Bucket lists are powerful tools. They give us something to aim for, fueling excitement and motivation for the future. For me, travel sits at the top of that list. I love exploring new places, and I often tell my team that I work just so I can travel. There’s a lot of truth in that – it’s something I deeply enjoy, and every trip brings new perspectives on life, culture, and the world we live in.
Planning for Adventure
One of the reasons I think bucket lists are so important is because they give us something to look forward to. No matter how busy or stressful life gets, knowing I have a trip coming up in six months or a year keeps me going. It’s like a light at the end of the tunnel, reminding me that new adventures are just around the corner.
If you’re new to traveling, start by asking yourself two things: how much time do you have, and what’s your budget? These answers will guide your destination and the kind of experience you want. If you’re a sun-seeker, look for beach destinations. If you prefer adventure, maybe a hike through the mountains is more your style. Personally, I love cruising because it allows me to see multiple countries in one trip.
The Magic of Cruising
Cruising has been one of my favorite ways to travel. It’s an incredible way to visit many places in a short amount of time. Even though you might only spend a day in each country, you still get a taste of the local culture, food, and people – and for me, that’s what it’s all about.
One of my top bucket list destinations has always been Machu Picchu. I’ve been dreaming of visiting ever since high school when my brother and I would talk about it. We finally booked a cruise that included an extended stay in Peru so we could explore the ancient Incan city.
Experiencing Machu Picchu
After some delays due to political unrest in the area, we finally made it to Peru this year – and it was everything I hoped for. The journey to Machu Picchu was an adventure in itself. I’m not much of a hiker, so we opted to take the train into the site. The scenery on the way in was stunning, but what really blew me away was the engineering of Machu Picchu itself.
The precision with which the Incas built those stone structures, without any mortar, is mind-boggling. It’s lasted for centuries, and they even managed to create running water systems from the mountain streams. The ingenuity of the people who built Machu Picchu left me speechless.
A Connection to the Culture
What made the experience even more special was getting to know the local people. Our guide was incredible – knowledgeable, fun, and passionate about sharing the history of his country. At one point, he took us to an area in Machu Picchu where we all stood by these small cutouts in the stone walls and hummed together. The acoustics were incredible. Even the small, seemingly simple things they built had a sense of sophistication.
But beyond the ancient ruins, what touched me most was the people’s way of life. In rural Peru, people live with far less than we do, but they’re resourceful, hard-working, and happy. It was a humbling experience to see how they make the most of what they have, finding contentment in simple things like food, shelter, and family.
Looking Ahead: Vietnam
After checking Machu Picchu off my list, I’ve already set my sights on the next destination: Vietnam. I’ve always wanted to go, partly because I have a personal connection to the country – my uncle was killed there during the Vietnam War. I’ve heard so many wonderful things about Vietnam, especially its natural beauty, and I’m excited to see it for myself.
Travel is one of the best ways to broaden your perspective, connect with new cultures, and experience the world’s diversity. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to start your bucket list. Whether it’s Machu Picchu, Vietnam, or somewhere else entirely, the world is full of incredible places just waiting to be explored.
