7 Destinations of A Lifetime

7 Destinations of A Lifetime – Worlds Most Amazing Places 

Whether you’re in a country for few days or a full week, travel enthusiasts wish to get the best out of their stay. Here’s a complete list of the finest spots – 7 destinations of a lifetime, these are the world’s most amazing places . Chosen from 10 countries to help you fill every hour of your holiday with the best the place has to offer.  From the Taj Mahal in India to the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco this blog covers not just facts of these superlative, famous icons , also travel information  to ensure an exciting, fulfilling trip. 

TAJ MAHAL, INDIA – A STUNNING WORLD DESTINATION OF A LIFETIME  

Taj Mahal, in the north Indian city of Agra, India – is an exquisitely beautiful wonder of the world. You’ll be enticed by its charisma the moment you set eyes on this magnificent piece from the past.  

Situated at a distance of 240 kilometers from the capital New Delhi, the historical center has excellent connectivity through the sweeping Delhi-Agra Taj expressway.  You’ll reach there in less than four hours. The intriguing structure  stands  testimony to a saga of  eternal love, built by the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved almost 400 years ago.  

The Taj is made out of a special translucent white marble having a sheen, imported from the middle east. Additionally, the  walls, floors and ceiling are studded with semi-precious gemstones in a floral pattern . All you can do is to stand there in wonder at the exquisite fine carvings . Erecting something of this magnitude must have been a Herculean task ! 

The precincts boast of lush gardens and charming fountains too, appropriately termed as the `Garden of Heaven’. Being a world heritage site, lots is being done to protect the astounding monument from pollution and other environmental hazards. 

TOP TIPS 

Millions from around the globe flock to this architectural marvel  everyday. Expect long queues, thronging crowds, and a strict security check before you enter . As such it makes sense not to carry lot of stuff and eatables.

One essential carry on is bottled water and depending on the time you’re going,  sunglasses/ umbrellas. Summers in Agra is scorching, with high temperatures and glaring sunlight. The appropriate time to plan a trip is from August to November. Winters too are quite cold and chilly.

If you are passionate about history, it’s worthwhile to hire a guide to take you around, explaining the nitty-gritty and narrating interesting anecdotes from yore.  

LEANING TOWER OF PISA ITALY 

The second destination of a lifetime on my list is the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy ! 

If you are in Italy, an unmissable destination is Pisa. Ensconced in the wine district of Tuscany, it is well known for the Leaning Tower. Multitudes of trains are there, taking about two and a half hours from Rome or one hour fifteen minutes from Florence. Once there, wend your way towards the unique panorama of the Piazza dei Miracoli with it’s extraordinary marble architectures. On the expansive, grassy lawns of the piazza are arranged the most admirable Duomo Cathedral, Baptistry and the Leaning Tower .  

Entry tickets can be procured at the entrance or booked in advance. A great photo spot, the Piazza also referred as the Cathedral Square is packed with enthusiastic tourists, posing and attempting to click pictures from the best angle.  

The grand Duomo Cathedral overshadows the Leaning tower, its precious interiors has a wooden ceiling embellished with 24 carat gold. A masterpiece of Roman art, the pulpit is sculpted in marble, featuring heroic figures. 

The 12th century Leaning Tower has a fine, delicate architecture. Considering the fact that the tower is tilting, access inside is limited. At a time only 40 people are allowed  for a duration of 30 minutes.  Reaching the top involves a steep climb of 294 steps.  

GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE – SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 

Golden Gate Bridge – this signature landmark in San Francisco is fairly contemporary compared to the top two, nevertheless just as striking. Connecting San Francisco Bay area to the Pacific Ocean, it is one of the longest and tallest suspension bridges in the world. You can walk across the beautiful , mist covered bridge, taking in the sight of the bay below. A better way is to opt for a boat cruise from the famous Pier 39 that takes you below it. 

Pier 39 is an ideal location , for a whole range of activities – full of restaurants, shops, entertainment zones and incredible views. From gazing at the gentle sea lions, sunning themselves on the K-dock, amusing visitors with their antics, to enjoying free shows, shopping for souvenirs, or savoring classic dishes. This is also a prime spot for getting unbeatable views of the city and the Bay. 

 BEST WAY TO SEE THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE 

The best experience of the Golden Gate Bridge has to be aboard the San Francisco Bay boat cruise  that commences from Pier 39. Experience breathtaking views of the waterfront, the majestic  Golden Gate bridge and the legendary city skyline. Know about the SFO’s rich cultural history, through a recorded commentary, as you cruise along the areas famous landmarks including the Alcatraz island. 

TIA TAN BUDDHA, HONG KONG

This giant sized bronze Buddha rises up to 34 meters into the skies and is one of the largest in the world. Situated in the Ngong Ping village, Lantau island  it is a 25 minute, enjoyable cable car trip through the South China sea .  

As the cable car zips past rolling hills and natural surroundings of the Lantau island, the mystical statue comes into view. On reaching, you’ll enter the Ngong village with it’s line up of shops and eateries. Lying close by is the remote Po Lin monastery, a haven of peace and tranquility. Its worthwhile to spend some time here, seeping in the calmness travelers yearn for or garner knowledge about Buddhist heritage.  

 Be prepared to climb 268 steps to reach the pinnacle, you’ll surely be rewarded with some great views . 

 STATUE OF LIBERTY, NEW YORK 

The Statue of Liberty, New York  is perhaps the most significant landmark of North America. A symbol of unity and freedom, standing on 12 acres of the Liberty island, accessible by ferry.  

Somehow my first impression of the structure, getting a glimpse from the ferry, as we approached the island, was not much. Though  that was soon proved wrong!! The 120 year old figure is absolutely awe-inspiring. Recorded audios in a number of languages can be picked up from the entry point to know how the world famous Statue of Liberty was established and other details. 

Strict security checks have become mandatory now, specially after 9/11. 

COLOSSEUM, ROME

The mammoth Colosseum is symbolic of Roman power and grandeur dating to A.D. 69-79. Located in the ancient part of Rome, it’s amphitheater could accommodate nearly 50,000 spectators.  

The best time of the day to visit the colosseum is in the after-noon, so that you finish your tour by dusk. And that’s the perfect time to click some stunning pictures against the backdrop of the setting sun. Hire a guide for a peek into Roman history and spine chilling stories about gladiators and duels. 

 OPERA HOUSE, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA 

 What catches your attention as you are landing in Sydney and the one that tourists look out for is the pearly, white,  lotus shaped dome of the world renowned Opera House. The magnanimous exteriors and even more remarkable interiors is a center of excellence in music, theatre, shows and performances. There are different types of walking group tours conducted at a fixed time to choose from. This is a great opportunity to know not just about the inception and design of the unique structure, but also the systems, processes and behind the scene activities. Slots have to be reserved in advance. 

 It is worthwhile to check out the various events – operas, musicals, plays, live entertainments scheduled . Additionally, indulge in some culinary delights at its harbor facing restaurants offering local Australian cuisines. 

PRESERVE AND PROTECT THESE WONDERS OF THE WORLD! 

Most of these soul stirring landmarks from around the world have been categorized as wonders of the world by UNESCO, having stood the test of time! Much efforts are continuously being made to preserve, maintain and protect these sites from environmental hazards for us as tourists to bask in. For our part, as conscientious travelers,  ought to  take care to leave these amazing world destinations of a lifetime, in their original state and refrain from damage/ mess  in any way. 

Hope you all enjoyed reading this blog of some of the most amazing icons. Do leave a reply in the comments section!!

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss