There is more beauty in the world than the tourist traps that grace your travel catalogs. The world is full of so many man-made and natural wonders that it would take several lifetimes to see them all. Here are just a few places to add to your travel bucket list.
10. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Italy is a land of beauty – and the Amalfi Coast is one of its crown jewels. The 50 kilometer (31 miles) stretch of southern Italian coastline is a shining example of Mediterranean beauty. The destination blends colorful Italian architecture with breathtaking oceanside scenery. It attracts thousands of tourists every year.
9. Sagano Bamboo Forest – Kyoto, Japan
The Japanese city of Kyoto is considered to be on of the most beautiful cities in Japan. Not too far off from the city is the Arashiyama district, home to the Sagano Bamboo forest. The towering bamboo makes the small forest feel worlds away from the nearby metropolis. The area is also famous for its wild but friendly monkeys.
8. Keukenhof Park, Netherlands
The world’s largest garden, Keukenhof Park is man-made wonder created with choreographed nature. Over 7 million tulips fill the 32 acre space. There are many different gardens within the park, each with unique designs. New designs are created every year. The park is best viewed from mid April to mid-May.
7. Rainbow Mountains, Gansu, China
If any there’s place looks like an artist spilled a few cans of paint over it, it’s the Rainbow Mountains in Danxia Landform National Park. The park’s relative popularity is often to the Grand Canyon in the United States. Hues of red, blue, green, yellow, and every other color wash over the rugged mountains. The many colors are a product of millions of years of erosion.
6. Machu Picchu, Peru
Only the ancient framework of the former Inca citadel remains, but its location still makes it a sight to behold. It overlooks the Sacred valley 7,970 feet above sea level. Little is known about the ancient site or its purpose. Regardless, it is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, especially for nomads.
5. Kauai, Hawaii
The tiny islands of Hawaii are packed with infinite wonders. Kauai is the oldest and fourth largest of the islands. The island’s meticulously preserved natural beauty has made it one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Many movies have also been shot on the island.
4. Santorini, Greece
A volcanic eruption thousands of years created the slanted landscape that Santorini is constructed upon. The once charred cliffs are now dotted with lush foliage and pearlescent white buildings. The volcano has given way to a large large lake in the center of the island.
3. Kirkjufell, Iceland
Iceland isn’t a frozen wasteland. It is one of the most geographically diverse places in the world. Kirkjufell is a tiny mountain just barely poking out of a bed of ice and lakes. It is also an extremely popular location for photographers. During certain times of the year, the Northern Lights can be observed.
2. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Hidden away behind Australia, New Zealand is considered by many to be the most beautiful place on Earth. Fiordland national park epitomizes New Zealand’s natural beauty with its lush foliage, lakes, and towering mountains. The park is a must visit for any tourist.
1. New York City, New York
Any well traveled person can’t neglect a visit to the modern wonder of New York city. The city’s numerous skyscrapers create a unique man-made landscape that few other cities can rival.
