The world witnessed a standstill in the year 2020 owing to the unfortunate pandemic. But 2021 brings in a fresh hope of mankind breathing in freedom, much like old times. Hopefully, we’ll be able to set foot outside our countries to encapture the beauty of lands afar. Planning a holiday involves scheduling work, researching for delightful places, deciding upon the kind of vacation we want, and whatnot. But for some people, holidays mean nothing less than an exotic place away from mundanity.
Some places are irreplaceable because we often hear of them from friends and family. But there are some places that people usually don’t put on their list for reasons unknown. We wanted to explore some of the best exotic places to visit around the world. Here’s a curated bucket list for all those who’re already thinking about their next vacation. Feel free to use this list, and strike off most, if not all, with a lovely picture by its name.
1. Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is a name that raises many eyebrows. It is so peaceful that one tends to disconnect from the world outside to connect with their thoughts within. Fifteen islands together make for this nation, which is close to what Hawaii looked like around fifty years ago with hardly any tourists. Forests, landscapes, the blue lagoons, and the sounds of the calming waves make a trip to the Cook Islands a memorable one. Rarotonga, the biggest of these islands, is picture-perfect with expansive mountains and sea. It is one of the best places to go snorkeling or scuba diving in the South Pacific region.
2. Puerto Rico
Despite the hurricane Maria that hit Puerto Rico in the year 2017, the island continues to reign as one of the exotic places around the world. Interaction with nature is much easier here than anywhere else because of its geographical location. Of course, people fear the natural calamities that hit this beautiful land, but it is still an escape from the regular tourist places in quietude.
3. Petra
Petra is an exotic place for history lovers. Famous for its rock-cut architecture in red sandstone, the city located in Jordan, is otherwise called the Rose city, manifesting the color. Why else would it find itself a place in the Seven Wonders of the World? A narrow canyon pathway called the Siq is a monumental walk to enter the city of Petra. On the way, some sculptures express the magnificent heritage of the city. Temples, forts, and other such monuments are the marvels to spot when here.
4. Scottish Highlands
Known for setting fire to romance is the Scottish Highlands, the mountain region that gives us a glimpse of a human’s imagination of heaven. There’s something about the air that makes one want to cuddle in the lushness, mystery, and charm of this exotic destination. The Harry Potter films brought much limelight to these highlands, much like the Outlander series. Loch Ness, the freshwater lake, the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, and the capital city of Inverness are places of attraction in the Scottish Highlands. Don’t forget to visit Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in the UK also called Scotland’s roof. It is the mountain where you’ll find adept mountain climbers making their way to the top.
5. Ecuador
The name hints at the country’s location- it bestrides on the equator, hence, making the place warm but yet exotic. In the South American region, this country is home to the Amazon jungle, the Galápagos Islands, and the Andean highlands. The wildlife-rich country is home to many safaris and national parks. Cotopaxi volcano, an active volcano, which saw its last eruption in the year 2015, is not far from these national parks. If you wish to spend some time with your thoughts, make sure to take a walk on the Boardwalk of Guayaquil adjacent to Guayas River. Take a train ride to the top of the Nariz del Diablo, also called The Devil’s Nose. The visual to the top of the mountain and back is a once-in-a-lifetime-experience.
6. North Pole
If you just asked yourself the question, “Do people actually travel to the North pole,” the answer is a big “Yes!” Visiting the top of the world, the place where the Earth’s axis meets its surface, is indeed a possibility, only if you plan things the right way. Thick sheaths of ice envelop the area, making it impossible to find a spot for a picnic! The highlight of visiting the far end of the North is to journey in an icebreaker ship that will chip its way through to reach a scenery where the world seems to come to an end. Sightings of polar bears aren’t unusual on this route. You can also opt for helicopter and airplane rides for a bird’s eye view of this breathtaking landscape. So far, only an exclusive group of people have visited this exotic land.
7. Madagascar
A unique country, Madagascar, is a mysterious escape into the laps of adventure and nature. You will spot animals and creatures that you wouldn’t have even heard of, let alone seen in any other part of the world. This island nation thrives with national parks and reserves, with each one being more exquisite than the other. A journey to Madagascar is, by all means, taking time to appreciate God’s unseen creations.