Everyone’s bucket list will be different – we’re all individuals and have varying interests and hobbies. Here I’m going to focus on Asia as a bucket list destination. I’d always advise visiting a bucket list destination as a single trip rather than trying to pack too much into an itinerary. However it’s tempting to do so when you travel so far from home.
These destinations are often considered unique, exotic, or culturally significant, and people include them on their “bucket lists” as goals to achieve before they die. Bucket list destinations can vary greatly depending on individual interests, but some common examples include iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon in the United States, historic sites like the Great Wall of China, and adventurous locations like the Galápagos Islands or Antarctica. Ultimately, a bucket list destination is highly subjective and personal, reflecting an individual’s dreams, interests, and aspirations.
So where should you visit in Asia?
| Destination + country | Why is this a bucket list destination |
| Chiang Mai, Thailand | Beautiful old temples and possibly Thailand’s best night market. |
| Bali, Indonesia | A mystical island, full of rice paddies, tropical jungles, waterfalls, islands and parties. Very popular with those in the 20s and 30s, but welcoming to all. |
| Tokyo, Japan | Modern and traditional all at once. High tech everyone, but turn a corner and you’ll find an ancient shrine. |
| Luang Prabang, Laos | Get up at sunrise and see hundreds of local monks wandering through the streets, collecting alms from the devout. |
| Angkor Wat, Cambodia | The largest temple here is the largest religious monument on earth. |
| Rishikesh, India | Many say this is the yoga capital of the world. The holy town is home to dozens of ashrams. |
| Great Wall of China | A whole lot of different walls that span thousands of miles. It is still a iconic site to visit. Some areas are in easy reach of Beijing. |
| Taj Mahal | Well, obviously! As I walked through the archway and got my first glimpse, it literally stopped me in my tracks and took my breath away. The brilliant white against the blue sky – the perfect building. |
| Petra, Jordan | We all know the Treasury Building but there are lots more buildings and structures to explore. |
| Bukhara, Uzbekistan | A city for over 5000 years. Don’t miss the Po-i-Kalyan complex, which is considered one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture. |
| Halong Bay, Vietnam | One of the most beautiful bays in the world, with caves, islands and mangroves. It can get quite crowded with boats however. |
| The Gobi Desert, Mongolia | A vast expanse of desert, home to many Silk Road trading sites. Why not stay in a traditional yurt while there? |
I’ll be adding to this list over the next few months, so this isn’t a definitive list. Where would you add?
Have you created your own bucket list? Download one (or more) of my leaflets to help you do it. When you’ve written it down – it becomes a plan not a dream!
Make 2024 the year you tick off destinations and experiences from your bucket list. I’ve created a leaflet, helping you create your own list. There are 3 leaflets – Asia/Australasia, Europe/Middle East/Africa and The Americas/Caribbean. Just click here to choose which leaflet you’d like to start with https://mailchi.mp/6c67eef3d32d/holiday-wish-list
FAQs
What are some tips for making the most of my bucket list travel experiences?
Some tips for making the most of your bucket list travel experiences include immersing yourself in the local culture, trying new foods, stepping out of your comfort zone, and cherishing each moment. Remember to be present and embrace the journey, as it’s often the unexpected moments that make travel truly memorable.
Is it necessary to visit all the destinations on my bucket list?
No, it’s not necessary to visit every destination on your bucket list. The purpose of a bucket list is to inspire and motivate you to pursue meaningful experiences that align with your interests and aspirations. Focus on prioritising the destinations that resonate with you the most.