50 Awesome Things to Add to Your Bucket List

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Have you created your list of bucket list items yet? Everyone has different things on their bucket list, and there are so many amazing things to do around this beautiful world!


We've been traveling around the world for years to find the most unique experiences to share with you. After some pretty epic moments, we're excited to let you in on some of the best ones to add to your list.


So without further ado, let's check out 50 awesome bucket list items to experience before you die.


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Bucket List Item #1: Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Riding in a hot air balloon is a truly magical experience! Soar in the air for about an hour in a relaxing ride, and enjoy the scenery below. Some places offer this as an attraction every day for sunrise, and others have it as an annual event at a festival.


Best place to do this: Cappadocia, Turkey

Other places: Bagan, Myanmar/ Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA/ Colorado Springs, USA/Reno, Nevada, USA/Readington, NJ, USA/Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, Canada/ Bristol, England/ Igualada, Spain/ Loraine, France/ Chateau-d'Oex, Switzerland/ Taitung City, Taiwan/ Saga, Japan/ Canberra, Australia

Estimated cost: $100-$200.

When: Cappadocia & Bagan are year round/ Other destinations have yearly festivals, normally in the Summer and Autumn.

  • New Mexico: first week of October
  • Colorado Springs: Labor Day weekend
  • Reno: early September
  • New Jersey: last weekend of July
  • Quebec: August
  • England: August
  • Spain: the first Fortnight in July
  • France: July ever other year
  • Switzerland: Late January
  • Taiwan: June
  • Japan: early September
  • Australia: March
  • Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons, bucket list

    Cappadocia, Turkey

    Bucket List Item #2: Celebrate Mardi Gras

    Mardi Gras is one of the biggest festivals in the US, and a bucket list item for those that like to party.


    The city is covered in green, gold, and purple, and characterized by fancy masks and parades. People party in the streets and collect as many beads as they can, typically most are by girls flashing people. While its surely not the classiest of events, it sure it one to check out, especially for those partiers!


    Place to do thisNew Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

    Estimated cost: Free.

    When: The two weeks leading up to the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.

     

    Bucket List Item #3: Attend Carnaval 

    Carnival is like Mardi Gras on steroids. Everyone is dressed in costumes, music is playing everywhere, and there are massive parties in the streets. People party almost 24 hours, so make sure you are ready for an intense few days! Carnival is celebrated most famously in Brazil, and also very popularly in Spain, Italy, and parts of the Caribbean.


    Celebrations last a week, maybe sometimes two depending on which area you go. Many cultures take this time very seriously, preparing their costumes and venues the entire year up to Carnival period.

    Carnival Tenerife

    Best place to do this: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    Other places: anywhere in Brazil/ Tenerife, Spain/ Gran Canaria, Spain/ Cadiz, Spain/ Venice, Italy/ St. Vincent & the Grenadines/ Georgetown, Guyana/ Trinidad & Tobago/ Notting Hill, London, UK/ Nice, France/ Barranquilla, Colombia.

    Estimated cost: While parties in the streets are normally free of charge, some bars and clubs will charge $10-30 for entry, while large private celebrations will cost around $100-150/person.

    When: End of February/ early March depending on the year.


    Bucket List Item #4: Go to La Tomatina- a Tomato Throwing Festival

    The festival of La Tomatina is a truly unique bucket list item. Welcome to the world's largest food fight. The streets fill will people while trucks drive by throwing of tons tomatoes. The food fight continues with around 20,000 people each year, and turns into a huge party afterwards.


    Place to do this: Buñol, Spain (near Valencia).

    Estimated cost: 28-40€.

    When: last Wednesday of August.

    bucket list item- Tomatina Festival, Travel Planning for partiers

    Tomatina is a festival of the biggest food fight in the world.

    Bucket List Item #5: Watch a Live Game of the World Cup

    The World Cup is so much more than just football (or soccer if you're from the US). This event happens only once every four years, and brings people from all over the world. Going to a normal football game is fun, but the World Cup just radiates this energy like no other. 


    Place to do this: 2026 USA & Mexico

    Estimated cost: $500- $1,000.

    When: June 11th – July 29th, 2026.

    World Cup in Russia

    The opening game of the World Cup in Moscow, Russia

    Bucket List Item #6: Sleep in a Hanging Capsule

    When it comes to accommodation, there are some pretty cool places out there. But Sky Lodge Adventure Suites are so more than just a place to stay, they are the ultimate bucket list item. Climb to the top of a mountain and sleep in a clear capsule hanging on the side of the mountain. Click below to hear more about this million-star hotel!


    Place to do this: Sacred Valley, Peru (near Cusco).

    Estimated cost: $500/ person.

    When: Any time. *Book well in advance*.

    SkyLodge Adventure Suites, spring break destinations

    Skylodge Adventure Suites are a once-in-a-lifetime experience.


    Bucket List Item #7: Visit One of the 7 Wonders

    This one pretty much speaks for itself! There are seven world wonders- both new and old. Each one is unique and wonderful in its own way. We would say that each one of these classifies as a bucket list item. Here are all of the ones you can visit.

    Different places to do this: 

    Old Wonders:

    1. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

    2. Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Iraq

    3. Statue of Zeus at Olympia, Greece

    4. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, Turkey

    5. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Greece

    6. Colossus of Rhodes, Greece

    7. Lighthouse of Alexandria, Greece


    New Wonders:

    1. Machu Picchu, Peru

    2. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

    3. Chichen Itza, Mexico

    4. Taj Mahal, India

    5. Great Wall of China, China

    6. The Roman Colosseum, Rome, Italy

    7.  Petra, Jordan 

    *Note: The Old wonders of the world (with the exception of the Pyramids of Giza) are no longer in tact, and just have very few remains. However, the new wonders of the world are all able to be seen to this day.


    Estimated cost: 

    • Pyramids of Giza- 80 Egyptian pounds (about $5 USD) to visit, 200 pounds (about $12.50 USD) to enter inside the pyramid.
    • Machu Picchu- tours vary from $150- $400 for 3-4 day treks, and up to 700 for the original Inca trail. Check out our guide for more details.
    • Christ the Redeemer- $24  in the high season and $12 in the low season
    • Chichen Itza- entry 480 pesos (about $21 USD)
    • Taj Mahal- INR 1050 for foreigners (about $14 USD)/ !NR 45 for locals
    • Great Wall of China- about $30
    • Colosseum- 12 euros
    • Petra- day ticket 50 JD (£57 / 70 USD), two-day ticket 55 JD, 3-day ticket 60 JD

    When: Anytime/ most of these attractions have standard hours from 9-5, with some variations.

    chichen itza, Mexico, bucket llist item
    the treasury in Petra, bucket list item
    Colosseum, bucket list item
    Christ the Reedemer, Rio de Janeiro, bucket list item
    Machu Picchu, bucket list item


    Bucket List Item #8: Witness Sea Turtles Hatching

    Imagine an adorable army of baby sea turtles waddling their way towards the ocean. Watching sea turtles hatch and make it home is a truly magical experience.


    In some places, the locals know at just which moment the turtles will climb their way out of the sand, and others have programs where you can dig them out and help them crawl out.

    sea turtles hatching, Pipa

    Baby sea turtles hatching in Pipa, Brazil

    Best place to do this: Pipa, Brazil.

    Other places to do this: Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica/ Kosgoda, Sri Lanka/ Cozumel, Mexico/ Ras al Jinz, Oman/ Palau Tioman, Malaysia/ Tofu Beach/ Mozambique/ Port Barton, Phillipines/ Iztuzu, Turkey/ Puerto Vallarta, Mexico/ Cambutal, Panama/ Jekyll Island, Georgia, USA.

    Estimated cost: Certain beaches are free of charge, and special reserves such as the ones in Central America and the US can charge from $20-55/person for tours.

    When: Turtle hatching season is for a few months a year, normally in summer, and months vary depending on the country.

    • Brazil: October to May
    • Costa Rica: Caribbean coast: July-October & March-May.
    • Pacific coast: October-February &  July-November.
    • Sri Lanka: November to May
    • Mexico: March to November          (height from July to September)
    • Oman: year round, peaking in July
    • Malaysia: March to October
    • Mozambique: December to March
    • Philippines: December to May
    • Turkey: May to June
    • Panama: May to October
    • USA: March to October

    Bucket List Item #9: Walk on Water

    Salt flats are not only mesmerizing for the endless plains of white, but they also provide a mirror effect during rainy season, making it look like you are walking on water! This bucket list item can be. experienced in several different countries throughout the world.

     

    Best place to do this: Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

    Other places to do this: Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah, USA/ Atacama desert, Chile/ Lake Eyre, Australia/ Makgadikgadi Pan, Botswana/ Salinas Grandes, Argentina/ Salar de Arizaro, Argentina/ Chott el Djerid, Tunisia/ Namak Lake, Iran.

    Estimated cost: Free to access on your own/ tours $100- $300 (multi day)

    When: This effect is only visible after it has rained. Here are the best times to visit:

    • Bolivia: March to April
    • Utah: October to April
    • Chile: January to April
    • Australia: April to October
    • Botswana: November to April
    • Argentina: January to March
    • Tunisia: September to February
    • Iran: December to April
    Uyuni Salt Flats- bucket list item

    Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia

    Bucket List Item #10: See the Northern Lights

    The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year. Visible in just some Northern countries, these are rare to see and not guaranteed at any moment, but if seen are truly a dreamy experience.


    Places to do this: Iceland, Canada, Alaska, Sweden, Norway, Minnesota (the more North and remote areas you go in any of these places are where you have the best chances)

    Estimated cost: free on your own/ tours are around $75-250.

    When: late August to mid April (best chances September to March).


    Bucket List Item #11: Paraglide Off of a Volcano

    Take a thirty minute flight with the best views. An exhilarating ride will take you from the summit of the volcano, through the clouds and finish on the beach. If you love adventure than this is for you! Don't forget to get the video on film with a GoPro.


    Best place to do this: El Teide Volcano, Tenerife- Canary Islands, Spain.

    Other places to do this: Mt. Haleakalā, Maui- Hawaii, USA/ Pico de Orizaba, Mexico/ Kamchatka, Russia.

    Estimated cost: $100-$150.

    When: Anytime. 

    Paraglide Volcano, bucket list item

    Paragliding off of El Teide Volcano in Tenerife, Spain

    Bucket List Item #12: Get Colorful at Holi Festival

    Holi Festival is a popular ancient Hindu festival, also known as the Indian "festival of spring" or "festival of colors". The festival signifies the victory of good over evil, and is celebrated by the streets turning rainbow, as people throw different colored powders at one another.


    Where to do this: Northern India- anywhere near Delhi/Mathura &  Vrindavan.

    Estimated cost: $10-15 entry + colors/ $30-35 with T-shirt & lunch.

    When: March, when Spring starts, depending on Hindu Calendar.


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    Bucket List Item #13: Go Sand-Boarding in the Desert

    Sure snowboarding is fun, but have you ever tried sand boarding? It's exactly what it sounds like. Slide down the sand dunes on a board and enjoy the thrill of boarding all year round (without having to bundle up in a million layers)!


    Best place to do this: Cerro Negro Volcano, Nicaragua.

    Other places to do this: Huacachina, Peru/ Siwa, Egypt/ Mosca, Colorado, USA/ Natal, Brazil/ Tottori, Japan/ Hirshau, Germany/ Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, Australia/ Marina, California, USA/ Atlantis Dunes, South Africa/ Copiapo, Chile/ Florence, Oregon, USA/ Oostduinkerke, Belgium.

    Estimated cost: $15-30 in Central and South America, $70 tours in South Africa, and $100- $150 to purchase board and go on your own.

    When: Anytime.


    road to Zabljak Montenegro

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    Bucket List Item #14: Sail Through a Glacial Lake

    One of the most beautiful landscapes in the world are glacial lakes. With turquoise waters, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, you will feel like you are in a fairytale. Visting one of these lakes is a bucket list item in itself, but renting a row boat to take you out in the middle? Now that's a whole new level of magical.


    Best place to do this: Laguna Paron, Peru.

    Other places to do this: Glacier National Park, Montana, USA/ Lake Louoise & Lake Moraine, Canada.

    Estimated cost: $5-10/hour.

    When: In Peru the boats are offered year round/ in the US and Canada during summer months.

    Bucket List Item #15: Charter a Boat

    There is nothing quite like renting a yacht, catamaran, or any boat for that matter to sail around and enjoy a place from the coast. Chartering a boat usually includes food, drinks, and snorkel equipment, and depends on price depending on the size and luxury of the boat, but can be surprisingly affordable if you have a large group.


    Best place to do this: Caribbean.

    Other places to do this: All over the world.

    Estimated cost: $50- $100/ person for 4 hours.

    When: Anytime. It's best to book in advance with large groups.

    Capri boat tour, bucket list item

    Bucket List Item #16: Fly First Class

    Now flying first class is no cheap venture to add as a bucket list item, but it is definitely something to do at least once in your life. Save first class for when it actually makes the difference, on those really long haul flights. When flying first class, you will experience premium service and cuisine, with relaxation so good that a 12 hour flight could feel like 2 hours!


    Best place to do this: long-haul flights between two different continents.

    Estimated cost: $2,000- $5,000

    When: When your pockets are full or you've saved enough points on your credit card

    First Class Delta, bucket list item

    Delta One From Atlanta, Georgia to Buenos Aires, Argentina

    Bucket List Item #17: Learn How to Make Homemade Italian Pasta

    Now when we say learn how to make homemade pasta, we're not talking about a cooking class. We're talking the authentic way- learning by a local, and what better local than an old Italian lady? There is a street in Bari that is full of old ladies that hang their pasta to dry each day, and you can learn with them how to make it, and leave having the best meal of your life.


    Best place to do this: Bari, Italy.

    Estimated cost: €15-20.

    When: Anytime.

    Pasta Making Bari

    Bucket List Item #18: Hop on a Last Minute Flight

    There is nothing more exciting than spontaneity! Pack your bags, head to the airport, and check out the outgoing flights. Choose a place and buy a last minute ticket. Sometimes tickets happen to cheaper when you book them right at the airport!


    If you want to see prices and go the most budget friendly option- open Skyscanner and put today's date: your city-> everywhere and take your pick! This bucket list item is something you surely won't regret.


    Best place to do this: Anywhere! (the cheapest is in Europe).

    Estimated cost: $20- $200 depending on location.

    When: Whenever you have a free few days! The best months to do this are in spring and fall, not near any big holidays.


    Search for a flight to to anywhere:

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    Bucket List Item #19: Swing Through the Clouds

    Feel like a kid again, and hop on a giant swing. Soar through the clouds, taking in the beautiful views around you, while having a sense of freedom and exhilaration. Don't worry- you're strapped in so it's perfectly safe!


    Best place to do this: Casa de Arbol, Baños, Ecuador.

    Other places to do this: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia/ Cuenca, Ecuador.

    Estimated cost: $1-2.

    When: Anytime, as long as it's not raining.

    Casa del Arbol Baños Ecuador

    Casa del Arbol, Baños, Ecuador

    Bucket List Item #20: Zipline Through the Jungle

    Want another bucket list item to get your adrenaline pumping? Zipline through the jungle on a series of traverses, with the freshest air, and gorgeous greenery around you- maybe even catch a glimpse of some wildlife!


    Best place to do this: Caribbean Islands- Roatan, Honduras/ Puerto Rico, USA/ St. Thomas, USVI/ Tortola, BVI.

    Other places to do this: Costa Rica/ Bali, Indonesia/ Maui, Hawaii, USA.

    Estimated cost: $50- $100.

    When: anytime when it's not raining.

    Bucket List Item #21: Go on a Solo Trip

    Going on a trip by yourself sounds extremely scary for some, but it is a truly liberating and exciting experience! Travelling solo pushes you to meet new people, and try things you may not have before. Stay in a hostel, make friends, and go with the flow!


    The beauty of traveling alone is also that you can do what you want, when you want, and you don't have to answer to anybody! Many people skip out on trips because no one is available or willing to go somewhere. That's your chance to make the leap, and not let anyone else hold you back from enjoying your life!

    Danni on a swing in Switzerland

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    Best place to do this: Europe.

    places not to do this: Anywhere that is not deemed safe for solo travelers such as some areas of the Middle East or Northern Africa.

    Estimated cost: Varies greatly.

    When: The best time to solo travel is when you have free time and others do not have the time. If you want to travel somewhere- don't let others stop you!


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    Bucket List Item #22: Drink a Beer Stein at Oktoberfest

    Oktoberfest is seriously one of the most fun festivals in the world, and definitely an epic bucket list item!


    Parties are set up with different giant indoor tents, holding hundreds of people drinking beer, eating German food, and listening to fun local music. The atmosphere is full of culture and good vibes. Dress in a typical outfit, grab a beer stein, and you're ready to celebrate!


    Best place to do this: Munich, Germany.

    Other places to do this: Berlin, Germany/ Hamburg, Germany/ Vienna, Austria/ London, UK/ NYC, USA/ Edinburgh, Scotland/ Stockholm, Sweden.

    Estimated cost: free to enter, €10-12 for a beer.

    When: end of September til early October.

    bucket list item- Oktoberfest

    Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

    Bucket List Item #23: Celebrate St. Paddy's

    St. Paddy's, formally known as St. Patrick's day is an Irish cultural and religious celebration held for the date of death of St. Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland. The celebration brings everyone together dressed in green, with parades, parties, and plenty of beer. Grab your green and celebrate!


    Best place to do this: Dublin, Ireland.

    Other places to do this: NYC, USA/ Savannah, USA.

    Estimated cost: Free.

    When: March 17th.

    St. Paddies in Dublin, bucket list item

    St. Patrick's Day is one of the best times to come to Dublin.

    Bucket List Item #24: Swim With Wild Sea Lions

    This is a bucket list item that is super unique. We're not talking about swimming with sea lions in a controlled environment. We're talking about going and swimming with wild sea lions, which you can experience in Lima, Peru. There are also plenty of exciting marine animals to swim with in the wild such as dolphins, whales, stingrays, and sharks!


    Best place to do this: Lima, Peru.

    Other places to do something similar:

    • Sharks- Cape Town, South Africa (cage diving)/ Bimini, Bahamas.
    • Whale sharks- Mexico/Philippines/ Belize/ Tanzania.
    • Dolphins- Bimini, Bahamas/ Mauritius.

    Estimated cost: $30 sea lions/$50- $100 dolphins, small sharks, & whale sharks/ $100- $300 cage diving with great white sharks.

    When: Anytime

    swimming with sea lions, Lima

    Swimming with the sea lions is one of the best things to do in Lima.

    Bucket List Item #25: Float in a Salt Lagoon

    Did you know that high levels of salt can actually make you float? While the normal ocean has a salinity level of 3.5%, there are a few bodies of water that have levels of salinity up to 40%! 


    Best place to do this: Dead Sea, Israel/ Jordan.

    Other places to do this: Lagunas Baltinache, San Pedro de Atacama, Chile/ Siwa, Egypt.

    Estimated cost: free of charge to enter the Dead Sea. 5,000 chilean pesos ($6 USD) for Lagunas Baltinache. and Siwa is free of charge.

    When: Anytime

    Dead Sea Lake- bucket list item

    The Dead Sea, Israel

    Bucket List Item #26: Move to a Foreign Country

    There is nothing like picking up your bags and moving to a new country. Living in a foreign country is so enriching- learning a new language (or phrases/words in your own language), making new friends, and being engulfed in a new culture, all make for an indescribable experience. This is a bucket list item that you're never too old to add to your list.

     

    Best place to do this: somewhere completely different to where you live.

    Estimated cost: N/A

    When: The best time to move abroad is in your twenties! Although we suggest it an any point in your life, as it's never too late!


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    Bucket List Item #27: Celebrate San Fermin

    Ever heard of "running with the bulls"? Well this festival is definitely one a bucket list item to experience. Although we don't condone actually running with the bulls, the tradition of San Fermin is so much fun to be surrounded by.


    The entire city comes to life- starting with the few minute running of the bulls, and continuing with people of all ages singing, chanting, and drinking in the streets for 9 days.


    Place to do this: Pamplona, Spain.

    Estimated cost: Free of charge.

    When: Early July.

    San Fermin- bucket list item

    Bucket List Item #28: Try Couchsurfing

    Couchsurfing sounds like a crazy concept for some, but it is truly the most unique and interesting way to travel. Make an account and request to stay with locals for free. Don't worry- each person has a profile to match your personality or needs, with reviews to make you feel safe.


    We love couchsurfing because it is a great way to learn about a place from someone who actually lives there, see a place from a local perspective, and gives you the opportunity to make some great friendships all over the world.


    Best place to do this: Everywhere! We prefer using this in places where we really want to see the culture of a place, cities we have already seen on the touristic side, or places that are pricier.

    Estimated cost: Free.

    When: Anytime!


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    Bucket List Item #29: Attend a European Christmas Market

    Christmas is the most magical time of the year, and there's no better way to spend the holiday season than to visit a traditional Christmas market.


    Germany is the original when it comes to these, beautifully lit and decorated, providing various stalls selling crafts, snacks, and gluhwien (a tasty hot wine beverage). Get in the Christmas spirit and check out all the great different markets.


    Best place to do this: Dresden, Germany.

    Other places to do this: Stockholm, Sweden/ Helsinki, Finland/ Silbiu, Romania, Ljubjiana, Slovenia/ Strasburg, France/ Toronto, Canada/ Copenhagen, Denmark/ Berlin, Germany/ Moscow, Russia/ Vienna, Austria/ Prague, Czech Republic/ Brussels, Belgium/ Manchester, England/ Riga, Latvia/ Nuremburg, Germany/ Madrid, Spain/ Budapest, Hungary/ Edinburgh, Scotland.

    Estimated cost: Free to attend.

    When: Last week of November or first week of December until Christmas.

    Christmas Market, Plaza Mayor, Madrid

    Christmas market in Plaza Mayor, Madrid.

    Bucket List Item #30: Learn a Second Language

    Learning a second language is one of the most important things that people can do. Not only is it good for business, but it makes traveling a lot easier and more fun. The best way to learn? Speak with locals!


    Try staying somewhere where they don't speak English for a few weeks, and you will surely pick up the language quicker than you'd expect!


    Best place to do this: Somewhere that has a language that is spoken in many regions throughout the world such as French, Spanish, or Portuguese.

    Other places to do this: Somewhere that you love to travel. For example, if you find yourself going to Italy every year, try to learn Italian. 

    Estimated cost: It's free to learn! Take free online classes, speak with locals, or download duolingo.

    When: The earlier the better! The younger we are, the easier it is to learn. However, it is never too late!


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    Bucket List Item #31: Celebrate King's Day

    King's Day is the biggest national holiday in the Netherlands. Everyone dresses in orange and there are parties all over the city. Despite it being a little chilly out, there are plenty of celebrations throughout the canals, and many on boats. Grab your orange and enjoy the celebration!


    Place to do this: Amsterdam, Netherlands.

    Estimated cost: It's free to party in the streets. Some bars may charge 5-10 euros for entry. Bathrooms usually cost 1 euro, and private boat parties cost around 100 euros.

    When: April 27th (or the 26th if the 27th is a Sunday).


    Bucket List Item #32: Swim in a Crater Lake

    This bucket list item is the perfect combination for nature lovers! These lakes are formed inside the craters of volcanoes, making them the perfect place to cool off after a hike, with the best surrounding views.


    Best place to do this: La Fortuna, Costa Rica 

    Other places to do this: Kerid Crater Lake, Iceland (can visit but not swim)/Mount Mazama, Oregon, USA/ Quilotoa, Ecuador/ Albertine Rift, Africa/Mount Pinabuto, Luzo, Philippines/ Mt. Zao, Honshu, Japan/ Mount Katmai, Alaska, USA/ Taal Volcano, Luzon, Philippines/ Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand/ Lake Coatepeque, El Salvador.

    Estimated cost: Free to hike. 

    When: As long as it's not foggy, so that you can enjoy the view of the volcano.

    La Fortuna, Costa Rica, Central America

    La Fortuna, Costa Rica

    Bucket List Item #33: Go to a Thai Full Moon Party

    This all-night beach party takes place on an island on Thailand. Although full of mostly tourists, this party brings thousands of people to the biggest party in South East Asia, where the beach fills with drink vendors, glow-in-the-dark paint stands, and fire dancers. It definitely is party not to miss out on if you visit Thailand.


    Place to do this: Ko Pha-ngan, Thailand.

    Estimated cost: 100 baht (about $3 USD).

    When: Every month at full moon.


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    Bucket List Item #34: Attend a Lantern Festival

    While over in Asia another truly unique bucket list item is witnessing a lantern festival. Also called Yuan Xiao Festival, this holiday is celebrated in China and other Asian countries that honor deceased ancestors, and aims to promote reconciliation, peace, and forgiveness.


    Hundreds of lanterns are hand crafted. lit, and set off to float in the sky, for a truly magical display.


    Best place to do this: Nanjing, China.

    Other places to do this: Tokyo, Japan/ Loy Krathong, Thailand/ Yi Peng, Thailand/ Hoi An, Vietnam/ Taipei, Taiwan/Chang Mai, Thailand/ Oahu, Hawaii, USA/ various cities through the USA.

    Estimated cost: China, Japan, & Taiwan are free for entry, while places in Thailand can cost $50- $200, and festivals in the US cost $80- $150.

    When: Each country has different dates.

  • China: 15th day of the first month (Yuan) of the lunar calendar. (Normally in February).
  • Thailand: “Full moon day” during the second month of the Lanna lunar calendar (the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar-usually end of October).
  • Taiwan: The first full moon of every Lunar New Year—normally during February or March.
    • Vietnam: Every full moon.
    • Hawaii: Memorial day (last weekend in May).
    • Vegas: First weekend in October
    • USA: Varies per city

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    Bucket List Item #35: Bathe in Natural Hot Springs

    There is nothing quite like sitting in hot springs, but bathing in natural ones is another level of relaxation. The heat from volcanoes naturally heat the springs that are located nearby them, making them surprisingly warm, not to mention, therapeutic.


    Best place to do this: Blue Lagoon, Iceland.

    Other places to do this: Pamukkale, Turkey/ Saturnia, Tuscany, Italy/ La Fortuna, Costa Rica/ Ma'in, Jordan/ Travertine, California, USA/ Challis, Idaho, USA/ Chena, Alaska, USA/ Uunartoq Island, Greenland/ Puritama, Chile/ El Salvador.

    Estimated cost: Free for almost all of them. The Blue Lagoon is around $70-$80.

    When: Hot springs are always a good idea, but especially when temperatures drop.

    hot spring waterfall, waterfalls in El Salvador

    Salto de Malacatiupan, El Salvador


    Bucket List Item #36: Camp Above the Clouds

    Waking up in nature is truly magical. But waking up above the clouds? Now that is next level dreaminess. There are certain mountains and volcanoes in the world that can be hiked where you will actually be above the clouds! Grab a tent and sleeping bag so that you can camp at the top and wake up to the most beautiful sunrise of your life.


    Best place to do this: Vestlandet, Norway.

    Other places to do this: Izalco Volcano, El Salvador/ Prewitt Ridge, Big Sur, California, USA/ Dolomites, Italy/ Golden Ears Park, Vancouver.

    Estimated cost: $50-$100 for a tent/ $100-$200 for a sleeping bag.

    When: Overnight to experience sunrise.

    Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador, Central America

    Izalco Volcano, El Salvador

    Bucket List Item #37: Visit a Black Sand Beach

    Did you know that there are beaches that have black sand? This is due to volcanic rock nearby, making the sand its dark charcoal color. These beaches are not only beautiful, but truly special due to their uniqueness. Good thing is that there are quite a few scattered around the world, making it a very doable bucket list item.


    Best place to do this: Vik, Iceland.

    Other places to do this: Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain/ Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica/ Maui, Hawaii, USA/ Bali, Indonesia/ Shizuoka, Papenoo, Tahiti/ Anse Ceron, Martinique/ Vieques, Puerto Rico, USA/ Kare Kare, New Zealand/ Santorini, Greece/ Stokkness, Iceland/ Albay, Philippines/ Prince William Sound, Alaska, USA/ Shelter Cove, California, USA/ Marigot, Grenada/ El Salvador.

    Estimated cost: Free of charge.

    When: early in the morning or during sunset (preferably not when it's extremely hot, so you don't burn your toes).

    El Salvador, 2024 bucket list

    Bucket List Item #38: Check Out a Pink Lagoon

    This may sound fake, but it's any fairytale princess's dream to see one of these in person! The rare pink hue in the water is due to Halobacteria and a type of algae known as Dunaliella salina. 


    Best place to do this: Hutt Lagoon, Australia.

    Other places to do this: Lake Hillier, Australia/ Las Salinas de Torrevieja, Spain/ Lake Retba, Senegal/ Lake Natron, Tanzania/ Las Coloradas, Mexico/ Sivash Salt Lagoons, Russia.

    Estimated cost: Free of charge- some may be swam in, and some just visited on the outside.

    When: from 10:00 am to 2 pm, when the sun is high.

    bucket list item- swim in a pink lake

    Torrevieja, Spain

    Bucket List Item #39: Gamble in a Famous Casino

    Gambling may not seem like a bucket list item for most, but it should definitely be tried at least once. Being surrounded by all of the bright lights, loud sounds, and vibrant atmosphere is truly exciting.


    Check out one of the great casinos to see all that there is to offer inside, equipped with all different types of machines and tables, restaurants, bars. nightclubs, and some really luxurious decor.

    gambling in Vegas

    Even if you don't know how to, you can do low bets on slot machines just to get the experience. What's more exciting? You may actually win! The best part? When you gamble (in the US) drinks are free! Just don't forget to tip your server or bartender.


    Best place to do this: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

    Other places to do this: Montecarlo, Monaco/ Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA

    Estimated cost: gambling is free! Actually the great thing is that in Vegas and Atlantic City if you gamble enough, you will receive points towards free hotel stays in the future!

    When: Anytime! (in the US you must be 21+).


    Bucket List Item #40: Explore Somewhere New by Scooter or ATV

    In our opinion, there is no better way to explore a new place than to do it by scooter or ATV. They are affordable and make it easier and more fun to get around than by car or public transportation. Not to mention, parking becomes a whole lot easier. Have the wind blow in your hair and enjoy the ultimate feeling of freedom!


    Best place to do this: South East Asia (here they are extremely cheap, and you can avoid all of the crazy traffic).

    Other places to do this: Caribbean Islands & European cities.

    Estimated cost: SEA- $3-8 per day/ Europe-$20-60 depending on the country/ Caribbean-$50-$60 per day.

    When: Anytime! Just make sure you have a valid driver's license.

    Scooter in Panama


    Bucket List Item #41: Hitchhike

    We know what you're thinking- why would hitchhiking be a bucket list item? Honestly it wasn't on ours at first, until we realized how much fun it was and how much money you can save. Be aware that we don't recommend this everywhere, but there are many places in which hitchhiking is actually completely normal!


    Best place to do this: Central America (we found mostly extremely friendly tourists that would pick us up, who we even became friends with some. Also, public transportation isn't as frequent outside the cities, making it sometimes the only way to get around if you don't have a car).

    Other places to do this: Europe & South America.

    *We suggest not doing this in the US, as it is extremely unusual in this country. Avoid places that are on the dangerous side, doing your homework on the place in advance, or asking locals if it is safe or recommended.

    Estimated cost: Free!

    When: When you are traveling with one other person, when cars are very expensive to rent, or when public transportation options are limited.

    Hitchhiking

    Hitchhiking in Paracas, Peru

    Bucket List Item #42:  Experience the Midnight Sun

    Did you know that in some parts of the world there are parts of the year that are almost 24 hours of darkness, and 24 hours of sunlight? We wouldn't suggest going there when its always dark, but having almost the entire day with the sun shining is really something awesome.


    Countries that are close to the arctic circle experience this during summer. With more hours to enjoy outside, parties all "night" long, and perfectly pleasant temperatures, do you need another reason?


    Best place to do this: The Baltics (Russia, Estonia, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland).

    Other places to do this: Alaska/ Greenland.

    Estimated cost: Free.

    When:  May to August- the most hours of sun occur the first day of summer (June 21st), and the days around it.


    Nonstinden sunrise, best hikes in the Lofoten Islands
    secret hike, the best hikes in the Lofoten Islands