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Take a day trip to Sintra

If you only have the one day for Sintra, here is what you can do. First, head to the Pena Palace and the Pena Park. This is the famous Disney-like yellow and red castle, and the most iconic attraction in Sintra. Combine the Palace with the 10th-century Moorish Castle and Quinta da Regaleira.

Most people visit Sintra on a short day trip from Lisbon. It’s extremely easy and cheap to access by train, so hundreds of tourists arrive every day. The downside? You just won’t see enough of Sintra.

Or make it a few nights

If you have the extra time, then absolutely stay a few days in Sintra! Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle and Quinta da Regaleira are no doubt spectacular. Yet, there is so much more to see and do in the area.

At a slower pace, you can also stroll through Sintra’s old town and see the Palacio de Sintra. From the old town, there is an awesome hiking path to the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.

See the stunning moorish mosaics at Palacio de Monserrate and its gardens. Visit the Capuchos Convent, Vila Sassetti, and the Santuario da Peninha, among other attractions. Plus, you can even stay at a palace, since the Palacio de Seteais was converted into a hotel.

Don’t miss the beaches and the wine

Did you know that architecture is not the only attraction in Sintra? Set amongst lush forests, Sintra is actually close to some wonderful beaches. This setting has also allowed for the production of very unique wines.

The local wines are grown in sand near the Atlantic Ocean. While a phylloxera plague destroyed many vineyards across Europe in the 1900s, Sintra’s survived. So after a day of exploring, unwind with these unique flavoured wines!

Practical Information

When to visit: Any time of year! Mild winters make Sintra the perfect getaway from the cold, while summers are nice for the beach, despite the crowds.

Get in: Most people arrive in Sintra from Lisbon. You simply need to take a train from Rossio station. It takes under an hour and costs only about 5 euros for the return trip. You can also drive, but be prepared for a bit of traffic. However, the advantage is that you’ll be able to explore the region with your own vehicle.

Stay: The old town offers a variety of lovely hotels. Make sure to book in advance as they do fill up, especially in high season. And of course, you can stay at the Seteais Palace, budget permitting.

Five villages set within a national park are accessible mainly via rail and on foot. The lack of cars has allowed the area to maintain its natural beauty and its quaint village feel. 

Here, you will find stunning rugged coasts, beautiful rolling landscapes, and picturesque Italian villages. And of course, delicious Ligurian cuisine, accompanied by fragrant local wines. 

They are few places in the world akin to the Salt Flats in Uyuni, Bolivia. The incredible natural scenery that the desert offers is out of this world. The landscapes are so unique that it’s almost like traveling to a different planet. Uyuni is a travel experience that should be on your bucket list! 

The Salt Desert 

Once, there was a prehistoric inland sea, located high up on the Andean plateau. With increasing sunshine, it dried up, leaving behind nothing but salt. Today, we can witness this incredible transformation and visit the Uyuni salt desert. 

What’s really cool about the salt flats is that during the wetter seasons, they become reflective. It means that you can get some fantastic photos of mirror-like reflections in the salt-flats. The vast land of white salt also allows for some pretty surprising optical illusions. Plus, you can even taste the salt - just give it a quick try! 

For Further Reflection 

What many travelers don’t realize is that Uyuni is much more than the salt flats. They are of course the biggest draw. But the surrounding areas are as, if not more beautiful.

There are colorful red, green and blue lagoons, surrounded by rolling hills. Here, hundreds of pink and white flamingos lounge. You can see incredible rock formations that make you feel like you are on the moon. Llamas stroll among these, happily grazing in the wild. 

You might also witness geysers spewing up steam at 5,000 meters about the sea. There are even hot springs, where you can bathe surrounded by nothing but the incredible landscapes. Further afield, you can head on South to Chile, and see the equally fascinating Atacama desert. 

Practical Information 

When to visit: The best weather in Uyuni is from July to October. But to get the reflective water pools in the salt flats, you should plan to visit during the shoulder seasons, in November and December, or March and April. It’s best to avoid January and February as the flats may get flooded. 

Get in: To get to the park, most visitors will fly into La Paz. Then, you can fly to Uyuni town or take a bus. From here, hire a tour - typically a jeep that will take you through the desert. You can also come from Argentina through the South of Bolivia or from the Atacama desert in Chile. 

Stay: It’s best to allocate at least 2 or 3 days to visit the park (although there are tours of up to 7 days). The flats are exciting, but there is so much more to see! Plus, you’ll get to experience a salt hotel if you are staying inside the desert. Granted, they are pretty simple accommodations in the middle of the desert, but it’s still really cool to say that you slept on a slab of salt

Indonesia, the 4th largest nation in the world by population, is not only the home of the famous Bali island. It is made up of hundreds mostly volcanic islands, where incredible untouched nature continues to thrive. 

And one animal that lives in Indonesia is not for the faint-hearted. The Komodo Dragon - the world’s largest lizard - calls Indonesia home. If you dare, get a close-up look at the Komodo National Park. 

Who are the Komodos? 

Komodo dragons can weigh up to 80 kg and grow to about 3 meters in length. This makes them the biggest known lizard still living in the world today. They have descended from an even larger prehistoric lizard variety. 

What makes them particularly interesting for the adventurous traveler is the fact that they are also extremely dangerous. Their bites are venomous, and they can eat large prey up to the size of a buffalo. In short, if you hang out with one of these fellas, you get mad bragging rights. 

The Komodo is also an endangered species. Only a few thousand are left in the world today. Most of them reside in the Komodo National Park in Indonesia. They live on 3 main islands - Rinca, Padar, and Komodo. 

Beyond Komodo Spotting 

While the biggest thrill is to see a giant scary lizard, there is more good news. Komodo National Park is not only a fantastic place to spot Komodo dragons, but it’s also a stunning national park. 

Here, you can find lush rolling hills, white sand beaches, and do some of the world’s best snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s also home to several other protected and beautiful animal species. Plus, you can visit the famous pink beach - one of only seven in the world. 

Practical Information 

When to visit: April through November are the driest months, but the weather is hot during the whole year. It’s best to avoid January and February due to heavy rainfall. 

Get in: many visitors come on multi-day tours from Bali. But you can get here mostly by yourself from Labuan Bajo port on the Flores Islands. It’s as simple as taking a local flight from Jakarta, Denpasar, or other destinations in Indonesia. You will then need to hire a tour of the park, as it can be extremely dangerous to go on your own. In fact, a ranger should always accompany you and your group - Komodo dragon attacks have happened in the past. 

Stay: There are locals, who live in the national park and simple accommodation is available. Some visitors also stay on sailing boats or in Labuan Bajo.

Have you always dreamed of discovering the amazing underwater world? Do you want to be able to dive almost anywhere in the world? Or are you just bored and want to learn a new skill? 

Well, scuba diving seems like just the right choice for you! 

How to Get a Scuba Diving Certificate 

There are 3 essential steps to get a scuba diving certificate: theory, closed water practice and open water practice. 

The good news is that you can easily do the first two steps anywhere in the world. You can even do an online course to get the theory stuff out of the way. Next, you can do closed water practice in a pool with a proper instructor or in shallow calm waters. Most major cities will have closed water scuba practice classes available. 

And for the most exciting part - you get to practice diving in open waters. Unless you are lucky to live somewhere diving friendly, you’ll need to find the right place to do this. You should consider location, time, budget and interest when you choose where to get certified. 

Best Places to Learn Scuba Diving 

There are hundreds of resorts and islands where you can learn to dive. Some of the cheapest places to get scuba diving certification are Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Egypt, and Honduras. Other popular locations are Australia and Hawaii. 

However, there are honestly so many options, that there isn’t one best place to get your scuba diving certificate. You should consider flight and accommodation costs, along with the cost of the certificate itself. Plus, decide where it is you want to have your first diving experience! 

Most importantly, make sure that you are getting certified through a reputable company. This will not only make your certificate globally valid, but it will also keep you safe. Currently, the two most prominent companies in the world are PADI and SSI. 

What’s Next? 

Once you are certified, you can go diving! Be aware that you should still always buddy up for diving adventures. 

Plus, you can continue to grow as a diver. There are many levels of certification, refresher courses, and specialization courses for more complex diving spots. Finally, you can even make a career out of diving if you absolutely love it. Many get certified as diving instructors and pursue their dream of living on tropical islands.

Where will you go? Here are some travel ideas to add to your bucket list for 2019! 

Greenland

Iceland has long established itself as one of the top Nordic destinations. But did you know that Greenland is 20 times its size? And it is even more remote, offering both incredible landscapes and unique culture. 

Hike across the 100-mile Arctic Circle Trail, visit the Ilulissat Icefjord, go kayaking or see the northern lights. Plus, make sure to see the authentic Inuit culture in Thule and maybe even meet some polar bears on your trip.

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

You don’t need to venture as far as Greenland to find unusual alien landscapes. Just a short drive from Farmington in New Mexico, you’ll find the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness. It comprises 41,170 acres of out-of-this-world rock formations.

The best part - it’s free to visit! So this bucket list item is easy to check off your list. You can hike around the area and even camp in the Wilderness. Just make sure to bring sufficient supplies of food and water, since there are no facilities around. 

Mozambique

Are you looking for stunning beaches unspoiled by mass tourism? Come to Mozambique before it’s too late! The country has recently emerged from years of conflict and crisis. This means that it is still relatively undiscovered by many travelers, so a gem in today’s rapidly growing tourism sector. 

Plus, it has a beach to suit everyone’s taste. There are luxurious getaways in Bazaruto, off-the-beaten-track experiences in Quirimbas, or the backpacker haven on Tofo Beach. Also, you can try excellent safaris in Gorongosa National Park or merely experience the authentic culture of Mozambique. 

Tasmania 

Speaking of destinations growing in popularity, Tasmania should be on your bucket list. You have probably heard of the Tasmanian devil or played Crash Bandicoot as a kid. But did you know that Tasmania is a spectacular destination in Australia? 

The country’s second oldest town of Hobart is the capital of the island. It is rapidly becoming a tourist draw with its artistic hipster vibe and a determined foodie scene. From here, discover the incredible landscapes of Tasmania, drive along its rugged coasts, or chill on the long white-sand beaches.

Transilvania 

Bram Stoker eternalized Transylvania and its famed Bran Castle in his novel about Dracula (by the way, the world-famous vampire is based on a real person from the 15th century). But Transylvania has much more to offer travelers beyond a little Dracula thrill. 

The historical cities, such as Sibiu and Brasov, are colorful, rich in culture and heritage. The region is also home to a criss-cross of Saxon, Hungarian and Romanian cultures, making it exciting to explore. Plus, the landscapes will take your breath away with rolling hills, mountains, forests, and unexpected points of view.

Buddhist temples and sunrises simply make the best combination for bucket lists. You might have already added Angkor Wat in Cambodia to yours. But don’t miss Borobudur in Indonesia, which while much smaller, is no less spectacular. 

History of Borobudur 

Borobudur is a massive Buddhist monument located on Java Island in Indonesia. Today, this part of the country is predominantly Muslim. But between 775 and 850 CE, the Shailendra dynasty practiced Buddhism instead and built this intricate complex.

Since Indonesia is home to dozens of volcanoes, the temple was buried under volcanic ash around the year 1000. Vegetation grew over it, and it was not re-discovered until 1814. Its restoration took place in 1983, and most recently in the 2010s due to damage after a volcano eruption. 

See the Sunrise 

So the history of Borobudur is pretty incredible. But even if you are not that into history, it’s still worth a visit. The structure of the temple is simply stunning. Each of the three enormous levels of the monument represents one of the stages on the way to bodhisattva (enlightenment). Plus, you can see some breathtaking sunrises from the top of the temple. 

For this, you’ll need to get in early or sleep nearby. The site is open to the public from 6 AM to 5 PM. This time is usually too late for the sunrise, but the nearby Manohara Hotel runs an exclusive Borobudur Sunrise Tour. The tour lets you get into the temple area at 4:30 AM and climb up the structure with a flashlight before the sun rises. 

Don’t miss Prambanan and other temples 

Borobudur is by far the most famous, and probably the most impressive temple in the area. But there are actually dozens of others. The biggest one is the Prambanan. You can even do both on the same day and purchase a combo ticket for both sites. 

Practical Information 

When to visit: the dry season on Java Island is between May and September. Rainfall is typical between October and April, with December and February being the wettest months. 

Get in: Most people arrive in Borobudur from Yogyakarta. To get to the city, you can fly, take the train or the bus, depending on where you are coming from. The entrance fee for Borobudur is about USD $25, but most people also have to factor in the cost of the sunrise tour.

Stay: If you are looking for a genuinely luxurious bucket list experience, then check out one of the hotels right beside the monument. Otherwise, stay in Yogyakarta, which is also well worth exploring!

One of the Wonders of the World, millions of people visit the Great Wall of China every year. Most tourists head to Badaling and Mutianyu sections of the wall, which are the best restored. However, the entire wall with all its branches runs for nearly 22,000 km. So the two popular sections are just a drop in the bucket. 

Instead, adventure-seekers and travelers looking to get off the beaten track should check out the undiscovered Great Wall of China.

Hiking on the Great Wall 

Any time you don’t see a cable car, it’s a good bet that you’ll have the section of the wall to yourself. Of course, this means that you’ll have to hike up and down. But this is just part of the adventure! 

Hiking on the Great Wall is an exhilarating experience. You can walk across different sections and see a variety of landscapes. It is even possible to camp on the wall in certain areas. Of course, it is always best to either hire a guide or do extensive research before you decide to hike. 

Not too far off the beaten path 

It might sound like seeing the undiscovered wall of China is time-consuming or difficult to access. In fact, you only need to get a couple of hours away from Beijing. Some people even go on day tours to hike around the Great Wall of China. 

However, some of the best options include an overnight stay. For example, you can take a comfortable bus ride to Gubeikou village. Here, stay just below the Great Wall and explore it for a few days with hikes in different directions. You’ll also find some historic villages in the area and see the rustic style of living in the Chinese countryside.

Practical Information 

When to visit: the best times to visit the Great Wall of China is in early fall or throughout spring and early summer. In the winter it gets quite cold, but you could see some fantastic snowy landscapes. Summer is fine if you are OK with blistering heat! 

Get in: most people will arrive at the Great Wall from Beijing. Depending on the section that you choose to hike, you can either take public transportation or will need to go with a group tour. Renting a car in China can be quite challenging, so another option is to hire a driver with a vehicle. 

Stay: there are plenty of smaller hotels near the different sections of the wall. Many of them offer traditional Chinese food and simple accommodation. Plus, you can camp on some parts of the wall - just confirm with a guide before you do so!

Some skills are fun to have, such as juggling or scuba diving. Others, help us advance in the professional world. For example, knowing how to code or speaking another language. Meanwhile, first aid certification is more than a stamp - it’s an opportunity always to be prepared to help others.

Why should first aid be on your bucket list? 

Surprisingly, it’s straightforward to get a first aid certificate. In many situations, the aid that you need to provide before real medical help arrives is very basic. So, the entry level courses for first aid only take a few hours to complete. 

You can do them either online or on-site through a workshop. There are even some organizations that offer them for free, such as the First Aid for Free website. Also, the Red Cross has online, onsite and blended classes for you to choose. They are very affordable and well recognized around the world. 

How to get a first aid certificate 

Surprisingly, it’s very easy to get a first aid certificate. In many situations, the aid that you need to provide before real medical help arrives is very basic. So, the entry level courses for first aid only take a few hours to complete. 

You can do them either online or on-site through a workshop. There are even some organizations that offer them for free, such as the First Aid for Free website. In addition, the Red Cross has online, onsite and blended classes for choose from. They are very affordable and well recognized around the world. 

What you will learn 

In a first aid course, you’ll learn a few simple techniques to help a person when they are hurt or experiencing an emergency. For example, you’ll know how to give CPR, use a defibrillator, bandage a cut or a break, and how to help someone who is choking. 

If you want to be prepared for anything, you can take more specialized courses. One option is first aid for babies and children - particularly useful if you are around kids a lot. Another alternative is to learn about swimming and water safety, for those planning to spend some time at a pool or a beach. 

Keep in mind that first aid certificates do have an expiration date. While you get the skills for life, if you need the certificate for work, then be prepared to renew it every couple of years.

The stunning landscapes of Sossusvlei (along with challenging dune hikes) will leave you breathless. With colorful dunes, unimaginable rolling shapes, and tree trunks frozen in time, this desert is bound to surprise.

The incredible Sossusvlei 

One always wonders how these unlikely places come to be on our planet. The Sossusvlei formed centuries ago. It’s a prehistoric river bed of the Tsauchab River. The Tsauchab still occasionally flows through, but only every 5-10 years and the river just dries away among the dunes. 

In the past, the region was lush with beautiful acacia trees. Drought caused all of the trees to die and the dunes to grow. Incredibly, the lack of moisture in the area preserved the dead trees instead of decomposing them. So today, you can see the perfectly preserved 900-year-old trunks among the yellow and red dunes. 

Is it Earth or Mars? 

In Sossusvlei, you will feel like you’ve transported to another planet. The vibrant orange hues and the sharp dune lines make for out-of-this-world landscapes during the day. And at night, you can witness star-studded skies of intensity only possible in a desert. 

Some of the famous sites to see in the Sossusvlei park include Dune 45, as it is one of the most accessible dunes. The Elim dune is also both easy to access and distinct from others since it has a vegetation cover. Deadvlei is famous for the preserved Acacia trees. And of course, you cannot miss the Big Daddy dune, which is one of the tallest and hardest to hike in the area. 

Practical Information 

When to visit: it’s possible to visit the area at any time of year. However, the best time is between May and October. The cooler temperatures make for a much more pleasant experience. 

Get in: to get to Sossusvlei, you will need to either drive or get a tour. It is about 350 km from Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Typically, you’ll need to get to Sesriem first, which is at the entrance of the Namib-Naukluft National Park. 

Keep in mind that it’s best to use a 4WD to discover Sossusvlei, as not all roads are accessible by 2WD. Also, a permit to get into the park costs N$80 (just under US$6) per person, per day.

Stay: in recent years, Sossusvlei has become more and more popular. So, there is a growing number of accommodation options in Sesriem. Due to its remoteness, they may be a little more expensive than the rest of the country - but the experience will be totally worth it!

The endless horizon, the calm waters, the sea breeze. And all of a sudden, a large body emerges from under the water, spewing a fountain of water. The human eye only gets to see a small part of the giant whale, but it is still one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life.

Whale-watching in USA and Canada 

With extensive coastlines along the Pacific, the Atlantic and even the Arctic, USA and Canada both offer spectacular opportunities for whale-watching. 

From June to September head either to Vancouver Island or to the Quebec Province in Canada to see migrating whales. You will find orcas, belugas, blue whales, and many more. In the US, make your way to Massachusetts, Maine, New York, and Washington State for summer whale-watching. 

If you prefer to go whale-watching in the winter months, then Florida and Hawaii are the perfect destinations. But did you know that you can also see whales year-round? Big Sur and Monterey Bay in California see populations of whales during the entire year! 

Head to the Wild North 

Along with incredible northern sceneries, countries like Iceland and Norway provide for great whale-watching opportunities. In the summer months, head to Tromso in Norway or Husavik in Iceland to see these beautiful animals. 

The northern parts of the US and Canada are also beautiful options. The Nunavut Province in Canada, while hard to reach, is worth it. Alternatively, head to Alaska. Both are home belugas and narwhals, among other species.

And if you have some extra time and money, then Antarctica is a must-see. Head there between February and March to see blue whales and humpbacks playing among drifting ice floes. 

Watch whales in the tropics 

Don’t feel like the cold but still want to see whales? Well, you are in luck, because whales are smart animals and enjoy escaping the winter just as much as we do. The Pacific coasts of Colombia, Mexico, and Panama receive migrating whale populations between July and November. 

Between January and April, head to Sri Lanka and you are almost guaranteed to see Blue Whales. Meanwhile, the Maldives and Tonga make for the perfect place for some of the more unusual whale species. Plus, enjoy the incredible white-sand beaches and sunshine. 

Things to keep in mind when whale-watching 

As with any activity that involves animals, make sure that you are doing it responsibly. First and foremost, check that the company you are going whale-watching with is reputable. Are they certified? Do they follow safety standards? Do they respect the whale’s habitat? 

There are several standards boats need to follow on whale-watching tours. These include keeping a safe distance of at least 100 meters from the animal, giving whales space and never separating them, not chasing the animals, and going at slow speeds. 

While it’s exciting to see whales in the wild, it’s essential not to sacrifice the animals’ well-being for a few photos. In addition, for your safety and that of the animals, avoid swimming with them or touching them.

Before matches and lighters, starting a fire was no easy feat. In the unlikely event of being stranded in the middle of nowhere without matches or a lighter, this skill will come in extremely handy!

Four fire-starting methods 

There are four different ways in which science and nature allow us to start a fire. Friction is probably the one you have seen in movies. The hero rubs a couple of sticks together really quickly, and voila - there is fire. 

The other three ways involve sparks, sun or chemicals. A rock or a battery can help you start s fire with sparks, usually using something like cotton. The sun’s heat, augmented through glass or similar object, will spark some fire. And finally, if you can get your hands on combustible chemicals, these can also work.

You will always need tinder! 

No, you won’t need the tinder app. But fire-starting is likely where the app gets its name (mind-blowing, right?). No matter how you choose to start a fire without matches, you’ll need to collect tinder. 

This means that you need a catalyst between the sparks and the log you are trying to fire up. Tinder can be made up of human-made materials, such as lint, rope, or dry cloth. But you can also find tinder in the forest. For example, dry fluffy grasses or small stems and other tiny dry sticks. 

I have tinder, now what? 

Depending on the method of fire-starting you choose, you’ll need several other items to get going. For example, you can use a wood stick and a fireboard. Rub the wood stick on the fireboard to create friction, and hopefully, sparks will fly. 

If you have a piece of glass or a clear water bottle and a lot of sunshine, then place your tinder under the glass or bottle with the sun shining directly on it. In theory, you’ll soon start seeing smoke, and the tinder will light up. 

But really, just carry matches 

There is a number of other ways to start a fire, but remember that you’ll need to be both patient and resourceful if you don't have matches around. So, while it’s a great skill to have for hikers (and in case of an apocalypse?), it’s best to always carry extra matches or lighters with you while out in the wild. 

In extreme cases, being able to light a fire can be the difference between a life and death situation. Not only will a fire allow you to cook raw meat, but it can also keep you warm and protect you from wild animals. So, just don’t forget those matches!

5,607 feet wide and 354 feet high - Victoria Falls is not the highest or the widest waterfall in the world, but it is the largest. You can reach this stunning natural wonder from either Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Livingstone in Zambia (southern Africa). But we recommend to check out both sides, and see which you like better!`

With spring in full gear, this is the perfect time to learn how to plant a kitchen garden. For beginners, a few herbs are a good start to spice up your meals. But if you really want a challenge, get some tomatoes, peppers and lettuce going in there as well.

The Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis) happen on dark clear nights, when particles in our atmosphere collide to produce this spectacular light show. For the best viewing chance, plan a trip up north between the months of November and March, and stay for a few days. Some great locations include Alaska, Northern Canada, Iceland, Norway and Denmark.

Learning about nature while hanging out with family? Sign us up! Head to your local natural history museum to get a glimpse at the natural wonders around the world and how they have come about. Maybe you’ll even add a few new items to your bucket list!

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest reef system in the world, spanning a whopping 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. Scuba divers typically flock to Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Townsville as their starting point. From here, embark on a stunning diving journey through the warm crystal clear waters to see the incredible biodiversity of the reef.

Most people have heard about the European Alps, but have you heard of the Dolomites? The rugged mountain range allows for impressively dramatic views, stunning hikes and great skiing opportunities in the winter. The Dolomites are located in Italy and can be reached either from Venice or from Innsbruck in Austria.

Themed parties are so much fun! For a family-friendly option, have an afternoon high tea. Each member of the family can prepare their favorite snack or dessert and you can enjoy all of these yummy flavors together. Not a cooking family? No problem! Head over to your local bakery and pick up some goodies to enjoy alongside your tea.

Santorini is one of the top destinations among the Greek Islands. It’s for good reason that thousands of tourists flock here each year - the island is absolutely stunning. For an unforgettable experience, watch the sunset over Oia on the north-west edge of the island. But don’t miss the sunset on the opposite side of Santorini either - it sets over the cliffs and ocean, and is just as beautiful.

What better way to feel like you are in Europe, but with a homemade pizza? It might be a bit of a challenge, but once you get it, the flavor and pride will both be worth it. If you are not much of a cook, then start with pita pizzas and work your way up to making your own dough. Plus, a pizza-making party can be a really fun get-together with friends or family.

Travel back nearly a thousand years to a small town called Siem Reap, located in Cambodia. Here, you will find the Angkor Wat Ruins - the largest religious complex in the entire world. These Buddhist and Hindu structures span over 248 square miles, so you could spend days exploring. When here, don’t miss the Bayon and Ta Prohm temples.

It’s scientifically proven that learning a new language is great for your brain. Why not get started with something universal and beautiful like the French language. Did you know that it is spoken in 29 countries? There are some great apps out there to help you, such as DuoLingo, Babbel and HelloTalk.

Formerly called the Nihiwatu, Travel & Leisure readers named the Nihi Sumba the #1 hotel in the world for two consecutive years. Located on the remote Sumba Island in Indonesia, it is the perfect mix of luxury and adventure. But there is even more than meets the eye. The hotel runs the Sumba Foundation, which works with locals islanders, engaging them in community-led humanitarian and development projects.

What can be more exciting than the adrenaline rush from skydiving? Doing the jump with a spectacular view! Palm Jumeirah in Dubai is one of the top spots in the world for skydiving and for good reason. The birds-eye view over the palm-shaped structure is one in a million, adding to the thrill of a free fall.

Let’s face it, life is busy and high-pace. But remember how much fun it is to just hang out with family? Don’t wait until the 4th of July or Thanksgiving - schedule a family reunion for this weekend! Have a fun brunch or dinner, head to the park for a picnic, or just spend a few hours together at home with your loved ones.

If you’ve dreamt of walking on the moon, then the Uyuni Salt Desert is a good place to start. Located in southwestern Bolivia, it spans over 4,000 square miles and is the largest salt desert in the world. This natural wonder is absolutely striking, with colored lagoons where flamingos abound, geysers spitting hot air, and llamas roaming along out-of-this-world landscapes.

As cars become more automated, why bother learning to drive stick-shift? While those who truly love driving will tell you that you have more and better control over the car, there are other reasons as well. For example, in many parts of the world it is cheaper to rent a manual car. Plus, you just never know when you’ll be selected to participate on the Amazing Race.

Not only is Sydney home to an epic fireworks display on New Years Eve, it is also the first major city in the world to welcome the new year. As the fireworks light up the sky over Sydney’s Opera House, you’ll celebrate a whopping 14 hours ahead of the East Coast and 17 hours ahead of the West Coast! If you jump on a plane right after, you might be able to make it to LA and celebrate twice?

As the weather gets warmer all over the country, it’s the perfect time of year to plan some outdoors activities. Call up your family and spend next Saturday exploring nature together. You can have a picnic, go for a hike to a nearby trail, spend the day at a local beach, or even go camping for a night or two.

Chefchaouen, also called the Blue Pearl of Morocco is nestled in the spectacular scenery of the Rif Mountains. However, the striking blue buildings that make up most of the city are what make the town truly unique. With its winding narrow streets, local artisan workshops, and sunny roof terraces - it is the perfect Moroccan getaway.

Gone are the days when education had to necessarily be expensive. Instead, university-level courses are easily available online for free, or for a small fee if you want a certificate. Want to learn about world history, to play the guitar or how to do data visualization? All this and more is available on platforms such as Coursera, Udemy and EdX.

Cherry blossoms, or Sakura matsuri, are an annual attraction throughout Japan. Cherry trees light up with pink and white flowers for only a couple of weeks each year. In central Japan, such as Tokyo and Osaka, sakura blooms around April. However, you can catch it as early as January on the southern Japanese islands of Okinawa, or as late as May on the northern Hokkaido island.

Be it spontaneous or well-planned, a family road trip can be so much fun. Get in your car and drive! Explore new places, flavors and cities together. Some amazing road trips include the famous Route 66 along the West Coast, the Great River Road in Mississippi, or the 120-mile Overseas Highway in Florida.

Ever dreamt of kayaking in the antarctic or camping out on bare ice? Become a true explorer by embarking on an Antarctica Expedition with G Adventures. Sail to one of the most remote regions in the world. The nearly uninhabited region is bound to shock and surprise with its magnificence and wilderness.

A tiny island city state, Singapore is the cutting edge country of the world. At times, visiting Singapore feels like you’ve been transported to a movie set of a futuristic film. Then, you realize that it’s all real! Don’t miss the stunning Supertree Grove with its daily light show, marvel at the city from a bird's eye view on the Singapore flyer, or just wonder the elegantly and smartly designed streets.

You never know what situation you might find yourself in. Taking a self-defense course can prepare you for self-protection. More than that, it makes for a great workout, teaches discipline and often boosts confidence!

Kuna Yala, also called San Blas, is located on the Caribbean coast of Panama. What’s truly special is that it is an indigenous autonomous territory. This means that the Kuna community governs the hundreds of tiny pristine Caribbean islands. Soak up the sun and meet a unique culture, while disconnecting from the world.

What can be more fun than giving back together? Volunteers are a crucial piece in each community and the whole family can participate. Some ideas for volunteers of all ages include beach or river clean-ups, a soup kitchen, community events and activities, and much more.

You may have heard of Halong Bay in Vietnam. But it’s unlikely that Ninh Binh has come up in conversation before. Dubbed “Halong Bay on the ground”, Ninh Binh offers visitors breathtaking scenery. Limestone hills jet out of the ground, while rivers flow among them to create unbelievably beautiful landscapes. Bonus: don’t miss a visit to the latest King Kong movie set!

Our lives are constantly fast-paced. It’s difficult to stop and reflect. This places a lot of stress on our bodies and minds. Research shows that meditation can be beneficial for your well-being on many levels. This includes health and stress levels. Plus, it’s a chance to disconnect and get some down time.

The Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hammam in Istanbul dates back to 1556. Build by Mimar Sinan, a famous architect of the times, it was literally commissioned by the queen! Today, you can visit the luxurious hammam for a true Turkish bath experience. Don’t forget to include a traditional aromatherapy massage to your indulgence.

Fruit never tasted better than straight from the tree. This weekend, head out to a nearby farm and pick some fruit together as a family. Gather up berries to eat right away, or make a few jams when you get home. In the fall, go back for apples and pear - perfect for a homemade apple pie!

If you have a fear of heights, this is not the adventure for you. But adrenaline junkies will love the Auckland Skywalk. Climb up the city’s tallest tower at 220m. Then, walk on its edge - literally. If you are feeling even more adventurous, you can also try the Skyjump - bungee jumping off the edge of the tower!

Petra may be one of the most impressive ancient sites in the world. It dates back as far as the 5th century B.C. The city is carved into pink sandstone cliffs and looms over its visitors at stunning heights. One of the more photographed is the stunning Treasury, carved in an ornate Greek style.

Roadside assistance is just splendid - but knowing how to fix a few car basics won’t hurt. For one, it can save you money. But more importantly, it won’t leave you stranded! Changing a tire and some other basic mechanics can be a really useful skills. This is particularly true if you are planning on taking a longer car trip.

This may not be for faint-hearted, but it is definitely an experience. We all love a rooftop terrace dinner. But what if you could have a spectacular 360 view from high above the sky? With Dinner in the Sky you can! You will enjoy a gourmet meal on a specially designed platform, which is suspended above some of the most iconic places in the world. Some of their past destinations have included Tokyo, London and Las Vegas.

As summer rolls in and the temperature rises, what better way to spend the day than soaking up the sun? Grab your family and spend the day on a beach! Not living close to the coast? Not to worry. There is likely a lake or river that offers just as fun of an experience. If not, you can always head to a pool.

No one knows who created them or how they did it. The Nazca Lines in Peru continue to boggle the minds of scientists and some even suggest that Aliens drew them. We don’t know what’s true and what’s just rumour. But, we do know that you can fly above them in a tiny little plane and get some amazing views!