As a traveler, I have visited many places in this world, many of them well-known to travelers and others not so much.
Some of them most people do not know where they are or have never heard of.
Places like Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, etc.
Others are well-known like France, Paris, New York, Greece, etc.
However, each person experiences each place differently, due to their own experience, culture, etc.
However, some places are so special that you cannot visit them and leave the same way you arrived.
Even though the impact is different for each person, you will certainly have a new perspective after experiencing this experience.
This list does not measure the impact on each of us travelers.
However, I am sure that each person will carry the experience with them for the rest of their lives.
Visit Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is a place for those who love history and adventure, but it also moves those who have no idea what it means.
As soon as the traveler sets eyes on Machu Picchu, they feel a mix of mystery and beauty.
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city, located in Peru, on top of a mountain.
Considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it is a cultural and natural heritage site, protected by UNESCO.
Its construction dates back to the 15th century, during the height of the Inca Empire.
Its purpose is unknown, but it is believed to have been a ceremonial center or royal residence.
The site is famous for its impressive architecture, with stone walls fitted together with precision, without the use of mortar. The main buildings include the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana, a carved stone that was probably used for astronomical observations.
To get there, many travelers opt for the Inca Trail, a challenging hike that passes through ruins and breathtaking landscapes.
For the less adventurous, there is the train and bus route to climb the mountain.
Either way, the moment will be unforgettable.
My trip to Machu Picchu.
Hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, Türkiye
Although balloon rides are available in many places around the world, one of the most famous in Brazil is Boituva, in São Paulo.
The city is considered the capital of Brazilian air sports. However, none of them have the same atmosphere and spectacular views as a balloon ride over Cappadocia in Turkey.
Where you can see a unique landscape, dozens of balloons floating towards the sky. As you gently ascend at dawn, the unique landscape of the rock formations and valleys of the region are revealed in golden tones.
The sensation of floating above the famous “fairy chimneys” and the caves carved into the mountains is one of pure tranquility.
From up there, the traveler observes a landscape that seems surreal, as if it were from another world. The light wind guides the balloon between the valleys, offering different views at every moment.
Island hopping in Croatia
Island hopping is a common practice in many parts of the world.
I have done several in Greece, Thailand, Vietnam, New Zealand, Fiji and others.
However, this trip along the Croatian coast with its blue sea, varied environments and proximity, and consequently the ease of accessing these places in one day, makes this adventure one of the most incredible experiences you can have.
Croatia has over a thousand islands, and each one has its own unique charm. The crystal clear waters, Mediterranean climate and stunning landscapes make this trip unforgettable.
One of the most popular routes among travelers starts in Split, where you can explore Hvar, famous for its trendy beaches and lively nightlife. Then, it is worth heading to Vis, a quieter island, perfect for diving and discovering hidden caves, such as the Blue Cave. Korčula is another must-see, with its historic center and wine traditions.
If you want something a little more peaceful, Mljet is ideal, much of the island is a national park, with saltwater lakes and dense forests. And of course, there is Brač, famous for its Zlatni Rat beach, one of the most photogenic in the country.
Traveling on the Trans-Siberian Railway
The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the world’s most legendary and longest train journeys, connecting Moscow in Russia to Vladivostok in the far east of the country.
Other routes on the railway network are also available, such as the Trans-Mongolian Railway, which connects Russia to China via Mongolia.
The journey is not only unique, but also has a significant impact on Russian life and history.
During the journey, passengers have the opportunity to witness the transition between Russian and Asian cultures, passing through stunning landscapes such as the dense forests of Siberia, the vast Russian steppes and the immense Lake Baikal, the largest freshwater lake in the world, as well as exploring small towns and villages along the way.
The route varies depending on your destination, but is around 9,000 kilometres and crosses eight time zones, taking on average seven days to complete without any long stops.
I took the Beijing-Moscow route, which connects the capital of China to that of Russia, passing through Mongolia with stops in Irkutsk and Novosibirsk.
The train journey is a true cultural immersion, allowing you to learn about the daily lives of Russians and appreciate the vastness and diversity of this incredible country, all with the comfort and tranquility of traveling on rails.
My trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway, which was part of my trip around the world.
Exploring Petra and camping in the Jordanian desert
I believe that many travelers know about Petra from the Indiana Jones movie, but what they don’t know is that what you see is only a very small part of the place.
Petra, in Jordan, is one of the most impressive wonders of the world. Known as the “Pink City”, it was carved into the rocks around 300 BC by the Nabataeans.
You feel like you’re in an Indiana Jones movie when you enter the Siq, a narrow gorge, and at the exit you are greeted by the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh), with its monumental façade.
However, Petra is home to temples, tombs and a vast theater, all carved into the sandstone mountains. The place is especially magical at dawn and dusk, when the sunlight highlights the pink tones of the rocks.
A few kilometers from Petra is the Wadi Rum desert, also known as the “Valley of the Moon”. The desert is full of dramatic rock formations, canyons and vast dunes.
The sunsets in Wadi Rum are spectacular, tinting the desert orange and red.
Camping in traditional Bedouin tents, enjoying starry nights in this isolated setting is an experience that connects you to the beauty and vastness of nature.
The trip to Petra is part of the 7 wonders of the modern world project.
Dog sledding in the vastness of Alaska
Few experiences for travelers will bring such a pure and simple connection with nature as being in the frozen wilderness of Alaska with your dogs and nothing else.
Imagine yourself gliding through snow-covered landscapes, being pulled by a team of agile and strong dogs, while feeling the cold wind on your face and the sound of the sleds cutting through the ice.
This vision may seem romantic, but nature soon shows you what it is made of.
The Siberian or Alaskan huskies used for this activity are highly trained and passionate about running. They work as a team to pull the sled through snowy forests, mountains and frozen lakes.
To have the complete experience, the ideal is to learn how to drive the sled, known as “mushing”.
The connection with the dogs is something unique, as they are full of energy and very friendly.
In addition to the adrenaline, dog sledding provides a complete immersion in nature, far from civilization, with a silent and peaceful setting.
Visit the largest salt flat in the world in Bolivia
The Salar de Uyuni, located in southwestern Bolivia, is the largest in the world. It covers an impressive area of around 10,582 km², making it larger than some cities.
Formed by the evaporation of ancient prehistoric lakes, the Salar de Uyuni is an immense salt flat that, during the rainy season, turns into a gigantic natural mirror, reflecting the sky in a surreal way.
In addition to being an incredible tourist attraction, it is also an important source of salt and lithium, an essential element for batteries.
The place is visited mainly for its unique landscape, the opportunity to spend the night in a hotel made entirely of salt and the islands of giant cacti that appear in the middle of the salt desert, giving the traveler the feeling of being in a setting from another planet.
Watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia
Visiting Angkor Wat is like entering another world.
At dawn, the sun rising behind the towers and reflecting on the lake creates a magical scene.
The grandeur of the temple is impressive, with its five towers symbolizing Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in Hindu mythology.
Walking through the corridors, carved with ancient stories, makes you feel part of something bigger.
The details of the carvings, with figures of deities and battle scenes, show the incredible skill of the artisans.
The complex is huge, and it is easy to get lost in time exploring every corner, from the open courtyards to the more secluded areas.
Climbing the steep stairs to see the view from the top is challenging but rewarding.
The silence in some parts of the temple makes you reflect on the history and spiritual power of the place.
Trek to Everest Base Camp
For mountaineers, visiting Everest, the highest mountain in the world, is an unforgettable and very special experience.
However, it is impossible for any traveler to see this mountain and not be impressed by its grandeur and imposing nature.
From the moment you leave Kathmandu until you arrive in Lukla, you have an unforgettable experience, flying over the mountains and landing at one of the most picturesque and dangerous airports in the world.
The trek to Everest Base Camp is a unique and challenging experience. In November, the weather is cold, but the sky is usually clear, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains.
During the trek, which lasts about 12 to 14 days, you will pass through Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries and incredible landscapes, such as pine forests and rocky fields.
The trail follows the Dudh Kosi River valley, passing through Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa “capital”, and continues on to places such as Tengboche and Dingboche, climbing higher and higher in altitude.
Travelers must take care to acclimatize, as this is essential to avoid altitude sickness, and slower walks are recommended.
Temperatures in November can reach -10°C at night, but mornings and afternoons are milder, perfect for walking. The trail does not require great technical skills, but is physically challenging due to the altitude.
When you reach the base camp, the feeling of achievement is indescribable.
Surrounded by the highest mountains in the world, you feel like you are on another planet, right in the heart of the Himalayas.
Walking the Great Wall of China
Everyone has a vision of China and no matter how little they know about it, the Great Wall of China is always a well-known fact.
The wall is the largest human construction and the only one that can be seen from space.
Taking a trip along the Great Wall of China is an impressive experience.
The grandeur of the wall, which stretches for thousands of kilometers, transports you back in time. As you walk along its steps and towers, it is impossible not to imagine the ancient warriors and guards who protected the Chinese empire from invaders.
Each section of the wall offers different landscapes. In Badaling, you will find a well-preserved section that is full of tourists.
In Mutianyu, the scenery is more peaceful, surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation.
For more adventurous travelers, sections such as Jinshanling offer a more challenging hike, with parts of the wall in ruins.
In addition to the history, the panoramic view is breathtaking. The horizon seems endless, with the wall winding through mountains and valleys.
Visiting the Great Wall of China is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines culture, nature and a deep sense of connection with the past.
Experience living in your favorite movie.
Game of Thrones (Dubrovnik), Indiana Jones (Petra), Lord of the Rings, Avatar (New Zealand), Harry Potter (London).
Modern life has given us the fantasy of living in other places and times.
Cinema transports us to places and times outside our reality and makes us experience impossible situations in our lives.
The closest we can get to these stories told by cinema is visiting the locations of famous films, as it is like entering a fantasy world, where reality and fiction meet.
Imagine crossing the iconic platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross station in London, where Harry boards the train to Hogwarts.
Or walking through the streets and houses of the Shire (New Zealand), with its green hills and stunning landscapes from The Lord of the Rings.
Sitting on the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Stroll through the gorge and arrive at the entrance to the Grail Temple (Petra) in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
See the impressive floating mountains of Pandora in the film Avatar, in Zhangjiajie National Park, in China.
Each place brings a feeling of familiarity mixed with emotion, as if you were inside the story you love so much.
These visits connect the traveler and their fantasies to the cinematic universe in a concrete way.
In addition to reliving unforgettable scenes, it is a chance to discover new destinations and cultures.
It is like a treasure hunt, where each location revisits memories of films that marked your life, making the trip even more special and full of meaning.
Visit one of the most famous temples of love
Few places in the world are as connected to love as the Taj Mahal in India.
The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
She died after giving birth to the couple’s 14th child, and her death devastated the emperor.
In honor of the great love they shared, Shah Jahan decided to build a grand monument that symbolizes his mourning and the beauty of Mumtaz.
Visiting the Taj Mahal is like entering a fairy tale. As soon as you arrive, the grandeur and beauty of the monument impresses you.
The sparkling white marble adorned with details encrusted with precious stones, the beautifully manicured garden, and fountains that reflect the sun’s glow create a magical atmosphere.
The interior is equally magnificent, housing the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal and Emperor Shah Jazam, thus sealing their love for eternity.
Visit the cradle of modern civilization.
The culture widely considered to be the birthplace of modern culture is that of Ancient Greece.
The ancient Greeks pioneered many areas that shaped Western civilization, including philosophy, science, theater, politics, and the arts.
Philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle profoundly influenced Western thought, while Greek city-states such as Athens developed the first concepts of democracy.
A visit to Athens is like immersing yourself in ancient history.
As you explore the Acropolis, with the majestic Parthenon at its summit, you’ll feel the weight of thousands of years of culture and civilization.
The city’s streets are a mix of ancient and modern, with cozy coffee shop nestled alongside historic ruins.
The Acropolis Museum reveals fascinating artifacts, while the Ancient Agora transports you to the heart of ancient Greek political life.
Climb the highest mountains
This experience is not for all travelers, as many are not willing to undertake this feat.
However, those who do venture out will have an experience that is almost inexplicable.
Only those who have reached the summit know what it means and there is no way to convey this feeling.
Reaching the summit of a great mountain is a profoundly transformative experience.
When you finally reach the top, you feel an intense sense of accomplishment and euphoria, the result of months or even years of preparation, effort and overcoming challenges.
There is a feeling of personal triumph, mixed with relief for overcoming physical and mental obstacles.
The panoramic view and the vastness of the landscape awaken a feeling of admiration and reverence for nature, providing a spiritual and introspective connection.
Each summit is unique, regardless of altitude or difficulty.
Many describe a mental clarity and inner peace, the result of the tranquility at the top of the mountain.
In addition, there is a sense of belonging and camaraderie, especially when the achievement was shared with fellow adventurers.
Egyptian pyramid
Another great civilization that shaped our current times is that of Egypt.
Visiting the pyramids of Egypt is an experience that impresses from the very first moment. Upon arriving at the Giza plain, the pyramids rise majestically against the sky.
The Great Pyramids (Cheops, Chephren and Menkaure) are the oldest and the only one that remains standing of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The proximity of the Sphinx, with its enigmatic gaze and lion-like body, adds a touch of mystery to the visit.
In Egypt, it is estimated that there are more than 130 pyramids, with the Great Pyramids of Giza being the most famous.
Very close by are the pyramids of Dahshur and Saqqara.
In addition to the pyramids, Egypt offers other impressive monuments.
The Temple of Karnak in Luxor is a vast array of columns and obelisks that tell stories of gods and pharaohs.
The Valley of the Kings, with its ornate tombs, provides a glimpse into the funerary splendor of the pharaohs. The Egyptian Museum houses a priceless collection of artifacts, including the famous masks of Tutankhamun. Each site contributes to an in-depth look at Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.
Stargazing in the Atacama Desert, Chile
It seems unbelievable, but in our modern life we can’t really see the stars.
The city lights are very distracting and we only see a small portion.
We imagine that the sky is the same, but in each place on Earth we notice the differences in the visible stars.
Seeing a night sky full of stars is like diving into an ocean of infinite possibilities.
The vastness of the universe makes you feel small.
However, it is almost comforting in a way, as if you were connected to something much bigger.
To be able to appreciate this feeling we have to go as far away from the city lights as possible.
Today there are few places far enough away to appreciate the beauty of the sky.
Deserts are a great option, such as the Atacama Desert in Chile, Wadi Rum in Jordan and others.
Stargazing in the Atacama Desert is a surreal experience, and the vastness of the desert makes the sky seem even bigger.
The aridity and altitude create an incredibly clear sky, where each star shines brightly in an infinite blanket of lights.
The constellations appear clearly, and the Milky Way reveals itself with impressive clarity.
The feeling is of total isolation, as if time has stopped, leaving only you and the universe.
The peace and beauty of this starry sky in the Atacama are unforgettable, almost magical.
See the Northern Lights.
One of the most well-known natural phenomena among travelers in this world is the Northern Lights.
However, only a privileged few get to witness it.
I have tried and failed to see it, and now in November 2024 I am going to Norway to try to see this incredible phenomenon.
I cannot describe the feeling of seeing the Northern Lights, but I believe it must be like witnessing an almost supernatural phenomenon.
The lights appear in the sky, a mixture of green, purple and blue begins to dance before your eyes, as if the sky itself were in motion.
It is a silent spectacle and the vastness of the horizon illuminated by the vibrant colors must create a feeling of enchantment.
The cold and the snow complete this magical landscape, while you are completely immersed in the magic of that moment.
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Atenção: As opiniões, revisões, análises e recomendações de viagens e produtos são baseadas nas minhas experiências e pesquisas pessoais, sem vínculo a nenhuma dessas entidades.
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