Some trips are almost a given, backpacking through South East Asia or diving the Great Barrier Reef, for those who are under 40, travel is about adventure, excitement, and new experiences. As we get older (and perhaps have to keep an eye on our children) vacations tend to be more about family time and relaxing our minds. For those who are looking for excitement, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and plenty of adventure here’s a list of places everybody should visit by 40…
Devil’s Pool, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The devil’s (swimming) Pool is a natural infinity pool perched on the edge of Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. For most of the year anyone attempting to frolic in the pool would be swept over to their assured death but for a few months (May-October) when water levels drop during the dry season, the rock formations are revealed that provide enough of a barrier to stop thrill-seekers from going over in the proverbial barrel.
Spend spring break in Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is home to one of the largest spring break gatherings in the world. Teens and young adults descend on this tropical paradise for a week or more each spring to party like no one is watching. The Riviera Maya hotels from Cancun to Tulum all offer theme parties, festivals, and events to get everyone out of their seats and dancing. More than just the pool parties you can explore unique underground river systems and climb ancient Maya pyramids.
Hike the West Coast Trail, Vancouver Island, Canada
Open from May through September this 75km long hike is often rated one of the best trails in the world. Built in 1907 to help shipwreck survivors walk the coastline to safety it passes through the traditional territories of the First Nations peoples who have inhabited the land for more than 4000 years.
Hikers need permits as there is a limited number allowed to traverse at any one time. Typically hikers take 6-10 days to complete the trail, camping along the way. You will see whales and seals along with deer, bear, and other wildlife. It is extremely rugged train through the rain forest and along deserted beaches. It is just you and the stars (and 6000 other hikers).
Dance at the full-moon parties in Koh Phangan, Thailand
Thailand is a backpackers paradise with affordable accommodations and a tourism industry geared towards the youthful traveler. Nowhere else is this more apparent than in Koh Phangan where upwards of 30,000 travelers visit this tiny island for its monthly wild full-moon parties. This gorgeous tropical island is filled with pristine bays and beaches where one can hang their hammock and watch the tide roll in and for that one week each month you can join the crowd and dance the nights away under the full moon.