My Travel Bucket-List

Winter is coming to its end later this month and the kick-off of travel season will commence. There is so much to see and do around the globe. Seven continents each with unique architectural structures and natural formations. My travels to these exotic destinations include snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, exploring China's Great Wall, and savoring the fresh and rustic foods and wines of the Provence region of France. I have visited many sites on my personal bucket list, yet it remains incomplete. This week my blog features my top 5 locations yet to be checked off.

Osaka is known worldwide for a famous food delicacy, Fugu fish. After a quick visit to Tokyo and a speedy trip south on Japan's Bullet Train to Osaka, it's off to the Shinsekai District where the Fugu master is preparing your fish ... with precision. What makes this dish so unique is the lethal dose of a tetrodotoxin it contains. Requiring the poisonous organs to be carefully removed. This Species of pufferfish is served sashimi (raw). Some people experience a tingling sensation on their tongue from a trace of the toxin. It is traditionally served with citrus ponzu or a vinegar and soy sauce blend for dipping. After we survive our visit, I plan to head outside the city limits and take in the beautiful Japanese countryside.

In Pamplona, nothing says exhilaration like running with the bulls. It's over in just a few minutes and has become a pilgrimage for a growing number of worldwide thrill-seekers. This annual event has taken place in Spanish villages since the 14th century. It originated when the owners would rush their herds through the streets to get them to market. Over time the roles changed and the bulls now do the rushing. Young men began racing in front of the bulls. The goal was to make it to the herd's pen without being overtaken. A measure of true bravado is achieved by running between the tips of the horns for an extended period. Getting gored is possible, but it is said more injuries occur because of the huge number of participants stumbling over each other. I am not accustomed to wearing white but for this, I will oblige.

Machu Picchu Outside of Cuzco, Peru was once home to the Incas. It was only occupied for 122 years by civilization and it is still a mystery as to why the Incas left. It's discovery was unveiled in 1911 and is recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This estate has undergone considerable renovation as tourist numbers have increased. Thirty percent of the ruins have been reconstructed and the improvements continue. One has a choice of two options to reach the ancient site. Book a scenic train trip through the valley, or it's a 3-hour hike from the nearest village. We are hoping to hike in and take the train out. Shuttles are available in Cuzco and a 1-night stay is highly recommended. There is a hotel at the entrance. Most reviewers have posted that the hilltop ruins are an incredible sight as the sun rises, and there are fewer tourists at the break of dawn.

Kruger National Park is considered to be the "king of beasts" when it comes to safari operators. The facilities are well-maintained and the accommodations are immaculate. The restaurant is highly rated as well (getting my reservation ready). I cannot wait to get on my safari gear and load up on the jeep. At Kruger National Park, you can catch a glimpse at the "Big 5". Black and white rhinos, leopards, buffalo, elephants, and the majestic lion. Many bird species can be found here as well like the African Fish Eagle. This magnificent creature catches fish from the water then brings them onshore for a feast. Bring a laptop and memory sticks to store the hundreds of pictures you will take while visiting. Kruger National Park is a short trip from Johannesburg. Remember when booking, the seasons are opposite to ours, being south of the equator.

Antarctica is a rapidly growing travel destination. Several cruise ships offer passage to the end of the world, as it's known. I have been to four continents South America and Africa would be numbers 5 and 6. To complete the continental slam, Antarctica is my number 1 choice. From the southern tip of South America, you cross Drake's Passage to explore the peninsula extending from the mainland. The largest population in Antarctica is not people but penguins, 17 species inhabit the region. Seals and many bird species occupy the barren continent as well. Travel time is very limited due to extreme weather for most of the year. Winds can reach nearly 200 mph and the coldest temperature on earth of -125.5 degrees was recorded as well. I spent five years in South Dakota and experienced some hardcore winters, but I doubt it's prepared me for these conditions. We'll be getting our layers on.

Travel allows you to experience our wondrous planet. The sites, sounds, and flavors from around the world have taught me to be grateful for each opportunity. However, as awe-inspiring as it is to travel it's nice to hear ... "welcome home." Next week I'll be posting my bucket list for the United States. Happy travels abroad!