Several years ago, Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman were in a great movie, “The Bucket List.” They portrayed retirees who wanted to accomplish certain things and enjoy exotic adventures before they died – in other words, kicked the bucket. Now retired, I’ve created my own travel bucket list of five places I’ve always wanted to see. I haven’t gotten around to visiting them … yet. Here are the five destinations on my international travel bucket list:
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
I want to feel the warm tropical sand of Ipanema Beach between my toes, listen to the strolling musicians, and admire the residents who wear the world’s tiniest bikinis. Then, after the sun sets behind Sugarloaf Mountain, I’d stroll into a samba bar for an evening of Brazilian food and fun.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Along with the spectacular Nordic scenery, I’d bathe in Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon. Even during winter, the volcano-heated sea water lagoon provides therapeutic healing experiences. It could be especially beneficial for seasoned travelers like me whose tired bones and muscles sorely need it.
Jerusalem, Israel
For anyone with deep feelings of history and religion, Jerusalem is a top bucket list destination. The ancient City of David is the most revered place in the world for people of many faiths. I’d visit the Temple on the Mount, Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Dome of the Rock, King David’s Tomb, and other historic sites.
Monument Valley, Arizona
I’d get close up to the soaring red rock formations where many John Wayne movies were filmed. A Jeep tour or horseback trek through this unusual Arizona desert landscape has been a dream of mine for years. Roaming through this fantastic scenery with my camera would be the experience of a lifetime.
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
I’ve always wanted to visit that spot off the coast of South America. Charles Darwin told us that the isolated island proved his theory about the evolution of life and natural selection. I’d get back to nature by roaming with the seals, boobie birds, tortoises, penguins, and other unique species.
For every traveler with a bucket list as ambitious as mine, I wish each of them the opportunity to fulfill all of their travel dreams.
You can follow travel writer Ted Sherman on Twitter @travel4seniors and check out his blog travel4seniors.com.
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