Have you ever felt the irresistible urge to explore beyond your horizons? The more we journey, the longer our mental list of must-see places seems to grow. If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re in good company. Recently, Big 7 Travel, a popular website dedicated to globetrotters, unveiled its definitive list of the top 50 bucket list Travel Destinations across the globe, prompting travel enthusiasts worldwide to pause and take note.
To curate this list, Big 7 Travel engaged its vibrant community of 1.5 million social media followers. Sarah Clayton-Lea, Head of Content at Big 7 Travel, explained that this was their inaugural compilation of such a list. “Bucket list travel emerged as a recurring theme in our previous reader surveys about preferred travel content,” Clayton-Lea noted. “Driven by curiosity, we aimed to pinpoint the destinations that capture people’s imaginations for 2019 and 2020.”
The survey results highlighted some of the most breathtaking locales on Earth, confirming enduring travel desires. “Pristine white sandy beaches remain a top draw for many, while dynamic cities also frequently appear on people’s bucket lists,” Clayton-Lea observed. Countries celebrated for their stunning natural landscapes and iconic landmarks dominated the rankings, with 22% of the listed travel destinations boasting white sandy beaches and 52% being globally recognized cities.
The survey also revealed the significant influence of social media on travel aspirations. A noteworthy 33% of respondents admitted to using Instagram as a primary source for vacation inspiration. “Given that over a third of our audience turns to Instagram for travel ideas, it’s logical that cities with visually striking neighborhoods, like Cape Town’s Bo Kaap, gained prominence,” Clayton-Lea elaborated.
Bali secured the coveted top spot as the number one bucket list travel destination, yet the list also featured some unexpected gems. “While the top 10 largely includes anticipated dream locations, a few surprises surfaced, such as Paro Valley in Bhutan and Virunga National Park in the Congo,” Clayton-Lea pointed out. “This suggests a growing desire for off-the-beaten-path experiences, likely fueled by social media and platforms like Netflix, which have spotlighted these remarkable places.”
Intriguingly, the survey discovered that individuals typically maintain a bucket list of around 11 destinations, hoping to visit approximately seven in their lifetime. Regardless of the length of your personal list, this global ranking is sure to ignite your wanderlust and inspire dreams of both familiar and far-flung travel destinations. Let’s delve into the top 10 and a selection of other noteworthy mentions from the top 50 bucket list destinations in the world.
Top 10 Bucket List Travel Destinations:
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Bali, Indonesia: Topping the list, Bali is described as “paradise” by Big 7 Travel. This Indonesian island offers a stunning array of attractions, from pristine beaches and majestic volcanoes to the Komodo dragons and lush jungles teeming with elephants, orangutans, and tigers. Its strong presence on social media cements its status as a must-visit travel destination for 2024 and beyond.
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New Orleans, USA: Known for its vibrant street music, lively atmosphere, and unique blend of French, African, and American cultures, New Orleans is a city brimming with adventure. Big 7 Travel emphasizes that NOLA “should be on everyone’s must-visit list,” making it a prime travel destination in the United States.
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Kerry, Ireland: Located on Ireland’s western edge, County Kerry boasts some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. With its mountains, lakes, and picturesque coastlines, including Killarney National Park, Kerry offers postcard-perfect landscapes. Quaint towns like Dingle further enhance its charm as an idyllic travel destination.
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Marrakesh, Morocco: This ancient walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, is rich in history and culture. Marrakesh, known as “The Red City” for its distinctive brick walls, features stunning mosques, opulent palaces, and serene gardens, making it a captivating travel destination in North Africa.
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Sydney, Australia: Globally recognized as an iconic city, Sydney offers a wealth of attractions. From beautiful beaches and trendy cafes to world-class entertainment, Sydney provides endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment, solidifying its place as a top travel destination.
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The Maldives: This tropical nation in the Indian Ocean, composed of over 1,000 coral islands, is synonymous with luxury and natural beauty. The Maldives is home to some of the world’s most exclusive resorts, featuring white sandy beaches, underwater villas, and vibrant blue waters, an ultimate travel destination for relaxation and indulgence.
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Paris, France: As one of the world’s most iconic cities, Paris consistently ranks high on bucket lists. Home to landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris offers an unparalleled cultural and historical experience, making it an essential travel destination in Europe.
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Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town is described as a “dream location” by Big 7 Travel, celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, clifftop vistas, pastel-colored neighborhoods, and turquoise waters. This South African city provides a diverse and visually striking travel destination.
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Dubai, U.A.E.: A city of extravagance and modernity, Dubai is renowned for its glamour and high-flying experiences. Popular with Big 7 Travel readers, Dubai offers a unique blend of luxury shopping, futuristic architecture, and desert adventures, establishing it as a sought-after travel destination in the Middle East.
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Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Concluding the top 10, Bora Bora, Tahiti’s most famous island, epitomizes a dream travel destination. With overwater bungalows and thrilling underwater activities, Bora Bora offers the quintessential tropical escape.
Beyond the Top 10: Unveiling More Travel Gems
The list continues to impress with diverse and captivating travel destinations, each offering unique experiences:
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Edinburgh, Scotland: With the historic Edinburgh Castle dominating the skyline and a rich cultural scene, Edinburgh is a top city break travel destination.
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Rome, Italy: A city of timeless beauty and historical significance, Rome consistently offers new discoveries with each visit, making it a perennial travel destination.
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Paro Valley, Bhutan: For a more off-the-grid experience, Paro Valley in Bhutan offers dramatic landscapes, monasteries, and a focus on sustainable tourism, a unique travel destination for conscious travelers.
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Jaipur, India: Known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur’s terracotta buildings and rich history provide a vibrant and culturally immersive travel destination in India.
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Tokyo, Japan: A city where futuristic innovation meets rich tradition, Tokyo offers an unparalleled urban experience, a dynamic travel destination in Asia.
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Kruger National Park, South Africa: For wildlife enthusiasts, Kruger National Park offers incredible safari experiences and a chance to reconnect with nature, a prime travel destination for adventure and wildlife.
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Copenhagen, Denmark: With its charming harbors, modern design, and cool atmosphere, Copenhagen exudes Scandi charm, making it a stylish travel destination in Scandinavia.
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Machu Picchu, Peru: This ancient Incan citadel offers a breathtaking historical and scenic experience, accessible by the scenic 360° Train, a must-see travel destination in South America.
Time to Plan Your Next Travel Destination
This list of 50 bucket list travel destinations offers a diverse range of options for every type of traveler. Whether you dream of relaxing on white sandy beaches, exploring bustling cities, or venturing into remote natural landscapes, there’s a destination on this list to ignite your passion for travel. Consider this ranking as your starting point for planning your next unforgettable adventure and start turning your travel dreams into reality.
