Paris is packed with those iconic bucket list moments you’ve dreamed about. The most famous of these would easily be the Eiffel Tower, but other must-see spots include the Louvre’s masterpieces and the charming streets of Montmartre. In my opinion, you shouldn’t miss a sunset cruise on the Seine or hunting for vintage treasures at Marché aux Puces. Dive into this guide for everything you need to know!
Most travelers fly into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). CDG handles long-haul flights from the US, Asia, and beyond, while ORY serves more European routes. Budget airlines sometimes use Beauvais (BVA), but it’s 90 minutes from the city. You can shop for flights to Paris on Skyscanner.
Paris is generally safe, but pickpockets target tourists in crowded spots like the metro. Even so, I’d recommend keeping your bag zipped. Avoid scams near Sacré-Cœur. Violent crime is rare, but stay alert at night in quieter arrondissements.
Paris has four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are warm (20-25°C/68-77°F) but can get crowded. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are honestly perfectly mild weather and fewer tourists. Winters (December-February) are cold (3-8°C/37-46°F) but magical around Christmas. I visited in May and loved the sunny, breezy days ideal for café terraces.
Paris isn’t a budget destination, but your money can go further with smart choices. Hostels: Approx €35-50/night | Hotels: Approx €120+ | Meals: Approx €10-50 (Exact € ranges boost relevance). Meals range from Approx €10-15 for a bistro lunch to Approx €30-50 for dinner. The metro Approx (€1.90 per ride) is affordable, and many museums offer free first Sundays. With that said, splurge on at least one fancy pastry. It’s worth it.
Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This small but stunning country is packed with lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches making it one of the best places in the world for eco-tourism. The most famous spots include Manuel Antonio National Park (where jungle meets ocean), the Arenal Volcano (with its hot springs), and the Monteverde Cloud Forest (home to rare wildlife).
Congo is a land of untamed wilderness and raw beauty, offering some of the most bucket-list-worthy experiences in Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is home to lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and rare wildlife, while the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) boasts pristine national parks and the mighty Congo River. Top sights include Virunga National Park (the world’s most biodiverse protected area), Nyiragongo Volcano’s lava lake, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park for lowland gorilla trekking.
Comoros is a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, offering untouched beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a rich blend of African, Arab, and French cultures. This archipelago may be small, but it’s packed with ‘bucket list’ experiences from hiking the active Mount Karthala volcano to exploring the fragrant ylang-ylang plantations. The capital, Moroni, is a maze of narrow streets and bustling markets, while the islands of Mohéli and Anjouan provide secluded beaches and incredible marine life.
Colombia is a diverse and vibrant destination, packed with bucket list experiences from the colorful streets of Cartagena (tourism hotspot) to the lush coffee regions and the towering Andes mountains. In my opinion, the top sights include the historic walled city of Cartagena, the buzzing capital Bogotá, and the stunning Cocora Valley with its giant wax palms.
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