6 Trips You Should Take Before Turning 40
Travelling has changed exponentially over the years with more people stamping their passports and Instagramming their adventures than ever before. But it’s hard to work out where you should be going and what you should be ticking off, without running the risk of FOMO at your office Christmas party.
Forty may seem a long way away, when you are in your mid-twenties, but trust me – it will be coming around quicker than you can pack your suitcase and put on your “Out of Office” after reading about these incredible trips.
The City-Breaker – Wroclaw, Poland
It may not be easy to pronounce (vrots-wahf) but it’s clear to see why so many people love it. Wroclaw is the largest city in western Poland known for its characteristical quirks, beautiful sights and gothic-inspired architecture. Wroclaws’ history ranges from post-punk culture to contemporary art.
Visit here: Make sure to visit the oldest part of the city – Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island). Surrounded by the river Oder the archaeological structures that take pride place here are breath-taking.
The Spa-Lover –Bali, Indonesia
Known for being the world’s best spa and wellness destination; and classed by locals and travellers alike as ‘The Island of the Gods’, Bali is an escape haven for all wants and needs. Promoting an overall sense of relaxation, wellness and spiritualisation with jaw-dropping sights and experiences from rice terraces, monkey forests and historical temples it’s clear to see why Bali has become so increasingly popular.
Stay here: Detox at your own pace in the Four Seasons Resort Bali Sayan – located in the middle of the rainforest, this hotel will not only take your breath away but will also rejuvenate your soul and revitalise your spirit.
The Party-Goer – Koh Phangan, Thailand
This beautiful, white-beached island is renowned for its monthly spirited Night-Long, Full-Moon Parties. Welcoming close to 20,000 visitors during peak season and is recommended for only the biggest of hardcore partygoers. Haad Rin’s Full Moon party is the islands worst-kept secret and with action happening every night in the vast strip of beach and cocktail bars it’s no wonder Koh Phangan has become a world-famous party institution.
Drink here: Not only does Pirates Bar come complete with a ramshackle, rustic beach design but it is also home to one of the most beautiful sunset spots on the entire island – if only the cocktails weren’t so cheap, and we could actually remember them.
The New-Worlder – Marrakesh, Morocco
Artisan meets modern in the Marrakesh markets of Morocco. With a catalyst of new-wave millennials and their forward-thinking attitude, the city has seen an increase in pop-art galleries, nouveau ideas and avant-garde museums leading a new path for both the new world and the historical culture that tourists are flocking too.
Eat here: No trip to Marrakesh is complete without a visit to the Night Market (Djemaa el Fna) tuck into barbequed sheep eyeballs and chicken kebabs with locals and really experience all the Morocco has to offer.
The Thrill-Seeker – Sossusveli Sand Dunes, Namibia
Put the air between your balloons as you drift across vast lands of unspoilt allure in the Namib-Naukluft National. Famous for its extensive red dunes, bleached white salt pans and breath-taking views, Sossusveli is the foremost natural attraction of Namibia, what better way to enjoy it than by floating above in your very own hot-air balloon.
Climb here: Embark on the climbing expedition of your life by tackling The Big Daddy (a whopping 325m, 1,066ft tall sand dune) or take things a little bit easier with the most-popular and highly photographed Dune 45 (80m, 262ft) – neither for the faint-hearted!
The Foodie-Fanatic – Tokyo, Japan
Both food and culture are entwined deep within the streets of Tokyo with everything from home-made traditional dishes to experimental cuisines. A true foodies-paradise with something on every corner, it’s no wonder Tokyo is classed as the eating capital of the world. But do your research before you go, as Tokyo has over 234 One Michelin star or greater restaurants and a plethora of lesser known treasures hidden away.
Relax here: Unwind and relax away from the modern cosmopolitan and hustle and bustle of the city by visiting an Onsen (hot-spring) – Hakone Kowaki-en is a hot-spring inspired theme park with sake, coffee and red wine baths.
