Ten Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

After studying abroad in Rome last spring, I have had the urge to take a trip somewhere. Nothing makes me more excited that getting on a train or plane to begin a voyage to somewhere unknown. The combination of this newfound love and Pinterest (I am obsessed), has led me to think outside the box and consider places I would not have thought of before.  After doing my own research and talking to others, I have compiled a list of ten places that everyone should see in their lifetime.
 
Petra – Jordan
This city is an ancient archeological site from the 6^th century B.C.  The architecture, literally built into cliff walls, is stunning and in amazing condition.  Petra features everything that any history buff would love – ancient gates from Hadrian’s rule, colorful mosaics, and peaceful monasteries.
 
Blue Grotto – Capri, Italy
When visiting Italy, you should definitely try to make time to see the Blue Grotto on the tiny island of Capri.  The Blue Grotto, famous since the ancient period, is a semi-underwater cave, is off the beaten path. You need to take a boat to the location, where you are then led to a fleet of rowboats with guides that squeeze everyone through a tiny hole in the side of a cliff. The glowing water inside is worth the trek.

 
Mont St. Michel – France
If you are a Harry Potter fan then you will surely love this medieval castle that on an island off the coast of France.  At night, Mont St. Michel looks like Hogwarts. During the day, tour the castle and the little village at the base of the mountain.
 
Phuket – Thailand
Phuket is Thailand’s largest Island and features some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.  Beaches lined with palm trees have some of the most amazing rock formations, definitely a change from your average day at the beach.
 
Goblin Valley State Park – Utah
This national state park offers different sights than that of the more popular Yellowstone Park.  Located in a deep valley in Utah, Goblin Valley State Park contains unique rock formations that look almost like mushrooms.  If you decide to visit Goblin Valley, you should stay at least a day or two, as the park features some of the best camping sites in the US.

 
Great Ocean Road – Australia
Great Ocean Road is a site of Australian National Heritage.  The winding road sports some of the best ocean views and landmarks in the continent. If you’re driving down Great Ocean Road make sure to check out Thunder Cave, the Blowhole, the Grotto, and London Arch!
 
Glaciers in Iceland
Iceland offers countless options if you’re looking for a good glacier.  The largest is Vatnajökull in the southeast section of the country. Vatnajökull covers about 8,300 square kilometers and often has volcanic activity occurring underneath the ice leading to the formation of random lakes. 
 
Stellenbosch – Winelands of South Africa
When people think of great vineyards, they usually point to Tuscany or France.  People often forget that South Africa is known for its wine as well.  Stellenbosch, one of the famous wine lands, offers breathtaking views of rolling valleys at the foot of vast snowcapped mountain ranges.

 
Kaieteur Falls – Guyana
The falls, located in central Guyana, has one of the highest drops in the world at 741 feet.  The power of the falls is enormous. Tourists can easily hike through the rainforests of the region and see the many drops that the water takes.  Make sure you visit in the wet season, however, because depending on how much it rains the waterfall can change size.

Neal’s Yard – London, England
If you’re ever wandering around Covent Garden, make sure to check out Neal’s Yard, a small alley and courtyard that many people miss.  Neal’s Yard, established in the 17^th century, is known for health food and herbal remedy stores and features dainty brightly colored buildings and a cool vibe.