The Ultimate Travel Bucket List: Must-Visit Destinations and Experiences
Beaches
1. Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue Island, Seychelles
Why It’s Amazing: From what I’ve researched, this beach is a true natural marvel that will leave you in awe. Towering granite boulders seem to defy gravity as they stand scattered across the soft white sand, acting as ancient sentinels guarding the crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s a sight that promises to take your breath away, making you feel as if you’ve stumbled upon a hidden paradise.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) with a layover in Dubai (DXB) or Paris (CDG). From the airport, take a ferry to La Digue Island.
Travel Time: Approximately 24 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: Le Repaire is a cozy restaurant offering delicious vegan dishes, and La Digue Island Lodge has a vegan-friendly restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere.
Why It’s Amazing: From the stunning photos I’ve seen, this beach is a true natural wonder that will transport you to another world. The pristine white sand is so fine that it’s said to squeak underfoot, while the vibrant blue waters reflect the sky in a kaleidoscope of hues that seem almost too beautiful to be real. It’s a place that promises to make you feel as if time has stood still, and you’ve been granted a glimpse of pure, untouched beauty.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Brisbane Airport (BNE), then to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP). From there, take a ferry to Whitsunday Island.
Travel Time: Approximately 20 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: Eats Cafe in Airlie Beach is a casual spot with a range of vegan options, perfect for grabbing a bite before or after your beach day.
Why It’s Amazing: From the breathtaking images I’ve seen, this secluded cove is a true hidden gem that will leave you feeling as if you’ve stumbled upon a secret world untouched by time. The emerald waters seem to glow with an otherworldly radiance while towering limestone cliffs create a dramatic backdrop that promises to take your breath away. It’s a place that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to a different realm, one where nature’s beauty reigns supreme.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB). From there, you’ll need to drive or arrange transportation to Cala Goloritzé.
Travel Time: Approximately 18 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: Ristorante Sa Mandra in Olbia is a cozy spot offering a range of vegan dishes, perfect for refueling after your beach day.
Why It’s Amazing: From the stories I’ve heard and the stunning visuals I’ve seen, this tropical paradise is a true feast for the senses that will leave you feeling as if you’ve stumbled upon a slice of heaven on earth. Limestone cliffs that seem to defy gravity, crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, and a laid-back island vibe that promises to soothe your soul – it’s a place that will make you never want to leave.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), then to El Nido Airport (ENI).
Travel Time: Approximately 20 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: Gusto Gelato in El Nido is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering a range of delicious vegan gelato flavors.
Why It’s Amazing: Cabo is a hop skip and a jump from the Bay Area and I can’t believe I haven’t visited yet. It’s a beach town that is a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban energy. Beautiful ocean views that will take your breath away, all kinds of water sports, and there’s a lively night scene – it seems to be a place that offers something for every type of traveler and I am excited to visit.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours.
Vegan Options: Vegan Glory in Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit for plant-based foodies, offering a range of delicious vegan dishes in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Why It’s Amazing: From the stunning images and captivating stories I’ve heard and read about, this island nation is a true paradise that promises to transport you to another world. Crystal-clear waters that seem to stretch on forever, pristine beaches that invite you to relax and unwind, and luxurious resorts that offer pure indulgence – it’s a place that will make you feel as if you’ve been granted a glimpse of heaven on earth.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Malé Velana International Airport (MLE).
Travel Time: Approximately 22 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: Soneva Fushi is a luxurious resort that offers a range of vegan dishes, ensuring that you can indulge in delicious plant-based cuisine while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
Why It’s Amazing: From the captivating tales I’ve heard and the breathtaking visuals I’ve seen, this island paradise is a true feast for the senses that promises to leave you in awe. Overwater bungalows offer a unique and luxurious experience, and a stunning turquoise lagoon that seems to glow with magical energy – it’s a place that will make you feel as if you’ve stumbled upon a piece of heaven on earth.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tahiti Faa’a International Airport (PPT), then to Bora Bora Airport (BOB).
Travel Time: Approximately 10 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: The InterContinental Resort Bora Bora offers a range of vegan dishes, ensuring that you can indulge in delicious plant-based cuisine while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
Why It’s Amazing: From the enchanting stories I’ve heard, this South Pacific archipelago is a true hidden gem that promises to leave you in awe. Turquoise lagoons that seem to stretch on forever, white-sand beaches that invite you to relax and unwind, and a rich Polynesian culture that adds depth and authenticity to your experience – it’s a place that will make you feel as if you’ve stumbled upon a slice of paradise untouched by time.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Rarotonga International Airport (RAR).
Travel Time: Approximately 10 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: The Boat Shed in Rarotonga is a casual spot offering a range of delicious vegan dishes, perfect for refueling after a day of exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Why It’s Amazing: From the stunning visuals and captivating stories I’ve encountered, this southern Portuguese region is a true gem that promises to leave you in awe. Golden beaches that seem to stretch on forever, unique rock formations that add drama and intrigue to the landscape, and a range of world-class golf courses for those looking to indulge in their passion – it’s a place that will make you feel as if you’ve stumbled upon a hidden paradise, where natural beauty and rich cultural heritage intertwine.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Faro Airport (FAO).
Travel Time: Approximately 14 hours, including layovers.
Vegan Options: Vegan Kitchen in Albufeira is a cozy spot offering a range of delicious vegan dishes, perfect for refueling after a day of exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Why It’s Amazing: From the captivating tales and stunning visuals I’ve encountered, this Caribbean archipelago is a true paradise that promises to leave you in awe. Turquoise waters that seem to glow with magical energy, white-sand beaches that invite you to relax and unwind, and vibrant culture that will make you feel as if you’ve stumbled upon a slice of heaven on earth.
Getting There from California: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Nassau International Airport (NAS).
Travel Time: Approximately 7 hours.
Vegan Options: The Green Parrot in Nassau is a casual spot offering a range of delicious vegan dishes, perfect for refueling after a day of exploring the island’s natural beauty.
