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Travel Inspiration · December 18, 2018

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences by Travel Bloggers

As the new year quickly approaches, many of you are probably starting to plan a getaway (or two) for the year ahead. But with 195 countries in the world and thousands of cities to choose from, picking just one or two can be a challenge. Especially if you want to travel everywhere like we do! 

In October each year, Lonely Planet releases its Best in Travel list. After collecting nominations from editors, researchers, locals, and influencers, each year Lonely Planet narrows down their top 10 cities, top 10 countries, top 10 regions, and best value destinations into one list of ultimate travel experiences for the year ahead.

Some amazing countries we’ve visited that have featured on this list in previous years include Jordan, Iceland, Bali, Colombia, the Maldives, Japan and Morocco. 

Feeling inspired by Lonely Planet, I began compiling my own list of the best holiday destinations to visit. However, there are so many places that I still haven’t experienced yet. So, I decided to ask some friends from my travel blogger network, which destinations they would recommend and why. So…

From these fantastic travel bloggers, here is a list of their Ultimate Travel Experiences!

In This Post:

  • Explore a Winter Wonderland in Banff, Canada
  • Stay in a Dreamy Overwater Bungalow in the Maldives
  • Swim with Humpback Whales in Tonga
  • Sleep Under the Stars in Australia’s Red Centre
  • Take a Road Trip Around Iceland’s Ring Road
  • Eat Your Way Around Israel
  • Go on a Safari in Sri Lanka
  • Photograph the Penguins in Antarctica
  • Drink Sangria and Eat Tapas in Madrid
  • Aprés Ski & Yoga in Austria
  • Get Off-The-Grid in the Kootenay Rockies, Canada
  • Relax in an Onsen in Hakone, Japan

Explore a Winter Wonderland in Banff, Canada

Michelle Halpern – Live Like It’s the Weekend

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

One of my favourite winter destinations so far is Alberta, Canada – specifically Banff National Park. It’s stunning in summer as well but visiting in winter is an amazing experience, and the snow gives the little mountain town a magical feel. There are still beautiful hikes and walks that can be done in the wintertime. 

A must is a visit to the top of the Banff Gondola which gives stunning 360-degree views of the snow-covered treetops below and the Canadian Rockies in the distance.

Follow Michelle on Instagram or check out her blog.

find the best price on hotels in Banff

Stay in a Dreamy Overwater Bungalow in the Maldives

Christina Vidal – Jetset Christina

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

When thinking of ultimate travel experiences, in my mind, the Maldives reign as one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the world. It’s definitely one destination that should be on every traveller’s bucket list this year.  

I mean how can you beat dreamy resorts, overwater bungalows, and perfect sun-soaked days filled with endless ocean activities and topped off with sunset sails. 

The Maldives is a dream come true for any beach lover. I was blown away by just how much I loved this piece of perfect paradise. The food, the resorts, the drinks, everything was top-notch, making the Maldives a once in a lifetime experience! 

The Maldives is a perfect honeymoon destination, group travel destination, couple’s getaway or even an idyllic solo disconnect trip.

Follow Christina on Instagram or check out her blog.

find overwater bungalows in the maldives

Related Post: What to Expect When Visiting the Maldives for the First Time

Swim with Humpback Whales in Tonga

Jennifer Simpson – Wanderlost & Found

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

My number one holiday destination so far is Tonga in the South Pacific. These tiny islands are set in a sparkling turquoise sea and are virtually undiscovered by mass tourism. 

Swimming with humpback whales as they migrate to these warm, protected waters to give birth to their young (July-October) is one of those amazing life experiences you won’t forget. 

You can also snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, gaze up at the stars and see a stunning display of the Milky Way, or just forget about the real world for a while and let yourself sink into island time. 

Time has a way of standing still on these islands. Because the masses haven’t yet discovered this South Pacific paradise. You can expect a bit more of a “rustic” approach to life, but the trade-off to escape the crowds is worth it. 

For a truly luxe ultimate travel experience, stay at Fafa Island Resort, an off-the-grid eco resort only a 20-minute boat ride from Nuku’alofa.

Follow Jennifer on Instagram, or check out her blog.

view and book hotels in tonga

Sleep Under the Stars in Australia’s Red Centre

Sarah & Amy Todhunter – Mooski Adventures

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

Looking for the ultimate adventure getaway, a place with a bit more magic? Then look no further than Australia’s ‘Red Centre’. Unlike any other place on earth, this sunburnt land in Australia’s outback is the most interesting travel destination and will make you feel so connected, yet it will blow you away!

You can choose to bike, Segway or even Skydive Uluru, hike through Kata Tjuta (Uluru’s bigger brother), witness a full-sky sunrise or sunset over both, and drive through endless outback colours in every shade of red, orange and yellow.

Take a dip in the refreshing waterholes and gorges in the West and East MacDonnell Ranges, and Kings Canyon Rim Walk is an absolute must-do when visiting! 

There are endless ways to experience this stunning region, and it couldn’t be easier.

Depending on your itinerary, fly into Alice Springs or Yulara, book a tour or hire a car, stay at the iconic Sails in the Desert, or for the ultimate travel experience do as we did, and sleep under the stars – boy are there trillions!

Follow Sarah & Amy on Instagram, Facebook or check out their blog.

Take a Road Trip Around Iceland’s Ring Road

Christine Wheeler – Live Love Run Travel

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

Otherworldly landscapes, rushing waterfalls, Northern lights (in winter) and adorable puffins (in summer) are just some of the reasons Iceland is one of the best places to visit. 

We spent a week driving around the Ring Road. Everywhere you drive in Iceland takes longer than you would expect, but not because of the traffic. In Iceland, there are so many different places to pull over and take in the scenery or a random waterfall. You’ll end up adding an hour or two to your journey. 

If you are willing to get off the beaten path, you can find some hidden gems and have them all to yourself. 

Just be aware that while it is pretty cheap to get there with a number of budget airlines, it won’t be cheap once you arrive… But one thing is for sure, it will be one of the most memorable ultimate travel experiences!

Follow Christine on Instagram, Facebook or check out her blog.

get the best price on all hotels in Iceland

Related Post: 7 Day Iceland Itinerary: Golden Circle and South Coast Road Trip

Eat Your Way Around Israel

Becky Van Dijk – We Are Travel Girls & BeckyVanDijk.com

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

Anytime that I talk about Israel, the first thing I mention is the food! There were, of course, lots of reasons I loved Israel, the beauty of the desert, the dead sea, visiting Jerusalem – but honestly, the one thing that made my travel experience amazing was the delicious food available throughout the country. 

In Tel Aviv, make sure to visit Levinsky Market and take a food tour to discover all the culinary delights this area has to offer. In Jerusalem, try eating hummus at one of the local eateries in the old city, like trendy Valero for unique cocktails or Menza for contemporary cuisine. 

If you want some more unique dining experiences, you can enjoy a traditional Friday Night Dinner with a family in Tel Aviv organised through a company called Betzava or even have lunch with a Bedouin family. 

As well as being a foodie’s paradise Israel offers many ultimate travel experiences, some of my favourites and most highly recommended are; glamping in the desert with Happy Glamper, hiking the Ramon Crater, and of course, swimming in the dead sea!

Go on a Safari in Sri Lanka

Becky Van Dijk – We Are Travel Girls & BeckyVanDijk.com

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

I visited Sri Lanka at the beginning of 2018 and have to admit that it has quickly become one of my most recommended destinations when someone asks me where they should travel to next! 

Why Sri Lanka? Despite Sri Lanka being a small country, it is absolutely jam-packed with things to see and do. I recommend spending about 10-14 days to allow you to travel all over the country and see the main highlights.  

Start by heading down to the Galle a Unesco World Heritage site, then onwards to the beach at Matara, followed by a safari in Yala National Park to go leopard spotting. Then you leave the coast and head up into the centre of the country, visiting Ella and Kandy and taking in one of the world’s most beautiful train rides. Finally, if you have time, you can keep going north to the famous Sigiriya or Lion Rock. But my number one recommendation for visitors to Sri Lanka is to make sure that you eat all of the food! 

Follow Becky on Instagram, Facebook or check out her blog.

get the best price on all hotels in Sri Lanka

Photograph the Penguins in Antarctica

Marielena Smith – Epic 7 Travel

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

Antarctica is a life-changing destination and experience. It touched my soul deeply and inspired me to pivot from a medical device marketing career to chase a dream related to travel photography, writing, and conservation. Just imagine reveling in pristine yet stark white and crystal blue landscapes while laughing at the curious and fearless wildlife. Picture journeying to the end of the world and visiting one of the last untouched places on this planet. There is simply nothing else like it.

Alternating between meditative silence and the cacophony of penguins calling or massive icebergs calving will delight your senses at every turn. If finances and vacation time allows, I highly recommend a three-week trip that includes both the Antarctica Peninsula and South Georgia. To learn what it feels like to land on a beach with 250,000 King Penguins as fur seal pups scoot along the sand to greet your zodiac read more about 25 Surprising Things to Do in Antarctica.

Returning to Antarctica (Snow Hill Island) last month to photograph the stunning Emperor Penguins and adorable chicks satisfied another lifelong dream.

Follow Marielena on Instagram, Facebook or check out her blog.

Pro Tip: Go with Quark Expeditions for the ultimate travel experience with top-notch staff and crew!

Drink Sangria and Eat Tapas in Madrid

Dana Williamson – Wandering Donut

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

Spain is one of the most underrated European destinations, especially for the summer. Seriously, I ended up spending half of my Summer here! With an abundance of history that has shaped the world we live in, not to mention SANGRIA, Spain needs to be on your bucket list.

Believe it or not, this beautiful part of the Iberian Peninsula is so much more than Barcelona, Christiano Ronaldo, that strange tomato throwing festival (La Tomatina) and yes, overpriced Ibiza too. In fact, it is filled with mesmerising cultural practices in forms of activities and food. From Jamon (ham), any and all of the tapas, sangria and its several spin-offs (my personal favourite) to the powerful art of flamenco dancing and so much more, there will always be something new for you to experience around every corner. 

Madrid is full of life and stole my heart immediately, and I am already dreaming of my return. Not only did I feel extremely safe being a solo female wandering through the streets, but it was also straightforward to navigate by foot as many of the main attractions were all within walking distance. There is plenty of public transport available however I needed to work off all of that tapas somehow!

Check out these ultimate travel experiences in Spain’s beautiful capital city:

  • El Retiro Park: Ultimate people-watching, picnicking destination and you can even hire a rowboat! 
  • Palacio de Cristal del Retiro: Tucked away inside of the park, the Crystal Palace is a much see. 
  • Mercado de San Miguel: A little touristy and overpriced compared to many other food establishments in Spain but so worth a look and a bite.
  • Plateau Madrid: a unique food court put together by several Michelin star chefs 

Follow Dana on Instagram, Facebook or check out her blog.

get the best price on all hotels in Madrid

Aprés Ski & Yoga in Austria

Vanessa Rivers – We Are Travel Girls & Glitter and Mud

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.

The Skicircus Saalbach is quickly becoming one of the most popular ski areas in Europe and is sure to become one of the hottest ski destinations around the world!  

The Skicircus is one of the biggest ski areas in the Austrian Alps with one of the most sophisticated lift systems in Austria. The diverse range of blue, red and black runs make this ski area perfect for beginner, intermediate, and expert skiers. The mountain is also scattered with fun après-ski restaurants and bars where you can stop for lunch or cocktails with a fantastic view of the Austrian Alps! 

Follow Vanessa on Instagram, Facebook or check out her blog.

get the best price on all hotels in Saalbach Skicircus

Get Off-The-Grid in the Kootenay Rockies, Canada

 Lisa Michele Burns – The Wandering Lens

12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019. Looking for some travel inspo for 2019? Here are some amazing vacation ideas from 11 travel bloggers featuring beautiful travel destinations, underrated travel destinations, dream destinations and bucket list travel experiences. This list includes; Iceland vacation ideas, Australia travel tips, Antarctica travel photography, advice on a trip to Japan, swimming with humpback whales in Tonga, safari in Sri Lanka and Israel travel tips.
12 Ultimate Travel Experiences for 2019 – These 11 Travel Bloggers share their top destinations in the world to visit in 2019

Tucked over the ridges of the popular peaks near Lake Louise and Banff in Canada, the Kootenay Rockies region feels like a hidden gem of natural wonders. With ski fields, hiking trails, raging rivers, and waterfalls, the area is a must-see for nature lovers looking to escape the crowds and get off the beaten track. The towns of Golden and Revelstoke are great bases, Revelstoke is actually so pretty that it’s a regular set for Hallmark movies! 

Those looking for the ultimate travel experience should head straight for Purcell Mountain Lodge where you can snuggle up in comfort while watching for bears wandering across the meadows. Purcell is only accessible via helicopter, features a private chef, mountain guide for outdoor adventures, and I promise it’s the kind of place you never want to leave. 

Follow Lisa on Instagram, Facebook or check out her blog.

Relax in an Onsen in Hakone, Japan

Amanda Twine – Bucket List Seekers

Onsen Spa Retreat at Hotel Hakone Gora Byakudan | Hakone, Japan | flystayluxe.com
Girl reaching overhead to one of the exhibits in the Hakone Open Air Museum, Japan
Sulphur gases rising from Mount Hakone volcanic area of Owakudani and the Hakone Ropeway cable car passing overhead

Japan is, without a doubt, one of my favourite countries. It’s clean, easy to navigate, the people are friendly, the food is always good, the shrines and temples are absolutely stunning, the Ryokans are amazing, and it’s a really easy country to visit for first-time travellers. What’s not to like?

I’ve visited Japan twice in the last few years. Most people think that Japan is at its most beautiful during the cherry blossom season; however, I found the autumn colours to be just as spectacular. For a truly amazing trip, I recommend visiting for at least 10-14 days visiting the main cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as Mount Fuji or my personal favourite, the Hakone region.

Related Post: 20 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time

Staying in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn) and soaking in an Onsen (hot springs) is one of the quintessential ultimate travel experiences you can have in Japan. And the mountain town of Hakone is peppered with them.

During our Hakone 2-day itinerary, we chose to stay at the Hakone Gora Byakudan. This was the perfect place to relax and soak up the crisp mountain air while exploring the amazing sights around Hakone, including the Hakone Open Air Museum, Mount Hakone Crater, and the Hakone Shrine. 

Purchasing a Hakone Free Pass offers the best value for sightseeing around the region and gets you to access the Tozan Railway, Bus, Cable Car, Ropeway and Lake Ashi Cruise.

Follow Me on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to my blog below. 

Can you recommend any other great destinations to visit? Let our readers know about them in the comments below.


Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:
  • Skyscanner for the best flight deals
  • Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
  • HomeAway for the best price on apartment and home rentals
  • Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals
  • Luxury Escapes | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
  • Get Your Guide | Klook | Viator for booking day tours and attraction tickets
  • Tourradar for a wide selection of multi-day tours
  • Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

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About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

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device_typesessionThis cookie is set by the provider Drupal. This cookie is used for identifying the type of device used by the user for viewing the website.
everest_cookie3 yearsDescription is currently not available.
nuid1 yearDescription is currently not available.
partner_idneverNo description available.
pcm_consent1 yearDescription is currently not available.
rcps_basket2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_beauty_offers2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_product2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_profile_account_group2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_profile_bi_group2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_profile_info_group2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_profile_orderhistory_group2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_profile_shipping_group2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
rcps_profile_userprofile_group2 monthsDescription is currently not available.
X-IngresssessionNo description available.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
CookieDurationDescription
irld6 monthsImpact Radius sets this cookie to collect user behaviour and interaction data to optimize the website and make advertisements.
NID6 monthsGoogle sets the cookie for advertising purposes; to limit the number of times the user sees an ad, to unwanted mute ads, and to measure the effectiveness of ads.
test_cookie15 minutesdoubleclick.net sets this cookie to determine if the user's browser supports cookies.
VISITOR_INFO1_LIVE6 monthsYouTube sets this cookie to measure bandwidth, determining whether the user gets the new or old player interface.
VISITOR_PRIVACY_METADATA6 monthsYouTube sets this cookie to store the user's cookie consent state for the current domain.
YSCsessionYoutube sets this cookie to track the views of embedded videos on Youtube pages.
yt-remote-connected-devicesneverYouTube sets this cookie to store the user's video preferences using embedded YouTube videos.
yt-remote-device-idneverYouTube sets this cookie to store the user's video preferences using embedded YouTube videos.
yt.innertube::nextIdneverYouTube sets this cookie to register a unique ID to store data on what videos from YouTube the user has seen.
yt.innertube::requestsneverYouTube sets this cookie to register a unique ID to store data on what videos from YouTube the user has seen.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
CookieDurationDescription
_ga1 year 1 month 4 daysGoogle Analytics sets this cookie to calculate visitor, session and campaign data and track site usage for the site's analytics report. The cookie stores information anonymously and assigns a randomly generated number to recognise unique visitors.
_ga_*1 year 1 month 4 daysGoogle Analytics sets this cookie to store and count page views.
_gat_gtag_UA_*1 minuteGoogle Analytics sets this cookie to store a unique user ID.
_gid1 dayGoogle Analytics sets this cookie to store information on how visitors use a website while also creating an analytics report of the website's performance. Some of the collected data includes the number of visitors, their source, and the pages they visit anonymously.
_sp_id.*1 year 1 month 4 daysSnowplow sets this cookie to store user information that is created when a user first visits a site and is updated on subsequent visits.
_sp_ses.*1 hourSnowplow sets this cookie to store user information that is created when a user first visits a site and is updated on subsequent visits.
brwsr1 year 1 month 4 daysThis cookie is set by the provider Impact Radius. This cookie is used for affiliate marketing.
visitor_id1 year 1 month 4 daysSet by Pardot, this cookie is used for visitors. The cookie contains a unique ID and identifier for the account which is derived from the Pardot tracking code placed on the site.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
CookieDurationDescription
px_init54 years 4 months 3 days 6 hoursBooking.com sets this cookie, which is used by the website's booking system as an indicator to determine whether the widget is open or not.
session_idsessionThis cookie is used to get or set the session id for the current session.
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