National Geographic World Executive

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Introduction

If you’re planning a trip around the world, you’ll want to make sure you hit all the highlights. From the beaches of Bali to the mountains of Peru, there’s a lot to see and do. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where this comprehensive travel guide comes in. We’ve scoured the globe to bring you the best of the best, from hidden gems to well-known landmarks. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, culture or history, we’ve got you covered.

Top Attractions

No trip would be complete without visiting some of the world’s most famous attractions. From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Great Wall of China, these landmarks are well-known for a reason. But there are also plenty of lesser-known attractions that are just as worth visiting. For example, the ancient city of Petra in Jordan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is both beautiful and historically significant.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. For example, the Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a geothermal spa that is both relaxing and unique. Or, you could visit the ancient city of Hampi in India, which is a beautiful and historical site that is often overlooked by tourists.

Food Scene

One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food. From street vendors to fine dining, there’s no shortage of delicious cuisine to try around the world. For example, you could try the famous sushi in Tokyo, or sample the spicy curries of Thailand. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try some of the more unusual dishes, like fried tarantulas in Cambodia.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing the experience. For example, you could stay in hostels instead of hotels, or take public transportation instead of taxis. You could also eat at local markets instead of restaurants, or look for free activities like walking tours or museum visits.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of adventures to be had around the world. From hiking to kayaking to camping, there’s no shortage of activities to get your adrenaline pumping. For example, you could hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru, or go white-water rafting in Costa Rica. Or, you could go on a safari in Tanzania to see some of the world’s most incredible wildlife up close.

Historical Landmarks

History buffs will love exploring the world’s many historical landmarks. From ancient ruins to modern museums, there’s always something to learn. For example, you could visit the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, or explore the ruins of Pompeii in Italy. Or, you could visit the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin, Germany, to learn about one of the darkest periods in human history.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. From amusement parks to zoos to museums, there’s something for everyone. For example, you could visit Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida, or go to Legoland in Denmark. Or, you could visit the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., which has something for everyone in the family.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those looking for something a little more unique, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had. For example, you could visit the abandoned city of Pripyat in Ukraine, which was evacuated after the Chernobyl disaster. Or, you could visit the glowworm caves in New Zealand, which are home to millions of bioluminescent insects.

Natural Wonders

The world is full of natural wonders, from towering mountains to pristine beaches. For example, you could visit the Grand Canyon in the United States, or go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Or, you could visit the Northern Lights in Norway, which are one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in the world.

Vibrant Nightlife

For those who love to party, there are plenty of cities around the world with vibrant nightlife scenes. From the clubs of Ibiza to the bars of New Orleans, there’s always a party happening somewhere. For example, you could visit Rio de Janeiro during Carnival, or go to Las Vegas for a weekend of gambling and entertainment. Or, you could visit Berlin, which is known for its techno clubs and all-night parties.

Local Markets

One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its markets. From food to clothing to souvenirs, there’s always something to discover. For example, you could visit the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, which is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Or, you could explore the floating markets of Thailand, where vendors sell their wares from boats on the river.

Beaches and Mountains

Whether you prefer sun and sand or snow and ice, there are plenty of beaches and mountains to explore around the world. For example, you could visit the beaches of Bali in Indonesia, or go skiing in the Swiss Alps. Or, you could visit the beaches of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, or go hiking in the Rocky Mountains in the United States.

Cultural Immersion

For those who want to truly immerse themselves in a new culture, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. For example, you could take a cooking class in Italy, or learn to dance the tango in Argentina. Or, you could visit a traditional Maasai village in Kenya, or attend a tea ceremony in Japan.

Art and Music Scene

From classical music to street art, there’s always something to discover in the world of art and music. For example, you could visit the Louvre in Paris, which is one of the world’s most famous art museums. Or, you could explore the street art scene in Berlin, which is known for its colorful murals and graffiti. Or, you could attend a music festival, like Coachella in California or Glastonbury in England.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot. There are plenty of walking tours available around the world, from historical tours to food tours to ghost tours. For example, you could take a walking tour of the Old City in Jerusalem, or explore the street art of Melbourne. Or, you could take a ghost tour of Edinburgh, which is said to be one of the most haunted cities in the world.

Architectural Marvels

For those who appreciate great architecture, there are plenty of marvels to admire around the world. From ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, there’s always something to see. For example, you could visit the Taj Mahal in India, which is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Or, you could admire the skyline of Dubai, which is home to some of the tallest buildings in the world.

Historical Sites

History is everywhere you look around the world, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. From castles to battlefields to ancient ruins, there’s always something to discover. For example, you could visit the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, or explore the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Or, you could visit the Alhambra in Spain, which is a stunning palace and fortress complex that dates back to the 13th century.

Biking Routes

For those who enjoy biking, there are plenty of scenic routes to explore around the world. From leisurely rides to challenging mountain climbs, there’s something for everyone. For example, you could bike along the Danube River in Europe, which is a popular route that takes you through several different countries. Or, you could bike the Great Ocean Road in Australia, which is a stunning coastal route with incredible views.

Wellness Retreats

For those looking for a little rest and relaxation, there are plenty of wellness retreats around the world that offer spa treatments, yoga classes, and more. For example, you could visit a yoga retreat in Bali, or go to a spa in Thailand. Or, you could visit a hot spring in Iceland, which is a natural way to relax and unwind.

Adventure Sports

For those who love adventure, there are plenty of extreme sports to try around the world. From bungee jumping to skydiving to rock climbing, there’s always something to get your adrenaline pumping. For example, you could go paragliding in Switzerland, or go surfing in Australia. Or, you could go ice climbing in Canada, which is a challenging and rewarding adventure.