“Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do,” Mark Twain once mused. “So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Simply put, you only live once and there’s a world of things out there to explore.

1. Angkor Wat

Built by Khmer King Suryavarman II in the first half of the 12th century, Angkor Wat was one of the most significant architectural achievements of ancient times. It remains the world’s largest religious monument today.

The sprawling Cambodian temple complex is a source of national pride and international renown thanks to its distinctive sandstone spires, intricate artistry and massive moat that encloses the grounds in a three-and-a-half-mile perimeter. It was first dedicated to Vishnu as a Hindu temple and later a center of Theravada Buddhism. The well-preserved site is one of more than 1,000 temples in the Angkor area, many of which are easily accessible from nearby Siem Reap.

2. Antarctica

This remote and mysterious part of the world draws many visitors.

The Earth’s southernmost point, Antarctica is the driest and coldest of the seven continents. For a place that’s 98 percent covered in one-mile-deep ice, it’s hard to imagine why anyone would want to visit at all. But there’s an eerie, stark beauty about Antarctica that is incomparable to anywhere else on the planet. Sprinkle in some penguin sightings and you’ve got one of the most unique settings in the world. While Antarctica has no permanent residents, there are often up to 5,000 researchers working there at a time. We recommend visiting by cruise ship.

3. Easter Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a testament to the Rapa Nui civilization.

It is believed the natives of Easter Island carved massive heads out of stone hundreds of years ago to honor their ancestors. Today, there are 887 “moai,” as the statues are called, which create a mysterious, yet intriguing landscape to this Polynesian island, which is a four-and-a-half hour flight from Lima, Peru. A more recent finding revealed the statues have torsos that had been buried by sediment and rock.

The tallest statue on the island — named Paro — is 33 feet high and weighs 82 tons. In addition to statue appreciation, Easter Island also boasts great hiking trails and decent scuba diving.

4. Galápagos Islands

Located some 600 miles off the South American coast, this Ecuadorian archipelago has been drawing nature-lovers to its remote shores ever since naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin explored the islands in 1835.

A one-time outpost of pirates and prisoners, the Galápagos Islands are also home to an incredibly diverse collection of flora and fauna, including many species — such as the Galápagos giant tortoise and marine iguana — that can be found nowhere else on Earth. Today, 97 percent of the archipelago’s land area is protected by a national park. Visitors can get up-close-and-personal with wildlife on guided boat tours, scuba expeditions and hikes, where curious creatures often approach sightseers without hesitation.

5. Grand Canyon

If North America’s greatest natural wonder — a red-hued canyon 277 river miles long, 18 miles wide, and one mile deep — doesn’t make your mouth drop in awe, then you might not be human.

While the north rim attracts fewer visitors, you’ll most likely appreciate the epic vistas of the south rim. There are plenty of spots to pull the car over and have a look from the top, but we recommend trekking along the rim on foot. You can also descend into the canyon’s depths via mules or guided hiking excursions, experience “The Heart of the Canyon” by raft on the Colorado River and even spend the night at a lodge below the rim.

6. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is the largest cultural relic humans have ever built and is the only man-made structure that is visible from space.

It snakes through China ever so majestically, around undulating hills and through a vast countryside, stretching from Shanhaiguan in the east to Lop Lake in the west. Wall construction began more than 2,000 years ago in an attempt to keep out the tribes from the north.

This landmark is thousands of miles long, passes through 156 counties, with 7,062 lookout towers.The most colorful (and least costly) times to go are spring and autumn — pink cherry blossoms blanket the landscape outside of Beijing in late-March, and in mid-October red leaves abound near Badaling National Forest Park.

7. Iguazú Falls

Iguazú National Park, situated on the international border of Argentina and Brazil, features one of the world’s most striking natural wonders.

Iguazú Falls offers a misty and majestic realm of rushing, roaring water with rainbows adorning the cascades, which stretch for nearly 2 miles. Experience this marvel up close from one of the wooden walkways that stretch out over the river, and be sure to take in the spectacular vista from the giant balcony of the “Devil’s Throat.” According to ancient myths, a jealous god slashed the Iguazú River (meaning “great water”) in two, creating falls as high as 269 feet. The UNESCO site is bordered by its sister park Iguaçu in Brazil, and the falls are surrounded by the lush Misiones rainforest, so don’t be surprised to see tropical birds flitting about as they search for fish in quieter waters.

8. Lascaux

The discovery of these ancient drawings was completely unexpected and accidental.

On September 12, 1940, four teenagers in the Vézère valley of the Dordogne in southwestern France followed a dog into a cave and discovered 17,000-year-old animal paintings. Eight years later, the public was allowed to view the paintings of bison, horses and stags, among other Paleolithic Era images. To preserve the original findings, the cavern was closed in 1963. A nearby cave, known as Lascaux II, displaying brilliant recreations of the paintings, was opened in its stead.

Depending on the time of year, tickets for the 75-minute guided tours can be purchased online or at the ticket office. Keep in mind, only 30 people are allowed per tour, so plan in advance.

9. Machu Picchu

Eight thousand feet above sea level, this five-centuries-old pre-Columbian site was once home to the Incas.

Until American historian Hiram Bingham publicized his findings of the area in a 1911 book called “Across South America,” the mountain-top ruins were widely unknown to anyone living outside of the Urubamba Valley and nearby Cusco. Since Spanish colonialists had no idea of Machu Picchu’s existence, its Incan architecture and design were preserved.

There are two ways up to the “old peak,” by train or on foot. Unless you’re wildly adventurous — and don’t mind a two-to four-day massive hike up the Inca Trail — we recommend you go by rail, stay overnight in Aguas Calientes and take an early bus to the ruins to beat the crowds (and in the sweltering summer months, the sun).

10. Petra

A marvel that wasn’t discovered until 1812 and has been featured in films such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Chiseled out of pale pink sandstone, the ancient metropolis of Petra in Jordan’s Jebel al-Madhbah mountains is an architectural and engineering marvel nonpareil. Carved more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataeans, a nomadic Arab tribe, the breathtaking megalith boasts an abundance of awe-inspiring rock facades, formations, tombs and temples.

You enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site through the “Siq,” a narrow, winding gorge so steep you must crane your neck to see the sky. After about a kilometer, the gorge opens to reveal the massive “Treasury,” one of Petra’s most famous ruins. Rose-red Petra is stunning at night, when both the Siq and city are lined by thousands of candles, as well as during the golden glow of the late afternoon.

Glacier National Park, Montana

A lot of people in the United States believe that in order to see something beautiful they have to get a passport to visit another country. Fortunately, this is not true. The United States is full of beauty, magic, and art, all you need to do is look for it. Scattered all across the country are ancient relics, awe-inspiring landscapes, and natural masterpieces. If you’re looking for a bit of an adventure, but you don’t want to spend your life savings to leave the country, then check out this list of hidden gems of beauty that are right in your own backyard.There is evidence that proves that humans have used the land that is now known as Glacier National Park for the past 10,000 years! The history of Glacier National Park is fascinating, but it’s quite obvious that people go to this national park for its breathtaking views. Covering a little more than 1,500 square miles, Glacier National Park is known for its stunning landscape and diverse ecosystems, drawing the attention of nature lovers everywhere.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a great example of how incredibly strong flowing water can be. Created from a flowing river, Horseshoe Bend gives us a look into the past and how the United States was formed. Horseshoe Bend is considered to be a part of the Grand Canyon, so it tends to attract the attention of families and adrenaline junkies alike.

The Georgia Guidestones

Located in Elbert County, Georgia, the Guidestones are often compared to the infamous Stonehenge of England. The history of the Georgia Guidestones has left people in confusion for decades. In 1979, a man who went by the pseudonym Robert C. Christian approached a local granite company to commission them to build the Guidestones, which are an astounding 750 feet tall. The four monstrous stones have “instructions” for mankind on how we’re supposed to live. Many people believe that the stones are related to the occult or even the Illuminati, but because of the mystery surrounding the man who had them built, no one will truly ever know their purpose.

The Great Serpent Mound

Located in Adams County, Ohio, the Great Serpent Mound dates back to prehistoric times. There has been much debate on how old the mound actually is and who created it, but the most recent studies show that the mound was created by the people of the Adena culture over 1,000 years ago! Scientists aren’t entirely sure what this massive serpent-shaped mound was used for, but they believe that the 1,300-foot long mound was used as a mortuary to aid the dead in their journey.

Thurston Lava Tube at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Thurston Lava Tube is a breathtaking sight for those that love adventure. The Thurston Lava Tube, which is between 350 and 500 years old, was once a flowing river of lava. As the outside of the lava hardens, the middle still flows for many years to come. Eventually, the lava will stop flowing, creating a lava tube as a result.

Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, Connecticut

Most Americans think that they have to travel across the ocean in order to see a castle. Little do they know that there’s one much closer than they think. Built between 1914 and 1919, the Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, Connecticut, looks like it jumped right out of the pages of a mystery novel. Complete with hidden rooms, doors that can only be opened by completing a puzzle, and a hand-carved bar, Gillette Castle is certainly a sight to see! But make sure to watch out for restless spirits because there are plenty of rumors of ghost sightings at Gillette Castle.

Snoqualmie Falls

If you’re looking for a place that will surely take your breath away, the Snoqualmie Falls is the place for you. One of Washington’s most popular attractions, the infamous 270-foot waterfall attracts more than 1.5 million visitors a year.

Gila Cliff Dwellings

For thousands of years, the Gila Cliff Dwellings were used as shelter by different nomadic groups. Eventually, the cliff dwellings became home to the people of the Mogollon culture. The Mogollon people used the cliff dwellings for raising their children, crafting pottery, and living life the best way they knew how. The Mogollon people may not have had much use for the Gila Cliff Dwellings once they decided to move on, but fortunately for us, the cliff dwellings are still perfectly intact, allowing us to get a glimpse into the mysterious past.

The Painted Hills

Located in Wheeler County, Oregon, the Painted Hills cover over 3,000 acres of land. The Painted Hills got their name from the colorful stratifications of blacks, golds, yellows, and reds that run throughout it. Apparently, the colors look different depending on the time of day, but experts claim that the best time to visit the Painted Hills is in the late afternoon.

The Grotto of Redemption

Created from petrified wood, precious stones, and minerals, the Grotto of Redemption is “considered to be the world’s most complete man-made collection of minerals, fossils, shells, and petrifications in one place.” Built by Father Paul Matthias Dobberstein in 1912 to pay homage to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who Father Dobberstein claimed to have saved his life from pneumonia, the Grotto of Redemption is a religious landmark that receives over 100,000 visitors a year.

The Grand Prismatic Spring is not only the largest hot spring in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, but it’s actually the largest hot spring in the ENTIRE United States.

This colorful hot spring is 370 feet across and 160 feet deep, which is quite impressive, but the incredible size of Grand Prismatic Spring isn’t what attracts most people to Yellowstone. As you can see, the Grand Prismatic Spring is absolutely gorgeous with its vibrant colors!

Red Mountain Pass

Listed as one of the most dangerous roads in America, the Red Mountain Pass isn’t something for the faint of heart. With its winding roads, steep hills, risky avalanches, and fatal drops, the Red Mountain Pass claims the lives of people every single year. Despite the warnings of danger, adrenaline junkies and travelers make the trip just to take in the breathtaking scenery of Red Mountain Pass.

Winterthur Museum and Country Estate

Approximately 60 years ago, horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont opened up his childhood home to the public as a museum. Winterthur Museum and Country Estate has over 90,000 objects that were made or used in America, a fairytale cottage, and a 60-acre garden. Du Pont’s goal was to share the love of his land with anyone who would appreciate it, and it’s safe to say that he definitely succeeded in his task!

Apostle Islands

Located off of the coast of the Bayfield Peninsula in northern Wisconsin, the Apostle Islands consist of 22 different islands in Lake Superior. The Apostle Islands not only host 800 different plant species, but they’re also the home to the most black bears in the United States.

Skagit Valley Tulip Fields in Mount Vernon, Washington

In 1892, an immigrant from England named George Gibbs bought five dollars worth of flower bulbs. A few years later, he dug them up only to discover that they significantly multiplied. Soon enough, word got around that flower bulbs grew extremely well in the area. In 1950, William Roozen started his own bulb-growing farm in Skagit County, Washington. Eventually, Roozen would have so many flowers that people from all over the world wanted to visit the farm, leading to the creation of the Skagit County Tulip Festival. Today, Roozen’s tulips bring in over one million visitors a year!

The Florida Everglades

If you want to leave the United States, without having to get a passport, then the Florida Everglades might just be the place for you. The Florida Everglades is a tropical wetland of sawgrass marshes, mangroves , and pine flatwoods that cover 800 square miles of land with extremely diverse ecosystems. The Everglades is home to the West Indian manatee, the endangered leatherback turtle, and the Florida panther, and let’s not forget about those alligators.

Palouse Falls

More than 13,000 years ago, the Ice Age floods from glacial Lake Missoula carved Palouse River Canyon. Palouse Falls, which is an astounding 200 feet tall, is a high point for those that want to camp in Palouse Falls State Park. Not only do they get to enjoy being outside with nature, but they also get to witness the history of the United States right in front of their very eyes.

Devil’s Tower

The Devil’s Tower, located in Wyoming, was originally called the “Bear’s House” by Native Americans in the area. During an expedition, Colonel Richard Irving Dodge’s interpreter misunderstood what the Natives were saying, so it was renamed the Devil’s Tower. Even though some people believe that the Devil’s Tower is an ancient petrified tree, the tower is actually a laccolithic butte made out of igneous rock.

Garden of the Gods

Popular for its hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding, the Garden of the Gods attracts the attention of adventure seekers from all over the world. The Garden of the Gods was surveyed in 1859, when Colorado City was being set up. One of the surveyors thought it would be the perfect place for a beer garden, but the other surveyor said: “Beer Garden! Why it is a fit place for the Gods to assemble. We will call it the Garden of the Gods.”

Eternal Flame Falls, New York

If you’re looking for a bit of mystery and mysticism, then you need to head to the Eternal Flame Falls in New York. Located behind a small waterfall in Shale Creek Preserve is a grotto that emits natural gas 24/7. Because of the emission of gas, a flame can be lit underneath the waterfall. The flame can be seen almost year round, but when it does go out, someone always makes sure to relight it once again.

Slab City, California

Known as the last free place on Earth, Slab City attracts the “less than desirable” members of society. Those that would rather travel than work a 9-5 job. Those that wish to live differently than the way society tells them that they need to live. Complete with a library, art, and HUGE sculptures, Slab City is considered a national monument.

Being on a long flight can be exhausting, but there are things you could do to help…

Traveling to new places seems exciting until you need to spend six hours on the plane. How much more if you get on one of the world’s longest flights? You could be on board for fifteen hours or more.

Sitting in the airplane cabin without any break can be exhausting. It’s no wonder why many people would be happy to skip the tedious long plane ride.

But flying isn’t entirely bad. With planning and creativity, you can have a happier and more comfortable trip.

One key is to keep yourself busy and entertained. How can you do that when you’re flying 36,000 feet in the air? Here’s a list to get you started.

Have a Snack or Drink

Keeping your taste buds happy is a great way to pass the time while up in the air. There’s often a variety of quality snacks on business flights. Some even have a rich selection of beverages. You may also find delightful pieces of fruit or granola bars in their carry-on.

But airline food offerings can also be limited, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or meals with you. Just make sure to avoid processed and sugary items. They can make you feel uneasy and exhausted.

Nonetheless, savor a delectable snack on your flight. If available, enjoy a couple of drinks too, but keep yourself hydrated with water in between.

Move Around

It’s easy to relax in an airline seat for several hours. But it’s essential to get up and move around a couple of times on a long-haul flight. Frequent bathroom breaks can be an excellent way to rev up your body.

Sitting for an extended period can make you feel groggy. Take the time to rev your body by walking around the cabin. Or you can do some in-flight seated exercises every hour or two. This won’t only ward off fatigue but also keep you in good shape.

Watch a Movie

Movies and TV shows are a popular form of entertainment in airplanes. Longer flights and newer planes often have seat-back personal televisions for every passenger.

You can choose a movie from a diverse selection instead of watching the film played by the airline. It’s an incredible way to binge-watch your favorite series. But even if there’s only a shared overhead screen, watching a movie can make your flight less tedious.

Get Some Work Done

You can also use the long travel time to be productive miles high in the air. For some people, being on the plane gives several uninterrupted hours to get some work done. It can be editing videos, replying to emails, or going through invoices.

You’d be surprised by the amount of work you can finish on a long-haul flight. With little to no internet to distract you on the plane, you can be in a deep work mode.

Read a Book

A long flight is an opportune time to catch up on some reading. You’ll have all the peace you need to read without interruption. Whether it’s a magazine, an article, or a novel you’ve been meaning to read, take advantage of the long flight.

Doing so won’t only let you pass the time. It can also help you stay calm, especially if you’re experiencing some flight jitters. But don’t pick the wrong reading material. Topics about plane crashes or serial-killer thrillers could be stress-inducing.

Take Some Pictures

Photos are always a special way to remember your trip. So why not take your time up in the air capturing the scenery you pass over? Take pictures of the skyline, clouds, or famous landmarks you recognize. Most people tend to forget these fantastic wonders, especially if they’re used to flying all the time.

Get Crafty

Doing crafts is another way to get yourself occupied and relaxed during a long flight. You can de-stress with cool new adult coloring books. If you’re a knitter, you can pack your materials on the plane and create a unique project as a remembrance for your trip. You can also make handmade jewelry. But ensure to check the airline’s policy before taking needles and scissors on the plane.

Talk to Someone

If you’re travelling solo, it’s a brilliant chance to make a new friend. You can start by introducing yourself to the person sitting next to you. Asking where they’re heading and their occupations can be a good conversation starter.

You never know; that stranger could turn out to be one of your best buddies. But if you think they’re not interested, give them the space and quiet they need.

Play a Game

Games are always an entertaining way to pass the time. Whether it’s an action or card game, playing it can help fend off boredom on the plane. Note that there are so many different games you can play, regardless of the distance of the flight.

But it’s best to prepare and download the games you want to play while you have cell service or Wi-Fi. If you’re not a techy person, then you can always bring a book of sudoku and crossword puzzles.

Catch Some Sleep

If there’s nothing you want to do, then a good long nap on the plane is always a great idea. A little neck pillow and sunglasses might help you fall asleep faster. But with business flights, there are various amenities available that can improve your sleep.

It’s also crucial to consider the time of arrival at your destination. If you get there at nighttime, sleeping on your flight can make it harder to reset your internal clock. Meanwhile, if you’re arriving in the morning, you can catch as much sleep as you can.

Final Thoughts

Long-haul flights can drain your mind and energy. That’s why it’s always essential to be more intentional with what you want to do on your trip. Beat the boredom and exhaustion while on the plane by doing the things that fascinate you.

While small in size, Qatar’s capital is larger than life. With skyscrapers, souqs, a replica Venetian town and luxury hotels, Doha is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations in the Middle East. Whether you’re there on a layover or spending a few days, here are the top things to do in Doha, especially if it’s your first time visiting.

Get cultured at the Museum of Islamic Art

Housing a collection of Islamic art spanning over 1,400 years, the Museum of Islamic Art is an absolute must-see in Doha. Designed by the same architect who was responsible for the Louvre’s glass pyramid, the museum is a work of art both inside and out. Don’t miss the diamond and emerald-studded necklace that once belonged to Shah Jahan, builder of India’s Taj Mahal, and the panoramic views across the bay. The best part? The museum is free!

Step back in time at Souq Waqif

Doha’s spiritual heart, Souq Waqif is a journey back in time before skyscrapers and hyper-modern hotels made Doha what it is today. Translating to “the standing market,” the Souq Waquf was built on the site of an old Bedouin marketplace and is a treasure trove of beautiful fabrics, fragrant spices and ornate trinkets. Popular attractions include the exotic animal market, camel pen and falcon handling. The souq is also a great place to try local cuisine at one of the outdoor cafes.

Walk or bike along the Corniche

A 4-mile promenade extending along Doha Bay, Doha’s horseshoe-shaped Corniche is a favorite among locals for an evening stroll. Whether you choose to bike or walk, the Corniche is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the city. Gaze out towards the water to see the traditional wooden dhow boats lining the Bay.

Feel like a celebrity at The Pearl Qatar

The ritziest address in Qatar, The Pearl is a manmade island with yacht-filled marinas, luxury residential towers, 5-star dining and designer shopping. Stroll past pretty pastel houses and canals of the Venetian-inspired Qanat Quartier and enjoy a meal at one of the lively restaurants and cafes in Medina Central. It’s no surprise they call this the Arabian Riviera!

Go on a desert adventure

With Doha’s proximity to golden sand dunes, it’s totally doable to book a half day or full day tour to the desert. A favorite activity is driving in a 4×4 vehicle through the sand dunes, known as dune bashing. For a more relaxed experience, you can also go camel riding or enjoy a typical Bedouin feast under the stars. Another favorite is a visit to the UNESCO-certified Khor Al Adaid, also known as the “Inland Sea.”

Head for the mall

Going to the mall in Doha is no average experience. At Villaggio Mall, visitors can sail an indoor canal, glide across the ice at the indoor Olympic-sized skating rink and go for a thrilling ride at the indoor theme park. Of course, shopping here is top notch with 220 high-end stores plus plenty of dining options. When it’s too hot out, this is one of the best places to get relief in Doha.

Where to Eat

Dining in Doha is world class, with some of the best restaurants in the world including Alain Ducasse’s Idam Doha, Hakkasan, Nobu and Gordon Ramsay’s Opal. Brunch is another favorite activity, with hotels hosting indulgent feasts fit for a king. You’ll find Qatari cuisine similar to other Middle Eastern cuisine with an emphasis on rice, meat and locally grown dates. Try Qatar’s national dish known as machboos, a rich stew of seafood or meat and spiced rice.

Travel tips to Qatar:

• While drinking alcohol in public is strictly prohibited, visitors may drink at licensed hotel restaurants and bars.
• Since Qatar is a conservative Muslim country, women should avoid wearing revealing clothing and men should wear long shorts or pants.
• Qatar in the summer can feel like being in a pizza oven. For cooler, more comfortable temperatures, travel from late September to May.
• Most visitors rely on taxis and Uber to get around Doha.