There's the typical relaxing by the beach vacation, and then there's the kind of life changing travel experience that helps you understand the world just a little bit better. While we are huge advocates of visiting all seven continents, we know budget and time-wise it's not possible for everyone. Lucky for you, we already did the homework. There are a few countries and attractions that really embody the region and four corners of the Earth so if you only make it to one spot in Europe, Asia and the like, you can get a good sense of the overarching heritage and traditions.
If you only take 5 epic trips in your lifetime, make this your shortlist.
Paris
Romanticized throughout Hollywood, Paris is one of the few places that actually does live up to the hype. It may even exceed expectations given that most Americans have such a negative impression of the prim and proper French (freedom fries, anyone?). Fall in love with the dazzling lights of the Eiffel tower, indulge in crepes to your heart’s content, and marvel at the fabulous window displays on the Champs-Elysees as you're transported to a completely different place and time.
While you're there: Check out these ridiculous food reccs from a few of our favorite travel bloggers or satisfy your sweet tooth by going on a macaron crawl around the city.
Australia
There are plenty of reasons to want to go down under from scuba diving in the Great Barrier reef to beautifully modern, urban Sydney. From the beaches to unique marsupials, life in Aussie-land is unlike anywhere else on the planet. A laid-back surfer lifestyle, explore the outback, experience aboriginal tribes, travel to the red center, and eat your heart out with world-class cuisine. Learn some slang before you go, and you'll sound like a local in no time!
Looking for extra unique accommodations? Take a walk on the wild side and sleep at the Zoo with Sydney's "Roar and Snore" program.
Safari
You haven't lived until you've gotten up close and personal with nature, seeing a giraffe, elephant or lion in the wild. For the iconic safari experience, head to Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya to catch the wildebeest migration, Kruger National Park in South Africa for a self-drive excursion or Serengeti National Park in Tanzania for the classic African landscape.
While you make think a safari will set you back beaucoup bucks, Nepal actually has a safari for just $35 (yes, you read that right!)
Thailand
Quintessential Asia, Bangkok is chaotic, cheap and fabulous. With massage parlors and custom tailors on every corner, you'll live like a king and be amazed at how far your dollar stretches. Four star hotels like the Mandarin Oriental have a much higher standard of luxury with private butlers and multi-course meals. Wander the crowded and crazy Thai markets in search of clothes and trinkets, take a cooking class and cruise the ornate, gilded temples to pay respects to the guarded Buddha statues.
Make it a trip you'll never forget at the Full Moon Party or by getting handsy and learning the ancient art of massage.
Machu Picchu
One of the new seven world wonders of the world, Machu Picchu is a journey as much as the destination. The epicenter of the Inca civilization that you can seen throughout Latin and South America, appreciate Mother Nature's power on the classic four-day hike, breathing in spellbinding landscapes and crisp mountain air while getting a healthy dose of history and mystery.
Become a "Martini Explorer" and learn all about what the trek is really like from our first-hand account.