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The Greatest Travelers of All Time

Travelers today are spoiled. At the click of a mouse, we can book a flight, snag the last room in that great hotel, and rustle up great recommendations for things to do from friends and strangers alike. Oh, and there’s GPS. And airplanes. And cell phones. And people who have gone before.

But it wasn’t always this easy.

A handful of history’s boldest travelers staged epic journeys that crossed new lands, broke cultural barriers, and revealed the radical diversity of the world. In doing so, these trailblazers confirmed that wanderlust is part of the human condition — and made us want to follow in their footsteps, and even blaze a few trails of our own.

Take Ibn Battuta , a 21-year-old Muslim scholar from 14th-century Morocco, who took literally the Prophet Muhammad’s charge to “seek knowledge, even as far as China” when he set out from Tangier to perform his first hajj in Mecca.

His journey didn’t end there. Battuta’s pilgrimage grew into a tour that would cover more than 40 countries on a modern map, leaving behind   a dizzying oral history of three decades on the road   in the   Rihla   (“Journey”).

Some of the travelers in our   Famous Great Travelers Photo Gallery   are household names. Others, not so much. And some of them are better known for other contributions to the world. But all of these intrepid travelers   left the world a better place.

Who would you add to the list of great travelers — past or present? Tell us in the comments section below, and we might just add them to our gallery or do a special follow-up post to shine a light on your suggestions.

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10 Most Legendary (And Infamous) Travelers In History

greatest traveller in the world

“If you’re twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel – as far and as widely as possible. Sleep on floors if you have to. Find out how other people live and eat and cook. Learn from them – wherever you go.”

– anthony bourdain.

At Elevated Trips we hold in high esteem the spirit of adventure and exploration as we seek out remote destinations that few foreigners have ever been to.  Here are 10 of the greatest explorers in the world to inspire your own travels to get off the beaten path and to forge new roads.

Fridtjof Nansen

greatest traveller in the world

Fridtjof Nansen was the first man to cross Greenland’s ice cap. He also sailed farther north in the Arctic Ocean than any man before him. That’s pretty awesome. He and a colleague even endured nine winter months in a hut made of stones and walrus hides, surviving solely off polar bears and walruses. Nansen explored the great white north and had an asteroid named after him.

Christopher Colombus

greatest traveller in the world

Here’s a guy who had no idea where he was when he landed so assumed he was in India, enslaved a population (for which he admitted to feelings of remorse later in life), and brought a host of terrible diseases to an entire hemisphere (he got syphilis from the native people, in return). Colombus showed Europeans there was a new world out there and ushered in a new age of European exploration.

Ibn Battuta

greatest traveller in the world

Ibn Battuta was a great Muslim explorer who traveled more than 120,000 kilometers through regions that, today, comprise 44 countries — from Italy to Indonesia, Timbuktu to Shanghai. He was mugged, attacked by pirates, held hostage, and once hid in a swamp. His travel writings provide a rare perspective on the 14th-century medieval empire of Mali (from which not many records survive).

greatest traveller in the world

Xuanzang was a Chinese Buddhist monk, intrepid traveler, and translator who documented the interaction between China and India in the early Tang Dynasty. He became famous for his 17-year overland journey to India, on which he was often ambushed by bandits, nearly died of thirst, and survived an avalanche.

Lewis and Clark

greatest traveller in the world

These two guys lead an expedition of 50 men to chart the northwestern region of the United States after the Louisiana Purchase and establish trade with the local populations. They set out in 1804 and didn’t return until 1806. They rode off into the unknown, were helped by the famous Sacagawea, and were the first Americans to set eyes on the Columbia River. They faced disease, hostile natives, and extreme weather conditions. They were true adventurers and scientists.

Ernest Hemingway

greatest traveller in the world

The manliest of manly travelers, Hemingway traveled extensively. His journeys inspired many of his greatest stories. He was a fisherman, hunter, soldier, and ardent drinker who lived in Paris, Cuba, and Spain. He was the most interesting man in the world before it was cool to be the most interesting man in the world.

greatest traveller in the world

This legendary Venetian set out with his father and uncle to explore Asia when he was just 17 years old. They came back 24 years later after traveling over 15,000 miles. He’s inspired generations of travelers with tales that provide fascinating insight into Kublei Khan’s empire, the Far East, the silk road, and China.

Ernest Shackleton

greatest traveller in the world

Antarctica’s most famous explorer (though Roald Amundsen was the first to reach it in 1911), Ernest Shackleton is synonymous with Antarctic exploration. He traversed the continent many times and is most famous for the 1914 voyage that trapped his ship  Endurance  in ice for 10 months. Eventually, she was crushed and destroyed, and the crew was forced to abandon ship. After camping on the ice for five months, Shackleton made two open boat journeys, one of which—a treacherous 800-mile ocean crossing to South Georgia Island—is now considered among the greatest voyages in history. Trekking across the mountains of South Georgia, Shackleton reached the island’s remote whaling station, organized a rescue team, and saved all the men he had left behind. That’s badass.

Neil Armstrong

greatest traveller in the world

The first man to set foot on the moon. That pretty much means he wins. He was a modern adventurer who traveled to the moon (no easy feat) and took one giant leap for mankind. Neil Armstrong is living proof that when we put our mind to it, there’s no place we can’t explore.

Freya Stark

greatest traveller in the world

In 1930, Freya Stark – who had also learned Persian – set out for Persia. The goal of her trip was to visit the Valleys of the Assassins, at the time still unexplored by Europeans, and carry out geographical and archeological studies. The Assassins were fanatical followers of a sect belonging to Shiite Islam, who used religious reasons to justify killing their enemies. They were said to enjoy hashish, which is reflected in the name “hashshashun,” or hashish-smoker. French crusaders derived the word “assassin” from the word “Hashshashun”, which came to mean “murderer” in Romance languages. The reign of the Assassins began in the 11th century and ended in the 13th century after the Mongol conquest.

On the back of a mule, equipped with a camp bed and a mosquito net, and accompanied by a local guide, Freya Stark rode to the valleys near Alamut (= ruins of a mountain fortress castle near the Alamut River), which had not yet been recorded on her map. Malaria, a weak heart, dengue fever, and dysentery plagued her, but she continued her trip and her studies. Back in Baghdad, she received much recognition from the colonial circles; overnight she had gained a reputation as an explorer and scholar to be taken seriously.

And here are some inspiring quotes to take you further in your travels:

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”               – Ibn Battuta

“We travel, some of us forever, to seek other states, other lives, other souls.”         -Anaïs Nin “You can shake the sand from your shoes, but it will never leave your soul.”

If you like these articles, feel free to pin and share them around.

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greatest traveller in the world

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Just who is the world's greatest traveller? That is the question posed by Wanderlust magazine. While there is some consensus about the greatest movie ever (Citizen Kane) and best pop record (Bohemian Rhapsody), opinion is divided on the top explorer. In a bid to discover the Orson Welles/Freddie Mercury of the travel world - and provoke a bit of healthy debate - Wanderlust asked a selection of experts to pick the person who they believe has most changed the way we travel. This is the final top 10, counting down to the best traveller of all time. But do you agree? Please e-mail [email protected], and we will compare notes with the readers of Wanderlust.

10 APHRA BEHN (1640-1689)

First Englishwoman to make a living by the pen; possibly the world's greatest armchair traveller

Nominated by Dea Birkett, travel writer: "Aphra Behn was groundbreaking, claiming to have sailed to Suriname in the 1660s. Yet 300 years after writing Oroonoko, her powerful anti-slavery novel set in Suriname, we still don't know if she went to South America or not. She started the tradition of European travellers grossly exaggerating and lying about what they'd done. We've been fictionalising ever since."

Travelling style: mysterious, incognito - often travelled as a spy, and in the 17th-century equivalent of economy class.

Places visited: Suriname (probably), Antwerp, the Netherlands. Behn's plays suggest knowledge of Italy - though this may be the fruit of her stupendous imagination.

Hardships suffered: Rumour suggests she lost family members in Suriname and was once shipwrecked.

Changed-the-world rating: Helped to invent the English novel and the travel memoir. Oroonoko is fictional, one of the first great exotic travel narratives and an indictment of slavery. An unusual mix today, this must have seemed outlandish 300 years ago.

9 MICHAEL PALIN (1943-)

Affable Python and actor who went from spoofing Alan Whicker to replacing him as TV's foremost traveller

Nominated by Charlotte Hindle, Lonely Planet author: "He's done more than anyone else to bring the world into everyone's living room."

Travelling style: Intrepid, good-humoured Englishman abroad, self-confessed dromomaniac - one who suffers from the compulsive urge to travel.

Places visited: Around the world in 80 days, pole to pole, full circle, across the Sahara and through the Himalaya.

Hardships suffered: Cracked ribs, altitude sickness, getting a cut-throat shave from a blind barber, being mistaken for Eric Idle, having his car rocked by an angry mob.

Changed-the-world rating: The surges in bookings that follow his televised travels are known as the "Palin effect". Travel on TV once meant Judith Chalmers wishing you were there; Palin turned travel into a prime-time attraction and made the world a more exciting, accessible, place.

8 YURI GAGARIN (1934-1968)

Starman - the first man in space - who became the man who fell to earth, dying in a crash on a routine flight

Nominated by Mark Ellingham, Rough Guide's founder: "He took the greatest leap into the unknown since Columbus - or at least since Laika, Sputnik 2's dog."

Travelling style: Focused and fearless. On 12 April 1961 Yuri was blasted into space in crude terms - in a seat on top of a tin can, which was itself on top of a bomb.

Places visited: Around the Earth and 315km above it.

Hardships suffered: In training he withstood 13Gs of force in the centrifuge and sat in a dark, silent room for 24 hours; being grounded after his historic flight drove him to drink.

Changed-the-world rating: Fuelled the space race. With space tourism still somewhere between a prophecy and a joke, we haven't seen the full impact of his heroism.

7 FRIDTJOF NANSEN (1861-1930)

Skier, oceanographer, humanitarian, godfather of polar exploration; has an asteroid named after him

Nominated by Pen Hadow, explorer: "Nansen was the first to cross Greenland's ice cap and the Arctic Ocean, and sailed further north than man had been before."

Travelling style: Brave but not reckless - he never lost a single man nor major piece of equipment.

Places visited: Skied across Norway, crossed Greenland and travelled 255km further north than any man had been.

Hardships suffered: Endured nine winter months with a colleague in a hut made of stones and walrus hides in Franz Josef Land, eating polar bear and walrus.

Changed-the-world rating: Technologically revolutionised polar exploration, inventing a cooker and water bottle still used today.

6 CHARLES DARWIN (1809-1882)

Founder of evolutionary theory

Nominated by William Gray, TV presenter and writer: "Darwin discovered many species, while his observations during his voyage on the Beagle formed the bedrock of his theory of evolution through natural selection."

Travelling style: Argumentative, determined, blessed with an inexhaustible curiosity.

Places visited: Across the Atlantic, Pacific, both coasts of South America, remote islands such as the Galapagos and Tahiti; he also rode across the Argentinian plains, hiked up mountains and trekked through the Peruvian desert.

Hardships suffered: Stomach pains, vomiting, heart palpitations, boils, storms and revolution in Buenos Aires.

Changed-the-world rating: He changed the way we think.

5 CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS (1451-1506)

The most controversial explorer in history

Nominated by Bill Bryson: "Christopher Columbus didn't actually discover America, but he opened the door to the European exploration of two mighty continents."

Travelling style: Visionary, fearless, neurotic, ruthless. Stopped travelling only when mortally ill.

Places visited: Four voyages across the Atlantic, around the Mediterranean and, possibly, to Iceland.

Hardships suffered: Arthritis, flu, temporary blindness, fever, bleeding eyes, malnutrition, insomnia.

Changed-the-world rating: "He was head of the horde that introduced yellow fever, dengue, malaria, smallpox, measles, diphtheria, typhoid and a few others to the Americas," says the explorer Dr Jane Wilson-Howarth. "In exchange, they brought back syphilis." Columbus paved the way for Spain's global empire, genocidal conflict with the indigenous cultures, slavery and the European settlement of North America.

4 IBN BATTUTA (1304-1368 OR 1377)

Medieval geographer who made Marco Polo look like someone who ought to get out more

Susan Spano of the Los Angeles Times says: "His tale is a wild but true yarn that surpasses that of Marco Polo."

Travelling style: A charming freeloader, resilient, brave, a bit of a fussbudget and teller of tall tales.

Places visited: Travelled more than 120,000km, through regions that, today, comprise 44 countries, from Italy to Indonesia, Timbuktu to Shanghai.

Hardships suffered: Muggings, attacks by pirates, was held hostage, once hid in a swamp for a week without food.

Changed-the-world rating: He was the last great Muslim geographer. His work offers an unparalleled insight into the 14th-century Muslim world and a rare perspective on the medieval empire of Mali.

3 SIR RICHARD BURTON (1821-1890)

Diplomat, fencer and explorer; man of towering intellect

Nominated by John Gimlette, travel writer: "While others travelled to blow the family cash, for Sir Richard Burton it was all an exercise in comprehension. He constantly challenged convention, and left his readers gasping."

Travelling style: "Disloyal, waspish, foul-mouthed, scruffy, drunken and misogynistic, he was the worst of travelling companions," says Gimlette. But he was seldom short of courage, ideas or a word - he knew 30 languages and 60 sounds in the vocabulary of monkeys.

Places visited: India, Arabia, East Africa, Fernando Po, Brazil, Syria, the US West and Trieste.

Hardships suffered: A spear struck through his jaw, syphilis, malaria, rheumatic ophthalmia, attacked by bandits, smoked too much opium and was circumcised to make his disguise as a Muslim more convincing.

Changed-the-world rating: Burton may have been the first modern anthropologist, and he helped John Hanning Speke to discover the source of the Nile. His feat in becoming only the second European to visit Mecca, inspired countless explorers. His translation of the Arabian Nights opened up a mysterious - and still misunderstood - culture to the West.

2 XUANZANG (602-644 OR 664)

Chinese Buddhist monk who went on the mother of all pilgrimages and pioneered travel writing

Nominated by Michael Palin: "Xuanzang travelled alone on a pilgrimage to discover the origins of Buddhism. The scope, scale and significance of these travels for Chinese and Indian history have never been equalled."

Travelling style: "He was curious, courteous, determined, intelligent and courageous," says Palin.

Places visited: Xian, the deserts and mountains of western China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, all of India.

Hardships suffered: hunger strikes, often caught by bandits, nearly died of thirst, survived an avalanche.

Changed-the-world rating: "He left a priceless legacy in the record of his journeys and translations of Buddhist writings that might otherwise have been lost," says Palin.

1 CAPTAIN JAMES COOK (1728-1779)

Indefatigable explorer who had all the essential traveller's virtues - until he went a bit funny at the end

Nominated by Sara Wheeler, travel writer: "Captain Cook discovered more of the earth's surface than any other man and excelled as a scientist, cartographer and surveyor. He was bad-tempered - I like a touch of clay feet in a hero."

Travelling style: Precise - an excellent navigator, he always drew up accurate charts; indomitable - when his ship, the Endeavour, ran aground in the Coral Sea, he beached and repaired it; shrewd - he averted scurvy by forcing his crew to eat fruit and sauerkraut; open-minded - his notes show genuine interest in other cultures.

Places visited: He circumnavigated the globe twice, visited all seven continents and crossed the Arctic and Antarctic circles.

Hardships suffered: Sailed with Captain Bligh, recovered from biliary colic by eating stew made from a ship's dog; was clubbed to death in Hawaii.

Changed-the-world rating: By finding Australia and mapping New Zealand, Captain Cook essentially created the map of the Pacific we know today. He also anticipated ethnology and anthropology - and, arguably, independent travel. His aim to go "farther than any man has been before me but only as far as I think it possible for a man to go" is an inspiration to every traveller.

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The 30 Greatest Travelers Of All Time

Monday, December 19, 2011

greatest traveller in the world

Having just received my brand new passport in the mail, I flipped through the blank pages and saw endless possibilities. The stamps are gone, the airplane tickets are yet to be purchased and the stories not yet told. What will the future be for this little document? And what’s in store for the awkwardly-photographed owner of it? Perhaps, this is the time to finally leave my stamp on this world by becoming the greatest traveler in the history of the universe.

Okay, so that may be a bit out of reach for me at least. I mean, I’ve got a dog to care for; she’s not much for air travel. But those stories — those possibilities — have been recognized by a long line of people throughout the history of, well, the universe.

So, in true Expeditioner fashion, we offer you the inspiration to venture into the world. Jenna and I have teamed up to ransack The Expeditioner’s in-house library. Our results have become the ultimate list ever created: The greatest travelers of all time.

Before you start to carve up those we’ve deemed “the greatest,” just remember, there are still stones unturned.

Without further adieu , in no particular order, we present to you the greatest travelers in the history of the universe.

1) Christopher Columbus

The Italian navigator/explorer is probably the best failure in history. The first explorer to sail across the Atlantic in search of Asia, he fell a bit short when he ran into the Americas.  Not only did he pave the way for European exploration there, he was also a very astute businessman, giving the natives yellow fever, measles, typhoid (among others) in exchange for syphilis. Not sure who fared better in that deal.

2) Reid Stowe

the30greatesttravelersofalltime45

3) Kira Salak

Her resume includes traveling solo to almost every continent including Madagascar, Borneo, Rwanda, Burma and the Democratic Republic of Congo; named 2005 National Geographic Emerging Explorer; first to kayak solo 600 miles down West Africa’s Niger River; first woman to traverse Papua New Guinea; Ph.D. in English; Author of three books; but most importantly, she has been called the “real-life Lara Croft.” ‘Nuff said.

4) Cat Videos

Ahhh, yes, the rigorously tested technique to ensure your Youtube video travels to all reaches of the internet: insert “cat” in the title. Seriously, you ask? Yes. They consistently have had views in the millions. Some, such as the beloved “Funny Cats” are blessed with over 62 milion views.

That’s a lot of people in a lot of places streaming rambunctious kittens and clueless felines into their homes. My take? Sure, it’s cute. Cats are adorable and they do amusing things. But 62 million? President Obama’s illustrious speech after winning the presidency on November 4, 2008, has brought in just over 5.6 million views. Inspiring and encouraging, it triggered a dormant feeling of patriotism across the United States, but no cat. Cold, hard proof that any political speech will reach more people if a kitten stumbles off the podium.

5) Sylvia Earle

Dubbed “Her Deepness” by such publications as  The New Yorker  and  The New York Times , Sylvia is not only one of the world’s leading oceanographers — logging over 6,000 hours underwater — but she also holds the record for the deepest solo dive ever: 380 meters (1,250 feet) down. At 76 years old, Ms. Earle is still the chief steward of ocean conservation and founded three companies that design and build deep-sea submarines for ocean research. Groovy.

the30greatesttravelersofalltime2

Whether at a beach, banquet, museum, circus, mall, grocery store or ski resort, Waldo has the audacity to assimilate with the local inhabitants of his travels while simultaneously being persistently searched for by wanderlusting whippersnappers at bedtime across the globe. Waldo also maintains a composed, calm demeanor despite the claustrophobic, crowded situations he frequently finds himself in. For hygiene’s sake, let’s hope that this famous traveler has more than one change of that red and white striped shirt in his backpack.

7) Dwight Collins

How would you like to spend 40 days in an 850-pound, 24-foot tube-shaped boat outfitted with little more than freeze-dried Fig Newtons? This guy was down with the idea, and succeeded in making the fastest human-powered crossing of the Atlantic Ocean. Peddling his rig an average of 19.5 hours a day, Collins battled sea-induced ailments like boredom, sleep deprivation and curious 12-foot long sharks. On the completion of his journey in Plymouth, England, Collins tossed a champagne bottle into the sea with a note inside reading: “To whoever finds this bottle — may you have the courage to pursue that which means the most to you.” Spoken like a true Expeditioner.

8) Will Steger

New Zealand had Hillary, the English had Mallory, and Americans have Will Steger. Strong advocate for the global climate crisis, Steger has spearheaded multiple expeditions across both the North and South Poles. His first trip involved him leading seven men and one woman across the North Pole by dogsled without resupply.

After 55 days of minus 70-degree temperatures and grueling work, six members were able to complete the crossing. As if that wasn’t enough, several years later, Steger embarked on a 220-day journey to traverse Antarctica — on foot no less. The International Trans-Antarctic ’89-90 Expedition team of six used both sled dogs and skis to complete the journey, battling the very limits of human endurance. Think about that the next time you’re zip-lining through the Costa Rican jungle.

9) Michael Palin

Starting his career as a member of Monty Python, he reinvented himself as a traveler. Proving there’s still hope for many of us. This guy accepted the BBC’s challenge to travel around the world in 80 days, Jules Verne style. He finished the adventure in 79 days 7 hours (airplane-less), which became a television series; pretty much pioneering the concept of getting travel into people’s homes.

10) Rolf Potts

The Jesus of traveling on a budget, he is probably best known as a true vagabonding advocate with his first book, and his more recent book sticks it to another traveler on our list : Marco Polo Didn’t Go There: Stories and Revelations From One Decade as a Postmodern Travel Writer. He also has a tendency to travel the world with no luggage: an airliner’s fantasy passenger.

the30greatesttravelersofalltime3

And you thought Aunt Edna’s efforts to avoid winter ruled. This little guy is the king of all migrators. They spend their first summer in their breeding grounds in the Arctic, and when it gets a bit too nippy, they head south to their “wintering grounds” in Antarctica. These dudes chalk up roughly 45,000 miles annually under their own power — the human equivalent of walking to Jupiter.

12) Xuanzang

This Chinese monk basically went on the mother of all pilgrimages in search of the origins of Buddhism. Not only did he travel through China, the Indian subcontinent and Afghanistan, he found time to document it all, making him one or the world’s first real travel writers.

13) Captain James Cook

Cook likely discovered more of the earth than anyone else, circumnavigating the globe twice and charting damn near every inch of it. Though known as having a bad temper, his logs indicate a genuine interest in other cultures. That is, until he was clubbed to death in Hawaii. Regardless, his philosophy of going “farther than any man has been before me,” should be inspiring to us all. Just watch your back in Hawaii.

14) Mark Twain

The pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens of  Adventures of Huckleberry Finn  fame, the book’s widespread reading and criticism has provided an opportunity for people to contemplate the nature of differences and freedom — the ultimate theme of traveling, really.

the30greatesttravelersofalltime4

His influential book On the Road  details spontaneous road trips across America in search of, well, anything.  It not only defined the Beat Generation, it showed you raw America and added to the lure of road tripping. I’ve heard it described as an American version of The Odyssey. That’s pretty good company.

16) The Tarahumara Tribe

Barefoot running shoes may be marketed as a new technology designed to make your feet look suspiciously like those of a gorilla, but the Tarahumara or “Running” people in the northwest canyons of Mexico have been jogging sans-Nikes for 500 years, and they make a marathon look easier than an amble from your Laz-E Boy to the fridge.

It’s said that one particularly ambitious tribe-member completed 435 miles in two days — the equivalent of running from New York to Cleveland. What’s the secret? Among other things, homemade corn beer called  tesguino  is purported to aid in the phenomenon. The Tarahumara: Putting armchair travelers to shame since the 1600’s.

17) Santa Claus

The jolly old fat man has an army of “elves” that trick out his “sleigh” so that he can travel to every house in the world on Christmas. Imagine what the airline industry could save by way of fuel costs if they just employed a few reindeer.

18) African Wildebeest

These animals are a part of the dwindling great migrations left in the world. The spectacle includes 1.5 million wildebeests migrating about 1,800 miles annually, from the Serengeti plains to Kenya, in search of some grub. Never, ever, complain about your two-block walk  to the store again.

19) Bill Bryson

No, Bill didn’t finish hiking the Appalachian Trail in his book A Walk in the Woods , and he’ll be the first to tell you how damn hard it was. This uppity writer has made traveling more doable than anyone in history, and he’s not so bad at telling about it all either.

20) Anthony Bourdain

This snarky s.o.b. is a chef, author, drinker and traveler that holds the Travel Channel’s scrotum in his back pocket. He has made travel cool again through his shows  No Reservations  and more recently The Layover .

the30greatesttravelersofalltime5

Hillary is fond on standing on things. He reached both poles, the top of New Zealand’s highest peak, and in 1953, he was the first to stand on top of the tallest mountain on earth:  Mt. Everest. In fact, the most famous picture taken on the summit is that of his Nepalese Sherpa, Tenzing Norgay. Apparently, Hillary was standing on top of Norgay, but that was eventually Photoshopped out.

22) Lewis and Clark

These guys are America’s ultimate pioneers. A government-funded exploration of the American frontier sent them into, well, no one knew at the time. Two years later, with the ass-saving skills of Sacagawea, they walked out of the wilderness as the gnarliest travelers on the continent.

23) Yuri Gagarin

I’m not sure we’ve seen the true impact of Yuri’s travels quite yet, since space tourism is still considered a joke. He was shot into outer space in little more than a tin can in 1961, beginning his reign as the man who took the greatest leap into the unknown since Columbus. Ironically, he died in a crash on a routine training flight in 1968.

24) Ibn Battuta

This traveler provided the world insight into the Muslim world of the time. The 14 th-C entury scholar survived muggings, pirate attacks and hiding in a swamp for weeks without food to travel in over 44 countries — from Shangai to Timbuktu. And you thought your last pass through customs was tough.

the30greatesttravelersofalltime7

Three words: DeLorean time machine. The talented skateboarder and wicked lead guitarist of the Pinheads, McFly broke into the world of travel during his accidental trip back to 1955 at the age of 17. While other teens are more engulfed in the world of acne prevention, Marty manages to get back to 1985—1.21 Gigawatts!—with side trips to 2012 and 1885. I’d like to have his frequent flyer miles.

26) Marco Polo

While working for the great Kublai Khan, Polo took off on a 24-year ramble through Asia. He came home to a war, was imprisoned and used that time to dictate his journeys to his cellmate. Unfortunately, he also spent that time inventing that annoying call-and-response game still used by children in every backyard pool to this day.

27) Vasco DeGama

DeGama can really only claim navigating a rickety old ship around the Cape of Good Hope and opening up European trade with India . . . in 1497 . . . without a GPS. His trek from Lisbon, Portugal, to Calicut, India, and back is a longer distance than the entire equator.

28) Flat Stanley

Stanley, a paper cut-out of a boy, is used in elementary schools all over America to teach geography and culture. The premise: Send your Stanley to someone; they report back to the student, writing in Stanley’s diary and taking pictures of his time there, before sending him on to someone else. Makes you wonder what kind of shenanigans ol’ Stan isn’t sharing with his diary.

29) Charles Darwin

In our mind, this dude’s undying curiosity overcomes his ship’s sissy name: the Beagle. Really, Chuck, a Peanuts reference? His studies took him across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, most famously to the Galapagos Islands while developing his theory of natural selection. Often overlooked are his explorations through the Peruvian desert and Argentinean plains. Darwin is a bad-ass traveler that changed the way we looked at the world from then on.

30) Sir Richard Francis Burton

Considered the first modern anthropologist, his motivation was understanding how communities operate. While most of us struggle using our native language, Burton knew 30 languages and is probably the closest human to fluently speak monkey. True fact, that’s what happens eventually when you end up devoting your life to wandering the world.

By Jon Wick and Jenna Blumenfeld .

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15 famous explorers whose travels put yours to shame

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 26.10.2022

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Being well-travelled is one thing. Being an explorer is quite another. From Marco Polo’s Silk Road expedition to Nellie Bly’s epic 1889 voyage around-the-world-in-72-days, these 15 famous world explorers sure knew how to make the most of their time on earth. What’s more, these famous explorers' names might just provide inspiration for places to visit during your own trip of a lifetime. 

  • 1. Marco Polo (1254 -1324)
  • 2. Abubakari II (c.1280 - c.1337)

3. Christopher Columbus - undoubtedly one of the most famous world explorers (1451 -1506)

4. amerigo vespucci (1454 -1512).

  • 5. Ferdinand Magellan (1480 - 1521)

6. Charles Darwin (1809 -1882)

  • 7. Dr David Livingstone (1813 - 1873)

8. Isabella Bird (1831 - 1904)

  • 9. Nellie Bly (1864 - 1922)
  • 10. Freya Stark (1893 - 1993)
  • 11. Matthew Henson (1866 –1955)
  • 12. Jacques Cousteau (1910 -1997)

13. Ranulph Fiennes (1944 - present)

14. fran sandham (1965 - present), 15. mario rigby (1985 - present).

And we’re talking ultimate  bucket list experiences . It's important to note, though, that many famous explorers in history aren’t without their controversies due to the imperialist notion of Europeans “discovering” long-settled places. In the piece that follows we've included a few lesser-known voyagers among the more famous explorer names, along with trailblazers making history today.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

 1. Marco Polo (1254 -1324)

Famed for his travels along the  Silk Road , thirteenth-century Venetian Marco Polo is unquestionably one of the world’s most famous historical explorers.

One of the first European explorers to visit  China , he left Venice in 1271 and crossed the Middle East with his family. They traversed Jerusalem, Afghanistan and the Gobi Desert for three years on their way to China. There they visited Kublai Khan, the Mongol emperor. Polo stayed in China for 17 years, and only around 1292 - after escorting a Mongol princess to Iran - did he make the return journey to  Venice  via  Istanbul .

Marco Polo portrait on Italian 1000 Lire banknote

Marco Polo's portrait on the Italian 1000 lira banknote © Shutterstock

If you fancy following in Marco Polo’s fearless footsteps, you could explore our customisable tailor-made trips. Among them an exploration of some of Uzbekistan’s unique cultural highlights and inspirational itineraries around China . But fear not if you’re looking for closer to home adventures. You could always discover more about the man on a  Venetian land and water tour  that includes a visit to his birthplace.

2. Abubakari II (c.1280 - c.1337) 

Abubakari II might not be one of the most famous explorer names, but some scholars argue that he deserves a prominent place alongside them. Thought to have been the ninth mansa (sultan or emperor) of West Africa’s Mali Empire, Abubakari II abdicated to undertake an exploratory ocean voyage.

According to an account recorded by the Arab historian Ibn Fadlallah al-Umari or al-Umari, Abubakari II “did not believe that it was impossible to reach the extremity of the ocean.” So, “he equipped two hundred boats full of men, like many others full of gold, water and victuals sufficient enough for several years.” It’s said that Abubakari II didn’t return from this voyage, and a few scholars have posited the view that he travelled to the New World.

Having said that, the jury’s still out, with other academics arguing that there’s simply not enough evidence - for the time being at least. One thing’s for sure, on-going research and debates around Abubakari II are important reminders of the need to keep an open mind when it comes to understanding the past. New discoveries about famous historical explorers are always possible, much like the possibilities envisaged by explorers themselves.

Africa vintage map Abraham Ortelius, circa 1570 © Shutterstock

Map of Africa by Abraham Ortelius, circa 1570 © Shutterstock

Undoubtedly one of the most famous explorers in history, Christopher Columbus was born in  Genoa  in 1451. From a young age his impulse to travel was strong - he went to sea as a teenager and made  Portugal  his base. Having failed to secure royal patronage for his planned “enterprise of the Indies” (to reach Asia by sailing west), he went to Spain .

After a time, he secured backing from King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella and on 3rd August 1492 he set sail across the Atlantic. Ten weeks later, land was sighted. But he was far from Asia. This land was, in fact, what later become known as the Bahamas.

After landing on other islands around the Caribbean  (devastating indigenous populations), Christopher Columbus returned to Spain. Having been made admiral of the Seven Seas and viceroy of the Indies, he undertook three further transatlantic voyages, never reaching the Asian lands he’d originally planned to find.

Landing of Columbus in 1492 © Shutterstock

Christopher Columbus — one of many famous explorers © Shutterstock

When visiting the Caribbean, be sure to check out museums that uncover Christopher Columbus from the perspective of those whose lives he impacted. The  Seville Great House  heritage site in St Ann’s,  Jamaica , for example, is home to an excellently curated history of the region. The exhibition covers the area and its peoples from the indigenous Taíno (who Columbus and his men abused and murdered in their thousands).

Alternatively, if you’re in Genoa, you could take a  guided tour of the city  to see where Christopher Columbus was born and learn more about its history back in his day.

Florence-born Amerigo Vespucci is another name that comes to mind when thinking of world famous explorers.

A merchant and navigator with a well-connected family (they counted the Medici’s among their friends), Vespucci relocated to  Seville  in 1492. Here he worked for Florentine merchant Gianotto Berardi, who invested huge sums of money in Columbus's first voyage. Berardi also won a potentially profitable contract to provision Columbus’s second fleet.

Statue of Amerigo Vespucci, on the facade of the Uffizi gallery, Florence © Shutterstock

Statue of Amerigo Vespucci on the facade of the Uffizi gallery, Florence © Shutterstock

As for Vespucci’s discoveries, considering that the Americas are named after him, the documentation is surprisingly scant. What is certain is that during the late 1490s he undertook two voyages to the New World. While another two trips have been alleged, the letter-based evidence is patchier, and the documents’ authorship is debated.

During these voyages he did, however, observe that the continent he was exploring was not part of Asia, as was believed at the time. He also explored the coast of modern-day  Brazil , including areas of the  Amazon  and Para Rivers. Strong currents put paid to any plans they may have had to explore deeper.

In 1502, during Vespucci’s second voyage, his fleet found a bay that they named  Rio de Janeiro  after the date - 1st January.

If you fancy following in Vespucci’s footsteps in South America, check-out our customisable Brazilian trip itineraries  for inspiration. Chances are, you’ll see more of this vast country than Vespucci did during his voyage.

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Porto Ribeira, traditional facades, old multi-colored houses with red roof tiles on the embankment in the city of Porto, Portugal

5. Ferdinand Magellan (1480 - 1521)

As famous historical explorers go, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan was no stranger to embracing the hazards that often went hand in hand with his profession. 

After an early life as a page to queen consort Eleanor and Manuel I in Lisbon , Magellan jumped ship and sailed on behalf of Spain. This came as a result of Magellan being accused of illegal trading. Manuel I refused to support of Magellan’s plan to find a new spice route by sailing west through South America to Indonesia and India.

Arrival in the Philippines of Ferdinand Magellan

Ferdinand Magellan's arrival in the Philippines © Shutterstock

Not one to be deterred, Magellan found favour with Charles V in Spain and secured the funds for a five-ship voyage that set off in 1519. His Spanish crew weren’t best pleased to be taking orders from a Portuguese captain, to say the least. In fact, they mutinied in present-day Argentina .

With one ship destroyed, and another making its way back to Spain, Portuguese explorer dealt with the mutineers (some were beheaded) and gained control of his reduced fleet. After navigating the treacherous channel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans he and his sickly crew made landfall on the Micronesian island of Guam. There a missing small boat prompted them to kill some of the island’s indigenous people.

A month later, Magellan reached the Philippines . Since an enslaved crew member he’d bought before the voyage could speak the indigenous language, it seems this chap had circumnavigated the globe before Magellan. And Magellan didn’t make it the full way around either. After demanding that local people convert to Christianity, he was killed, leaving his crew to complete the round-the-world voyage without him.

Charles Darwin is undoubtedly one of the world’s most influential European famous explorers. In 1831, aged 22 and fresh out of Cambridge University, Darwin joined the crew of the HMS Beagle to survey the coast of South America.

Rebellion in Río de la Plata, fossils in Bahía Blanca, observations in the Andes and, of course, finches in the Galápagos turned his mind into “a chaos of delight”. Later it paved the way for one of the greatest theories in history: evolution.

Statue of Charles Robert Darwin in Natural History Museum, London

Statue of Charles Robert Darwin in Natural History Museum, London © Shutterstock

7. Dr David Livingstone (1813 - 1873) 

Missionary, abolitionist and explorer, Livingstone was vital in the mapping of the African interior. In 1852 he embarked on a four-year expedition to find a route from the upper Zambezi to the coast. Then, in 1855, he was the first European to see Victoria Falls and in May 1856 he became the first European to cross the width of southern Africa.

legendary meeting between Henry Morton Stanley (left) and David Livingstone in Africa in 1871 © Shutterstock

The legendary meeting between Henry Morton Stanley (left) and David Livingstone in Africa in 1871 © Shutterstock

Ten years later he set out, on what would be his final trip, to locate the source of the Nile. Uncontactable for several months, he was found by Henry Stanley, explorer and journalist, near Lake Tanganyika in 1871. It was here the famous phrase was coined: “Dr Livingstone I presume?”

If you want an unforgettable solo travel experience, perhaps our list of the best places to travel solo can help you decide on the best destination for you.

When it comes to famous world explorers' names, Isabella Bird probably doesn’t immediately spring to mind. Yet this fearless Yorkshire woman definitely deserves to be reckoned among the world’s famous historical explorers.

After a sickly childhood, her adventures began when her doctor advised that she take an overseas trip to improve her health. As a result, Isabella accompanied her cousins to America, on instruction from her clergyman father that she could remain away for as long as her £100 allowance lasted.

1885 Hotel porter, photography by Isabella Bird © Isabella Bird/Wikimedia Commons under  Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International

1885 hotel porter - Isabella Bird's celebrated photography © Isabella Bird/Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons Attributio n

The letters Bird wrote home during this trip become the basis of her first book, “An Englishwomen in America”. Following the deaths of her parents, she continued to travel and write to support herself. Her most notable exploration are Hawaii, as described in her second book, “Six Months in the Sandwich Islands”, as they were then known.

Bird later rode 800 miles through the Rocky Mountains  (as desrcibed in “A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains”) and explored Asia (as recounted in “Unbeaten tracks in Japan”). She also studied medicine so she could travel as a missionary, and studied photography so she could document her travels.

Eternally defying the conventions of her day, she travelled to India at the age of 60. She later explored China and Korea, with her last book, “The Yangtze Valley and Beyond”, published in 1900.

9. Nellie Bly (1864 - 1922)

In 1888, at the age of 25, Nellie Bly set off to travel the world in 80 days, just like Jules Verne’s Phileas Fogg. Her trip took her from New York to London. Then onwards from Calais in France to Brindisi in Italy, Port Said in Egypt, Colombo in Sri Lanka, Penang in  Malaysia ,  Hong Kong ,  San Francisco  and finally back to New York City.

Bly actually completed the journey in 72 days, winning a bet struck with Verne himself. Of this achievement, she declared: “It's not so very much for a woman to do who has the pluck, energy and independence, which characterize many women in this day of push and get-there."

Nellie Bly © Shutterstock

Portrait of adventuress Nellie Bly © Shutterstock

Not only a trail-blazing, record-breaking traveller, Nellie Bly was also a pioneering investigative journalist. She reported on everything from the lives of impoverished working girls in Pittsburgh, to corruption and poor living conditions in Mexico . She also investigated the living conditions and treatment of patients in a New York insane asylum, even faking her own illness in order to be admitted to the asylum.

All that considered, Bly certainly merits a place at the table of famous explorers. And, while it goes without saying that she's a pretty impossible act to follow, if you fancy embarking on an epic solo voyage (or several) of your own, you might want to check out our list of tips for doing exactly that.

10. Freya Stark (1893 - 1993) 

Born in Paris to bohemian parents - a British father and Italian mother - Freya Stark studied Persian and Arabic at the University of London.

At the age of 30 she began her lifelong immersion in the Middle East some four years later when she caught a cargo ship to Beirut. This pivotal trip saw Stark travel widely through Syria in secret (at this time it was under French control). This trip paved the way for a future as one of the most esteemed, knowledgable and famous explorers of the Middle East.

Stamp print showing Dame Freya Madeline Stark © Shutterstock

Stamp created in honour of Dame Freya Madeline Stark © Shutterstock

In the coming years Stark trekked into western Iran’s wilderness, areas of which had never been visited by Westerners. In 1934 she voyaged down the Red Sea with the aim of reaching the ancient city of Shabwa, thought to have been the Queen of Sheba’s capital. Though illness curtailed this particular journey, Stark’s exploration of this region resulted in a clutch of seminal books. Later she was awarded with the Royal Geographical Society’s Founder's Gold Medal.

During WWII Stark worked for the British Ministry of Information in Yemen and Cairo, and later travelled extensively through Turkey . She made her last expedition in 1968 (a trip to Afghanistan at the age of 75), though she continued to travel well into her eighties.

11. Matthew Henson (1866 –1955)

As the first person to reach the top of the world, there’s no doubt that intrepid African-American Matthew Henson should be recognised as one of the world’s most famous historical explorers. 

Born in Maryland, where his parents were subjected to attacks from the Ku Klux Klan, Henson was orphaned as a child and set sail as a cabin boy at the tender age of twelve. Under the tutelage of the ship’s Captain Childs, Henson was educated and became an accomplished sailor. He voyaged China, Japan , Africa, and the Russian Arctic seas.

When Childs died, Henson though his seafaring days were over until he met Robert Peary, a US Naval officer and explorer.

Peary took Henson on to assist his next assignment - mapping the jungles of Nicaragua. During this trip, the men formed a lifelong bond. Henson went on to play a pivotal role in Peary’s exploration of the Arctic. He mastered the Inuit language and learned skills that were essential for their survival during their expedition to the North Pole in 1908-09 (Peary’s eighth attempt).

A stamp printed in USA shows Robert E Peary and Matthew Henson, circa 1986 © IgorGolovniov/Shutterstock

US stamp showing Robert E Peary and Matthew Henson © IgorGolovniov/Shutterstock

Peary was lauded as the first man to reach the North Pole. However, Henson’s account of the final push of this attempt, as recounted in his 1921 memoir “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole”, describes otherwise. Henson rode in the lead sledge, his footprints were first to make their mark at the North Pole, and it was Henson who planted the American flag.

In 1937 the inaccuracy of Peary being deemed the first man to make it to the North Pole was rectified when Henson was made an honorary member of the prestigious Explorers Club of New York. Then in 1946 the US Navy awarded him the same medal they’d issued to Peary. Henson was also later honoured by Presidents Truman and Eisenhower.

12. Jacques Cousteau (1910 -1997) 

In the field of underwater expeditions, famous historical explorers don’t come more well-known than Jacques Cousteau - the researcher, photographer, filmmaker and marine conservationist who co-invented the Aqua-Lung.

Cousteau’s early career in naval aviation was cut short by a car accident, and led to him following his love for the ocean. In the mid-to-late 1930s he worked for the French Navy’s information service, which saw him sent on missions to  Shanghai and Japan.

Jacques Cousteau copper statue in Mallejon promenade by the sea © Shutterstock

Jacques Cousteau statue in La Paz, Baja California Sur, northwest Mexico © Shutterstock

In 1943 Cousteau and engineer Emile Gagnan co-created the Aqua-Lung. This breathing apparatus revolutionised underwater exploration by making it possible to stay submerged for longer. A few years later, he showcased his first films, bringing the wonders of the ocean to a far wider audience. He also pioneered the field of underwater archaeological exploration.

Cousteau’s conservation achievements include making a key contribution to restricting commercial whaling, and leading a campaign against the French government’s plan to dump nuclear waste in the Mediterranean Sea.

Hailed as the world’s greatest living explorer by the Guinness Book of World Records, Ranulph Fiennes has led over fifteen gruelling expeditions in the past forty years. He is living proof that intrepid exploration still exists: he led the first hovercraft expedition up the Nile. Also, he was the first to circumnavigate the world along its polar axis – a feat of 52,000 miles, starting in the Antarctic and ending at the North Pole.

In 2003 he completed seven marathons, in seven days, on seven continents, and was the first British pensioner to climb Mount Everest, raising £6.2 million for charity.

Sir Ranulph Fiennes © Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Sir Ranulph Fiennes © Foreign and Commonwealth Office

In 1997, lecturer, author and former Rough Guides editor Fran Sandham threw caution to the wind and left his London life to walk 3000 miles across Africa. Remarkably, there was no big plan. There was no big sense of purpose beyond achieving that ambitious goal of traversing the continent in a spirit of adventure, on foot and alone - no sponsors, no strings, no support team. 

Skeleton Coast in Namibia. The shipwreck was stranded or grounded at the coastline of the Atlantic close to Swakopmund © gg-foto/Shutterstock

Namibia's Skeleton Coast, starting point of Fran Sandham's journey across Africa © Shutterstock

As recounted in  Traversa , Sandham’s boundlessly engaging account of his epic journey, he modelled his route on the Victorian-era "traversas" journeyed by the likes of Henry Morton Stanley and Dr David Livingstone.

Sandham's journey took almost a year. During the journey he was stricken with malaria, and the threat of lions and mines never left his mind. All this demonstrates the human impulse to set out and do things his own way. Traversa suffused in a spirit of joie de vivre, albeit brilliantly tempered by the author's endearing self-deprecating wit.

Modern-day adventurer  Mario Rigby  is surely set to become one of the world's most famous explorers. Born in Turks and Caicos, Rigby grew up in Germany and Canada, where a talent for athletics saw him pursuing a career as a personal trainer. It was an athletics competition in San Salvador that first inspired Rigby’s desire to explore more of the world, and ultimately led to his  Crossing Africa  expedition.

If you are inspired by Mario Rigbys adventures check our list of the world's best backpacking destinations.

Adventure Explorer Mario Rigby, Crossing Africa © Quantumtoastmedia/Wikimedia Commons under  Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International

Adventure explorer Mario Rigby, Crossing Africa © Quantumtoastmedia/Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International

In November 2015 Rigby left Toronto for Cape Town from where his incredible adventure began. An astounding 12,000 km trek north through eight African countries by foot and kayak that saw him reach Cairo in 2018. Contracting malaria, and dodging bullets and wild dogs along the way, Rigby was driven to learn from the people he met along the way. He also committed to share their stories with authentic, respectful realism.

Also a powerful, inspirational advocate for eco-conscious travel, Rigby’s continued adventures help support a number of charities. Among them are the  Rainmaker Enterprise  in Sudan and Toronto-based  My Stand , a mentoring scheme for vulnerable young people.

If you prefer to plan and book your trips without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

To find more inspiration for your future journeys check our Rough Guides guidebooks and find out all the information you need about your dream destination.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: map of Columbus's voyage © Shutterstock

Joanne Owen

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Remembering Ibn Battuta: 9 legendary travellers with the most curious minds

Ibn battuta, the moroccan traveller, was born on february 25: read to know more about him and other curious travellers who crossed a number of borders..

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Remembering Ibn Battuta: 9 legendary travellers with the most curious minds

It is said that travelling is the best way to broaden one's knowledge about the world. Some of the most curious minds of all time have traversed across the world to see the unseen and know the unknown.

On his 713th birth anniversary, let us know a bit more about Ibn Battuta

  • Ibn Battuta started his travel at the age of 20
  • He travelled across the entire Islamic regions of Africa, Asia and southeastern Europe
  • His thirst of knowledge led him through North Africa, Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Afghanistan
  • He even crossed the Himalayas to reach India, China, South-East Asia, Maldives, all the way back to Morocco
  • He came to India in 1334 during the reign of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. He was appointed as a judge and was in practice for eight years
  • He covered around 1,20,000 kilometres in 29 years. The account of his journey were published in the Rihlah (Travels)
  • Rihlah is still considered as an important document about the social and cultural world of the Islamic countries.

Here are nine such great travellers of all time:

1. xuanzang or hsuan-tsang (602-664).

greatest traveller in the world

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My top 10 greatest travel experiences from around the world

Monday  newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: My top 10 greatest travel experiences from around the world

I’ve reached a new milestone on my YouTube channel : we’re now officially a community of ONE MILLION travelers. That’s pretty insane and I want to thank each & every one of you. I launched the YouTube channel and my travel blog a few years ago, as a way to cope with my fear of flying (by taking videos & photos when I am in a plane). Since these flight videos somehow became popular, I started adding luxury hotel videos and reviews as well. Over time, the videos became less ‘amateurish’ and more dreamy, as you may have noticed. And now, the channel – which has a focus on the travel experience itself, not on myself – has more than 200 million views and is one of the most popular travel channels on YouTube. Wow!

To ‘celebrate’ this milestone, I made a short video featuring some of my travel highlights over the past years (which you watch below). In addition, I want to share with you a selection of my 10 greatest travel experiences (which have created memories for a lifetime).

What’s your best travel experience? Leave a comment .

10. WATCHING THE SUNRISE AT ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA

Angkor Wat is Asia’s most famous archeological site and the principle draw card to the Kingdom of Cambodia for many savvy tourists from around the globe. Angkor stood once at the center of the mighty Khmer empire (9th to 15th century) and grew to become the largest known pre-industrial settlement, spanning a site roughly equivalent to nowadays Paris. It was believed that the Khmer king had a divine role, and an appropriate temple had to be constructed by each king to consecrate the symbolic relationship between ruler and divinity. The site comprises dozens of iconic temples, including Angkor Wat itself (with its world-famous silhouette); Bayon (a temple famous for its smiling, serene faces carved onto gigantic towers) and Ta Prohm (a magnificent temple ruin engulfed by the jungle). Watching the sunrise by the pond that reflects the triple towers of Angkor War, with beautiful oranges and reds peeking out behind the temple complex, is an iconic travel experience that I will cherish for life (although I had to share it with many other tourists).

  • Recommended hotels :  Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang and Amansara
  • Review : read a review of my visit to Angkor Wat here .

9. A ROMANTIC GETAWAY IN SANTORINI, GREECE

Arguably Greece ’s most spectacular island, Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic eruptions causing the collapse of a mega volcano’s central part, hereby creating a large crater (caldera). The island inspires every visitor because of its magnificent landscapes with blue domed chapels and whitewashed houses perched on black volcanic cliffs, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful shimmering Aegean waters. Santorini is the most sought after place for a romantic getaway in Greece, and enjoys a growing reputation as a wedding destination for couples from all over the world. Unfortunately, thanks to its unique beauty, Santorini also endures hordes of visitors during summer, when roads are blocked, restaurants are full and prices soar. While spring is a lovely time to visit, particularly for the wild flowers, the sea has yet to warm up enough for all but the bravest. This is why I suggest to visit the island in October, like I did, when there are no crowds, the water is warm, the weather mild … and there’s wine to be tasted.

  • Recommended hotel : click here my top 10 list of the best hotels in Santorini

8. HELICOPTER TOUR IN KAUAI, HAWAII

Kauai boasts the most beautiful natural scenery I’ve ever seen in my life. It was the first of the major Hawaiian islands to rise from the ocean floor and it was the first to become extinct some 5 million years ago. The northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain is draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires and jagged cliffs. Sculpted by nature for millions of years, Kauai’s sensational natural beauty is epitomized by the Napali Coast – 14 miles (22 km) of sea cliffs ascending 3,000 feet (900 m) above untamed shoreline – and spectacular Waimea Canyon, the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’. Kauai also boasts the wettest spot on the planet at Mount Wai’ale’ale and the tremendous rainfall has produced sheer-walled valleys, razor-sharp ridges descending to the sea and most amazing array of waterfalls to be assembled anywhere in the world.  Most of Kauai’s awe-inspiring sights are inaccessible from the ground and can only be seen and appreciated by a thrilling helicopter tour (a travel experience not to be missed).

  • Recommended hotel : One Hotel Hanalei Bay

HELICOPTER TOUR IN KAUAI, HAWAII

7. TOURING NEW ZEALAND

It felt like Bilbo Baggins and Tolkien’s Middle Earth came alive when I traveled through New Zealand’s magnificent landscapes as a student in the early 2000s. The country’s position on two tectonic plates creates active geothermal activity on the North Island, with hot water pools, bubbling mud, spouting geysers, and volcanic forces. A palate of even more dramatic scenery, New Zealand’s South Island is home to the majestic Fiordland National Parkwhich boasts lush rainforests, pristine rivers, crystal clear lakes, mighty cliffs, snow-capped summits, majestic ice-carved fiords, and unique flora and fauna that has been in existence since New Zealand was part of the supercontinent Gondwanaland. Even on the frequent rainy days, the scenery is spectacular, with entire valley walls turning into thundering waterfalls. Highlight is the stunning Milford Sound with Mitre Peak, rising 1692 m (5551 ft) above sea level and one of the most photographed peaks in the country (one of the most awe-inspiring sights I’ve ever seen in my life). I hope to go back soon again!

TOURING NEW ZEALAND

6. HIKING IN TORRES DEL PAIN NATIONAL PARK, CHILE

Declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1978, the Torres del Paine National Park (situated in the Magallanes 12th region in Chile) is internationally recognized as one of the planet’s most uncontaminated wildernesses. Its breathtaking natural beauty includes the rugged horn-shaped peaks of the Cuernos del Paine and pristine sand-colored lowlands where the huaso countrymen, or baqueano, practice age-old cattle herding traditions. In the north, enormous ice fields flank brilliant blue glaciers whilst fjords and deep channels usher penguins to their waters. The National Park’s native beech forest is also home to a thriving population of guanacos, foxes, and pumas. While the most spectacular views will require a bit of effort, anyone can enjoy the park’s main landmarks by driving around, although multiday trekkings are the real thing here. The most famous hiking route is the 46 mi (75 km) W hike, which takes around 4 to 5 days and passes throughs some of the world’s most majestic mountain and glacier scenery.

  • Recommended hotel : Explora Torres Del Paine

HIKING IN TORRES DEL PAIN NATIONAL PARK, CHILE

5. BEACH HOLIDAY IN THE MALDIVES

Glamorous overwater resorts, pristine white-sand beaches, and a spectacular underwater world make the Maldives the ultimate travel destination for the discerning traveler. The sovereign archipelagic nation – positioned in the Indian Ocean southwest of India – consists of 26 breathtaking atolls boasting rich cultural traditions and natural treasures. All 1192 coral islands and sandbanks (200 inhabited islands, plus 100 islands with tourist resorts) are the visible coral tips of an oceanic volcanic mountain range whose outer edge at some points plunge to depths of over 3 km (10,000 ft). The tiny islands are encircled by magnificent beaches and incredibly beautiful lagoons, blessed with crystal clear waters and protected by reef structures. Every resort in the Maldives is built on its own private, picture-perfect palm island, with all of the  world’s most exclusive hotel brands competing with each other to offer their guests unprecedented levels of mind-blowing luxury. If you’re looking for an ultra-luxe beach holiday, then look no further as the Maldives ticks all the boxes (although the Seychelles comes close).

  • Recommended hotel : click here for my top 10 list of the best hotels in the Maldives

4. EXPLORING THE AMALFI COAST, ITALY

The Amalfi Coast stretches along the edge of the Sorrento Peninsula, in Italy’s Campania province, just south of Naples. The mountainous scenery of the Amalfi Coast is dotted with vineyards, lemon trees, olive groves and tiny villages – all clinging to jagged cliffs that plunge straight into the turquoise Mediterranean Sea below. The scenic Amalfi highway (formally Strada Statale 163) winds for about 80 km (50 miles) along the shoreline and cliffs of the Sorrento Peninsula, with plenty of viewpoints along the way to take in the spectacular coastal views (which rank among the best in Europe). The region’s top attraction is the village of Positano, whose Moorish-style houses tumble down to the Mediterranean Sea in a cascade of sun-bleached peach, pink and terracotta. A short 20 min boat ride from the mainland is the fabled island of Capri, whose dramatic coastal scenery has been known for at least 2000 years as Emperor Augustus and Emperor Tiberius both had homes here. The area is also home to some Italy’s most fabulous hotels.

  • Recommended hotels : click here for my top 10 list with the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast

EXPLORING THE AMALFI COAST, ITALY

3. WALKING THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU, PERU

Without any doubt, Peru’s greatest attraction is the mist-shrouded Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was only discovered in 1911 and is believed to have been used by the Incas as a secret ceremonial city. No matter how many times you have seen a photograph of the iconic Inca ruins, nothing prepares you for the sense of awe that this magical place elicits in its Andes mountain setting, clinging as it does to rock and jungle. And there’s nothing like the satisfaction of approaching Machu Picchu by feet, which is why the incredibly scenic Inca Trail should be on every one’s bucket list. In 4 days of hiking and 3 nights of camping, the Inca Trails crosses 39 km (25 mi) of paths and mountain passes that were built by the Incas hundreds of years ago. The trail ends at the Intipunku sun gate, which offers a great view of the sun rising over the surrounding mountain peaks, as the first rays of soft light hit and illuminate the world-famous ruins. I hiked the Inca Trail as a student and it’s a travel experience that I will never forget.

  • Recommended hotel : Belmond Sanctuary Lodge

WALKING THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU, PERU

2. FALLING IN LOVE WITH CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

“This cape is the most stately thing we saw in the whole circumference of the earth”, wrote Sir Francis Drake in 1580 when he discovered the cape. A vibrant city has sprung up since then (often dubbed South Africa’s Mother City), but the surrounding breathtaking coastal and mountainous scenery remains unrivaled on the planet. Often described in the international press as the world’s most beautiful city, Cape Town has always had a special place in my heart since I spent part of my studies here. Blessed with some of the world’s most amazing beaches, jaw-droppingly beautiful mountains, rolling hills of vineyards, spectacular drives and tons of trendy bars and fine dining restaurants to choose from, it is hard to imagine a more picture perfect city destination (and frankly, you won’t find a better one). Combine this with some of the best accommodation, hospitality and service on offer anywhere in the world and you are left with one of the hottest city destinations you will ever visit.

  • Recommended hotel : The Silo Hotel

1. GORILLA TRACKING IN RWANDA

Tracking the endangered mountain gorilla through the mysterious intimacy of the rainforest, alive with the calls of colorful birds and chattering of the rare golden monkey, is one of the most unique, memorable and life-changing travel experiences one can have in a lifetime. Gorilla trekking takes place from Volcanoes National Park’s headquarters where you are allocated to one of the twelve habituated gorilla groups. Only eight visitors are allowed per gorilla group each day, and to minimize possible transmission of human diseases, visitors are asked to maintain a distance of 7m (about 22 feet) from the gorillas. Typically, tracking can take from one to ten hours and requires some level of fitness since the hikes goes through dense jungle vegetation up steep and often muddy slopes. A maximum of 80 gorilla permits are issued per day and during high season these sell out far in advance, so it is therefore important to book gorilla permits as early as possible.

  • Recommended hotel :  Bisate Lodge by Wilderness Safaris
  • Review : read a review of my gorilla trekking  here .

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I would rate the sunrise at Angkor Wat as a maybe. The vast majority of mornings, there are too many clouds for a sunrise. Visitors are built up to do this and essentially waste a day of their Angkor visit. In the same category, is the sunrise at Haleakala. Way too many mornings there is a mist and no sunrise, especially during winter.

Agree with most of your favourites. A couple missing of mine hot air ballon trip at dawn across the Masai Mara and cruising at dawn in the Tracey Arm fjord in Alaska

If you lived on The Gold Coast of Australia, have already done Six Senses Laamu (twice), Soneva Jani for a week & Conrad Bora Bora, Maui, Hawaii – where would you go to celebrate your milestone birthday!??

Dear. Should i go to the seychelles or would you recommend another location for a first time tropical beach and luxury holiday? Kind regards

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World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

Bali, one of the best travel destinations

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

Traveler in Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Argentine Patagonia Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Campania, Amalfi Coast

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast road

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

Beach sunset in Cancun

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Cenote Zaci, Mexico

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Close up of Golden Gate Bridge

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

San Francisco houses

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls in autumn Canadian side

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls boat tour

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Bison at the Great Prismatic Spring

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Old Faithful Geiser erupting, Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

snorkle Destinations: Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef from above

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

White washed houses in Santorini

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Santorini houses

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

Florience center, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Il Duomo, Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

St. Lucia Les Pitons

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

St. Lucia boats

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai skyscrappers

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Dubai beach

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Llamas in Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

Sydney Harbor with boats

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Sydney Opera House in the evening

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon from observation point

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Family in the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

Landmark Temple Gates in Bali

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple in Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

New York City Manhattan

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

New York City Broadway

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff Lake Louise

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Kayaking in Banff National Park

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

Sunset in the Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Maldives overwater bungalows

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Sagrada Familia

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Barcelona Park Guell

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in the winter

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Mountain goats at Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

Akihabara Tokyo

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Sensoji temple , Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket boats

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Phuket temple

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Rome, Colosseum

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Rome Spanish Plaza at dawn

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

Modern bridge London

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

London in the spring

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Tahiti bungalows during sunset

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

Rocky beach in Maui

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Maui cave

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora overwater bungalows

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Bora Bora Island

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris from the Arc de Triumph

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Paris Montmartre at dawn

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

Milford Sound

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

South Island, New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

The best countries in the world: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Nicholas DeRenzo

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For years, we’ve asked our readers to tell us their favourite countries in the world via our annual Readers’ Choice Awards . The list continues to capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from the best hotels in the world to the top airlines, cruises, islands, and luggage. This year, you travelled farther and deeper; seeking out remote properties; sailing on smaller, more intimate ships; and prioritising destinations you’ve been waiting years to visit. At least that’s what a staggering 526,518 of you told us in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey. Now, you can use the results to decide where you’re going next. Here are the best countries in the world, as voted by Traveller readers.

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All eyes will be on Paris this year, as the city prepares to host the Summer Olympics. Following the reconstruction of Notre-Dame and this year's much-publicised battle with bedbugs, the City of Light is embracing the spirit of reinvention. That means playful design hotel openings, Dominique Crenn’s first restaurant in her home country, renewed efforts to clean up the Seine (with the goal of making it swimmable, no less), and a slew of French Asian artisans and chefs shaking up the cultural scene. Well beyond the confines of the capital, there are new adventures to discover, from the low-key surf scene in Hossegor to a buzzy African-inspired restaurant in Nîmes to a wave of modernist-tinged openings in the perma-chic French Riviera. And much, much farther afield, the overseas territory of French Polynesia made our list of the 24 best places to go in 2024 . The 118-island archipelago, which is reinvesting in its native flora and restoring coral, will play host to the Olympic surfing competitions this year.

Sri Lanka

18. Sri Lanka

This South Asian nation packs a wallop into a single teardrop-shaped island only slightly larger than the state of West Virginia: Think high-elevation tea plantations that are eye-vibratingly green, national parks where sloth bears and endangered elephants roam, and friendly surf towns that, if you squint, might remind you of Costa Rica or Nicaragua some decades years ago. (May we suggest Ahangama, with its indie-music venues, locavore cafés, and eco-boutiques?) And then there’s the capital city of Colombo, where you can shop for local spices, fly kites along the waterfront, or even charter a yacht. As Sri Lanka has worked in recent years to secure its spot as a global tourism contender, it has faced quite a few challenges, from the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings to the pandemic. Now, it’s looking to regain the trust of visitors with its trademark hospitality and warm nature – not to mention an ever-expanding roster of new hotels and resorts.

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17. Austria

Vienna has long been a favourite stop on European grand tours, but despite the city’s Hapsburg-era pomp and splendour, it’s far from a dusty museum piece. Leaders recently announced plans to be carbon neutral by 2040, led by a hyperlocal culinary scene that has welcomed such innovations as a city snail farm and an urban collective that uses grounds from the city’s famed coffee house scene to grow mushrooms. Outside the capital, visitors still flock to alpine ski villages and jewel-box-like Salzburg, but other destinations are bubbling to the surface. Making our Hot List recently is The Cōmodo , an artfully repurposed 1960s health resort on the edge of the country’s largest national park in the mountain village of Bad Gastein. And, this year, the country celebrated its third European Capital of Culture – following Graz in 2003 and Linz in 2009 – the spa town of Bad Ischl, where the healing salt waters have been attracting royalty and other elites since the early 1800s.

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16. South Africa

South Africa has always been a favourite first stop on the continent for international travellers, and it’s becoming increasingly accessible thanks to new direct routes. But even if you’ve visited before, you might not recognise the place: joining the illustrious ranks of the country’s famed safari resorts and wineries are a slew of new openings, including a revitalised weekend market in Johannesburg and buzzy beach clubs in the heart of Cape Town. Beyond the wildlife watching that has made South Africa a favourite destination for generations of safari-goers, new adventures await around every corner: Take lessons with the country’s first Black African free-diving instructor, the mermaid-esque Zandile Ndhlovu ; retrace Viola Davis’s footsteps in the filming locations from The Woman King (South Africa stood in for the former West African Kingdom of Dahomey); or collaborate on your own bespoke African-print bomber jacket with local Joburg fashion designer Sebo Marobela.

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15. United Kingdom

Thanks to Brexit and a new monarch, it’s safe to say that the United Kingdom hasn’t seen such an intense period of transition since perhaps the Margaret Thatcher era. But despite the changes, most of the things we all know and love about the country are still intact, such as London’s dazzlingly diverse restaurant scene and its wide array of free museums (the National Portrait Gallery reopened its doors last summer after a three-year renovation). History is always being reimagined and remixed in these parts: take, for instance, the landmark Old War Office, which has been transformed into Raffles London at The OWO , or the renovated 1511 Thornbury Castle, where you can now make like a Tudor-era noble and book an overnight stay. Up in the north of England, Yorkshire made it onto our list of the best places to go in 2024, thanks to its emerging culinary scene, and adventures await beyond the borders of England as well – foraging for mushrooms in Wales , tapping into maritime history in Northern Ireland, or hopping between swimmable tidal pools on the coast of Scotland.

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14. Germany

With its fairytale castles , charming small towns , and festive Christmas markets , Germany has always loomed large as a tourist magnet, whether you’re exploring it by train, river cruise, or road trip. While the country may seem tradition-bound, it’s also not afraid of trying something new, which might mean immersive art shows taking over unexpected spaces in Berlin or a $120 million, high-tech medi-spa opening in the pastoral North Frisian Islands. There are new contemporary-art-filled places to stay, buzzy neighbourhoods (like Munich’s meatpacking district, Schlachthofviertel), and even an expanding fleet of ultra-eco-friendly, hydrogen-powered passenger trains that emit only steam and condensed water. Of course, the classics are just as beautiful as they’ve always been: when, for instance, you enjoy the healing thermal springs of Baden-Baden , you’re taking part in a millennia-old tourist tradition that dates back to the pre-Roman Celts.

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13. Croatia

The secret’s out: this Balkan country may have been off-the-beaten path a decade or so ago, but it’s rapidly gaining in popularity, thanks to increased direct flights, an influx of cruises, and especially the popularity of Game of Thrones . Croatia is feeling the growing pains of its success, with spots like Dubrovnik and Split becoming every bit as overtouristed as Venice or Amsterdam, but there are plenty of areas around the country that reward exploration: dining at family-farm restaurants and sampling local olive oil in Istria , zipping around by speedboat off the coastline of Trogir, road-tripping through vineyards and oyster farms on the Dalmatian Coast, or sailing among the restful Kornati Islands, which are dotted with oak forests, centuries-old churches, and fortified villages. The result? What local Dalmatians call fjaka – that sweet feeling of doing absolutely nothing.

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12. Iceland

Long celebrated as a rugged adventure outpost, Iceland is the kind of edge-of-the-world place where your trip just might be interrupted or postponed by a volcanic eruption or mini-earthquakes – but is worth the wait. These days, urban life is just as alive and exciting as the geothermal activity bubbling underground: Think pilgrimage-worthy restaurants (like Ox, a speakeasy-style tasting-menu spot), see-and-be-seen design hotels (The Reykjavík Edition), and a robust roster of new natural wine bars, cocktail lounges, and innovative food halls.

As the Golden Circle becomes increasingly crowded with international visitors taking advantage of IcelandAir’s “stopover” program, the country is gently nudging travellers off the beaten path. The relatively new Diamond Circle, for instance, weaves a 155-mile loop through northeastern Iceland, stopping at waterfalls, mud pits, lava caves, and hot springs . And in 2023, the fan-favourite Blue Lagoon – which boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant of its own, Moss – expanded its footprint with the new Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll, a cosy retreat in a part of the country’s rugged interior that’s so remote even many Icelanders haven’t stepped foot there.

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Sydney

11. Australia

We’ll never stop loving Sydney and Melbourne and the Great Barrier Reef, but the overarching theme for Aussie tourism in the past few years has been a resounding: “But there’s so much more out there!” There’s almost a passing of the baton going on among the country’s creative-minded cities: way out west, Perth enjoyed its status as the country’s fast-growing boomtown, followed by Hobart, Tasmania, which welcomed a game-changing art museum and design hotel. Ready for its big close-up is Queensland’s oft-ignored capital city of Brisbane, which is newly accessible thanks to direct routes from the United States and will see such skyline-transforming additions as the Queen’s Wharf entertainment precinct (with a six-star Rosewood) and a $100-million performing arts venue. And when the first World’s 50 Best Hotels list was released back in September, Brisbane’s modernist-tinged The Calile ranked the highest in the region. On the exact opposite side of the country, Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region made our list of the world’s best places to go in 2024, thanks to increased cruise itineraries to the area and the newly launched Aboriginal Cultural Expedition.

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Istanbul has always sat at the crossroads of the world, where the thin ribbon of the Bosphorus divides Asia from Europe, and East from West. It's taken its position to new heights with a game-changing international airport that opened in 2019 and gained fandom among our readers for its modern design and impressive duty-free shopping zone. Returning visitors will find all the things they love about Istanbul still intact, from its minaret-filled skyline to its thrilling food scene, but there are plenty of fresh offerings, including a burgeoning contemporary gallery scene in artsy Karaköy . Farther afield, the Turquoise Coast attracts jet setters with its traditional hammams and party-centric resorts alike, while the surrounding Aegean region has seen an explosion of modern wineries amid its ancient ruins. And speaking of antiquity, there’s a brand new (yet very old) reason to head out east into Anatolia: In 2021, UNESCO inscribed the 8,000-year-old Arslantepe Mound on its list of World Heritage Sites.

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9. Switzerland

With its cow-studded green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and glitzy ski resorts, Switzerland is the kind of place that most people think they know. But this country in the heart of Europe is worth another look. Take, for instance, its notoriously expensive largest city, Zürich , which never seems to get enough credit for its progressive outlook, oft-overlooked art and music scenes, and a skyline shaped by staggeringly diverse architectural voices, including Le Corbusier, Santiago Calatrava, and Shigeru Ban. Its Alpine ski towns, with big names like Verbier, Davos, and Zermatt , meanwhile, are expanding their offerings beyond the snow season: The Engadin Valley, home to St. Moritz, has become a warm-weather hot spot, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, electric mountain bikes for rent, and all manner of adventure sports, including paragliding, kitesurfing, and even class-4 whitewater-rapids rafting through Giarsun Gorge. But, of course, the classics still sing. After tackling the country’s rugged terrain, you’ve earned a stay in the new Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, a stunningly remade Belle Epoque grande-dame hotel originally opened in 1906.

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Oslo has spent the past several years getting out of the shadow of its grander Scandinavian peers, like Stockholm and Copenhagen, with attention-grabbing openings like the Sommerro Hotel and the new National Museum and buzzy districts like harbour-side Bjørvika, home to the new Munch Museum. But the capital city is a mere gateway for exploring the country and its fjord-filled coastline – recently recalculated as the second-longest in the world after Canada. This year, a must-visit stop is Bodø, the first European Capital of Culture north of the Arctic Circle, which will see a lineup of cultural events celebrating Sámi culture and the opening of a new hotel made almost entirely out of wood. For the best way to get around these parts, you can’t beat Hurtigruten, a historic coastal ferry company that also doubles as a pleasure cruise line, a cargo vessel, a mail ship, and an expedition outfitter. The beloved institution celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2023 by partnering with renowned Norwegian chefs like Halvar Ellingsen for boundary-pushing onboard menus (think reindeer tartar and elk bone marrow) and introducing new itineraries to Svalbard and the North Cape.

Ferragudo. Lagoa Municipality. Faro district. Algarve. Portugal

7. Portugal

This Iberian Peninsula country has spent the past decade transforming from a budget-minded underdog destination to a major player that can rival the likes of Spain and Italy. From the start, even as it suffered under a forty-year authoritarian regime and a flailing economy, Portugal was brimming with delights that bordered on sensory overload: the intricate blue-and-white patterns of azulejo tiles, the intoxicating aroma of oven-fresh pastéis de nata, the mournful chords of live fado music, the bracing chill of a crisp vinho verde or the nectary sweetness of a port. With its jaunty yellow trams and hilltop São Jorge Castle, Lisbon is an easy-to-adore starting point for first-timers, but an increasing number of direct flights to Porto are inviting travellers to explore the second city’s contemporary cultural scene and must-try restaurants. And then? Portugal rewards repeat visitors with a choose-your-own-adventure that might include the terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley, the underrated wineries and burgeoning beach towns of the Alentejo region, the surfer havens of the Algarve , and the absurdly scenic hamlets scattered throughout. Now, thanks to new direct flights from the US, even the Hawaii-like volcanic landscapes of the Azores are right at your fingertips.

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When the World’s 50 Best Bars list was announced earlier this year, the top spot went to an innovative Barcelona cocktail lounge called Sips, and it shared the top five with fellow Barcelona speakeasy Paradiso, which is hidden inside a pastrami shop in the trendy El Born district. If you’ve spent any time in the country, especially after nightfall, you probably already know this obvious fact: the Spanish know how to party, and they love to do it in style, from the sherry and flamenco bars of Andalusia to the beach clubs of bohemian Formentera to the tapas bars of Barcelona . In an ironic twist, some of the country’s most notoriously party-hardy spots are moving in the opposite direction, shedding their reputations for debauchery to become serious cultural hubs. A new generation of creatives in Mallorca, for instance, are getting back to the land, with homey design hotels and natural wineries, while a host of boutique hotels and Michelin-star restaurants in Marbella is enticing visitors to explore beyond the (admittedly gorgeous) beachfront and into the previously underrated Old Town.

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5. New Zealand

Ever since Peter Jackson cast his home country as Middle-earth in the Lord of the Rings film franchise, visitors have viewed this island nation as a place of almost mythical beauty, from the crystalline mountains lakes and sweeping fjords to misty rainforests and geothermal valleys. Culturally diverse Auckland remains the most popular point of entry for international travelers, but new lodges and trails are making it easier than ever before to venture far out into the country’s vast wilderness. Among the most dazzling openings in recent years is Flockhill Lodge, a 36,000-acre high-country sheep station in the Southern Alps that now doubles as an ultra-luxe retreat, while other properties are finding clever ways to honour the land (such as regenerative farming) and especially the country’s Māori heritage. And for something wildly unique, consider a flight on the world’s first winery airline, Invivo Air, which flies between Auckland and Queenstown and includes an eight-step wine tasting at 18,000 feet.

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For American travellers, Ireland has always felt a bit like an old cardigan: cosy, easy, and comfortable – the kind of place you can take multiple generations of family members to trace your genealogical roots or to scope out centuries-old castles and fireplace-warmed pubs. But there’s also a decidedly youthful wind whipping across the Emerald Isle. The capital city is emerging as one of Europe’s most forward-thinking tech hubs, nicknamed Silicon Docks for the prevalence of tech giants and startups headquartered along the Grand Canal Dock. This infusion of big thinkers (with big wallets) has blown the dust off the island’s traditionalist culture. Now, in addition to crossing Trinity College’s Long Room off your bucket list, you might also find yourself foraging for nettles and pears with Takingaleaf founder Miceal Murray or sipping whiskey at Teeling, the first new distillery to open within the city in more than 125 years. Beyond the capital, Ireland is dotted with remote hotels and Airbnbs that allow you to spend the night everywhere from an island lighthouse in County May to a Scandi-chic cabin in County Monaghan. And if you’re in the mood for something farther afield, it doesn’t get much more rugged than the Aran Islands, the filming location and inspiration for The Banshees of Inisherin .

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Greece is attracting record-breaking tourist numbers, and the crystal Aegean waters are beckoning us back to some of your favourite islands in the world : postcard-perfect Santorini , mythology-steeped Mykonos , and massive Crete , with its reemerging viticultural scene. That roster of dreamy islands is ever-expanding, with more and more visitors venturing out to under-the-radar Paros , car-free Hydra , blissfully secluded Zakynthos, beach-filled Ios, and wild, windswept Tinos . And be sure not to ignore Athens. As it rebuilt itself after a paralysing debt crisis, the ancient city leaned into a scrappy, creative energy that has yielded forward-thinking restaurants, avant-garde galleries, and hip hotels that rank Athens among Europe’s unexpectedly coolest capitals. And for those really looking for an adventure – albeit a slow one – consider a journey into Zagorohoria, a collection of 46 traditional stone villages scattered around the Pindus Mountains in Greece’s rugged northwest. Here, you’re likelier to encounter truffle hunters, bubbling hot springs, and monasteries with Orthodox frescoes than sun-seeking partiers.

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As Stanley Tucci ’s popular CNN travelogue proved, there aren’t enough days in the year to uncover all the dolce vita that Italy has to offer. Beyond the hotspots in Florence , Venice , Milan , and Rome , the country is blessed with seemingly infinite villages and underrated cities to explore and fall in love with. Palermo ’s stunningly restored Villa Igiea , for instance, brought the glitterati back to Sicily, which is still riding high off its role in HBO’s The White Lotus , while Bergamo and Brescia – two former rivals who were epicentres of the early pandemic – put aside their differences to jointly hold the title of 2023 Italian Capital of Culture. Of course, one of Italy’s enduring legacies is its world-renowned cuisine, which the government has officially nominated for inclusion on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. And you don’t have to look far to see what all the fuss is about: Italy is a food lover’s paradise, where you can immerse yourself in the millennia-old Jewish cuisine of Rome, take part in a transformative cooking class in Tuscany, or try something completely new-to-you (like torta al testo ) in landlocked Umbria.

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Japan was dealt a bad hand, when its turn at the Summer Olympics fell during an international pandemic. And though they were much-delayed, the Games reminded viewers worldwide what they loved – and missed – about the island nation: the traditions, the design culture, the futuristic innovation. Now that the country has reopened for visa-free tourism, you’ll still find the incredible restaurants, the ultra-relaxing onsens, the Shinto temples, the cherry blossoms, and the impeccably clean and efficient high-speed trains, which run along some of the most scenic rail routes in the world. But there’s always something new popping up in this whizz-bang nation of the future. A buzzy gin scene? Sure. A hilltop castle from 1599 where you can book overnight stays? Check. Oh yeah, new galleries and exhibits on Naoshima Island, ultra-stylish glamping resorts, and a growing roster of sushi bars helmed by female chefs are still a major rarity in this tradition-bound country. And now there are fantastic excuses to venture far out to the country’s extreme north and south: New UNESCO World Heritage designees include the Jomon Prehistoric Sites in the north and a chain of islands in the archipelago’s southwestern stretches that are entirely uninhabited by humans and filled with endangered species.

Best Places In The World To Visit

Here is the list of 33 best places in the world to visit, 1. paris, france - the city of lights.

Paris, France - The City of Lights

Known For : Eiffel Tower The Louvre Notre Dame

Paris, the enchanting 'City of Lights', captivates with its blend of history, art, and romance. Its cobblestone streets lead to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. By night, the Seine River reflects shimmering illuminations, echoing the city's luminous spirit. An epicenter of culture and elegance, Paris remains an eternal muse for visitors from around the globe.

Best Time: June to August

58 Paris Attractions

2. London, England - London: The heritage of England

London, England - London: The heritage of England

Known For : Tower of London British Museum London Eye

London, the heart of England, stands as a vibrant mosaic of history, culture, and innovation. From the regal Buckingham Palace and the echoing bells of Big Ben to the modern Shard piercing the skyline, the city embodies the nation's heritage. Cobblestone streets, iconic red buses, and the River Thames intertwining its fabric, London offers an immersive journey through centuries, celebrating the essence of English tradition while embracing the future.

Best Time: April to September

53 London Attractions

3. Pamukalle, Turkey - Pamukalle-The City of Minerals

Pamukalle, Turkey - Pamukalle-The City of Minerals

Known For : Pamukkale Natural Park Travertines Hierapolis

Pamukkale, located in Turkey, is often referred to as the 'City of Minerals'. Famous for its terraces of gleaming white calcium deposits, these natural thermal springs look like frozen waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. The therapeutic waters, rich in minerals, have drawn visitors for centuries, seeking rejuvenation and solace. With ancient ruins of Hierapolis nearby, Pamukkale offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth, making it a mesmerizing destination.

Best Time: September

10 Pamukalle Attractions

4. Dubai, UAE - A Megacity That Never Stops Growing

Dubai, UAE - A Megacity That Never Stops Growing

Known For : At the Top Burj Khalifa Dubai Fountain The Dubai Mall

Dubai, a jewel in the UAE's crown, stands as a testament to ambition and innovation. Rising from desert sands, its skyline boasts architectural marvels like the Burj Khalifa, piercing the heavens. Luxury shopping malls coexist with historic souks, offering a blend of tradition and modernity. As a city that never stops evolving, Dubai dazzles with its opulence, technological feats, and a vision that ceaselessly pushes the boundaries of urban development.

Best Time: November to April

123 Dubai Attractions

5. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza, standing tall on Egypt's desert plains, are enduring symbols of ancient marvel and mystery. Built as grand tombs for pharaohs, these monumental structures have for millennia captivated imaginations with their scale and precision. The Sphinx, silent guardian of the pyramids, adds to the enigma. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site is not just a journey through sand and stone, but a leap back in time to a civilization's zenith.

6. Maldives, Maldives - A Tropical Haven

Maldives, Maldives - A Tropical Haven

Known For : Stay in an Overwater Bungalow Diving in Maldives Snorkelling in Maldives

The Maldives, an archipelago of over a thousand islands, emerges from the Indian Ocean as a tropical haven. Each atoll, with its aquamarine waters and powdery white sands, paints a picture of paradise. Overwater bungalows offer uninterrupted vistas of endless horizons, while vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface teem with marine life. For those seeking solitude and luxury embraced by nature's beauty, the Maldives is the quintessential retreat.

Best Time: December to April

103 Maldives Attractions

7. Bangkok, Thailand - Of street food, skyscrapers and unending nights

Bangkok, Thailand - Of street food, skyscrapers and unending nights

Known For : Grand Palace Chatuchak Market Wat Pho Bangkok

Bangkok, the pulsating heart of Thailand, is a blend of modernity and tradition. Skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, while the scent of sizzling street food fills bustling alleyways. By night, the city transforms, with markets illuminating streets and rooftop bars offering panoramic city views. From the sacred spaces of the Grand Palace to the frenzied energy of Khao San Road, Bangkok delivers a whirlwind of flavors, sights, and unending nights of revelry.

Best Time: Late November to Mid Jaunary

129 Bangkok Attractions

8. Prague, Czech-Republic - A Historical and Cultural Excursion

Prague, Czech-Republic - A Historical and Cultural Excursion

Known For : Prague Castle Charles Bridge (Karluv Most) The Clementinum and the National Library

Prague, the heart of the Czech Republic, offers a mesmerizing journey through time. Its cobblestone streets, lined with Gothic and Baroque masterpieces, echo with tales of emperors and artists. The iconic Charles Bridge connects centuries of history, while the astronomical clock ticks away in Old Town Square. Serving as a canvas of architectural splendor and cultural richness, Prague promises an immersive historical and cultural excursion for every wandering soul.

Best Time: April to October

50 Prague Attractions

9. Great Barrier Reef, Australia - Nature's Biggest Marvel

Great Barrier Reef, Australia - Nature's Biggest Marvel

Known For : Green Island Heart Reef Hayman Island

The Great Barrier Reef, stretching along Australia's northeast coast, is nature's most magnificent masterpiece. As the world's largest coral reef system, it boasts a kaleidoscope of marine life and vibrant coral formations. This underwater wonder, visible even from space, offers a mesmerizing dance of colors and shapes. A sanctuary for biodiversity, the reef stands not only as an iconic symbol of Australia's natural beauty but also as the planet's most splendid marine marvel.

Best Time: June to November (Spring)

6 Barrier Reef Attractions

10. Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece

Known For : Watch Sunset at Oia Hike from Fira to Oia Skaros Rock

Santorini, perched atop the Aegean Sea, is Greece's postcard-perfect gem. Its iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches cling to steep cliffs, offering breathtaking sunsets over the caldera. The island's volcanic past has sculpted unique beaches with red and black sands, while its villages brim with history and charm. A haven for romantics, Santorini's enchanting landscapes and azure waters create an unforgettable tableau of Mediterranean beauty and allure.

Best Time: June to September

55 Santorini Attractions

11. Sydney, Australia - The complete Australian experience

Sydney, Australia - The complete Australian experience

Known For : Sydney Opera House Sydney Harbour Bridge Royal Botanic Gardens

Sydney, Australia's gleaming harbor city, delivers the quintessential Australian experience. Framed by the iconic Sydney Opera House and the sprawling Harbour Bridge, it's a vibrant blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty. From the golden sands of Bondi Beach to its bustling markets and cosmopolitan nightlife, Sydney encapsulates the spirit of Down Under. Offering both urban allure and natural wonders, it's a destination that captures the heart and soul of the continent.

Best Time: December to February.

44 Sydney Attractions

12. Phuket, Thailand - Where Summer Beach Fashion Truly Comes Alive

Phuket, Thailand - Where Summer Beach Fashion Truly Comes Alive

Known For : Big Buddha Bangla Road Phuket Old Town

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is the epicenter of summer beach fashion. Its golden sands and azure waters serve as a runway for sun-seekers, each flaunting vibrant swimsuits, breezy sarongs, and chic sun hats. Amidst the backdrop of swaying palms and beachfront bars, fashion truly comes alive, reflecting the island's effervescent spirit. Here, sun-kissed days are not just about relaxation; they're a stylish statement of tropical elegance and flair.

Best Time: November to February

124 Phuket Attractions

13. Florence, Italy - The City of Character

Florence, Italy - The City of Character

Known For : Galleria dell’Accademia The Ufizzi Gallery Ponte Vecchio

Florence, Italy's artistic heart, is often described as the 'City of Character'. Birthplace of the Renaissance, its streets and squares are adorned with masterpieces from giants like Michelangelo and Botticelli. The Duomo's iconic dome dominates the skyline, while the Uffizi Gallery holds treasures of unparalleled beauty. Beyond art, Florence offers intimate cafes, Tuscan flavors, and a timeless ambiance, making it a destination where history and passion come alive in every corner.

Best Time: Throughout the year

42 Florence Attractions

14. Barcelona, Spain - The Paris of Spain

Barcelona, Spain - The Paris of Spain

Known For : Sagrada Familia Las Ramblas Park Guell

Barcelona, frequently hailed as 'The Paris of Spain', radiates with architectural splendor and cultural dynamism. The whimsical creations of Gaudí, from the iconic Sagrada Família to the vibrant mosaics of Park Güell, define its skyline. Narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter, bustling markets like La Boqueria, and the sun-kissed beaches of Barceloneta collectively capture its unique spirit. Barcelona seamlessly blends ancient charm with avant-garde flair, mirroring the romantic allure of Paris in its own Iberian style.

Best Time: May to August

47 Barcelona Attractions

15. Mauritius, Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Mauritius, Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, emerges as the quintessential island paradise. Its powdery white beaches merge seamlessly with cerulean waters, providing a haven for sun-worshippers and water enthusiasts alike. Verdant mountains and sugar cane fields punctuate its landscape, while a rich tapestry of cultures defines its soul. From Creole rhythms to spicy curries, Mauritius offers a delightful blend of nature and heritage, embodying the very essence of tropical allure.

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

16. Hong Kong, Hongkong

Hong Kong, Hongkong

Known For : Victoria Harbour A Symphony of Lights Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong, a dynamic metropolis, melds East and West in a vibrant tapestry of culture, commerce, and cuisine. Its iconic skyline, studded with futuristic skyscrapers, stands sentinel over bustling harbors and tranquil green mountains. From the aromatic alleyways of Temple Street Night Market to the serene trails of Lantau Island, Hong Kong offers a rich blend of urban energy and natural beauty, encapsulating the very essence of contrast and harmony.

Best Time: October to December (Autumn)

337 Hong Kong Attractions

17. Bali, Indonesia - An idyllic retreat

Bali, Indonesia - An idyllic retreat

Known For : Tanah Lot Uluwatu Bali Swing

Bali, nestled within the vast Indonesian archipelago, stands as an idyllic retreat for souls seeking tranquility and enchantment. Its landscapes, where verdant rice terraces merge with sun-drenched beaches, create a tapestry of natural beauty. Ancient temples, the gentle hum of Gamelan, and the intricate dance performances narrate tales of tradition and spirituality. From the bustling streets of Seminyak to the serene vibes of Ubud, Bali promises a rejuvenating escape into a tropical dream.

Best Time: April, May, June and September

300 Bali Attractions

18. Amsterdam, Netherlands - Heritage and history, parties and parks, food and fresh beer

Amsterdam, Netherlands - Heritage and history, parties and parks, food and fresh beer

Known For : Rijksmuseum Van Gogh Museum Vondelpark

Amsterdam, the jewel of the Netherlands, offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Its winding canals are lined with historic houses, reflecting centuries of heritage. By night, the city pulses with lively parties and the hum of conversation. Sprawling parks provide serene escapes, while bustling markets and cozy cafés tantalize with sumptuous food and freshly brewed beer. Amsterdam is a celebration of contrasts, where tradition mingles effortlessly with contemporary delights.

Best Time: March to October

47 Amsterdam Attractions

19. Seychelles, Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Seychelles, Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Known For : Anse Lazio Snorkeling in Seychelles Sunbathing in Seychelles

Seychelles, an archipelago nestled in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, is often heralded as 'The Honeymoon Paradise'. Its pristine beaches, fringed by swaying palm trees and granite boulders, set the stage for romance. Crystal-clear waters shimmer under the tropical sun, while secluded coves offer intimate moments of tranquillity. A sanctuary for love and serenity, Seychelles is where newlyweds find their idyllic beginning amidst nature's most breathtaking canvases.

Best Time: April to May, September to October

96 Seychelles Attractions

20. San Francisco, Usa - The Golden State's City of the Golden Gate

San Francisco, Usa - The Golden State's City of the Golden Gate

Known For : Golden Gate Bridge Alcatraz Island Fisherman's Wharf

San Francisco, perched on the edge of California's coastline, is fondly known as the 'City of the Golden Gate'. Its iconic red bridge stretches majestically across the bay, while its hilly streets offer panoramic views of the Pacific. From the historic charm of cable cars to the bohemian vibes of Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco melds traditions with innovation. A cultural melting pot, it embodies the Golden State's spirit of diversity and progressive thinking.

Best Time: September to November

256 San Francisco Attractions

21. Mumbai, Maharashtra - The City of Dreams

Mumbai, Maharashtra - The City of Dreams

Known For : Elephanta Caves Marine Drive, Mumbai Juhu Beach

Mumbai, the bustling heart of Maharashtra, is often hailed as the 'City of Dreams'. Its skyline, a blend of colonial architecture and modern high-rises, tells tales of aspiration and evolution. From the vibrant lanes of Colaba to the serene Marine Drive promenade, Mumbai pulsates with energy. As the home of Bollywood and a melting pot of cultures, it promises a tapestry of experiences, where dreams take flight amidst its chaotic yet charismatic embrace.

Best Time: October to February

114 Mumbai Attractions

22. Kolkata, West Bengal - The city of Joy

Kolkata, West Bengal - The city of Joy

Known For : Victoria Memorial Fort William Kolkata Belur Math

Kolkata, nestled in West Bengal, is fondly termed the 'City of Joy'. A cradle of literature, arts, and revolution, its streets echo with tales of heritage and hope. Trams rumble past colonial edifices, while the aroma of roshogolla and street food fills the air. From the historic Howrah Bridge to the vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, Kolkata radiates a warmth and cultural depth, offering a soulful embrace to every visitor.

Best Time: October to March

79 Kolkata Attractions

23. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andean mountains of Peru, is a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual significance of the Inca civilization. Overlooking verdant valleys and shrouded in mist, this ancient citadel reveals a tapestry of stone terraces and temples. A journey to its enigmatic ruins offers a window into a bygone era, while challenging the physical and elevating the spiritual dimensions of those who tread its paths.

24. The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon, a majestic chasm carved by the Colorado River, stands as a testament to nature's unparalleled artistry. Spanning over 277 miles in Arizona, its layered red rock formations tell tales of Earth's ancient past. As sunlight dances across its vast expanse, visitors are left in awe of its sheer magnitude and raw beauty. A visit promises both a humbling perspective and an indelible imprint on the soul.

25. New Zealand - The Land Where Adventures Wait

New Zealand - The Land Where Adventures Wait

New Zealand, often dubbed the 'Land Where Adventures Wait', beckons with its juxtaposition of rugged landscapes and serene vistas. From the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the otherworldly geothermal terrains of Rotorua, it's a haven for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Each corner of this island nation offers a unique dance of earth, water, and sky, promising unforgettable experiences for every intrepid soul.

26. Colosseum, Rome

Colosseum, Rome

The Colosseum in Rome, an enduring symbol of ancient grandeur, stands as a testament to the Roman Empire's architectural prowess and its thirst for spectacle. Once echoing with the roars of gladiators and spectators alike, this colossal amphitheater, with its arches and worn stones, evokes tales of bravery, drama, and human endeavor. A visit transports one back in time, offering a poignant glimpse into the heart of ancient civilization and its vast cultural tapestry.

27. Bora Bora, French-Polynesia - A colossal cosmos encircled by a mystique lagoon

Bora Bora, French-Polynesia - A colossal cosmos encircled by a mystique lagoon

Known For : Matira Beach Water Sports in Bora Bora Land activities

Bora Bora, situated in French Polynesia, is a colossal cosmos of vibrant blue hues and lush greenery, encircled by a mystique lagoon and barrier reef. Renowned for its turquoise water and luxury overwater bungalows, this tropical paradise effortlessly marries natural splendor with opulence. Each glimpse of its pristine beaches and silhouettes of Mount Otemanu on the horizon invites visitors into a realm of serene beauty and timeless allure.

Best Time: May to October

3 Bora Bora Attractions

28. Iceland - For the offbeat traveller

Iceland - For the offbeat traveller

Iceland, a realm of stark contrasts, beckons the offbeat traveller with its fiery volcanoes and glacial landscapes. From the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights to the geothermal springs of the Blue Lagoon, it offers an otherworldly escape. Its rugged terrains, dotted with waterfalls and geysers, promise an experience unlike any other. For those seeking paths less trodden and nature in its rawest form, Iceland is the ultimate destination.

29. New York City, Usa - The City that Never Sleeps

New York City, Usa - The City that Never Sleeps

Known For : Statue of Liberty Times Square Empire State Building

New York City, often dubbed 'The City that Never Sleeps', pulsates with unyielding energy. Its iconic skyline, punctuated by skyscrapers like the Empire State and One World Trade, stands as a beacon of ambition and dreams. The bustling streets, from Broadway's glowing marquees to Central Park's tranquil paths, tell tales of millions. A melting pot of cultures, arts, and ideas, NYC promises a perpetual dance of experiences, keeping its promise of sleepless wonder.

275 New York City Attractions

30. Costa Rica - Abundance of Natural Beauty

Costa Rica - Abundance of Natural Beauty

Costa Rica, a gem nestled between two oceans, is synonymous with an abundance of natural beauty. Rainforests teeming with vibrant flora and fauna stretch towards pristine beaches, where waves beckon surfers and sun-seekers alike. Majestic volcanoes rise against the horizon, and hidden waterfalls punctuate dense jungles. With its commitment to sustainability, Costa Rica not only offers a visual feast of biodiversity but also stands as a testament to harmonious coexistence with nature.

31. British Virgin Islands - The Gem of Caribbean

British Virgin Islands - The Gem of Caribbean

Known For : The Baths Rhone Marine Park (Salt Island) Fallen Jerusalem National Park

The British Virgin Islands, nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, emerge as a gem of turquoise waters and sun-kissed sands. This archipelago, comprising over 60 islands and cays, offers secluded bays, vibrant coral reefs, and verdant hills. Sailors drift lazily from one isle to another, seeking the perfect mooring spot, while beachcombers revel in the pristine shores. Reflecting the laid-back Caribbean spirit, these islands promise an untouched paradise for wanderers and dreamers alike.

13 British Virgin Islan Attractions

32. Amalfi, Italy

Amalfi, Italy

Amalfi, nestled along Italy's rugged southern coastline, is a tapestry of sunlit cliffs and azure seas. This historic maritime town, with its maze of narrow alleys, boasts centuries-old architecture and bustling piazzas. Lemon groves scent the air, while vibrant bougainvillea drapes over stone walls. With its serene beaches and iconic cathedral, Amalfi perfectly captures the charm and romance of the Mediterranean, offering a slice of Italian paradise to every visitor.

33. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, located in the heart of Cambodia, stands as a testament to the Khmer Empire's architectural brilliance and spiritual devotion. This sprawling temple complex, with its intricate carvings and grandeur, is both a symbol of national pride and a UNESCO World Heritage site. As dawn breaks, its iconic silhouette against the rising sun offers a moment of serenity and timelessness, inviting travelers to step back into a golden era of Cambodian history.

Are there more best places in the world that we missed out? Let us know in the comments below!

This post was published by Vrinda Movva

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24 of the world’s most incredible train journeys

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

greatest traveller in the world

As you cross the continental US aboard the California Zephyr, you’ll see prairies, deserts, mountains and canyons galore © Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

From cutting through the countryside to connecting a country’s great cities, the world’s best railway journeys offer entirely new perspectives on a destination.

Train travel always delivers plenty of magic. Sometimes it’s in the cars, as you meet fellow travelers, or as you eat and sleep with the sound of wheels rolling on the steel rails beneath you. Sometimes it’s outside, in the landscape the train traverses – offering an adventure, an experience, an insight into the heart of a nation.

Our upcoming book,  Amazing Train Journeys ,  rounds up the world’s greatest railway rides. Pulled from its pages, these 24 train journeys are truly first-class.

A train travels through a lush environment with trees alongside the coastline.

1. The Reunification Express, Vietnam

Start:  Ho Chi Minh City End:  Hanoi Departs: Daily Distance:  1072 miles (1726km) Duration:  Two days

This is one of Southeast Asia ’s best-loved railways – and one of the  most epic overnight train journeys in the world . There is no more atmospheric way to haul into Vietnam ’s twin metropolises as this train rattles through historic cities and swooshes beside spectacular coastlines.

2. The California Zephyr, USA

Start:  Chicago End:   San Francisco Departs: Daily Distance:  2438 miles (3924km) Duration:   52hrs 40mins

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak ’s California Zephyr , one of the US’ best train journeys . This classic three-day ride travels across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from the Midwest to the West Coast.

A blue-and-yellow train weaves around a corner in a grassy landscape in Peru.

3. The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru

Start:  Puno End:  Cuzco Departs: Three times a week Distance:  241 miles (388km) Duration:  10 hours

Traversing the Altiplano, from the shores of Lake Titicaca to the bustling heart of the ancient Incan empire, the railway from Puno to Cuzco cuts a ponderous but picturesque path through the snow-dusted peaks and voluptuous valleys of the Andes, across the epic Peruvian plains , passing hardy bowler-hatted llama farmers and traveling through remote towns and villages.

4. The Beijing-to-Lhasa Express, China

Start:   Beijing End:   Lhasa Departs: Daily Distance:  2330 miles (3750km) Duration:  40 hours

From the futuristic architecture and imperial wonders of Beijing, the Z21 train transports its passengers from the neon lights of urban China  across the Tibetan plateau , where it glides past grazing yaks, fluttering prayer flags, snow-capped mountains and boundless blue skies. At your destination, magenta-robed monks await. 

A Kiwirail TranzAlpine train arriving in Arthur’s Pass station, Arthur’s Pass National Park, South Island, New Zealand

5. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Start:   Christchurch End:  Greymouth Departs: Daily Distance:   139 miles (223km) Duration:  4hrs 30mins

Under five hours, this journey is surely one the world’s finest and most scenic one-day train rides. Commence the TranzAlpine experience in Christchurch, before speeding along the Canterbury Plains and climbing quickly through the snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps, then descend through a thrilling tunnel to emerge among the lakes, streams and rainforests of the South Island ’s West Coast. 

6. The Bergensbanen, Norway

Start:  Oslo End:   Bergen Departs: Four times a day Distance:  308 miles (496km) Duration:   6hrs 30mins

This astonishing train is one of Europe’s best railway rides  – and one of the least well known outside of Norway . It covers the spectrum of the Nordic country’s natural splendor: climbing canyons, crossing rivers, burrowing through mountainsides and traversing barren icescapes.

A train travels on a high track over a valley in a lush forest.

7. Tazara Railway, Tanzania and Zambia

Start:  Dar es Salaam End:  Kapiri Mposhi Departs: Twice a week Distance:  1160 miles (1860km) Duration:   46 hours

Few trains in the world offer the chance – and we should point out that it’s a chance rather than a guarantee – of spotting big game from your seat. The Tazara ( Tanzania and Zambia Railway Authority) does just that. The highlight, though, is the chance to spend two days watching everyday life out of the window, and enjoying the clamor and chaos when the train pulls to a halt – scheduled or unscheduled.

8. The Sunset Limited, USA 

Start:   New Orleans End: Los Angeles Departs: Three times per week  Distance: 1995 miles (3211km)  Duration:  Two days

The ultimate American railroad ride: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of crossing the States, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer. Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston, across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, partner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

The Caledonian Sleeper train crosses Rannoch Viaduct on the scenic West Highland Line railway in the Scottish Highlands.

9. The Caledonian Sleeper, UK

Start:  London (Euston) End:   Fort William Departs: Daily Distance:  509 miles (819km) Duration:  13hrs 30mins

Segueing from the sooty suburbs and crowded concrete-lined cul-de-sacs of central London to the crisp air and soaring vistas of the Scottish Highlands via one overnight train journey epitomizes the romance of rail travel. Enjoy the buffet-car banter, be lulled to sleep by the rhythm of the rails, then wake up to bedside views of towering granite peaks. 

10. Mombasa to Nairobi, Kenya

Start: Mombasa Ends:  Nairobi Departs: Daily Distance:  360 miles (579km) Duration:  5hrs 10mins

The Nairobi–Mombasa railway route is among Africa’s most legendary: it even helped foster the modern concept of safari. The rickety old railway has undergone a rebuild in recent years with smart new stations and a new track laid across the Kenyan savannah . What hasn’t changed is the spellbinding journey, with trains departing from Mombasa and passing in the shadow of Kilimanjaro to the cusp of the Great Rift Valley.

11. Tangier to Marrakesh, Morocco

Start:   Tangier End:  Marrakesh Departs: Daily Distance:  360 miles (580km) Duration:  5hrs 15mins

Nothing can fully prepare you for the magnificence Morocco ’s most evocative city – from the clamor and spectacle of the central square, Djemaa El Fna , to the primary colors of the Jardin Majorelle ; and from the peaceful madrassa of Medersa Ben Youssef to the mad profusion of alleyways. There’s no doubting that a railway journey down the spine of this North African nation is a profoundly uplifting experience.

People sit in the observation desk of a train looking out at the Rocky Mountains.

12. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Start:   Vancouver End:   Banff Departs: Twice a week Distance:  594 miles (957km) Duration:  37 hours

Clattering across the wild Rocky Mountains along a pioneering 19th-century railroad, this train journey is all at once a geological field trip, sightseeing adventure and wildlife safari. It promises cinematic views of Canada ’s quintessential mountain landscapes, plus a bevy of engineering marvels, from dizzying bridges to logic-defying tunnels. And with luck, you might even spy a bald eagle, moose or grizzly bear. 

13. Alexandria to Aswan, Egypt

Start:   Alexandria End:  Aswan Departs: Daily Distance:  670 miles (1100km) Duration:  16 hours

A ride from Alexandria to Aswan means you will travel the length of Egypt 's rail network – and also undertake an odyssey in the company of the great Nile River , with chances to disembark and explore the relics of empires along its banks . Do keep in mind that, for all their plus points, Egyptian trains are not always known for punctuality. 

14. The Serra Verde Express, Brazil

Start:   Curitiba End:  Morretes,  Paraná Departs: Daily Distance:  42 miles (68km) Duration:  3hrs 30mins

One of Brazil ’s most spectacular train journeys, the Serra Verde Express starts in the architecturally bold city of Curitiba and winds its way through dramatic mountain passes covered with tropical rainforest before it drops you in Morretes in the lush state of Paraná. The half-day trip takes in canyons, jagged mountain peaks and verdant lowlands, and the slow-going locomotive allows plenty of opportunities to photograph the cinematic backdrop while traversing some 30 bridges and chugging through 14 tunnels. Aside from the captivating scenery, the journey provides a fascinating glimpse into the past as it trundles through tiny stations dating back to the late 1800s.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway passes by produce venders in the town of Ghum, West Bengal, India

15. The Darjeeling Toy Train, India

Start:   New Jalpaiguri End:   Darjeeling Departs: Daily Distance:  55 miles (88.5km) Duration:  7–8 hours

India ’s narrow-gauge steam railways are the stuff of legend, and the bottle-blue Darjeeling Toy Train is the nation’s lead engine. The ride from the Bengal plains to Darjeeling travels past emerald-green tea plantations and precariously balanced, tin-roofed townships, while clouds tumble down the looming massif of Mt Khangchendzonga. Steam engines are now only used for a small section of the route, yet this iconic mountain journey still serves up a sizable slice of history.

16. The Hokkaidō Shinkansen, Japan

Start:  Tokyo End:  Hakodate Departs: Daily Distance:  512 miles (824km) Duration:  4 hours

The Hokkaidō Shinkansen , one of Japan’s iconic bullet trains , takes you from Tokyo to Hakodate, the southern port of Hokkaidō . Along the way, it zooms past picturesque scenes of rural Japan , through mountains and under the sea. The route is only part of it, though: riding the shinkansen – with its food trolleys and staff who bow upon entering and exiting the train car – is a classic Japanese experience.

A smiling woman looks out from a train window as it travel on a picturesque railroad in Sri Lanka

17. Colombo to Badulla, Sri Lanka

Start:  Colombo End:  Badulla Departs: Daily Distance:  181 miles (292km) Duration:  9–10 hours

One of many unforgettable things about Sri Lanka is the variety and intensity of the color green throughout the year . And for train aficionados, there is no better way to appreciate the country’s full, verdant spectrum than an all-day rail journey from Colombo’s urban gardens at sea level to tea plantations in the Hill Country , via brain-spinning sensory doses of jungle and forest, paddy field and palm tree, mountain and valley, national parks…and human habitation, too. Expect to move slowly – and enjoy one of the most scenic train trips in the world.

18. Bangkok to Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore

Start:   Bangkok End:  Singapore Departs: Weekly Distance:  1200 miles (1900km) Duration: Three days

A railway journey from Bangkok to Singapore spans three countries, three capital cities, and – without disembarking once – can be completed in under three days. But to go so fast would be to miss the point of this artery along the Malay Peninsula – a line suited to capricious roaming. You always have the option to hop off – to see tropical islands, to scale the cool heights of tea plantations, and to linger in a trio of metropolises that are each entirely different.

A train enters a tunnel in a snowy landscape in Switzerland.

19. The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Start:  St Moritz End:  Zermatt Departs: Daily (in season) Distance:  180 miles (290km) Duration:  8 hours

Switzerland is a nation of rail fanatics . And if the Swiss could pick one definitive ride, the honor would surely go to the Glacier Express . This eight-hour journey from ritzy St Moritz to Matterhorn-topped Zermatt unzips the lovely Alpine terrain in the country’s south, corkscrewing up to wind-battered mountain passes, teetering across 291 bridges and rumbling through 91 tunnels. It intentionally moves at a snail’s pace so you take in those out-of-this-world views of meadows, forest, falls and mountains – all through panoramic windows. 

20. The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

Start:   Chur End:  Tirano Departs: Daily Distance:  96 miles (156km) Duration:  4hrs 30mins

We can wax lyrical about the glacier-capped mountains, waterfall-draped ravines, jewel-colored lakes and endless spruce forests glimpsed through panoramic windows on Switzerland’s Bernina Express – but seeing is believing. Rolling from Chur in Graubünden to Tirano in northern Italy , this narrow-gauge train often tops polls of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. The line has even made UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites – and with good reason.

A wagon conductor transports passengers' luggage for hotel transfer on the Orient Express.

21. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, England, France, Switzerland and Italy

Start:  London End:  Venice Departs: One to six times per month Distance:  1300 miles (2090km) Duration:  Two days

The promise of traveling from London to Venice cocooned in luxury while sitting in twinkly dining cars with fine china and silver cutlery is surely one that endures in the hearts of all rail enthusiasts. While the Orient Express’ various other 20th-century routes are sadly long gone, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a tantalizing sample of the original on a trip that is surely the best journey back in time ever. But this route gained a new rival in 2023 with the Orient Express La Dolce Vita service  – and, in 2025, a new service on the original route is scheduled to hit the rails .

22. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia

Start:  Nova Gorica End:   Jesenice Departs:  Daily Distance:  55 miles (89km) Duration:  Two hours

Here is a near-perfect railway adventure that most people have never heard of. The Bohinj Railway connects two places whose significance can be lost to modern travelers. An unassuming regional train rattling out of a faded-grandeur halt on the Italy– Slovenia border doesn’t even hint at what’s to come. The journey is a spectacular tour of Slovenia’s upland highlights from Nova Gorica, climbing through mountain towns and villages along the Soča River , passing through superb Alpine scenery close to Lake Bohinj , and on past world-famous Lake Bled to Jesenice.

A train winds through an outback landscape in Australia.

23. The Ghan, Australia

Start:   Adelaide End:  Darwin Departs: Twice a week Distance:   1851 miles (2979km) Duration:  54 hours

Cutting vertically across the Outback heart of Australia , straight through the desolate deserts of the Red Centre, the Ghan is one of the southern hemisphere’s most unforgettable train journeys. This cross-country train service has provided a vital link between Australia’s north and south coasts, traveling north across the country from well-to-do, orderly Adelaide to the tropical, croc-filled creeks of Darwin. Luxurious and legendary, it’s Australia’s elegant version of the Orient Express.

24. Cannes to Menton, France

Start:   Cannes End:  Menton Departs: Daily Distance:  34 miles (55km) Duration:  1hr 20mins

It’s the stuff that travel dreams are made of: a slow train skirting the French Mediterranean coast, through towns whose very names resonate with glamour – Cannes, Antibes , Monaco . On one side of the tracks lies that sparkling sea; on the other, dramatic cliffs interspersed with the gorgeous coastal towns of the French Riviera . You can make a long day of this short trip, hopping on and off to explore a street market, linger at an outdoor terrace, take a breath of history and get a taste of luxury.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated January 2024

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I slept through the longest flight in the world. Here's my secret. | Cruising Altitude

greatest traveller in the world

SINGAPORE − I did a lot of flying last week, even as an airline reporter. My journeys even helped me complete an avgeek rite of passage: I took the longest flight in the world, from New York to Singapore, on March 11-13 and returned March 16.

I flew as a guest of Singapore Airlines to cover updates to its premium economy service offerings and to experience these flights while they’re still the longest in the world. Qantas, the Australian Airline, is set to claim that title from Singapore when it inaugurates nonstop round-trip flights from Sydney to New York and London in mid-2026.

Those Qantas flights are expected to take up to 20 hours each way, but for now, Singapore’s 18-plus-hour services between New York and Singapore remain the longest regularly scheduled commercial flights, even when favorable winds sometimes help them cover the distance faster.

Flying ultra-long-haul is similar in many ways to other flights: You’re still in a pressurized metal tube screaming through the troposphere, but as I heard from Singapore Airlines executives – and witnessed for myself – onboard service takes on an even greater importance when you spend nearly a full day in the air.

Here’s what it was like aboard the longest flights in the world.

The importance of meals

Antony McNeil, Singapore Airlines’ food and beverage director, told me that meal timing and composition make a big difference to passenger comfort on extra-long flights.

“The intention is that within three hours of departing, you’ve already started your first meal service,” he said. “Then six, seven hours (later), the crew will come back, so midflight you’re eating quite a large meal. If you want to sleep on departure, you know you’re not going to miss out.” 

McNeil said it’s important that meals don’t leave passengers feeling too bloated on such long flights.

“The meals that we offer at those times of the flight allow you to rest more comfortably,” he said. “They’re really designed to help you feel fuller for longer, so you’re not looking for snacks. Some American carriers on long-haul flights, they’re serving you really creamy dishes, creamy pastas, they’re heavy, you don’t feel good after you’ve eaten them, whereas we want to reverse that. We want to go in the other direction. Feel good, feel better for longer, enjoy the experience.”

On the way to Singapore I had:

  • Smoked salmon salad
  • Garlic bread
  • Sea bass with potatoes (if memory serves correctly)
  • A Lindor chocolate ball
  • Noodles with chicken
  • Lamb chops 
  • A Kit Kat bar

On the way home I had:

  • Lots of tea and water
  • Duck confit
  • Chocolate mousse cake
  • Chicken satay
  • Beef au jus with polenta
  • Potato chips
  • Cheese and onion potato chips

Meals also help break up the flight into more manageable chunks if you can’t manage to sleep. 

The flight from New York JFK departs around 11:30 p.m. daily and arrives two days later around 6 a.m. (meaning, my flight departed on the night of March 11 and arrived in Singapore on the morning of March 13). I slept quite a bit on the way to Singapore, so I didn’t experience the full service flow, but on the way home, the flight departed Singapore around 12:30 in the afternoon and arrived in New York around 6 p.m. On that flight, I really appreciated the meal timing, which was great for watching a movie and taking a nap between services, and it helped the nearly 18 hours on board feel arguably reasonable.

How it compares with shorter flights

McNeil said longer flights allow Singapore Airlines to offer more stretched-out delivery with every meal service.

“Compared to a short-haul, let’s say you’re going from here to Jakarta, one hour, 40 (minutes) maybe, that’s one meal service. First class, business class is a tray, everything’s on the tray,” he said. “On a midhaul flight, your service may have a table layout. You may get your tray, salad, appetizer; they’ll remove the tray and then bring you a plated main course, so there’s different service elements in the distances you’re traveling and it’s differentiated by flight departure, distance and, of course, what the crew can deliver within safety requirements.” 

Singapore Airlines also flies special aircraft on its ultra-long-haul flights. The Airbus A350-900ULR jets it uses have only two service classes on board: premium economy and business class, meaning all travelers experience an elevated inflight service on the airline’s longest flights. 

Tips for sleeping like a pro on a plane

One thing I’m very fortunate about is that I tend to sleep well on planes, even in the cheap seats. I wasn’t paying close attention, but on the way to Singapore I think I managed eight to 10 hours of sleep total. At any rate, I slept enough that one of the flight attendants commented to me as we prepared for landing that he was impressed with my ability to be unconscious. On the way home, I made an effort to stay awake so I’d be ready for bed at a normal time in New York but still snuck in two two-hour naps between meals.

Just before leaving for Singapore, I also flew back from another assignment in Cape Town. On the nearly 16-hour flight to Atlanta, I again managed seven to eight hours of sleep. 

I don’t say all this to brag, I say it to help. 

What’s my secret? On the Singapore trip, it was sheer exhaustion, but on most flights of 10 hours or more, I have a routine that helps me get down.

I try to book a flight as late in the evening as possible so I’m already tired as we’re leaving. I do my best to stay awake through the first meal service, which typically happens within the first hour or two of the flight, and have dinner so I don’t wake up hungry midway through the journey. Then I take a dose of a well-known over-the-counter cough and cold medicine that makes you drowsy (in gel cap form) as I wait for the meal tray to get cleared.

I acknowledge that there’s some debate about the safety of taking a sleeping aid on a plane: If there's an emergency, I know I won’t be firing on all cylinders if I wake up from a medically induced stupor to evacuate, but it’s a risk I’ve decided I’m willing to take to catch some Zs and help the flight pass more quickly.

This cold medicine routine has helped me log nearly a full night’s sleep on most 10-plus-hour flights I’ve taken in recent years, and I now pass my professional traveler wisdom onto you.

So next time you’re flying an especially long distance, pay attention to what you’re choosing to eat, and consider taking a sleep aid you know you can tolerate it well.

Also: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water. It’s no secret that being on a plane for a long time can dry you out.

The reporter on this story received access to this event from Singapore Airlines. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content. 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

More From Forbes

Bucket list travel: the top 50 places in the world.

  • What's on your travel bucket list?
  • No matter how many places are on your bucket list, this ranking will get you dreaming of places near and far.
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According to a new survey, Bali is the top bucket list destination in the world.

What's on your travel bucket list? If you're like most people, the more you travel, the more places you add to your bucket list. So when the editors of the website Big 7 Travel announced the list of the world's top 50 bucket list destinations, we stopped in our tracks and started checking off the boxes.

The website surveyed its 1.5 million-strong social audience  in order to determine the best bucket list places around the world. According to Sarah Clayton-Lea, head of content with Big 7 Travel, this is the first time the site has assembled this list. "Bucket list travel was a trend that popped up again and again in previous surveys when asking our readers what sort of travel content they most enjoyed consuming," says Clayton-Lea. "So, our curiosity got the better of us and we wanted to know which destinations people are dreaming of for 2019/2020."

READ MORE: "Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places"

The results of the world’s top 50 bucket list destinations include some of the most beautiful places on earth. "White sandy beaches are still a must-visit for many, with vibrant cities also making an appearance on a lot of people’s bucket lists," says Clayton-Lea. Countries with naturally beautiful scenery and world-famous landmarks came out on top: 22% of the destinations on the list have white sandy beaches, while 52% are iconic cities.

The famously colorful Bo Kaap neighborhood in Cape Town, South Africa.

In the study, Big 7 Travel found that people were also more likely to add a destination to their list if they had seen it on social media, and 33% of people research vacation destinations on their Instagram feed. "With over one-third of our readers saying they look to Instagram for travel inspiration, it makes sense that cities with colorful neighborhoods (such as Cape Town’s Bo Kaap) made the cut," says Clayton-Lea.

Bali topped the list of the 50 most popular bucket list destination on earth, but there were also some unexpected picks. "The top 10 list has a lot of the expected dream destinations, but there are a few surprises on the list: Paro Valley in Bhutan, for example, or Virunga National Park in the Congo," says Clayton-Lea. "I think this shows a great appetite for a need to get off the grid and can only assume that social media (and Netflix, in the case of Virunga!) is responsible for spreading the word of these amazing places."

An interesting factoid uncovered in the study: Most people have an average bucket list of just 11 places, with the hope of visiting seven of those locations during their lifetime. No matter how many places are on your bucket list, this ranking will get you dreaming of places near and far. Read on for the top 50 bucket list destinations in the world and what Big 7 Travel had to say about each one.

Overlooking the jungle on one of Bali's highly Instagrammed swings.

1. Bali, Indonesia:  "You’ll find beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers. Basically, it’s paradise. It’s likely you’ve seen an image of Bali on social media at least once in the past seven days, as it’s such a popular bucket list destination for 2019."

2. New Orleans: "The lively city known for its street music, festive vibe and a melting pot of French, African and American cultures is well worth the trip. NOLA is a city packed with adventures at every turn and should be on everyone’s must-visit list."

3. Kerry, Ireland: " All the way west in Ireland is one of the country’s most scenic counties. Kerry’s mountains, lakes and coasts are postcard-perfect, and that’s before you add in Killarney National Park. The unique small towns such as Dingle add to its charm."

El Badi Palace in the Marrakesh medina.

4. Marrakesh, Morocco:  "This ancient walled city is home to mosques, palaces and lush gardens. It’s known as The Red City thanks to the color of the brick walls surrounding the city. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre."

5. Sydney: "Sydney is known around the world as one of the greatest and most iconic cities on the planet. Amazing things to do aren’t hard to find; the city has gorgeous beaches, great cafes and world-class entertainment on offer wherever you look."

6. The Maldives: "This tropical nation in the Indian Ocean is made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. It’s home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotel resorts, with white sandy beaches, underwater villas and restaurants and bright blue waters."

Paris, France.

7. Paris, France: "One of the most iconic cities in the world, Paris tops many people’s bucket lists. You’ll see so many famous landmarks here: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame cathedral—the list is never-ending."

8. Cape Town, South Africa: "Cape Town is a dream location to visit: endless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink neighborhoods and turquoise waters."

9. Dubai, U.A.E.: "The high-flying city of the U.A.E, Dubai is one of the most glamorous destinations you’ll ever visit, and is particularly popular with Big 7 Travel readers."

Sunset In Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

10. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: "Bora Bora is Tahiti's most famous island. How do overwater bungalows and underwater adventures sound to you? To us, it’s everything we could want from a bucket list destination."

11. New York: "New York is one of America’s most exciting states. With charming upstate scenery, world-class cuisine and culture and more things to do than you could fit in one lifetime. The city’s five boroughs all have special features; it’s almost impossible to narrow it down"

12. Dubrovnik, Croatia: "As George Bernard Shaw once said, 'Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik.' With its winding streets, cliffside beach bars and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town, it’s no wonder Dubrovnik is such a popular spot."

Carlton hill in Edinburgh, Scotland.

13. Edinburgh, Scotland: "With the historic Edinburgh castle looming over the city, culture in spades and wonderfully friendly locals, this is one of the world’s greatest city breaks."

14. Rome, Italy: "Whether it’s your first time in Rome or your 50th, the best thing about this city is that you’ll always discover something new each time you stroll the scenic streets."

15. Paro Valley, Bhutan:  Paro Valley is known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs ) and dramatic landscapes. Tucked between China and India, Bhutan is a mysterious country that prides itself on sustainable tourism. You’ll find Paro Taktsang here, a Himalayan Buddhist sacred site."

At the Jal Mahal Palace at sunset in Jaipur, India.

16. Jaipur, India: "Jaipur is known as the ‘Pink City’ for its pale terracotta buildings. This was originally done to impress the visiting Prince Albert during his 1876 tour of India by order of the Maharaja (Sawai Ram Singh). Even today, it’s illegal to paint buildings any other color."

17. Waikato, New Zealand:  "Waikato, a region in New Zealand’s North Island, is home to massive underground caves, lush rainforest and the buzzy city of Hamilton. But the area’s main attraction? A Middle-earth adventure on the film set of  Lord of the Rings. Hobbiton Movie Set still has the original Hobbit holes from the making of the films."

18. Havana, Cuba:  "Cuba’s capital is almost 500 years old and a riot of color. Brightly painted buildings and vintage cars make Havana a photogenic dream."

A view of Tokyo Skytree and the city skyline from the Tobu Levant Hotel.

19. Tokyo, Japan: "Visiting Tokyo is like visiting the future—flashing neon lights, incredible technology—yet there’s still a rich sense of culture and history."

20. Antarctica:  "Earth’s southernmost continent, Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Nowhere else can compare with the extreme remoteness of this snowy place. It’s not an easy trip to make, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the white wilderness, icy sea kayaking and whale sightings."

21. Vancouver, Canada: "Vancouver is surrounded by water yet close to the mountains and has world-class art, restaurants and heaps of other attractions to keep you entertained."

22. Los Angeles: "In a city with year-round sunshine, glam bars, beaches and hikes, there are endless incredible experiences to enjoy in Los Angeles. It’s no wonder there are almost 5O million ‘LA’ hashtags on Insta."

In Kruger National Park, South Africa.

23. Kruger National Park, South Africa:  "The Kruger National Park is a vast space in northeastern South Africa that is home to a huge array of wildlife. The park has safari experiences of all kinds, allowing you the opportunity to escape busy city living and get back to nature."

24. Santorini, Greece: "Santorini is actually a group of islands; Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni. Beaches with volcanic black or red sand and clear blue waters make this an ideal holiday spot. With its famous Santorini sunsets, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular bucket list destinations."

25. Moscow, Russia: "Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, Moscow is a beautiful destination to visit in any season. Colorful domes and bell chimes ring out from over 600 churches in the city, and the sense of history is immense. Culture lovers will be impressed with the museums and ballet."

26. Singapore : "Singapore is a small island city-state off southern Malaysia which punches way above its weight on a global level. It’s a modern city with colorful buildings, futuristic bridges and a cloud forest."

London's Westminster Bridge.

27. London, England: "Pretty pink restaurants, futuristic space-age toilets and jungle skyline views are just some of our favorite things about London. And of course, all the classics: Big Ben, red phone boxes and world-class museums and galleries."

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:  "Rio de Janeiro has always been one of the most iconic cities in the world with instantly recognizable landscapes and landmarks."

29. Petra, Jordan: "The ancient Nabatean city of Petra in southern Jordan is surrounded by beautiful red rocks and steep gorges. The world wonder is without a doubt Jordan’s most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction."

30. Hong Kong:  "Famous for its skylines and vibrant food scene, what most people  don’t  know is that 70% of Hong Kong is mountains and lush parks. Colorful playgrounds and sci-fi apartment blocks give HK an enviable edge."

Beach and sea waves shot from above in Barbados.

31. Barbados: "Barbados is one of those magical holiday destinations that everybody dreams about visiting. Who  wouldn’t  put this on their bucket list? Nestled in the south of the Caribbean, it offers stunning beauty and wonderful local culture and is the perfect place to unwind."

32. Amsterdam: "Forget about cliched images of smoke shops and gaudy red lights. From floating flower markets to bohemian neighborhoods, this city has it all."

33. Santiago, Chile: "Santiago is a cosmopolitan city with the very best of Chilean culture; art galleries, design shops and handicraft markets, as well as lively Latino nightlife. You’ll stroll through historic neighborhoods with pretty winding streets and charming bars and cafes."

34. Cairo, Egypt: "Cairo is one of the most ancient cities in the world. Sitting on the Nile river with wonderful museums, vibrant culture and friendly locals, it makes for a great holiday."

Biking in Copenhagen.

35. Copenhagen, Denmark: "Copenhagen’s rustic fishing ports, modern graffiti and winding red brick streets are just some of what makes it such a beautiful bucket list destination. It oozes Scandi cool from every corner, with top-notch food, stylish design and an always hip atmosphere."

36. Seoul, Korea: "Seoul is a vibrant metropolis where old-meets-new, with pop culture (K-Pop!) alongside Buddhist temples.

37. Laucala Island Resort, Fiji:  "Laucala Island Resort is a private island in Fiji, in absolute paradise. It is one of three small islands off the northeast coast of Taveuni in Fiji. There are coconut trees, a sustainable farm and miles of beach, as well as coral reefs, postcard-perfect beaches and lush rainforest."

38. Providencia, Colombia: "The Colombian island of Providencia is the perfect combination of South America and the Caribbean. It’s best known for Crab Cay: an unspoiled little island where all there is to do is snorkel and lie on the beach."

Photographing Machu Picchu, Peru.

39. Machu Picchu, Peru: "The best way to get here? Arrive at Machu Picchu in style on the 360° Train that will bring you through the Peruvian countryside to the lost city. The wide, panoramic windows are perfect for soaking up the view, plus they serve Pisco Sours on board."

40. Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo: "Virunga National Park is one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet and home to the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas. It’s full of lush rainforest and has received even more attention since the documentary  Virunga."

41. Lisbon, Portugal: "Lisbon, the hilly capital of Portugal, is postcard-perfect with its cobbled streets, pristine waters and local Atlantic beaches."

42. Hanoi, Vietnam: "Hanoi—the capital of Vietnam—is known for its rich history, busy street life and centuries of French, Asian and Chinese influences all blended into one bustling city. It’s a wonderful base from which to explore the North of Vietnam, including Halong Bay and Sapa, while also enjoying the comforts of a modern vibrant city."

A view of Honolulu's Magic Island And Waikiki Beach.

43. Hawaii: "From the hustle and bustle of Oahu to the romance of Maui and off-the-beaten-path adventures on Lanai and Molokai. The Hawaiian Islands are pure paradise. Explore colorful canyons and waterfalls and eat your body weight in fresh poke."

44. Ibiza, Spain: "While you’ll have your fair share of techno club experiences, Ibiza is also one of the most beautiful Spanish islands, with a pretty Old Town and scenic beaches. Spend the day on the beach and the nights in legendary clubs."

45. Beijing, China: "Beijing is China’s political, economic, and cultural center, with six Unesco World Heritage Sites in this city alone. Discover Forbidden City, street food dishes of Peking duck and of course, the Great Wall of China."

46. Budapest, Hungary: "The capital city of Hungary, Budapest is a fairytale city in Eastern Europe. The city itself is separated by the 19th-century Chain Bridge that connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest—hence the name Budapest."

Photographing Vernazza in Cinque Terre.

47. Cinque Terre, Italy: "Is there anything prettier than this area of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline? The five towns (Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare) are made  for bucket lists."

48. Buenos Aires, Argentina: "Bookstores set in palatial theatres, tango dancing in the streets and brightly painted neighborhoods. These are just some of what makes Buenos Aires so beautiful."

49. Las Vegas: "With the bright lights, party atmosphere and endless things to see and do, it’s no wonder that Las Vegas has become a glittering global tourism destination. Take a chance in the casinos until the early hours or see world-class entertainment."

50: Matterhorn, Switzerland: "The Matterhorn is one of the world’s most iconic peaks—the pyramid-shaped mountain, which is very difficult to climb, is said to be the most-photographed mountain in the world."

READ MORE: •  "Ranked: The 20 Most Dangerous Places to Live" •  "Bucket List Travel: The Top 50 Places In The World" •  "Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places" •  "23 Surprising Things That Will Get You In Trouble In Italy"

• "Bucket List Travel: Top 10 Places In The World And Top 29 In The U.S."

Laura Begley Bloom

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The Best Train Trips in the World: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Todd Plummer

The Best Train Trips in the World 2023 Readers Choice Awards

Ah, the allure of train trips . Adventurers and the eco-conscious are drawn to this glamorous, old-world mode of exploration for the impeccable slow-travel vibes, but there’s also something to be said about the perspective found onboard a train; you’re experiencing the landscape and scenery in a way that you can’t experience in any other mode of travel. A train trip often brings you where everyday roads cannot, whether it’s through untouched Malaysian jungles on the revamped Belmond Eastern & Oriental itineraries relaunching in 2024, or high into the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer. For our 36th annual Readers’ Choice Awards —which capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises , islands , and luggage —we called on all of you to rank the best of the best rail journeys out there. Here, dear readers, is how the dice fell.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

If youre interested in taking a train to Machu Picchu  Inca Rail offers a level of convenience that is difficult to...

20. Inca Rail, South America

If you’re interested in taking a train to Machu Picchu (and unless you’re a mountain goat, we suggest you do), Inca Rail offers a level of convenience that is difficult to match—and it’s also worth mentioning that the First Class service is priced more accessibly than other luxury operators servicing the same route. While on board, you can expect a tasty menu prepared with organic ingredients grown right in the Sacred Valley, live Peruvian music, ample windows through which you can admire the staggering Andean scenery, and a spacious Observatory Lounge complete with open-air balcony. For fresh and frothy Pisco sours this good, this is one train that’s well worth the price of admission.

Take in all the sights and flavors of Spains iconic northern coastline on this luxurious sleeper train which over the...

19. Transcantabrico Gran Lujo, Spain

Take in all the sights and flavors of Spain ’s iconic northern coastline on this luxurious sleeper train, which over the course of a week makes its way between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela. You’ll enjoy on-board cuisine that celebrates each of the distinct regions through which this train passes, from Galicia to Basque Country. A unique aspect of this train is that it remains stationary overnight, allowing for late-night excursions and explorations that are uncommon on other sleeper train experiences.

Its been said that the Glacier Express is the slowest express in the worldit takes eight hours to traverse the 180mile...

18. Glacier Express, Switzerland

It’s been said that the Glacier Express is the slowest express in the world–it takes eight hours to traverse the 180-mile journey–but boy, do the views here invite a slow journey. Connecting the resort towns of Zermatt and Saint Moritz, the train provides an up-close perspective of some of this mountainous country’s most iconic natural features, including the Matterhorn, Piz Bernina, and the Rhine Gorge (dubbed Switzerland’s Grand Canyon). Book in Excellence Class and you’ll be served Champagne at your seat, followed by a six-course meal complete with wine pairings.

Image may contain Vehicle Transportation Train Locomotive Train Track Railway and Rail

17. The Canadian, Canada

Take in every mile of the vast Canadian landscape from The Canadian , a special sleeper service offered by VIA Rail, the country’s national rail carrier. Keep in mind that this train is more about sightseeing from the cars than actually getting off and doing anything. But if you’re traveling in the comfort of Prestige Class—with your own private cabin, private washroom and built-in TV screen monitor with video selection—you’ll be perfectly content to take in the journey from the privacy of your very own picture window.

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The Ghan Train Australia

16. The Ghan, Australia

Completed in 1929, The Ghan runs through the heart of the Australian continent , from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. It may have only started running its current route in 2004, but its history dates to the 19th century, its name harkening to the Afghan camel trainers and riders who first helped chart a course through the country’s interior. The three-day all-inclusive journey sees the train lilting its way through Australia’s Red Centre with diverse landscapes passing by. Travel through the expansive ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Simpsons Gap, and visit the opal town of Coober Pedy.

JR Kyushu 363

15. JR Kyushu 36+3, Japan

This train’s unusual name derives from Kyushu being the 36th-largest island in the world, and there being three key stakeholders on this journey: the passengers, the local community, and the rail company, JR Kyushu. It isn’t a sleeper train, instead offering a series of weeklong roster of one-day itineraries around the perimeter of Kyushu–a do one, do them all, or do as many as you like situation–but the journey is no less enriching for it. The inside feels like a ryokan, featuring immaculate woodwork made from local techniques, comfortable furniture, and a mix of private and communal spaces. It’s a gorgeous way to get off the beaten track on this gorgeous Japanese island, packing in a number of stops and towns into a single day of productive–yet comfortable–sightseeing.

train interior. Belmond Eastern  Oriental Express

14. Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia

The E&O is the stuff of train enthusiasts’ legends, and in February 2024, this storied train will at long last resume service after its pandemic-era pause–sort of. The train’s journey originally connected Singapore and Bangkok, but as of the new year will offer journeys through the jungles and coastlines of Malaysia, but all originating in and returning to Singapore. It isn’t the classic E&O route, but these new itineraries will offer deeper explorations of Malaysia than ever before, including guided snorkeling on Langkawi and excursions to Taman Negara National Park. Despite the new itineraries, the train still has all the old world touches that people love: Order a Singapore Sling in the Bar Car, take it to the outdoor viewing platform as the Malaysian jungle rolls on by, and you just might forget what year we’re living in.

Image may contain Building Architecture Arched Arch Bridge Bridge Arch Vehicle Transportation and Train

13. Northern Belle, Europe

It’s all about the food—and the scenery, too, but mostly about the food—onboard this lovingly restored 1930s train , which zig-zags its way across the English, Scottish and Welsh countrysides. Each of the journeys on offer are day trips, so they require less of a time (and money) commitment than other luxury trains. But what the Northern Belle lacks in length she more than makes up for in quality: The meal services are exquisite, offering fine dining crafted mostly from U.K. suppliers, so you can enjoy classic British fare as the heaths, meadows, and dales roll on by.

Image may contain Wood Flooring Hardwood Restaurant Interior Design Indoors Floor Cafe Furniture Room and Table

12. The Maharajas' Express, India

There are luxury sleeper trains, and then there are luxury sleeper trains like the Maharaja’s Express , where a greeting of marigold garlands and rose petals showered at your feet kicks off the journey before your personal butler escorts you to your room. The Junior Suite rooms are surprisingly spacious, especially by train travel standards, and come with full-sized closets, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and satellite TVs. Both of the on board watering holes–the Safari Bar and the Raja Club–have plenty of chairs, comfy sofas, books and board games. Each day of the itinerary includes special opportunities to experience India through the train’s luxurious and singular perspective: like an early-morning champagne breakfast on a private hillside overlooking the Taj Mahal.

Belmond Royal Scotsman. train interior

11. Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

It’s about the journey, not the destination, right? Nowhere is train travel more indulgent—or convenient!—than on Belmond’s Royal Scotsman , which departs from and arrives at Edinburgh’s Waverley Station. With only 40 guests onboard, the train circumnavigates the heart of the Scottish Highlands, passing such landmarks as the Kyle of Lochalsh and Cairngorms National Park. There’s even a dedicated spa carriage, where the specialists are trained to synchronize their motions with the natural lilts and tilts of the train. If that’s not luxury, we’re not sure what is.

Belmond Hiram Bingham

10. Belmond Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, South America

Named after the U.S. explorer who supposedly “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train line is as grand as the man’s claims. The round-trip journey connects the city of Poroy (just west of Cuzco) to the Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu. The Belmond Hiram Bingham turns on the turn-of-the-20th-century charm, from gleaming polished wood and brass surfaces to lavish meals and accommodations, which offer plenty of space to stretch out: the perfect setting for viewing the mountains and rivers zooming past the window.

Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Terminal Train Train Station and Subway

9. Golden Chariot, India

Experience a mix of Southern India’s greatest hits and lesser-explored destinations on board the iconic purple and gold Golden Chariot , which connects the Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. All itineraries depart from Bengaluru, with options for both three-night and six-night journeys. This train’s strength is its access to off-beat attractions than what you’ll find on the well-worn Golden Triangle, such as the ruins of Hampi. With sparse crowds, and a comfortable train to retreat to at the end of each day, it’s an approach to India that captures all the magic this country has to offer.

Image may contain Transportation Train Track Railway Rail Vehicle Train and Locomotive

8. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe

A pioneer in luxury trains for three decades, Golden Eagle is perhaps best known for its Silk Road and Trans-Siberian routes, but the Danube Express unlocks an approach to Southern and Eastern Europe which is no less breathtaking and engaging. The “Castles of Transylvania” route from Istanbul to Budapest is particularly unique–spend all day learning about Vlad the Impaler’s history through guided tours, then spend all night luxuriating in the comfort of the bar car or in the privacy of your room. It’s a combination of Europe’s best cities and most dramatic natural landscapes that is hard to experience in one go any other way.

Rocky Mountaineer

7. Rocky Mountaineer, North America

Traveling in a coach outfitted with picture windows and glass-dome ceilings means that a Rocky Mountaineer journey leaves no sight unseen as you traverse the dramatic scenery between Vancouver , British Columbia and Banff or Jasper, Alberta. Sample local Canadian beer, wine and snacks as you kick back and enjoy the ride. The staff’s friendly service and animated storytelling help bring the landscape to life. It’s personal touches like those which keep travelers coming away from this trip amply satisfied time and time again. Since it was founded in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has transported more than two million guests, making it the largest privately-owned premium tourist train in the world.

Image may contain Vehicle Transportation Train and Locomotive

6. Rovos Rail, Africa

This extravagant railway has been traveling throughout Africa for over thirty years. The experiences start before you even board—when departing from Pretoria, Rovos Rail travelers are granted exclusive access to a private lounge, where Champagne and canapés greet them—and a strict “no cellphone” rule is maintained for your own good. Enjoy the moment(s) provided by this line, which range from cozy digs to formal-attired evenings, as well as full-sized, freestanding clawfoot tubs in the most grand compartments. All Rovos Rail journeys include off-train cultural, historical and safari excursions so guests can experience all the wonders that Southern Africa has to offer. The three-night Cape Town journey is a classic, but if you’re feeling extra adventurous and have a few more nights to spare, opt for the newer fifteen-day “Trail of Two Oceans” itinerary, originating in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, crossing Zambia, traversing a sliver of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and concluding in Lobito, Angola.

Belmond Andean Explorer

5. Belmond Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train, South America

Weaving through the Peruvian Andes at 14,000 feet, the Belmond Andean Explorer transports passengers between Arequipa and Cusco on one- and two-night journeys. There are just thirty-five cabins on board, each outfitted with alpaca wool blankets and handwoven fabrics for an authentic yet luxe feel. Two dining cars and two bar cars serve the whims of every guest with bites like alpaca tortellini and (of course) champagne. The train also makes excursions to Lake Titicaca , where guests can learn about local customs, visit Incan ruins, and take in breath-taking views.

Belmond British Pullman

4. British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

The British Pullman ’s experience is magical no matter where you’re seated. Once you depart London , you’ll embark on a journey through the bucolic British countryside, touring cities and towns like Cambridge, York, and Canterbury along the way. The restored carriages date back to the 1920s and 1930s, so expect Art Deco touches, polished interiors, and classically prepared multi-course meals—this is the same train line that has served British royalty and government officials for years, after all.

train interior

3. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Year after year, the world’s most iconic locomotive continues to be a standard-setter in luxury. Of course, the decadent interiors are a fantasy of 1920’s Art Deco design, but it’s the impeccable service that keeps this train firmly ensconced in a class of its own. Bags are whisked off from the platform and magically reappear in your cabin, no glass ever runs empty, and the beds seem to make themselves anytime you step outside of your cabin. By day you can revel in the scenery of French countrysides and Swiss mountain scenes, and by night, the formal dress code feels anything but stuffy—in fact, playing dress up and making your way to the Champagne bar is, we think, one of the coolest experiences anyone could have on a train. For 2023, this over-the-top train is getting even more luxe updates, including eight new suites, two of which are original 1920s and 30s carriages carefully restored by expert French craftsmen and designers–so there’s no time like the present to book that bucket-list trip.

Palace on Wheels Train

2. Palace on Wheels, India

India’s best-known train, the Palace on Wheels , offers a number of trips that range from a couple days to week-long excursions. Embarking from New Delhi through the Land of Kings, trips take you through the famed Pink City of Jaipur, in Rajasthan, where guests are greeted by majestic UNESCO sites like the Amer Fort as well as 16th century palaces. You can also visit Agra, home to the Taj Mahal and the perfect stop for a tour of some of the country's most iconic sites. Along the way, enjoy regional cuisine in well-appointed, colorful carriages decked out in Indian textiles.

Seven Stars Kyushu

1. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Train lovers consider this opulent Japanese locomotive among the most spacious and comfortable of them all. Every inch of Seven Stars' Kyushu train—from the beds, to the bathroom sinks, to the woodwork, to the porcelain dinner plates—is handmade by Japanese artisans, and the service is simply exquisite, with each journey limited to a positively intimate twenty passengers; but it’s not just about the onboard experience with Seven Stars. These four-day, three-night trips travel a circuit around the island of Kyushu, making stops at the region’s best shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and more, so you truly feel like you’re exploring an authentic side of Japan , far away from the more obvious tourist tracks.

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This is the best Indian single malt for 2024

By Maahi Shah

This is the best Indian single malt for 2024

A whisky distilled in a quiet Haryana village and aged in old bourbon barrels has been named the best Indian single malt this year. The whisky in question is Indri Dru, a floral, luscious drink by the makers of international award-winning single malt Indri Trini . Less than a year after its launch in 2023, the single malt has been recognised by the World Whiskies Awards 2024, an annual selection of the finest whiskies in the world.

The best Indian Single Malt for 2024

The taste judging process for the World Whiskies Awards takes place in three rigorous rounds with a panel that comprises leading international journalists, industry experts and specialist drink retailers. The results include gold, silver and bronze winners from different regions across the world, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Denmark, Australia , Canada, India , Japan, Ireland, Scotland , Korea and more. This year, The English Sherry Cask, an expression from England, bagged the title of the World’s Best Single Malt.

Indri Dru was named the Best Indian Single Malt , with the following tasting notes from the panel: “Floral and tropical fruit aromas of mango and pineapple underscored by vanilla, caramel and spice. Luscious fruit and caramel on the palate, along with an oaky dryness that leads to a lingering caramel finish. Water brings out baking spices.” Dru stands for ‘vessel made of wood’ in Sanskrit, and is a single malt aged in old bourbon barrels. It is the perfect amalgamation of citrus and spice on the nose, with a sweet, fruit-forward taste followed by hints of vanilla and chocolate with wood lactones. While Indri Dru won gold in India, the Indri Diwali Collector’s Edition 2023 won a silver and the Kadamba Whisky XR Sherry Cask won a bronze.

Image may contain Alcohol Beverage Liquor and Whisky

Here’s the full list of the world’s best single malts:

The English: Sherry Cask, United Kingdom Cedar Ridge Distillery: The QuintEssential Special Release, United States Lark: Fresh IPA Cask, Australia Glen Breton Rare (14 years old), Canada Mosgaard: Palo Cortado Cask, Denmark Millstone: Oloroso (22 years old), Netherlands Teerenpeli 10 Years Old, Finland Le Breuil: Sherry Oloroso, France Finch: Private Edition Single Malt 12 Years Old, Germany Indri: Dru, India Teeling: Very Rare Cask 33 Years Old, Ireland Ruach: Ascent, Israel Yoichi 10 Years Old, Japan Thomson: South Island Peat, New Zealand Ki One: Oloroso Sherry, South Korea Three Ships: Millennium 21 Years Old, South Africa DYC 15 Years Old, Spain High Coast: Hav, Sweden Kavalan: Distillery Select No.2, Taiwan The World Whiskies Awards require participating brands to pay an entrance fee that starts at $299 at the time of registration. Find out more about the judging process and panel here

Excerpt: How ‘Made in China’ Became American Gospel

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How ‘Made in China’ Became American Gospel

The canny marketing of imports from vodka to basketballs transformed the u.s.-china trade relationship..

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On Oct. 25, 1976, U.S. businessman Charles Abrams traveled to New York City’s South Street Seaport to welcome a ship loaded with Chinese vodka. This was, according to Abrams, the first time the liquor had been commercially imported from China since 1949.

This article is adapted from Made in China: When US-China Interests Converged to Transform Global Trade (Harvard University Press, 352 pp., $37.95, March 2024).

Abrams turned this moment into an elaborate marketing event. The port was festooned with a vinyl balloon replica of a bottle of vodka the height of a three-story building. Swaying on the windy dock, the vodka-shaped balloon towered over a group of around 80 people, including New York’s ports and terminals commissioner, Louis F. Mastriani, who had gathered to celebrate the imports. Once the cases of vodka had been unloaded, the group convened at a Chinese restaurant where, the China Business Review reported with a wink, “the vodka and viands quickly warmed up the guests.”

Abrams was part of a new generation of U.S. businesspeople who began to trade with China after more than 20 years of Cold War isolation. Fascination, hope, excitement, frustration: Emotions guided their decisions as much as hardheaded economics—often more so. Working alongside businesspeople in China, they began to see something new in the China market.

For centuries, foreigners had seen in China a vast landmass teeming with potential customers. To them, trade meant expanding their exports. But new traders in the 1970s looked to China as a potential labor source. Together, they set in motion a fundamental transformation in the very meaning of the China market: from a place to sell U.S. goods to a site of cheap labor.

Abrams and other U.S. importers assisted this shift by fostering a culture of excitement about the unfolding trade relationship. Through advertisements, department store displays, and vodka-shaped balloons, the China traders of the 1970s changed the ways Americans understood Chinese communism: as apolitical and unthreatening. For U.S. consumers, Chinese imports instead quickly became “exotic,” and U.S. businesspeople succeeded in promoting a cultural acceptance of the words “Made in China” on the labels of everyday consumer goods.

The assembly line in a factory in Shantou, China, in 1977. Bettmann Archive/via Getty Images

Like many of the new generation of China traders in the United States, Abrams had long been interested in the country. In 1974, he told the New York Times that he had been “a student of China for fifteen years.” Recalling a trip to Asia when travel to China was closed off to U.S. businesspeople, he mused: “I still remember standing there in Hong Kong and saying to myself, ‘What lies beyond that great wall?’” He began trading with China the first moment he could. In 1972, he founded a company, the China Trade Corp., and began importing a handful of documentary films that he sold to U.S. television distributors.

Abrams continued to import a range of consumer goods from China. When he started bringing in Chinese vodka in 1976, he imported it under a brand name exclusive to the U.S. market: “Great Wall Vodka.” This wasn’t baijiu , the traditional white spirit of China itself, but Russian-style vodka from a manufacturer originally started by émigrés in the 1920s who had fled the Russian Civil War. In China, the liquor was sold as “Sunflower Vodka.” Abrams had negotiated the name change to make it, as he put it, “sound more Chinese and less like vinegar oil.” Of course, it was Abrams, a white American businessman, and not the Chinese with whom he dealt, who chose the “more Chinese” name.

For their part, Chinese traders certainly emphasized Sunflower Vodka’s Chinese origins in their own advertisements. Abrams’s push for a name change revealed that he wanted to emphasize not just the Chinese origins but also a certain idea of China—offering both ancient culture and a traveler’s adventure—that would appeal most to U.S. consumers.

It took three years for Abrams to conclude his vodka import deal from Ceroilfood, a Chinese state-owned enterprise. But in the spring of 1976, both parties finally reached an agreement. Not only would Abrams import Chinese vodka and change the name; Ceroilfood also agreed to assist with a direct mail advertising campaign. Chinese students would address and stamp the flyers and send them from China to U.S. liquor executives, businesspeople, and government officials. This was the first direct mail initiative from China to the United States, and Abrams, with his eye for drama, understood that its novelty was a crucial component of his marketing efforts.

Upon reaching the deal, Abrams told reporters that he felt “ecstatic.” For the first time since rapprochement began, China’s government was to embark on a marketing effort in the United States. Abrams, not one to shy away from his enthusiasm, declared, “This is the greatest afternoon of my life.”

With assistance from Ceroilfood, he would send flyers advertising Great Wall Vodka to 50,000 U.S. homes. The Chinese students who addressed and stamped the flyers were not paid for their efforts. The Times reported that the students worked “free of charge” but concluded jauntily that Abrams “stands to make a profit for both himself and the Chinese.”

In addition to a free mailing campaign, Abrams profited even further by inflating his prices. U.S. consumers could purchase a case of 12 Great Wall Vodka bottles for the hefty sum of $108. Abrams’s marketing campaign took full advantage of the high price tag. Great Wall was “the world’s most expensive vodka,” declared the advertisements, which appeared only in the New Yorker . The campaign targeted consumers who would be interested in a vodka that was, as one advertisement put it, “strictly not for the peasants.” The class politics here was not subtle. Wealthy New Yorker -reading liberals consuming Chinese vodka, with an eye for the exoticism of the Great Wall, could distinguish themselves from the “peasants” thanks to the uncompensated labor of Chinese students.

Abrams had a particular kind of vision for Chinese imports: He wanted them to retain their status as high-quality goods. “My emphasis in all this,” he told reporters, “is on quality products.” He added, “We don’t want to turn China into another Japan.” He did not explain what he meant by “another Japan,” but he spoke at a time when the United States imported high numbers of low-cost Japanese goods. Abrams hoped to position the China market differently: as a site for cheaper goods—even underpinned by free labor—that were nonetheless exclusive.

Customers try Russian Stolichnaya vodka in Sydney in 1978. Kevin John Berry/Fairfax Media via Getty Images

Abrams carefully cultivated the exclusivity of Great Wall Vodka. Even though his advertisements declared Great Wall Vodka to be the most expensive in the world, he soon noticed his main competitor making a similar claim. PepsiCo, which imported the Russian vodka Stolichnaya, publicized its own liquor as “the most expensive Vodka sold in America.” In fact, the retail costs of Great Wall Vodka were $1 more, and to Abram this was enough. He hired lawyers and in April 1977 took PepsiCo to court, demanding a whopping $5 million in damages. His lawyers presented his case before the New York County Supreme Court, asserting they had the “exclusive right in the use of the words ‘the world’s most expensive vodka.’”

The companies settled their dispute in November 1977, when the court ordered PepsiCo to “immediately cease and desist” from using any language suggesting that its vodka was the most expensive. PepsiCo was not, however, required to pay damages. For journalists, this was a story of Cold War competition like no other. “China and the Soviet Union are engaged in a spirited contest in bars and liquor stores across the U.S.,” the Wall Street Journal punned. With a tongue-in-cheek sensationalism, the Review wrote that “China and Russia are currently embroiled in a new, highly volatile area of contention.” Great Wall Vodka had sought to challenge “Soviet hegemony in the international vodka market.”

The irony was indeed remarkable. Two corporations were using the communist superpowers to compete for the title of most successful capitalists in the world’s richest economy. Yet the vodka war was perhaps more successful in advancing Abrams’s marketing strategies than anything else. As far as PepsiCo was concerned, the matter was a trifling irritant. Abrams, however, continued to use the geopolitical context to his advantage. When the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in December 1979, Abrams declared a new “vodka war” whereby he encouraged consumers to smash bottles of Stolichnaya in protest.

Abrams was a showman as much as a businessman, and his posturing with Chinese vodka was part of a larger cultural and economic shift taking place. The steady flow of Chinese imports and Abrams’s promotional efforts worked together to reshape how U.S. businesspeople and consumers saw the China market.

King (right) promotes Chinese vodka in 1978. Keystone Pictures Archive

Don King, one of the United States’ most renowned boxing promoters, also fostered the culture of spectacle surrounding trade with China. Having worked for years with Muhammad Ali, King described himself as a “promoter extraordinaire.” He is perhaps most known for arranging the 1974 boxing match in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) between Ali and the undefeated George Foreman. The so-called Rumble in the Jungle became one of the decade’s most watched television broadcasts and is remembered for Ali’s shocking win against the younger front-runner.

In the summer of 1976, King turned his promotional efforts toward China trade. At his Manhattan home on the 67th floor of Rockefeller Center, he held an event for journalists and corporate elites that was half press conference, half party. Donning a frilled shirt under a green suit and sitting behind a long table adorned with basketballs, sports shoes, and baseball mitts, King was flanked on either side by Abrams and television producer Larry Gershman. King announced that he had started a new company to import sporting goods from China. The awkwardly named Don King Friendship Sports Clothes and Goods Corp. would be a subsidiary of Abrams’s China Trade Corp.

The guests at King’s house party were offered Abrams’s Great Wall Vodka. As the party wore on, guests began to play with the Chinese-made basketballs and volleyballs, throwing them to one another across the massive Manhattan suite. King explained that Chinese equipment had “mystic powers.” With Chinese basketballs and hockey mitts, players would gain “more baskets, more scores.” The hint of masculine virility operated close to the surface.

King, who was Black, explained to journalists that Abrams had asked him to join the team “because I speak the language of the Third World.” This was not a spoken language, he continued, but rather “the language of the heart.” By invoking the “Third World,” he used ideas of Afro-Asian solidarity for his own promotional purposes. His efforts came at a time when many Black civil rights leaders had turned to Mao Zedong Thought as part of a search for alternatives to the violence and inequality that had emerged under U.S. liberalism. King thus positioned himself as distinct from the wealthy white businessmen beside him. As he noted, “I came from the masses.”

King and Abrams, both consummate promoters, worked together to sell Chinese products using different kinds of capitalist appeal. King asserted his affinity with the “Third World” and the “masses,” a kind of rags-to-riches form of capitalism. Abrams pursued an elitist exclusivity: a capitalist consumption reliant on being the most expensive. These differences were also apparent in the kinds of Chinese goods they imported. King’s corporation might have been a subsidiary of Abrams’s, but its relationship to Chinese imports operated differently. Unlike Great Wall Vodka, there was very little that was distinctively Chinese about the sports equipment King imported. As much as King touted the “mystic” nature of a basketball made in China, it was the lower labor costs that were the real appeal of these imports.

While Abrams hoped China would not become “another Japan,” it was cheap consumer goods like King’s, rather than expensive vodka like his, that would come to dominate the imports Americans bought from China. For the time being, however, the marketing spectacles of both men fueled a cultural shift within the United States that recast China from Cold War foe to trade partner—from “Red China” to “Made in China.”

Books are independently selected by FP editors. FP earns an affiliate commission on anything purchased through links to Amazon.com on this page.

Elizabeth O’Brien Ingleson is an assistant professor in the international history department at the London School of Economics and Political Science. Twitter:  @lizingleson

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Wealth of Geeks

Wealth of Geeks

The Greatest Detectives in Comic Book History

Posted: February 13, 2024 | Last updated: February 13, 2024

<p>When one thinks of comic books, most think of superheroes, muscled men and women in tights who solve problems with their fists. And yet, detectives have been and remain part of the medium. In fact, Batman himself made his debut in 1939’s <i>Detective Comics</i> #27, a series that continues publication today. </p> <p>And yet, not all detectives have the same keen eye for detail and analytical mind to stand out in the pages of four-color adventure stories. These greatest detectives, who all debuted in or have long appeared in comic books, have the skills to solve crime in a universe filled with outlandish criminals. </p>

When one thinks of comic books, most think of superheroes, muscled men and women in tights who solve problems with their fists. And yet, detectives have been and remain part of the medium. In fact, Batman himself made his debut in 1939’s Detective Comics #27, a series that continues publication today. 

And yet, not all detectives have the same keen eye for detail and analytical mind to stand out in the pages of four-color adventure stories. These greatest detectives, who all debuted in or have long appeared in comic books, have the skills to solve crime in a universe filled with outlandish criminals. 

<p>Is every <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/batman-the-animated-series-episodes-to-revisit/" rel="noopener">Batman</a> story a crime caper? No. Does Batman sometimes solve problems with his fists or his wonderful toys? Sure. But Batman is canonically the World’s Greatest Detective and for every story that fails to take advantage of his deductive powers, another shows the Dark Knight following the clues. In stories such as <i>Batman: Year One</i> and <i>The Long Halloween</i>, readers see the razor-sharp mind underneath the pointy ears, which make the Caped Crusader a formidable opponent to Gotham City’s underworld.<span> Credit Batman for not only being a great detective but also for training some of the greatest detectives in comic books. More on them in a moment…</span></p>

1. Batman (DC Comics)

Is every Batman story a crime caper? No. Does Batman sometimes solve problems with his fists or his wonderful toys? Sure. But Batman is canonically the World’s Greatest Detective and for every story that fails to take advantage of his deductive powers, another shows the Dark Knight following the clues. In stories such as Batman: Year One and The Long Halloween , readers see the razor-sharp mind underneath the pointy ears, which make the Caped Crusader a formidable opponent to Gotham City’s underworld. Credit Batman for not only being a great detective but also for training some of the greatest detectives in comic books. More on them in a moment…

<p>While investigating the secrets of the world’s greatest contortionists, Ralph Dibny learned about Gingold, a rare fruit juice enjoyed by all masters of the art. Ralph used a concentrated version of Gingold to give himself super-stretching abilities, taking the name Elongated Man. But Ralph deployed that extreme agility as part of his detective work, which he underwent alongside his loving wife, Sue. Even after Ralph and Sue shuffled off this mortal coil, the couple reunited in the afterlife to become Ralph and Sue Dibny, the Ghost Detectives. </p>

2. Ralph and Sue Dibny (DC Comics)

While investigating the secrets of the world’s greatest contortionists, Ralph Dibny learned about Gingold, a rare fruit juice enjoyed by all masters of the art. Ralph used a concentrated version of Gingold to give himself super-stretching abilities, taking the name Elongated Man. But Ralph deployed that extreme agility as part of his detective work, which he underwent alongside his loving wife, Sue. Even after Ralph and Sue shuffled off this mortal coil, the couple reunited in the afterlife to become Ralph and Sue Dibny, the Ghost Detectives. 

<p>Most of the characters on this list have some special power that aids their sleuthing, none as strange as the skills enjoyed by FDA Agent Tony Chu, hero of the Image Comics series <i>Chew</i>. As a “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chew_(comics)#Cibopath" rel="nofollow noopener">cibopath</a>,” Tony can read psychic energy from anything he eats. By munching on all manner of food, which sometimes includes corpses, Tony cracks every case thrown at him by writer John Layman and artist Rob Guillory. These cases may be stomach-churning, but they’re never in bad taste. </p>

3. Tony Chu (Chew, Image Comics)

Most of the characters on this list have some special power that aids their sleuthing, none as strange as the skills enjoyed by FDA Agent Tony Chu, hero of the Image Comics series Chew . As a “ cibopath ,” Tony can read psychic energy from anything he eats. By munching on all manner of food, which sometimes includes corpses, Tony cracks every case thrown at him by writer John Layman and artist Rob Guillory. These cases may be stomach-churning, but they’re never in bad taste. 

<p>For the first part of his adult life, aggressive reporter Victor Sage delivered pitiless punishment to bad guys as the Question, a faceless vigilante in a blue hat and trench coat. After a near-death experience drove him to change his ways and embrace Eastern philosophy, the Question improved his already impressive investigative skills, which he uses to fight corruption in Hub City. Years later, Vic trained former <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/gotham-knights-review/" rel="noopener">Gotham City</a> detective Renee Montoya in the same techniques, preparing her to become the new Question after Sage’s death. </p>

4. The Question (DC Comics)

For the first part of his adult life, aggressive reporter Victor Sage delivered pitiless punishment to bad guys as the Question, a faceless vigilante in a blue hat and trench coat. After a near-death experience drove him to change his ways and embrace Eastern philosophy, the Question improved his already impressive investigative skills, which he uses to fight corruption in Hub City. Years later, Vic trained former Gotham City detective Renee Montoya in the same techniques, preparing her to become the new Question after Sage’s death. 

<p>With her robotic arm and no-nonsense attitude, Misty Knight knows how to handle herself in a fight. And it’s a good thing, too, as Knight often finds herself in trouble when she solves the crimes that authorities ignore. Alongside her friend and enforcer Colleen Wing, Misty runs Knightwing Restorations Ltd., a private investigation service housed in New York City. Misty brings a hard edge to her detective work, uncovering hidden truths and battling the baddies when things get tough. </p>

5. Misty Knight (Marvel Comics)

With her robotic arm and no-nonsense attitude, Misty Knight knows how to handle herself in a fight. And it’s a good thing, too, as Knight often finds herself in trouble when she solves the crimes that authorities ignore. Alongside her friend and enforcer Colleen Wing, Misty runs Knightwing Restorations Ltd., a private investigation service housed in New York City. Misty brings a hard edge to her detective work, uncovering hidden truths and battling the baddies when things get tough. 

<p>Jessica Jones never wanted to be a detective, initially fighting crime as the costumed crusader Jewel. But when her superhero career ended on a tragic note, Jones realized she couldn’t leave people helpless. Instead, she started Alias Investigations, a P.I. firm devoted to helping those who can’t get help anywhere else. Despite those lofty ideals, Jones’s work often brings her into the world of superheroes, taking cases for <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/overhauling-daredevil-born-again/" rel="noopener">Daredevil</a>, Luke Cage, and others. </p>

6. Jessica Jones (Marvel Comics)

Jessica Jones never wanted to be a detective, initially fighting crime as the costumed crusader Jewel. But when her superhero career ended on a tragic note, Jones realized she couldn’t leave people helpless. Instead, she started Alias Investigations, a P.I. firm devoted to helping those who can’t get help anywhere else. Despite those lofty ideals, Jones’s work often brings her into the world of superheroes, taking cases for Daredevil , Luke Cage, and others. 

<p>Barbara Gordon counts as teachers two of the finest minds in the DC Universe, her mentor Batman and her father Commissioner Gordon. A love of adventure and a rebellious streak may have compelled her to don the cape and cowl as Batgirl. Still, Barbara’s brain and prowess as a researcher allowed her to disrupt mafia operations and hunt down villains like Penguin and Catwoman. </p>

7. Batgirl (DC Comics)

Barbara Gordon counts as teachers two of the finest minds in the DC Universe, her mentor Batman and her father Commissioner Gordon. A love of adventure and a rebellious streak may have compelled her to don the cape and cowl as Batgirl. Still, Barbara’s brain and prowess as a researcher allowed her to disrupt mafia operations and hunt down villains like Penguin and Catwoman. 

<p>Rorschach might be the most unhinged and cruel of the Minutemen the crimefighting team at the center of Alan Moore and David Gibbons’s groundbreaking series <i>Watchmen</i>. But he’s also the smartest of the group, at least short of the world’s smartest man, Adrien Veidt. After all, it’s Rorschach who first takes notice of the cape killer after the death of the Comedian, and it’s Rorschach who follows the clues to convict Veidt as the killer. Of course, the deductive abilities that made Rorschach such a powerhouse also reinforced his merciless worldview. </p>

8. Rorschach (DC Comics)

Rorschach might be the most unhinged and cruel of the Minutemen the crimefighting team at the center of Alan Moore and David Gibbons’s groundbreaking series Watchmen . But he’s also the smartest of the group, at least short of the world’s smartest man, Adrien Veidt. After all, it’s Rorschach who first takes notice of the cape killer after the death of the Comedian, and it’s Rorschach who follows the clues to convict Veidt as the killer. Of course, the deductive abilities that made Rorschach such a powerhouse also reinforced his merciless worldview. 

<p>Detective Chimp knows that people laugh at him. He spent years as part of a sideshow act and performed tricks with Rex the Wonder Dog. Those degrading theatrics hid the mighty mind of Bobo the Chimp, an intellect much greater than those of his evolutionary descendants. Detective Chimp turns people’s assumptions against them, luring suspects into a false sense of security that invites them to lower their guard. And when that doesn’t work, Bobo simply deploys the facts as he sees them, overcoming baddies with the force of a better argument. </p>

9. Detective Chimp (DC Comics)

Detective Chimp knows that people laugh at him. He spent years as part of a sideshow act and performed tricks with Rex the Wonder Dog. Those degrading theatrics hid the mighty mind of Bobo the Chimp, an intellect much greater than those of his evolutionary descendants. Detective Chimp turns people’s assumptions against them, luring suspects into a false sense of security that invites them to lower their guard. And when that doesn’t work, Bobo simply deploys the facts as he sees them, overcoming baddies with the force of a better argument. 

<p>In the alternate universe story <i>Injustice</i>, in which a despotic Superman sparks a superhero civil war, Gotham City Police Commissioner Jim Gordon warns his daughter Barbara against putting on her Batgirl suit to join. When Barbara asks how he figured out her caped alter-ego, he responds with frustration. “How?!?” he retorts. “I’m a detective!”</p><p>In fairness to Barbara, it’s easy to forget Gordon’s job before becoming Commissioner. But even while meeting the demands of his desk job, Gordon shows a keen awareness of the facts, so sharp that he hasn’t divined Batman’s secret identity only because he doesn’t know the man behind the mask. </p>

10. Jim Gordon (DC Comics)

In the alternate universe story Injustice , in which a despotic Superman sparks a superhero civil war, Gotham City Police Commissioner Jim Gordon warns his daughter Barbara against putting on her Batgirl suit to join. When Barbara asks how he figured out her caped alter-ego, he responds with frustration. “How?!?” he retorts. “I’m a detective!”

In fairness to Barbara, it’s easy to forget Gordon’s job before becoming Commissioner. But even while meeting the demands of his desk job, Gordon shows a keen awareness of the facts, so sharp that he hasn’t divined Batman’s secret identity only because he doesn’t know the man behind the mask. 

<p>Marvel commissioned comics about a character called Spider-Woman not because they saw a need for the hero but to prevent others from encroaching on their copyright. As mercenary as that genesis may have been, Spider-woman (aka Jessica Drew) soon grew into a compelling character, apart from Peter Parker. When not leaping around New York City in a red and yellow costume, Jessica has been a double agent infiltrating the evil organization HYDRA and later a private investigator for hire. Even when returning to regular superhero duty for the Avengers and other teams, Spider-Woman put her detective skills to use, solving problems that require more than muscles or powers. </p>

11. Spider-Woman (Marvel Comics)

Marvel commissioned comics about a character called Spider-Woman not because they saw a need for the hero but to prevent others from encroaching on their copyright. As mercenary as that genesis may have been, Spider-woman (aka Jessica Drew) soon grew into a compelling character, apart from Peter Parker. When not leaping around New York City in a red and yellow costume, Jessica has been a double agent infiltrating the evil organization HYDRA and later a private investigator for hire. Even when returning to regular superhero duty for the Avengers and other teams, Spider-Woman put her detective skills to use, solving problems that require more than muscles or powers. 

<p>If he wanted to, J’Onn J’Onzz could be the greatest detective on Earth, cracking every case he encounters under his human guise as John Jones. After all, in addition to super-strength, near invulnerability, and flight, the Martian Manhunter can read minds, he can change his shape, turn invisible, and phase through solid objects. In short, he can see even the most minuscule clue and uncover the deepest secrets. It’s only J’Onn respect for human dignity that prevents him from violating dignity, so he restricts himself to using just his superior mind to find evil-doers. </p>

12. Martian Manhunter (DC Comics)

If he wanted to, J’Onn J’Onzz could be the greatest detective on Earth, cracking every case he encounters under his human guise as John Jones. After all, in addition to super-strength, near invulnerability, and flight, the Martian Manhunter can read minds, he can change his shape, turn invisible, and phase through solid objects. In short, he can see even the most minuscule clue and uncover the deepest secrets. It’s only J’Onn respect for human dignity that prevents him from violating dignity, so he restricts himself to using just his superior mind to find evil-doers. 

<p>For the first few years of his existence, the mutant Jamie Madrox stayed in the background of <i>X-Men</i> and <i>Fantastic Four</i> comics, using his ability to create endless duplicates of himself to complete mundane tasks in various labs. When writer Peter David started working on the character in the pages of <i>X-Factor</i>, Madrox gained the personality of a prank-loving trickster and later a private detective. Using his duplicates to cover more ground than the average gumshoe, Madrox gets to the bottom of every case with a twinkle in his eye and a smirk on his face. </p>

13. Madrox the Multiple Man (Marvel)

For the first few years of his existence, the mutant Jamie Madrox stayed in the background of X-Men and Fantastic Four comics, using his ability to create endless duplicates of himself to complete mundane tasks in various labs. When writer Peter David started working on the character in the pages of X-Factor , Madrox gained the personality of a prank-loving trickster and later a private detective. Using his duplicates to cover more ground than the average gumshoe, Madrox gets to the bottom of every case with a twinkle in his eye and a smirk on his face. 

<p>Zelda Pettibone doesn’t need to figure out who is behind the mass killings in New York City. She knows that it’s Maniac Harry, the knife-wielding slasher who cuts his way through the big city in the series <i>Maniac of New York</i>. No, Zelda deploys her cleverness against the bureaucratic red tape that stands in her way and prevents government workers from addressing the City’s biggest problems. Written by Elliott Kalan and drawn by Andrea Mutti, <i>Maniac of New York</i> provides a more grounded look at detective work, outside of the immortal monster at its center. </p>

14. Zelda Pettibone (Aftershock Comics)

Zelda Pettibone doesn’t need to figure out who is behind the mass killings in New York City. She knows that it’s Maniac Harry, the knife-wielding slasher who cuts his way through the big city in the series Maniac of New York . No, Zelda deploys her cleverness against the bureaucratic red tape that stands in her way and prevents government workers from addressing the City’s biggest problems. Written by Elliott Kalan and drawn by Andrea Mutti, Maniac of New York provides a more grounded look at detective work, outside of the immortal monster at its center. 

<p>All the young people who operated under the name Robin have the skills to be a first-class private eye, given the training they received under Batman. But of the Robins, Tim Drake — the third kid to serve alongside Batman — stands out. Tim won the job as a thirteen-year-old when he discovered Batman’s secret identity and the truth about the previous Robin, Jason Todd. When he started wearing the Robin mask, Tim used computers, books, and all other resources to discern clues. In time, Tim’s abilities will even surpass those of his mentor. </p>

15. Robin (DC Comics)

All the young people who operated under the name Robin have the skills to be a first-class private eye, given the training they received under Batman. But of the Robins, Tim Drake — the third kid to serve alongside Batman — stands out. Tim won the job as a thirteen-year-old when he discovered Batman’s secret identity and the truth about the previous Robin, Jason Todd. When he started wearing the Robin mask, Tim used computers, books, and all other resources to discern clues. In time, Tim’s abilities will even surpass those of his mentor. 

<p>Every detective on this list uses their ingenuity to track down evil-doers, but few have stakes as great as Hannibal King. Hannibal King sniffs out vampires, the bloodsuckers who hide among humans and prey upon unsuspecting victims. King does this work because he is also a vampire and fights to prevent others from following the same horrific fate. Movie fans may know King as the wise-talker played by <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/best-ryan-reynolds-movies-ranked/" rel="nofollow noopener">Ryan Reynolds</a> in <i>Blade: Trinity</i>, but the comic book version of King is a more sedate and clever man, who augments his dark powers and mental might with a host of gadgets. </p>

16. Hannibal King (Marvel Comics)

Every detective on this list uses their ingenuity to track down evil-doers, but few have stakes as great as Hannibal King. Hannibal King sniffs out vampires, the bloodsuckers who hide among humans and prey upon unsuspecting victims. King does this work because he is also a vampire and fights to prevent others from following the same horrific fate. Movie fans may know King as the wise-talker played by Ryan Reynolds in Blade: Trinity , but the comic book version of King is a more sedate and clever man, who augments his dark powers and mental might with a host of gadgets. 

<p>Modern readers know the Sandman as the goth-looking Lord of the Dreaming in Neil Gaiman’s acclaimed series, but DC Comics’s first Sandman was far more pedestrian. Plagued by vivid dreams about suffering and wrongdoing, the diminutive Wesley Dodds armed himself with a gas gun and mask and took to the streets as the Sandman. Using the intuition provided to him in dream states, Dodds uncovered all manner of wrong-doing among the upper classes, proving that no one escapes justice. </p>

17. Sandman (DC Comics)

Modern readers know the Sandman as the goth-looking Lord of the Dreaming in Neil Gaiman’s acclaimed series, but DC Comics’s first Sandman was far more pedestrian. Plagued by vivid dreams about suffering and wrongdoing, the diminutive Wesley Dodds armed himself with a gas gun and mask and took to the streets as the Sandman. Using the intuition provided to him in dream states, Dodds uncovered all manner of wrong-doing among the upper classes, proving that no one escapes justice. 

<p>Lucas Bishop made his debut as a musclebound time traveler with a giant gun. Despite the “shoot first, ask questions never” quality of his first appearance, Bishop soon established himself as a brilliant detective. Whenever mutants face a mystery that cannot be solved, Bishop comes to the rescue, asking incisive questions to get at the truth. </p>

18. Bishop (Marvel Comics)

Lucas Bishop made his debut as a musclebound time traveler with a giant gun. Despite the “shoot first, ask questions never” quality of his first appearance, Bishop soon established himself as a brilliant detective. Whenever mutants face a mystery that cannot be solved, Bishop comes to the rescue, asking incisive questions to get at the truth. 

<p>Some might think Dick Tracy has a pretty easy job. After all, every bad guy in Tracy’s world looks like a bad guy, brought to life as unforgettable grotesques by the hand of artist Chester Gould. It doesn’t take more than a glance at the wrinkled Pruneface or the muted Mumbles for Tracy to figure out whodunnit. Ocular evidence aside, Tracy still needs to do good old detective work to uncover the bad guys’ plans and throw off their plots, often in two-fisted fashion. </p>

19. Dick Tracy (Fantagraphics)

Some might think Dick Tracy has a pretty easy job. After all, every bad guy in Tracy’s world looks like a bad guy, brought to life as unforgettable grotesques by the hand of artist Chester Gould. It doesn’t take more than a glance at the wrinkled Pruneface or the muted Mumbles for Tracy to figure out whodunnit. Ocular evidence aside, Tracy still needs to do good old detective work to uncover the bad guys’ plans and throw off their plots, often in two-fisted fashion. 

<p>Barry Allen doesn’t often get mentioned in conversations about comic book detectives, and it’s easy to see why. With his bright red costume and super-speed, he seems more like a traditional superhero than a cerebral powerhouse. However, when he’s not racing around Central City, Barry Allen works as a forensic scientist, working crime scenes to find details about the latest supervillain activities. He may be faster than the average gumshoe, but Barry Allen still has to slow down and search for clues. </p>

20. The Flash (DC Comics)

Barry Allen doesn’t often get mentioned in conversations about comic book detectives, and it’s easy to see why. With his bright red costume and super-speed, he seems more like a traditional superhero than a cerebral powerhouse. However, when he’s not racing around Central City, Barry Allen works as a forensic scientist, working crime scenes to find details about the latest supervillain activities. He may be faster than the average gumshoe, but Barry Allen still has to slow down and search for clues. 

<p>No one doubts John Constantine’s mental might or his mastery of the dark arts. Still, most would call him a con artist before calling him a detective. To be sure, Constantine most often puts his knowledge to work for his own ends, as when he swindled a trio of demons into curing his terminal cancer. But that level of skill and knowledge reveals the mind of a detective, even if he isn’t always using it on the side of the angels. </p>

21. John Constantine (DC Comics)

No one doubts John Constantine’s mental might or his mastery of the dark arts. Still, most would call him a con artist before calling him a detective. To be sure, Constantine most often puts his knowledge to work for his own ends, as when he swindled a trio of demons into curing his terminal cancer. But that level of skill and knowledge reveals the mind of a detective, even if he isn’t always using it on the side of the angels. 

<p>The brainchild of Hellboy creator Mike Mignola and novelist Christopher Golden, Joe Golem is a detective who specializes in the occult. Unlike Constantine, Golem devotes his knowledge to helping people plagued by forces they cannot understand. Golem understands these forces because he, as his name suggests, is himself one of them, albeit now in human form. Working artist Peter Bergting and colorist Michelle Madsen, Mignola and Golden keep the feeling of classic hardboiled fiction while exploring the depths of the supernatural. </p>

22. Joe Golem (Dark Horse Comics)

The brainchild of Hellboy creator Mike Mignola and novelist Christopher Golden, Joe Golem is a detective who specializes in the occult. Unlike Constantine, Golem devotes his knowledge to helping people plagued by forces they cannot understand. Golem understands these forces because he, as his name suggests, is himself one of them, albeit now in human form. Working artist Peter Bergting and colorist Michelle Madsen, Mignola and Golden keep the feeling of classic hardboiled fiction while exploring the depths of the supernatural. 

<p>The kids who would become the Dead Boy Detectives made their debut in the pages of Neil Gaiman’s <i>Sandman</i>, as ghosts who come to haunt an English boarding school after Lucifer absconds from Hades. Charles Rowland and Edwin Paine decided to stay on Earth after the Sandman restored order, using their spectral abilities to help people in need. The boys don’t have the same experience or wisdom as others on this list, which limits their crime-fighting powers. But they make up for it with endless enthusiasm and empathy. </p>

23. The Dead Boy Detectives (DC Comics)

The kids who would become the Dead Boy Detectives made their debut in the pages of Neil Gaiman’s Sandman , as ghosts who come to haunt an English boarding school after Lucifer absconds from Hades. Charles Rowland and Edwin Paine decided to stay on Earth after the Sandman restored order, using their spectral abilities to help people in need. The boys don’t have the same experience or wisdom as others on this list, which limits their crime-fighting powers. But they make up for it with endless enthusiasm and empathy. 

<p>Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows! Originally a radio character performed by Orson Welles, the mysterious Shadow has been a mainstay in comics for decades. In addition to the power to cloud the minds of his victims, the Shadow employs a variety of pseudonyms — most famously Lamont Cranston, but also Kent Allard, Henry Arnaud, and others — as well as a team of assistants, including cabbie Shrevvy and communications expert Burbank to work as one of the world’s greatest detectives. With these tools at his disposal, the Shadow makes quick work of every puzzle, hunting down the evildoer and reciting his famous warning: “The weed of crime bears bitter fruit! Crime does not pay.”</p>

24. The Shadow (Dynamite Entertainment)

Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows! Originally a radio character performed by Orson Welles, the mysterious Shadow has been a mainstay in comics for decades. In addition to the power to cloud the minds of his victims, the Shadow employs a variety of pseudonyms — most famously Lamont Cranston, but also Kent Allard, Henry Arnaud, and others — as well as a team of assistants, including cabbie Shrevvy and communications expert Burbank to work as one of the world’s greatest detectives. With these tools at his disposal, the Shadow makes quick work of every puzzle, hunting down the evildoer and reciting his famous warning: “The weed of crime bears bitter fruit! Crime does not pay.”

<p>Basin City is a tough town and it needs a tough cop like John Hartigan, one of the central characters of Frank Miller’s noir series <i>Sin City</i>. An older man with a lot of miles behind him and an x-shaped scar on his face to prove it, Hartigan maintains a hard exterior to protect the softness inside of him. That soft side makes Hartigan loyal and incorruptible, even when facing pure evil, like the vile son of Basin City politician Senator Roark.  </p>

25. John Hartigan (Dark Horse Comics)

Basin City is a tough town and it needs a tough cop like John Hartigan, one of the central characters of Frank Miller’s noir series Sin City . An older man with a lot of miles behind him and an x-shaped scar on his face to prove it, Hartigan maintains a hard exterior to protect the softness inside of him. That soft side makes Hartigan loyal and incorruptible, even when facing pure evil, like the vile son of Basin City politician Senator Roark.  

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IMAGES

  1. The World's Greatest Traveller: Ibn Battuta

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  2. The Fascinating Story Of Ibn Battuta, The Greatest Traveller The World

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  3. The Fascinating Story Of Ibn Battuta, The Greatest Traveller The World

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  4. The Fascinating Story Of Ibn Battuta, The Greatest Traveller The World

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  6. The Fascinating Story Of Ibn Battuta, The Greatest Traveller The World

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COMMENTS

  1. The Greatest Travelers of All Time

    The Greatest Travelers of All Time. November 20, 2012. • 2 min read. Travelers today are spoiled. At the click of a mouse, we can book a flight, snag the last room in that great hotel, and ...

  2. The 50 most influential travellers of our time

    The 50 most influential travellers of our time. These 50 innovators are the ultimate globetrotters for the 21st century - inspirational movers and shakers who will change the way you see the world, from Angelina Jolie to the Dalai Lama. By Condé Nast Traveller. 18 January 2017. Art Streiber/August.

  3. 10 Most Legendary (And Infamous) Travelers In History

    Ibn Battuta. Ibn Battuta was a great Muslim explorer who traveled more than 120,000 kilometers through regions that, today, comprise 44 countries — from Italy to Indonesia, Timbuktu to Shanghai. He was mugged, attacked by pirates, held hostage, and once hid in a swamp. His travel writings provide a rare perspective on the 14th-century ...

  4. The 10 greatest travellers of all time

    First Englishwoman to make a living by the pen; possibly the world's greatest armchair traveller. Nominated by Dea Birkett, travel writer: "Aphra Behn was groundbreaking, claiming to have sailed ...

  5. The 30 Greatest Travelers Of All Time

    24) Ibn Battuta. This traveler provided the world insight into the Muslim world of the time. The 14 th-C entury scholar survived muggings, pirate attacks and hiding in a swamp for weeks without food to travel in over 44 countries — from Shangai to Timbuktu. And you thought your last pass through customs was tough.

  6. 15 Famous Explorers & Travellers Of The World

    3. Christopher Columbus - undoubtedly one of the most famous world explorers (1451 -1506) Undoubtedly one of the most famous explorers in history, Christopher Columbus was born in Genoa in 1451. From a young age his impulse to travel was strong - he went to sea as a teenager and made Portugal his base. Having failed to secure royal patronage for his planned "enterprise of the Indies" (to ...

  7. Remembering Ibn Battuta: 9 legendary travellers with the most curious

    Here are nine such great travellers of all time: 1. Xuanzang or Hsuan-tsang (602-664) The greatest Asian traveller of all time, Xuanzang was a Chinese Buddhist monk. In order to find the origin of Buddhism, Xuanzang crossed the Himalayas through Khyber Pass and came to India. This journey took around 17 years.

  8. Getting Lost in Mongolia, the World's Last Truly Nomadic Realm

    I didn't have five months this time. The plan was to spend 10 days in the country, visiting a couple of regions with a driver, a guide, and my photographer friend, Alistair Taylor-Young, to whom I ...

  9. My top 10 greatest travel experiences from around the world

    10. WATCHING THE SUNRISE AT ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA. Angkor Wat is Asia's most famous archeological site and the principle draw card to the Kingdom of Cambodia for many savvy tourists from around the globe. Angkor stood once at the center of the mighty Khmer empire (9th to 15th century) and grew to become the largest known pre-industrial ...

  10. 30 Best Travel Destinations in the World, Ranked

    World's 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked. From Yellowstone to Sydney, Maui to London, behold the most incredible travel destinations on Earth. ... The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world's best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and ...

  11. Best Destinations in the World: The Gold List 2022

    But above all, come for the glorious golden beaches. Central Beach—dotted with bars—surfy Lookout Beach, and the eerie, mist-covered sands of Robberg Nature Reserve. Search hard enough and you ...

  12. 50 Adventures to Have in Your Lifetime

    Join us to receive monthly travel inspiration, photos, travel tips, and more. 50 best travel adventures to add to your bucket list. Everest base camp, Antarctica, Machu Picchu, Mont Blanc, the GR20, Great Barrier Reef.

  13. 30 World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024

    Paris. #1 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024. France's magnetic City of Light is a perennial tourist destination, drawing visitors with its iconic attractions, like the Eiffel Tower and ...

  14. The 20 Best Countries in the World: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

    Spencer Davis/Unsplash. 14. Croatia. The secret's out: This Balkan country may have been off-the-beaten path a decade or so ago, but it's rapidly gaining in popularity, thanks to increased ...

  15. Bucket List Travel: The Top 20 Places In The World

    Some of the best locations to see them include Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Greenland and Finland. Sunset over Stonehenge, a bucket list travel spot. getty. 7. Visit Stonehenge In England. Stonehenge ...

  16. World's top 10 travel influencers, according to Forbes

    At number one is Brian Kelly AKA The Points Guy, who knows how to maximize points' potential. Forbes' top 10 travel influencers: Forbes has highlighted its top ten travel influencers, including ...

  17. The 10 best road trips in the world

    Inverness to Inverness loop around Scotland's coastline, 516 miles (830km) One of the best road trips the United Kingdom has to offer is the North Coast 500. As the name suggests, the 500-mile route loops its way around Scotland's rugged northern coastline, taking in everything from white sandy beaches to mountains and remote fishing villages. Heading north from Inverness, the route takes in ...

  18. The best countries in the world: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

    3. Greece. Greece is attracting record-breaking tourist numbers, and the crystal Aegean waters are beckoning us back to some of your favourite islands in the world: postcard-perfect Santorini, mythology-steeped Mykonos, and massive Crete, with its reemerging viticultural scene.

  19. 33 Best Places In The World To Visit in 2024

    Here is the list of 33 Best Places In The World To Visit. 1. Paris, France - The City of Lights. 4.7 /5 View 251+ photos. Known For : Eiffel Tower The Louvre Notre Dame. Paris, the enchanting 'City of Lights', captivates with its blend of history, art, and romance.

  20. 24 of the world's most incredible train journeys

    1. The Reunification Express, Vietnam. This is one of Southeast Asia 's best-loved railways - and one of the most epic overnight train journeys in the world . There is no more atmospheric way to haul into Vietnam 's twin metropolises as this train rattles through historic cities and swooshes beside spectacular coastlines. 2.

  21. The 22 Best Places To Travel Around The World In 2022: Where ...

    The choices for where to go in 2022 range from cutting-edge urban capitals to dreamy Caribbean islands to African destinations worthy of a bucket-list vacation. Tanzania—one of the best places ...

  22. What it's like to take the world's longest flight

    This cold medicine routine has helped me log nearly a full night's sleep on most 10-plus-hour flights I've taken in recent years, and I now pass my professional traveler wisdom onto you.

  23. Bucket List Travel: The Top 50 Places In The World

    The website surveyed its 1.5 million-strong social audience in order to determine the best bucket list places around the world. According to Sarah Clayton-Lea, head of content with Big 7 Travel ...

  24. The Best Train Trips in the World: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

    Andrea Peto. 8. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe. A pioneer in luxury trains for three decades, Golden Eagle is perhaps best known for its Silk Road and Trans-Siberian routes, but the Danube ...

  25. These are the world's happiest countries in 2024

    The World Happiness Report is out, and once again Nordic countries are humming along with the highest scores. The No. 1 country, Finland, has held onto its top ranking for seven years straight.

  26. 'The Greatest Hits' review: Time travel and rom-com, but ...

    Kristy Puchko is the Film Editor at Mashable. Based in New York City, she's an established film critic and entertainment reporter, who has traveled the world on assignment, covered a variety of ...

  27. This is the best Indian single malt for 2024

    A whisky distilled in a quiet Haryana village and aged in old bourbon barrels has been named the best Indian single malt this year. The whisky in question is Indri Dru, a floral, luscious drink by the makers of international award-winning single malt Indri Trini.Less than a year after its launch in 2023, the single malt has been recognised by the World Whiskies Awards 2024, an annual selection ...

  28. How 'Made in China' Became American Gospel

    Great Wall was "the world's most expensive vodka," declared the advertisements, which appeared only in the New Yorker. The campaign targeted consumers who would be interested in a vodka that ...

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    While investigating the secrets of the world's greatest contortionists, Ralph Dibny learned about Gingold, a rare fruit juice enjoyed by all masters of the art.