredible," Susan recalls. "And not having to schlep luggage around was such a relief."

While river cruises focus on inland destinations, some itineraries start or end with overnights in iconic coastal cities like Amsterdam. This multi-destination approach gives a well-rounded taste of Europe. "I got to experience so many different cultures and cuisines," says Frank T. "Dutch cheeses, Austrian sachertorte, French wines...it was an epic culinary journey."

River cruises also spotlight off-the-beaten-path towns and villages. "I loved the small towns, like Rüdesheim in Germany, with its charming neighborhood streets," Susan says. "It was so cool to get this intimate look into everyday life."

Traveling via river cruise allows ample opportunity to connect with locals. "At each port I'd chat with the shop owners and locals about everything from football to favorite foods," Frank recalls. "Their insights and stories brought the places to life."

The smaller size and slower pace of river cruises facilitates more personalized experiences compared to ocean cruises. "With only about 150 passengers, the staff knew everyone's name and preferences," says Susan. "And there were fun small group excursions for bike rides and hikes along the river."

River cruising offers front row seats to Europe's natural beauty gliding by. "Seeing gorgeous scenery like vineyard-blanketed hillsides and fairytale castles drift past was mesmerizing," Frank describes. "I'd just sip my coffee on the sun deck and soak it all in."

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - Safari Under The Stars In Africa

An African safari is the quintessential bucket list trip for wildlife lovers and adventurers. The chance to track the Big Five, encounter iconic species in their natural habitats, and immerse in raw wilderness seems like a distant dream for many. But with planning and research, an unforgettable safari within reach.

Riding across the open savannah or gliding along waterways, there's nothing quite like seeing elephants bathe, giraffes stride across the plains, or prides of lions with playful cubs up-close. "No photo or nature documentary can truly capture what it's like to make eye contact with a gorilla or having cheetahs nonchalantly walk past your 4x4," says Sara K., avid safari-goer. "It's an adrenaline rush and deeply moving experience."

Beyond wildlife, the varied landscapes of Africa offer constantly changing scenery from mountain highlands and sweeping deserts to tropical jungles and thundering waterfalls. "One day we'd be tracking rhinos in a dense forest and the next floating along the Okavango Delta watching hippos swim by," recalls James T. "This diversity of ecosystems was incredible."

But for many, the most magical safari moments happen after the sun goes down. Nighttime game drives reveal an entirely different nocturnal world, while sleeping under the stars provides an immersive experience. "Waking up in the middle of the night to the sounds of hyenas calling and lions roaring was terrifying but also thrilling," Sara describes. "You really feel transported to a different world."

Special stargazing excursions present even more incredible nighttime encounters. "Lying on the ground gazing up at the Milky Way with a glass of South African wine was the perfect capstone to a day of game drives," James says. "The night sky looked like a blanket of glittering diamonds."

That closeness to nature has a profound impact. "Looking up at the same night sky humans have gazed upon for millennia I felt both insignificant but also deeply connected to past and present," Sara reflects. "It was a feeling of true awe."

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - Island Hop Through Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a dream destination for island hoppers seeking paradise. While better known hotspots like Bali draw big crowds, it’s the remote islands and cultures that offer the most rewarding adventures. Island hopping allows you to immerse in each unique locale at a relaxed pace.

Boat travel is the classic mode of transit between islands. But flights via small aircrafts between tiny airstrips also facilitate easy inter-island access. “I loved flying low over turquoise waters and waving at local fishermen below,” Alex describes. However, boat trips provide that quintessential island life vibe.

“Lounging on the deck watching dazzling green islands drift by was heaven,” says Sienna L., who cruised between Lombok, the Gili Islands, and Komodo National Park. “Island hopping by sea really emphasizes the remote beauty.”

While Bali and Lombok offer yoga retreats and beach resorts, eastern islands like Komodo and Flores feel truly off the beaten path. “I hiked volcanic peaks to see massive craters and remote hilltop villages,” Alex recalls. “The landscapes looked prehistoric.”

Marine encounters are a major draw. “Snorkeling with sea turtles and masses of technicolor fish was unreal,” says Sienna. “The coral reefs were more vibrant than anything I’d ever seen.”

But for many, Komodo Island’s famous namesakes are the main attraction. “Locking eyes with the world’s largest lizard just feet away got my heart racing,” Alex admits. “But the Komodo dragons move so gracefully and peacefully.”

Beyond natural wonders, fascinating cultures thrive across the islands. “Experiencing unique tribal rituals and dance performances made me feel like I’d been transported to another world,” Sienna describes. Smiling kids and welcoming locals enhanced the inviting vibe.

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - Trek To Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Since Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay made the first successful summit of Mount Everest in 1953, the tallest mountain on Earth has captured the imagination of adventure seekers and peak-baggers. While only the most experienced alpinists attempt Everest’s 29,032-foot summit, trekking to Everest Base Camp puts you up close and personal with the legendary mountain.

“Looking up at the jagged ridgeline of the highest peak on the planet was a totally humbling and awe-inspiring moment,” recalls intrepid traveler Mark J. “The sheer enormity and beauty of Everest is hard to grasp until you’re right there in its shadow.”

The journey to base camp itself is a challenging yet rewarding adventure. “Trekking to base camp was by far the most difficult thing I've ever done physically, but also one of the most worthwhile,” says avid trekker Julie P. The route typically takes 8-12 days, covering approximately 100 miles round-trip with elevations reaching 17,600 feet.

Acclimatizing to the high altitudes is critical. “Pacing yourself and allowing time to adjust to the thinner air is so important,” Julie advises. “But the payoff of gazing up at icons like Ama Dablam and Pumori throughout the journey made every lung-busting step worth it.”

The camaraderie of fellow trekkers enhances the experience. “Trekking solo, I met incredible people from all walks of life,” Mark recalls. “We motivated each other during the long days and swapped stories in tea houses at night.”

For many, the cultural immersion into Nepal's mountain communities is equally impactful. "Interacting with the kind, humble Sherpa people was incredible,” says Julie. “Learning about their ancient traditions and way of life high in the Himalayas gave me even greater appreciation for the region.”

The landscapes provide constantly changing scenery from rhododendron and pine forests to barren moonscapes. “One day we'd be hiking past Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind to the next marveling at how the terrain looked like Mars,” Mark describes.

Beyond Everest herself, the Himalayan vistas pay off with breathtaking moments the higher you go. “Watching the sun slowly light up gold and orange hues dancing across the mighty mountain range was one of the most magical sunrises I’ve ever witnessed," Julie fondly recalls.

An Everest Base Camp trek takes travelers passed historic milestones like Lukla Airport, the halfway point village of Dingboche, and cascading icefalls leading up to base camp itself. “Standing in the same spot where all Everest climbers begin their push for the summit was truly humbling,” says Mark. “It powerfully hit home just what an incredible achievement reaching the top of the world really is.”

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - Hot Air Balloon Over Cappadocia, Turkey

Rising at dawn, eager travelers gather on the outskirts of Göreme, an ancient village carved into the fantastical moonscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey. As the first hints of sunlight emerge, the balloons begin to inflate, soon to lift adventurers high above one of the world's most captivating regions.

"Stepping into the wicker basket for the first time, I had butterflies in my stomach," confesses thrill-seeker Amy K. "But as we smoothly lifted off the ground, a feeling of calm washed over me. Floating peacefully over the alien landscape, I was hypnotized."

Cappadocia's unique topography looks like something from a sci-fi movie, with wave after wave of rock formations called fairy chimneys blanketing the region. This dreamy terrain is the result of volcanic eruptions overlaying soft ash rock which eroded into spires, cones, and valleys. Gliding silently over this terrain in a hot air balloon creates an almost extraterrestrial experience.

"Looking down on the mushroom-shaped hoodoos and houses carved into cliffs really did feel like I was circling above some distant planet," Amy describes. "I'd seen photos, but nothing prepared me for how otherworldly it looks and feels from above."

Soaring over the sprawling valley also reveals fascinating details invisible from the ground. "I could gaze right into cave homes and historic pigeon coops dotted across rock faces," Amy recalls. "I even waved to farmers working their fields below."

Sunrise excursions also provide a stunning vista of hot air balloons gracefully dancing through the valley. "Seeing dozens of colorful balloons rising in unison over this ancient landscape was straight out of a fairy tale," says Ryan L., avid balloonist. "It's an experience that totally exceeded my already lofty imaginings."

Beyond scenery, floating effortlessly in silence high above the crowds and chaos below brings a profound sense of tranquility. "The serenity and beauty up there inspired a sort of moving reverence," Amy describes. "I could appreciate how this place has compelled humans for millennia."

Soaring peacefully over Cappadocia also sparks a thrilling sense of adventure. "Gently drifting across the alien terrain made me feel like a pioneering explorer," Ryan says. "I can only imagine what early hot air balloonists thought when first laying eyes on this marvelous kingdom."

Quiet moments of wonder are contrasted by playfully bumping along wind currents. "Swooping over ridges then dipping down into valleys kept me grinning ear-to-ear," Amy recalls. "Laughter and cheers would erupt after an extra gusty patch."

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - Road Trip Down The Pacific Coast Highway

Stretching nearly 1,700 miles from sunny San Diego up to misty Olympic National Park, driving the Pacific Coast Highway is a quintessential American road trip. Meandering along sheer cliffs, over iconic bridges, and past bohemian beach towns, this epic journey takes in some of the West Coast's most spectacular scenery.

The Southern California section offers perfect road trip vibes, from laidback San Diego and surf culture to glitzy Los Angeles and Orange County marine sanctuaries. "I loved exploring the funky beach neighborhoods and opulent mansions of Malibu and Santa Monica," Amy describes.

Further north, Big Sur's epic bridges spanning deep gorges and crashing waves titillate the senses. "Gazing out from Bixby Bridge at the Pacific stretching to the horizon was such a moving, spiritual moment," Amy recalls.

The wild central coast beckons outdoor enthusiasts with hidden coves perfect for kayaking, lush redwood groves ripe for hiking, and world-class surf breaks like Rincon. "Paddling along the craggy shoreline then tucking into fish tacos at a little seaside shack encompassed the magic of the central coast for me," says Amy.

Next, quirky Northern California treats you to the wild Sonoma coastline, Victorian neighborhoods of San Francisco, and groovy college town Santa Cruz. "I loved exploring the different coastal personalities, from eclectic cafes to raging sea cliffs," Amy says.

Making your way up the rugged Oregon shoreline leads to bohemian outposts like funky Venice Beach before culminating at the moody Pacific Northwest coast. "Hiking through mystical, misty old growth rainforests to roaring ocean vistas in Oregon was hauntingly beautiful," Amy fondly recalls.

Beyond scenery, this epic road trip offers indelible memories of local culture. "I chatted with so many charming characters, from surfers and artists to fisherman and farmers – everyone had great stories," Amy describes.

"With so much diversity from mile to mile, I never knew what was coming next," Amy says. "From marine sanctuaries to misty monoliths, the ever-changing landscapes encapsulate the West Coast's spirit."

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - A week In The Maldives Overwater Bungalow

With over 1,200 islands sprinkled across the cerulean Indian Ocean, the Maldives has captured the imagination of beach lovers and romance seekers for decades. While many dream of an idyllic escape to these atolls, the quintessential Maldivian fantasy is spending a week or more immersed in an overwater bungalow.

"Stepping into our glass-floor overwater villa for the first time, my husband and I just stood there speechless," recalls Karen R., who recently enjoyed a 10-night stay in the Maldives. "We'd seen the photos, but nothing prepares you for having 180-degree ocean views right from your bed."

Overwater bungalows provide front-row seats to an underwater wonderland teeming with sea life. "I'd sip my morning coffee and watch manta rays glide right under my feet," Karen fondly recalls. "Even brushing my teeth had an exciting element not knowing what creature might swim by next."

The bungalows' glass floor panels provide up-close reef encounters without getting wet. "Spotting neon-colored fish and even reef sharks swimming directly below me was such a thrill," says Karen. "I probably spent more time gazing down than out at the horizon!"

With the gentle ocean sounds and breeze, overwater villas facilitate complete relaxation. "My husband would lounge on our sun deck with a book while I soaked in the tub gazing out floor-to-ceiling windows," describes Karen. "It was our dream honeymoon come to life."

Beyond the rooms themselves, Maldivian resorts craft immersive overwater experiences. "We dined under the stars with our feet dangling in the lagoon, got couples massages over the water, and slept out under the stars on a private sandbank," Karen recalls.

Overwater stays allow swimming, snorkeling and kayaking right from your private deck into vibrant reefs and secluded lagoons. "Paddling across the mirror-like water at sunset, I truly understood why they call the Maldives 'paradise on earth'," says Karen.

While ultra-luxe escapes don't come cheap, overwater indulgences are more accessible than ever, especially during low season. "With some flexibility and savvy booking, the dream is within reach," says budget traveler Chris S., who recently booked a DIY itinerary including five overwater nights.

Dream Now, Travel Later: 15 Bucket-List Destinations To Start Planning For 2023 - Northern Lights In Iceland

Among Iceland's many natural wonders, witnessing the dazzling dance of the northern lights is a true bucket list quest for travelers from around the world. This celestial spectacle has captured imaginations for centuries. Indigenous Arctic people like Iceland's Vikings saw the lights as magical illuminations coming from the gods. Modern viewers experience the same sense of awe and wonder beholding these ethereal nighttime light shows.

"Seeing the northern lights shimmering overhead in shades of emerald, violet and crimson was by far one of the most astounding sights I've witnessed in my decades of world travel," exclaims John S., a retired airline pilot and avid aurora chaser. "Photos can't capture the experience of watching the lights undulate slowly across the night sky then suddenly come alive with rapid bursts of color."

While the northern lights happen year-round in Iceland's high northern latitudes, late autumn to early spring offers peak activity. Long, dark winter nights combined with clear skies provide ideal aurora hunting conditions. Diehard aurora seekers even chase solar storm events when activity spikes.

"My husband and I booked a last-minute trip to Iceland when we heard a big solar storm was passing by," explains Susan R., a teacher and astrology buff. "Seeing the lights dancing with unusual vibrancy as locals said was incredibly rare felt like the fulfillment of a lifelong quest."

While aurora displays are not guaranteed due to their natural unpredictability, joining a guided northern lights tour or renting a 4X4 vehicle vastly improves your chances of spotting the elusive phenomenon by allowing mobility to areas less impacted by light pollution.

"Our guide drove us away from the glow of Reykjavik out to a secluded viewpoint and within minutes we were gazing up enthralled as the night sky came alive with undulating waves of green light," recalls Dan G., a recent aurora seeker. "The freedom of chasing light activity across Iceland's moon-like interior was incredible."

"Though the lights were faint, feeling insignificant yet deeply connected to the universe is a feeling I'll never forget," recounts Stacy T. "I now understand why ancient humans interpreted these illuminations as messages from the gods."