- Thanda Island
If you’re looking for an experience that is ultra unique filled with gorgeous comforts and impeccable views, then Thanda Island is the place for you. Here at this luxury island, you can do as you please when you please with no prying eyes, zero crowds, no hussle and bussle or noise pollution – it’s pure paradise. Thanda Island prioritises peace and tranquility, and seeks to make every guest feel refreshed, rejuvenated and had a real break from the stresses of work and life.. You can either go as a single person or you can take a large group of your family and friends along with you to enjoy this once in a lifetime destination. The accommodation is luxurious but in the most understated way, making you feel at home in the middle of the Indian Ocean. There is one main manor house/villa for you and your party, otherwise there are also gorgeous private bandas on the beach where you can sleep under the stars in ultimate luxury. The amenities and activities on offer at Thanda Island is like nothing you’ve experienced before – from yoga on the beach, to tennis, volleyball, swimming with whale sharks, yacht excursion – you name it, Thanda Island offer it. The crystal clear ocean that surrounds the island is a marine reserve, so you can just imagine the burst of colour beneath the surface. It certainly is the ultimate place to scuba dive, snorkel and swim. Thanda Island has a boathouse fully equiped with small boats, canoes, kayaks, and snorkelling equipment for you to use as you please.
2. Atacama Desert, Chile
If you are looking for an adventurous experience complete with nature hikes, cultural substance and extreme landscapes, Atacama Desert in Chile will give you the experience you are searching for. There are no words one can really find to explain just how hauntingly beautiful the barren landscape of this desert is. The Atacama Desert is known to be one of the world’s most unkind and driest deserts and is also known for mining copper. One can say it’s like being on Mars except right here on earth. There’s an almost eerie feeling of isolation as not much can survive in this terrain – where for years, some sections have gone without a single drop of rain. But for some travellers, this is what thrills them – and how refreshing to feel so small and alone. The harsh ecosystem makes survival of any animal very difficult, however there are a few such as desert wasps, butterflies, red scorpions and the grey fox that are a few species able to life and adjust to the dry environment. Large salt flats, intense blue lagoons and active geysers are just some of the phenomenal features of the San Pedro de Atacama and well worth a visit to explore this region.
3. Levi, Finland
The northern lights in Levi, Finland are often mentioned as a unique travel experience listed on many bucket lists. Levi, Finland’s location within the Arctic circle, makes it possible to see the northern lights all year round even during the winter months although there is never a guarantee anytime of year as it all depends on the activity of the sun and the cloud cover. To try and understand this incredible phenomenon your need to understand the causes and the reason behind colour changes taking place. Due to different types of particles being propelled by the solar wind and hitting the earth’s atmosphere, eccentric colours are formed in the sky, the most dominant colour being bright green, however, pinks, oranges, shades of green and blues can also be seen during periods of activity. The northern lights are really spectacular and will leave you feeling that you have witnessed one of nature’s purest phenomenons.
4. Cappadocia, Turkey
Famous for its ‘fairytale” scenery, Cappadocia in central Turkey is a semi-dry region with stunning rock formations and cave dwellings. This is another extraordinary experience, and one that makes you feel like you’re either in another time zone or on another planet. The unbelievable landscape with fairy chimneys formed around sixty million years ago is certainly awe-inspiring. Imagine spending a night or two in a beautifully renovated cave house, or hot air ballooning over the fairy chimneys with the sunrise as your backdrop, or even taking a bicycle ride between the ‘caves’ – these are experiences never to be forgotten. There are also the famous underground cities where ancient Christians would hide many centuries ago. Because of this, there are many medieval stories and historical tales worth hearting. There is just so many beautiful experiences you can enjoy in Cappadocia!
5. Arizona, USA (Monument Valley)
Monument Valley, also known as the Valley of Rocks in Arizona, USA, is one of the most natural sights in the United States with its unusual striking landscape and profound features. The gorgeous rock formations, colours and shapes will leave you spellbound and happy that you took the time to experience this beautiful region. This is the ultimate place for a road trip, and what’s better than a scenery stop at the Grand Canyon?