I've always loved "lists". There is something about checking off or striking through an item on a list that brings me joy. When it comes to a Travel Bucket List, I can't stop myself from adding, which makes my list never ending.
As I travel to new places, I meet new people who share their experiences of excursions, destinations, and food that were never on my radar. I'm always open to trying new things and challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone. This way of thinking has created incredible and unforgettable experiences that keeps me hungry for more.
1. Get PADI Open Water Scuba Certified
Getting my PADI - Open Water Diver Scuba Certification was my most fulfilling accomplishment for traveling. My first Discovery Dive was in Aruba. I knew instantly that I'd found a new hobby and snorkeling just wouldn't cut it anymore. It felt like was in another world swimming with corals, turtles, beta fish, clown fish, sting rays, barracuda, jellyfish, starfish, eels, and fish that I never knew existed.
There is so much to see beneath the surface of the ocean and now I have the certification I need to dive in any destination.
2. Swim with Sting Rays
Sting Ray Excursions are popular in the Cayman Islands. The first question I asked the tour guide was "Are these the same kind of sting rays that killed my buddy Steve". They weren't.. Thank GOD! I needed to know to cure my anxiety. The first thing I noticed was how the sting rays were not being forced to come near the boat, they were extremely friendly and eager to be touched.
They feel like giant portabella mushrooms and their faces are shaped like a happy face. Would this be something I do again? Of course not.. I won't test my luck twice. I'm just happy that I was able to enjoy the experience and keep my nerves in check before approaching the Sting Ray.
3. Go on a Safari
Pilanesberg Safari - South Africa
Some people go on safaris and have no luck spotting the Big 5. On our Mother/Daughter Trip we were fortunate enough to spot the Lion, Leopard, Rhinoceros, elephant, and Buffalo during our 6 hr Game Drive. There were also Hippos, Giraffes, Antelope, Foxes, Hyenas, Wildebeest, and Warthogs (Pumba).
Unfortunately, we did encounter a deceased rhino being ripped apart by the hyena's. It's the circle of life, but it was not a pretty sight. This was on our bucket list of years and we were grateful that we were able to see our dreams turn into a reality.
4. Paragliding
Okay - So... I was NOT a fan of my skydiving experience. I forgot all of the instructions after jumping out of the plane. The fun didn't begin until my tandem partner pulled the Parachute. Paragliding was LIFE! We ran off of Signal Hill in Cape Town and glided over the city to see Table Mountain, the 12 apostles, Lions Head, and Clifton Beach.
The view is better from the sky :)
5. Mother Daughter Getaway
I'm grateful that my mother and I share the same passion for travel. Since her retirement we've visited 15 countries together, and we have plenty scheduled for the remainder of the year. Our #1 Mother/Daughter Bucket List Item was to visit Africa. We visited Cape Town, Johannesburg, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
Excursions included dining with elephants, Feeding Elephants, Walking with Cheetah's, Walking with Lions, and a Helicopter Ride over the Victoria Falls.
The best part of visiting Africa was landing and being told "Welcome Home".
6. Visit the Great Wall of China
7. Ride the World Fastest Train in Japan
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