The best places to travel before you’re 30
The Philippines - Palawan islands
Forget Bali or Thailand, the Philippines should be your next holiday destination. The Philippines is an absolutely sensational and enchanting place made up of 7,107 islands. Envision large jagged cliffs jutting out of glistening turquoise waters, tropical palm trees lining the shores, an abundance of wildlife at your feet, with quite possibly the friendliest locals on earth.
You'll spend your days island hopping on quaint boats, kayaking and snorkeling in isolated blue lagoons, you can take a selfie with a turtle and get so close to giant whale sharks you'll feel as though you're a part of the pod. You'll sip on a wide range of beverages that will cost you less than a dollar and delight your taste buds on the locally sourced cuisine, cooked to perfection.
Explore the many dazzling beaches in Port Barton, swim in jaw dropping waterfalls and go canyoneering in Cebu. Muster up the courage to zip line between two islands in El Nido, then party the night away in Puerto Princesa. The best part: it’s dirt cheap, isolated, slightly archaic at times and not overrun by tourists…yet!
Chop chop, get there before everyone else finds out about this hidden gem.
Switzerland!
Switzerland is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places I've ever seen. From the second you arrive you’re treated to a kaleidoscope of astonishing views and your senses go into complete overdrive. Imagine rolling green luscious hills with charming wooden houses oddly scattered throughout. Flowers are blooming from every windowsill and there’s the sound of complete peace throughout the towns (apart from the gentle chiming of cow bells in the distance!).
Switzerland is jam-packed full of adventure and beauty. Walk the mountain peaks and give it your best "yodelay", jump out of a helicopter and have snow pelt you in the face whilst having your mind blown at the wondrous views, take the train up to the snow covered Jungfrau (Europe’s highest mountain). There’s water rafting, waterfalls, hiking and snowboarding. A real adrenalin junkie’s delight!
The Amalfi Coast, Italy!
Time to crank up ‘Ave Maria’ by Andrea Bocelli, or any other classic Italian song, and get those Italian speaking hands ready for what I can only describe as the road trip of a lifetime.
The Amalfi coast is where you'll witness mountains plunging into the bluest of blue seas in the most nail biting “am I going to fall off this cliff” type of way. You'll be treated to fabled towns lining the coast, chic boutiques, Limenchello everything and Italian Nonas making you eat their incredible cuisine until you burst.
Pompeii, Positano, Sorrento and the Isle of Capri is where you'll need to be. Famed for its jagged landscape, upscale hotels, billionaire yachts and phenomenal beaches to unwind and relax, it’s sure to delight you. Take the cable car up to the top of Capri where you'll witness the most exceptional view which will leave you flabbergasted.
Before you depart this magical place, ensure you dive into any of the amazing Grottos. Particularly the world famous Blue Grotto, where you can immerse yourself in the electric blue waters inside the cave. Ancient history states that the Roman royalty bathed here, so for all you queens this is the place for you. Just go. Stop whatever you're doing and book your ticket. Ciao Bella.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
I know what you're probably thinking, but stop. I too thought this place was a little on the dark grungy side, a city of parties, drugs and sex, but it’s truly an exceptional place.
A postcard city, with tons of historic buildings, sparkling river canals, world class museums including the historic Anne Frank house, vivacious tulips and an abundance of culture. There are bustling festivals, numerous restaurants and countless places to explore.
Cycling trumps cars, so join a cycling tour as it’s such a fun way to see the city. The locals are friendly, the bars are lively, the parks are captivating and the shopping is second to none.
Indulge in the local deserts, wander the winding alleys, witness the performers in the red light district or go on a cruise. The Netherlands is an extraordinary place, and Amsterdam is just the tip off the iceberg, so be sure to explore more.
The overall vibe of the place screams adventure and eye opening experiences that will be sure to have you back.
Egypt
Tombs covered in sand, enigmatic pyramids and imposing Pharaonic temples, Egypt brings out the inner explorer in all of us. Embrace the hustle and bustle of Cairo where seven cars, two donkeys, and a herd of children somehow all fit into a five lane road. Gaze into the distance and see where the city meets the Great Pyramids as though they are one, as the spine chilling Sphinx watches from above.
Hunt for treasures in one of the many Bazaars, and get lost in the Egyptian museum for hours discovering all the ancient glittering finds. Delve into the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, and see the impressive Tutankhamen’s tomb for yourself.
Hot air ballooning over these valleys will leave you speechless, as will sailing down the Nile. Leave no stone unturned (pardon the pun) at many of the waterside temples, such as Edfu or Karnak and discover King Ramses II masterpiece at Abu Simbel.
Work on your tan in Sharm El Sheik, home to miles of spectacular beaches and resorts, and don't miss the opportunity to dive or snorkel in the Red Sea. Trek the vast desert and enjoy a camel ride or two.
Smoke Shisha at a traditional folk festival as you dance and watch the sun go down! Egypt is an unforgettable and enriching experience where you can immerse yourself in some of the world’s most unbelievable history and witness some of the most important discoveries to date. Walk like an Egyptian on out of here!
What are you waiting for?
There you have it, your very own travel starter guide. I recommend joining tours such as One Life Adventures or Bus-about/Contiki to make things stress-free, or maybe even find a travel agent who can find you all the best deals. No excuse now, the world is your oyster, bon voyage!
Author: Shelly Williams
The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not reflect the view of the ESSSuper.