12 MUST-SEE BUCKET LIST COUNTRIES

Out of fascination, or what we have heard or read about some countries, we bucket-list them as dream destinations. Whether the countries are nearby or far, has friendly people or not, expensive or economical. Something about some countries intrigues and beckons us into wanting to visit. It may be due to its history, its cultural aspects, or sheer beauty, but we all want to see ourselves. I have visited these countries, among others, and was quite impressed and happy I did. Let’s be real! Travel is almost dead for 2020 due to COVID-19. So, here are 12 must-see bucket list countries you should visit and why. This, for when hopefully, there should be a full resumption of travel in 2021.

It was a bit of a struggle to choose 12 from the countries I previously visited. However, these as my ultimate bucket list countries because they all have something unique to offer. Many times, you visit some countries but, it feels as though you have seen the said country before. My 12 must-see bucket list countries are all unique and authentic, with just a little extra “oomph”!

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THE 12 MUST-SEE BUCKET LIST COUNTRIES ARE:

These top 12 countries I will recommend to you as countries you must visit, also I will explain why you should. They all left a lasting memory etched in my mind, and I found them all very fascinating.

The ranking is in order of which I was most impressed.

Israel (Jerusalem) & Palestine
Singapore (Singapore)
South Africa (Cape Town)
Vietnam (Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City)
United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi)
Iceland (Reykjavik)
Qatar (Doha)
Turkey (Istanbul)
Hong Kong (Victoria)
Russia (Moscow)
Vatican City
Cuba (Havana)

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1. ISRAEL (Jerusalem & Tel Aviv)

Israel is the 3^rd-richest country in the Middle East/Asia and is the only country in the world where Hebrew is spoken. It is one of the holiest places on earth, not only for Christians but also Jews and Muslims. Would you not like to visit the birthplace of Jesus Christ and see and touch Bible history? Your presence in a country where Jesus Christ lived and made history will be a humbling and emotional experience.

Holy Jerusalem, one of the Israeli states, is unlike any other city visited. It is full of history and is inviting to all, no matter your religion. Jerusalem is a melting pot of visitors from almost every country and religion.

There are numerous sites to visit in Jerusalem. Some of my favourites include the *the Temple Mount, *the Mount of Olives, *the Garden of Gethsemane (where there are olive trees still alive from the time Jesus was on earth). The Western Wall (aka the Wailing Wall), *the Via Dolorosa, *the Church of the Holy Sepulchre – this is the site where Jesus was crucified and buried. It is also where his Tomb presently lays. Jerusalem’s cobble-stones roads to most tourist sites can be tiring and complex to manoeuvre, in the wrong shoes. So, be sure to wear comfy, walking shoes.

I was pleasantly surprised by its culinary delights as well. Jerusalem has delicious and excellent quality food, and of course, Ice creams. Many restaurants serve menus from around the world with a Mediterranean twist.

Take note and be prepared to either keep your own special sabbath between Friday evening and Saturday evening. This time is the Jewish sabbath, and the city becomes a literal “ghost town” until sundown on Saturday. The alternative is to drive to Tel Aviv (where the party never stops) and have some fun.

For me, the highlight of my trip was the Dead Sea (the lowest place on earth). It is about 37 km from Jericho. The Dead Sea is a Salt Lake that has healing powers. The waters are salty to the extreme that no beings can live in it. A taste of the water is unlike regular salt, but instead, it tastes salty/bitter. No one can swim in the Dead Sea, but rather, you float (aka the floating waters). Your skin becomes as soft as a baby’s butt, for days, after a Dead Sea bath. This experience is one therapeutic treat not to be missed and was the highlight of my visit to Israel.

Tel Aviv is another state in Israel, and it is where the Ben Gurion International Airport is situated (no airport in Jerusalem). Tel Aviv is the unofficial gay capital of the Middle-East. It is open 24/7, with an unbeaten nightlife worldwide. It also caters to the LBGTQIA crowd and party seekers (I bet you are surprised by this). I was quite surprised and amazed that a city like this existed in Israel. Tel Aviv is a city for the young and young at heart. It also has many cafes, restaurants (serving excellent food), top notch-night clubs, and of course, gay-friendly. Its beaches are some of the most gorgeous worldwide, especially those bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

Israel is a big country and with lots to see and explore. You will need quality time and resources to explore its holy sites and whatever else it has to offer. Like everything else in Israel, transport is not inexpensive. If you would like to visit some biblical sites like Nazareth and Galilee, they are both a few hours’ drive from Jerusalem. So, plan your vacation and tours wisely to maximise your vacation experience.

Point to note, Passports are not stamped by Immigration on entry into and exiting Israel. The reason being, previously, visitors encountered problems entering certain Arabs countries with an Israeli stamp in their passport. All visitors entering Israel are given a stamped slip of paper and another on the departure of the airport. (Hopefully, this may change after the signing of the Abraham Accords Peace Agreement between Israel and some Middle-Eastern countries).

1.1 PALESTINE

If you are visiting Israel/Jerusalem, you will more than likely want to see the birthplace of Jesus Christ. This place is called Bethlehem and is in Palestine, hence the reason for Palestine making it on my 12 must-see bucket list countries. What some may not know is Palestine, even though bordered with Jerusalem, it is a separate country. It is a small country, located adjacent to the Jordanian Desert.

Many of the famous religious sites found in this territory are the *Church of the Nativity, which sits on the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Below this church, under the main altar, is the Grotto/cave. It is the exact spot where Jesus was born. However, the lines to go into this Grotto to see and touch this spot are forever long (it is that popular).

A short walk from this church will bring you to another holy site, the *Milk Grotto. Some of the holy-sites to be found in Palestine are *Abraham Mosque (believed to be the burial site of Abraham, Isaac, Sarah, Jacob, and Rebecca). Other interesting sites found in Palestine are *Hebron, *Zedekiah’s Cave, and *Herodion (Burial site of Herod the Great).

Palestinians are friendly people, their food, super delicious, and are more than shawarmas and falafels. Many delicious local dishes like Baba Ghanoush (eggplant dip) Sambusak (meat-stuff pastries), Shurbat freekeh (green wheat soup) and Fattoush, etc. can be found in the city.

Point to note, if you are visiting Palestine, a Jewish taxi driver from Jerusalem cannot transport you there. Neither will a Jewish friend accompany you to Palestine (Jews are not allowed). So, plan with a good tour guide/group.

2. SINGAPORE

Singapore is a small country south of Malaysia. Its capital is also called Singapore. This country appears as the blueprint for successfully overcoming underdevelopment and poverty to riches. Singapore is the 2^nd-richest country in Asia and 5th most visited city. I think Singapore is an architectural beauty. It has some of the most beautiful modern structures worldwide.

It’s easy to get around and or ask for assistance or directions because Singaporeans can also speak English and are only too willing to help. The country enjoys harmonious religious diversity. There are no civil or political unrest, low crime rate, and it is impeccably clean and safe, due to the strict laws in the country. This strictness includes fines for littering (as small as a candy wrapper, chewing-gum, or cigarette butt for almost USD$250.00). Singapore also utilizes capital punish as a legal penalty for a firearm, murder, or drug-related offenses.

Some may think that Singapore is a concrete jungle. It is quite the opposite, more than half the city is green spaces so, nature-lovers and hikers will be truly happy. The capital has many parks, gardens, lagoons, trails, and lakes. There is much to see and do in Singapore. It can boast of its futuristic buildings in its beautiful modern city.

One more reason to visit Singapore is its airport. Your vacation and site-seeing begin on entry at Changi International Airport. Only a few countries can compete with this exceptional airport.

Singapore is a culinary capital as acclaimed by many. Its dishes are as diverse as its people, cuisines recreated from the Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, Malaysian heritage, among others. This combination of style and tastes of food from so many cultures lends itself to gratifying and excellent cuisines.

Singapore has many must-see sites which include, *the Marina Bay Sands/Skyline, *the Sands SkyPark Resort and *the Observation Deck, *the Gardens by the Bay/Futuristic Gardens, *Clarke Quay, and most definitely, *the Night Safari for a little desert fun. A point to note, Singapore is an expensive country. For those travelling on a budget, I will recommend Hawker Centres. They specialize in quality food at reasonable prices, which can save you money on meals. Even though Singapore is an expensive country, it is worth a visit and should be on your bucket list.

3. SOUTH AFRICA (Cape Town)

Cape Town is one of the greatest cities worldwide. Everything you will ever want to experience is in Cape Town. I highly recommend visiting this country. With one visit, you will be part of African history. Not to be forgotten is the most prominent icon of history, Mr. Nelson Mandela (deceased President of South Africa), a former prisoner on Robben Island. It is an island off Cape Town, accessible only by boat, and used for the imprisonment of political prisoners. A visit to this island to see first-hand the prison cell ex-president is a definite must.

Cape town can boast of its gorgeous beaches with turquoise waters, wildlife, culture, food & wines, and natural beauties. The most famous of them all is the Table Mountain, it is the first thing you will notice in Cape Town. It is a big part of the mountains that encompass the city as a beautiful backdrop. You can hike up this flat top mountain or use the cable car to get to the top. Whatever means you choose to get there, it should be your no.1 site visit when in Cape Town.

Are you wine lover? Then Cape Town offers award-winning Winelands, and its wines are on the top 10 list worldwide. Not only that, but their wines priced lower than many of its competitors. Cape Town has many beautiful gardens, breath-taking mountain views (Lion Head mountain), clean surroundings, and friendly people. Love delicious fish? Cape Town has some of the best-tasting fish worldwide, Whitefish is my favourite. All these beckon visitors not only to visit but stay longer.

The country has a beautiful ethnic composition that includes Caucasians, Indians, and all other races, born in South Africa. Cape Town has excellent weather and enjoys winter (yes, I said winter) when Europe is in summer. “Cape Townians” also boast that they do not and have never experienced natural disasters like hurricanes nor earthquakes in their homeland. There is so much more to see and do in Cape Town. It is one of the reasons it is one of my top 10 favourite destinations in the 60 plus I have visited. Be sure to add Cape Town, South Africa, on your bucket list, it truly deserves to be one of my 12 must-see bucket list countries.

4. VIETNAM (Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City)

Unlike what many may envision when Vietnam is mentioned (Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh), one couldn’t be more wrong. Those who think it a war-ravaged country, it is quite the opposite. Resilient and friendly people, well-developed infrastructures, rich history, and culture. Various picturesque landscapes, beautiful waterways, and a Foodie’s dream describe Vietnam perfectly. (see my related article the Two most warm-hearted countries).

Vietnam is the capital of motorbikes. Seriously, there are more than one million motorbikes in the city of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. The streets in both towns are forever busy. As mentioned in a previous article, as a pedestrian, if you can cross the streets of Vietnam, so can you with ease, any other part of the world. This country is culturally rich and full of history, with its exotic, tranquil temples and pagodas.

Vietnam, or more so Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is for Foodies. If you like street cuisine as well, then you are in for a treat. It’s a “thing” to partake of street food as there are so many tempting treats for sale everywhere. For the coffee lovers, you will be overwhelmed by the varieties and flavours of coffee beans for sale in Vietnam. They have a one of a kind coffee culture found nowhere else. Their teas are the freshest and most-perfumed tea I have ever had (esp. the green tea). It is also the first place I have tasted green tea chocolate, delicious and so unique.

Be sure to visit Ho Chi Minh City (aka Saigon), which is an average 2 hours flight from Hanoi. Ho Chi Minh City is the infamous city where the 1965 Vietnam war took place. From there, you access the Mekong Delta river (the 2^nd longest river in the world). This river runs through countries such as China, Thailand, and others. Ho Chi Minh City had me in awe. It is such a clean, beautiful, well-developed city. No one would believe that a war took place there.

There are 101 more reasons to bucket list and visit Vietnam, but time and space wouldn’t allow. However, my top favourite must see-sites are a day trip to *Sapa and *Halong Bay, *Ninh Binh, *the Golden Bridge (Giant Hand Bridge), and *Moc Chau. When in Ho Chi Minh City, I highly recommend a visit to the war remnant site and *Cu Chi Tunnels, and a boat tour on the *Mekong Delta River.

5. UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)

The United Arab Emirates is one of the 5^th-richest countries in Asia/Middle East. There are 7 Emirates/states which make up the U.A.E, but Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the two most famous. Many are intrigued by what they have seen or heard about the U.A.E. It is a luxurious and high-end environment, and its facades are enough to cause many to dream of a possible visit.

The United Arab Emirates is the home of the tallest building in the world (Burj Khalifa – Dubai), and the first country with a 7–star hotel (Burj Al Arab – Dubai). I can agree with many that the most beautiful and expanse garden, currently, is in Dubai (Miracle Gardens). Palm Island (shape like a palm) is a man-made island, which is what you usually see advertised to showcase the United Arab Emirates. It is intricately designed and caters to the even higher-end lifestyles.

Abu Dhabi (the capital of U.A.E) is equally as beautiful as Dubai but is a bit more laid-back and less touristy. It is a quiet beauty, and I love it even more because of this. It can boast of its mosque being the most gorgeous worldwide (Zayed Sheikh Mosque). Ferrari World, for Formula 1 racing championships, is a big hit for the car enthusiasts. For those inclined to intense thrill rides, Abu Dhabi has the fastest roller coaster in the entire world. This roller coaster (Formula Rossa) goes @ 240 kmph in 4.9 seconds, also located at Ferrari World.

The U.A.E is safe, clean, the beaches are gorgeous, and the architectures are superb. Yes, the U.A.E. is hot because it is a desert country, especially from June to August. What is one thing I will advise all to do before departure? Experience the Desert Safari dunes bashing ride, it’s that much fun. It is one treat you should not miss if ever you visit the United Arab Emirates. It is the most thrilling and invigorating activity I have ever done. The United Arab Emirates will meet and exceed your expectations. For sure, United Arab Emirates deserves its place on the 12 must-see bucket list countries.

6. ICELAND (Reykjavik)

Iceland is a Nordic country, and its capital is Reykjavik. It is known as the land of fire and ice. Which is due to the numerous glaciers and volcanoes throughout its landscape. It is a volcanic country located below the Arctic Circle with many volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs geysers. These are all surrounded by ice and snow-capped mountains.

There are several geothermal baths throughout the landscape of Iceland. The blue Lagoon (located in Grindavik) is a geothermal pool, with an average water temperature between 37-40 degrees Celsius. It is an indulgent, luxurious treat and most sort after by visitors, with an average cost of USD$60.00. Its hot mineral-rich water takes your skin back to youth, of course, surrounded by snow…what a rare treat! Iceland is the only country I have drunk water directly from the tap. It is that pure and clean and full of minerals. It also gives your skin a baby-soft feel after a bath or shower.

The Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) is another rare “cherry on top of your winter land cake”. This rare site is found in only a few countries (located in the right equinox) like Iceland. The best time to view this phenomenon is September through March (during the winter solstice). That is when the darkness could last up to 19 hours a day. The month of June (around the 21^st) presents a phenomenon called the Midnight Sun, which means the sun never really sets. That is another rare occurrence that has many flocking to Iceland.

During the summer months of mid-May to late July, Iceland offers 18 – 22 hours of daylight. However, during the winter months, only 4 – 6 hours daylight, this is due to location on top of the world,

Iceland is a truly unique country, which has some of the most active volcanoes and hugest glaciers in the world’. It has many frozen and semi-frozen waterfalls and is also the most peaceful worldwide. It is clean, has friendly people, and the streets are free of homeless people. Their fish and water are the best I have had so far, which could be due to the mineral-rich waters. Yearly, Iceland attracts tourists seven times more than its population. There must be something intriguing and magical worth seeing in Iceland, so time to add her to your bucket list.

7. QATAR (Doha)

Qatar is the wealthiest country in Asia/Middle East and is super clean and architecturally impressive. It is also the current Asia Football Cup (AFC) champions 2019. Have you ever experienced a Camel race? No? Then Qatar is the place to do so. That is a big event that takes place between November to January. Both domestic and international competitions take place in Doha. Be sure to visit the famous Corniche to experience the magnificent and splendiferous coastline and skyline in Doha. It is a must to take a traditional Dhow (boat) ride around the Corniche during the evening or night, for a superb view of the Doha skyline.

Yes, like other desert countries, Qatar’s heat could be extreme in the summer (Qatar has two seasons, summer and winter). However, during the winter months (December to February), the temperatures are mild (14/17 ℃) and excellent for site-seeing. You are sure to feel at home in Doha, the capital of Qatar. Only 15% of its population are locals, and the rest are ex-pats from around the world. Due to this, food varieties and tastes are not lacking but quite indulgent.

Some might be surprised by the fact that our favourite news channel Al Jazeera, has its headquarters in Doha.

As a female solo traveller in Doha, Qatar, it is a guarantee you will feel very safe. However, ladies, you need to dress conservatively (nothing above the knees and shoulders covered) out of respect for the Muslim laws of the country.

Qatar has lots to offer, desert safaris in pristine sand, super beautiful beaches, and grand mosques. Its inclusive market place like ancient Souq Waqif (most visited site in Doha), is excellent for shopping, for every imaginable item. The National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Arts (one of the best in the world) are both outstanding works of art. Tradition and culture are also alive and well in Doha, be sure to visit the Katara Cultural Village for culture and recreation.

If you are a thrill-seeker and love on-the-edge fun, then I will recommend the desert dunes-bashing (it is an exhilarating, thrilling ride). The Pearl, a man-made island (shaped like a pearl), is spectacular. It is predominantly luxurious shopping malls, resorts, villas, etc. If you are into high-end shopping and luxury, then Doha is the place to visit. It has lots of luxury hotels, high-end shopping, and glossy malls.

Qatar should be on your bucket list for 2022. Why? Well, if for nothing else, to support your favourite football team. That is because Qatar will be hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup games. By that time, you will be intrigued by its newest architectural dream, the Amphibious “Floating” Octopus Resort. It is under construction in the sea (shaped like an Octopus), with underwater rooms. So, this is one more reason to bucket list Qatar using their no.1 airline (#Ad) Qatar Airways. It is never too early to secure your accommodation for the upcoming games with (#Ad) booking.com.

8. TURKEY (Istanbul)

Longing to visit a big city/country that is unique, full of culture, history, and reasonable shopping? Then welcome to Istanbul, Turkey, the Roman and Ottoman empire capital of the world and the largest city in Europe.

Many buildings in Istanbul are constructed on some of the Greek and Roman ruins. Istanbul is the main cultural and historic center of Turkey. It possesses many beautiful streets and the most artistic and picturesque Mosques on earth! Some such Mosques are the Hagia Sofia Mosque, the Blue Mosque, and the Suleymaniye Mosque, among others.

The Turkish cuisine includes lots of delicious fish (especially if you visit the Buyukada Island). The famous Turkish delights treats and teas (Black tea my favourite) are best worldwide. Their traditional Baklava treats are one of a kind, in lots of varieties (some with and without nuts) and are very delicious.

Don’t forget to indulge in the Turkish baths (in the nude with other people) for a total exfoliating and relaxing experience. Boat trips to the Princes’/Buyukada island (a perfect getaway from the busy Istanbul). Be sure to walk with shopping-money because Turkey offers reasonable prices and excellent quality items.

If you plan to explore outside of Istanbul, there are other things of interest to do and places to see. Sites like *Ephesus in Izmir, *Antalya, *Cappadocia (full of fun, cave hotels, and balloon rides). Mount Nemrut in Adiyaman (home of monuments and Giant heads Ancient Gods) is very popular for many visitors.

Turkey is engulfed by the Mediterranean Sea, which makes it an excellent place for beach lovers during the summer. Water sports and boat trips are all popular and must-dos when in Turkey. In Istanbul, even the helicopter tours are cheaper than in other countries I have visited. So, be sure Turkey is on your bucket list countries.

9. HONG KONG - China (Victoria)

Hong Kong is the 8^th-richest country in the world, and its capital is Victoria. Unlike Beijing, China, which is communist, Hong Kong is a democratic country. It is quite a clean city with a most impressive skyline (especially at nights).

Love Dim Sum? Then you are in the right place. Hong Kong is another Foodies’ paradise, from traditional to fusion food, for your enjoyment. Culinary delights such as Fish balls, Snake soup, Cha Siu Baau, and Roast Pigeon Egg tarts, etc. await you. For the real Foodies, who search for culinary delights with a twist, welcome home!

Hong Kong MTR system is the best and most efficient metro I have experienced, truly rapid, clean, and flawless service. I would suggest to visitors entering Hong Kong that their first purchase should be an Octopus card. This card will save you money and lots of time in ticket queues. It can also be used on many different modes of transport. The public transport system has options from double-Decker buses, trams, and trains, all reasonably priced and efficient.

Hong Kong has spectacular night views. Due to its famous city skyline over the picturesque Victoria Harbour. In 2005, Hong Kong broke the Guinness world record for the largest permanent light and sound show. Which is a 10-minute light show called the Symphony of Lights. This is seen nightly at Victoria Harbour and accompanied by beautiful music. It is very popular with visitors and an extraordinary experience. During your visit, be sure not to miss it.

Hong Kong is a highly developed has also won the worlds’ best business city for four years. It is also the city with the world’s largest number of skyscrapers, of all cities worldwide. All their Skyscrapers exceed 330 kilometres. Another interesting fact is that the city has the second-highest number of billionaires worldwide.

Looking for entertainment for the kids and or the entire family? There is a Disney Theme Park and Ocean Park in Hong Kong, among others. Ocean Park, I can attest, was thrilling (love the cable car rides to get you from the bottom of the park to the top). You may not know that 70% of Hong Kong is mountains, because of the many skyscrapers in the city, many will never guess this.

My no.1 sightseeing must-do recommendation to all visitors is to visit the *Tian Tan Giant Buddha on Lantau Island. Then climb 268 steps to get to the Buddha perched on the top of the hill sitting on a Lotus leaf. It is a total fun-filled day experience using the Ngong Ping cable car 360. It is an average 35 minutes ride over mountains and seas in a glass-bottom (or regular bottom) cable car.

For even more explorations, you can extend your vacation by visiting the nearby cities of Macau (also known as the “Asian Vegas” and for the world’s highest bungee jump. Another is Shenzhen (for shopping) using a train, ferry, or even bus you can easily access it. Both cosmopolitan cities have extras to offer the traveller.

Hong Kong is an expensive country. However, these three markets/shopping areas can save you some much-needed money. Mong Kok Market, a flagship market (one of the biggest markets). The Ladies Market you can get in the thick of things and enjoy the busy sight and sounds of shopping in the city. The Temple Street Night Market is the real deal, with quality items and opens for shopping only at night. All three markets I recommend you will enjoy for sure.

There are many mosques in Hong Kong which makes it Muslim-friendly. Not only this, but many restaurants specialise in serving Halal foods. Overall, Hong Kong is a country of history and culture. Hong Kong has the longest outdoor covered escalator in the world, 800 meters long. The Central-Mid Level escalator and walkway system cuts through streets in busy neighbourhoods and is free to the public. It’s a great way to do some site-seeing if you are a visitor. As you can see, Hong Kong has lots to offer and experience and should be on your bucket list.

10. RUSSIA (Moscow)

Moscow, Russia, is an idyllic destination. This post-soviet country is a real experience. It is majestic, elegant, and filled with mysteries. Moscow is one of the Greatest historic capitals, mainly for its unique architecture. Its religious structures (over 600 churches) are some of the most exotic, impressive, regal, and gorgeous seen to date. Many said structures have gold-plated dome roofs. Who wouldn’t want to see the Great Kremlin, Red Square, and especially the world-renown Saint Basil’s Cathedral?

Russia takes the top prize for having the most breath-taking, most luxurious metro stations in the world. I have never seen such extravagance in any metro stations before these. Envision you are in a palace with the finest artworks and gold trimmings, chandeliers, stained-glass, mosaic paintings, etc. That’s how royal the metro stations look in Moscow, each different in design and taste than the other. There are tour guides who take visitors station-hopping to visit these stations. For those visiting, set aside a half-day or the entire day to pace yourself and view all the stations (avoiding the rush hour).

For those who can handle Russia’s sub-zero winters, Christmas/winter would be a beautiful time of the year to visit. Besides being less crowded with visitors and cheaper, it’s a perfect time to enjoy a Russian white Christmas (remember Christmas Day is January 7th) filled with many cultural events. The annual Russian Winter Festival runs for a full month, beginning mid-December, and is something to add to your calendar.

If you love arts and museums, and nightlife, then Moscow and St. Petersburg would be a treat (all the people I have met from St, Petersburg were super friendly). One of my Russian friends summarised it nicely he said: “Moscow is for business and St. Petersburg is for love”. St. Petersburg has most buildings from the Tsarist era. It holds most baroque palaces, cathedrals, museums, and theatres.

Besides the most popular *Red Square, the *Kremlin, and *Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, be sure to visit other interesting sites in the city. My suggestions are: the *Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the *Great Bell Tower of Ivan the Terrible, *Zaryadye Park, *Sparrow Hills, and MSU and *Bolshoi Theatre, among many others.

Russia is one of the world’s artistic and cultural greats when it comes to literature, dance, music, and theatre. The culinary scene in Russian is also making headlines around the world, and the Foodies are finding the varied cuisines most enticing. What’s one thing you should not miss when in Russia, whether it may be in Moscow or St. Petersburg? The Russian Ballet (aka Moscow Ballet) is one of the oldest and best Ballet worldwide. There is much more to see and do in Russia, so add it to your bucket list to experience the post-soviet history.

11. VATICAN CITY

The Vatican City (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is the smallest country in the world and mecca of Catholicism. The Pope is the head of the Holy See (the government). Vatican City is one of the holiest and most sacred countries worldwide. To get to this tiny country (for first-time visitors), you will need to use the Rome-Fiumicino Airport in Italy. You can then drive to the Vatican City because it does not have an airport.

Even if you are not a Catholic or Christian, Vatican City has something nostalgic for everyone. It caters to all religions. On my previous visit, I met Muslims, Jews, and people of all other Religions from around the world. Those who have a passion for history, culture, artworks, and museums will be happy there.

You can be up close to see the Pope and his Swiss Guards. According to the time of the year, That’s if you are lucky to obtain one of the coveted seats in St. Peter’s Basilica, at his world-famous mass during Christmas. Whether you apply for tickets on the PPH website or request via email, during this period, for mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, know that tickets/passes usually disappear very quickly.

The Swiss guards (accompanying the Pope) in their regal, unusual, and quirky uniforms are a real eye-full. Might I add the Swiss Guards is also the world’s smallest army. They are hired to protect the Pope and are some of the best and highly trained guards worldwide.

The Vatican City can be proud that it has the world’s largest church, the Great landmark, St. Peter’s Basilica. This Basilica, situated in front of St. Peter’s Square, is a place for pilgrimage and liturgical functions by the Pope. St. Peter’s Square (shaped like a keyhole) is one of the world’s most famous squares. It is a splendid and majestic sight, especially at night. It is simply breath-taking.

When visiting the Vatican City, here are some other sites not to be missed. The *Vatican Gardens, the *Castel Sant’Angelo, the *Apostolic Palace, *Sistine Chapel, among others. (You can book tours in advance with Klook for a reasonable price and guaranteed admission). If you are into world-class and prominent museums, you are in for a treat. The Vatican Museums are a dream come true for those who love museums. There are many with several exquisite art collections and archaeology. They also feature historical and artistic places of Apostolic Palaces, all on display and awaiting your visit.

Remember when you visit to dress appropriately, no short pants or dresses, no sleeveless tops. It is in keeping with the strict dress code of the church, as a sign of respect. If you are already visiting Rome, then I am sure you will bucket list the Vatican City, as I did, on my 12 must-see bucket list countries.

MUST HAVE ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR ALL TRAVELLERS

These are my essentials and gadgets I can never do without for a smooth and stress-free vacation. All are available on Amazon for direct links to the products and information and suggested uses .

For MUST-READ BOOKS Think and Grow Rich is an excellent book for those who are looking to improve their life and personally grow and develop. How to win friends and Influence people (#Ad) another self improvement and and social skills development read (excellent read …perfect for long airport layovers and during your flight) or during your free time. CLICK HERE for the entire list of travel essentials and uses/descriptions

Ixpand Flash Drive- expandable storage for ipad/iphone and can be used with android and also computer

Universal USB Travel Adapter, perfect for use in any electrical outlet worldwide

perfect size for any handbag for any weather

prevents varicose veins and keeps blood circulating on long flights — Compression Socks - prevents varicose veins and great for athletes, keeps blood circulating on long flights (unisex)

think and grow rich — highly suggested.. a GREAT Read

How to win friends and influence people — highly suggested.. a GREAT Read

UV Sunglasses - protect your eye from UV rays at all time

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12. CUBA (Havana)

Who wouldn’t want to see first-hand what a communist country looks like and how life is under communism? Many people I have met during my travels have either been to or plan to visit Cuba. The main reason being it’s a Caribbean island, offering sea, sun, and sand, hospitable people (of course) excellent food, and lots more. However, Cuba has a little extra-something when compared to other Caribbean Islands. Therefore, so many tourists from around the world vacation in Havana.

Cuba is like a real-life movie scene or an exciting time warp. It is as if you are part of history that is still unfolding. Unique indeed! Unlike the rest of the Caribbean countries, life continues under communism, yet still thriving well. This country has something for everyone because it offers a variety of activities for every taste 24/7/365 days a year. However, there is a different atmosphere in Havana, Cuba.

Havana, Cuba, is an authentic, non-pretentious country and surviving under sanctions. Compared to some of the many other countries, Havana is not cheap, unlike what some may say or think. Cuba is famous for its rums, cocktails, music, classic American cars, and warm people, among many others.

Havana, Cuba, is safe, and its drinks and special-cocktails are superb and so too their food is delicious. One thing I admire about Cubans is that they seem to be very patriotic. Everywhere their flags are publicly (and even in private residences) and proudly displayed. Furthermore, every meal or drink served, a miniature flag accompanies it.

In old Havana (Habana Vieja), most of the streets can be a bit confusing to navigate as it seems like a never-ending maze of tall, old buildings. New Havana it’s completely different with newer buildings and a more upscale look. However, the visitors love the Old City much more because it is livelier. It is the heart of the action and pulse of Havana. Look around, some visitors puffing their Cuban cigars (even if they’ve never smoked before) just for the fun of it.

Havana is a never-ending party scene, the music-filled streets, the jive, and the live salsa bands at every bar. The older men, strumming their guitars and singing at almost every street corner. All in Havana ooh na na!

Personally, the mint-condition classic cars are, for me, the number one attraction in Havana. I might add to cruise around in one of these convertibles, while the Caribbean breeze caresses your skin, is priceless. It certainly is not cheap, but a definite must-do.

Cuba is more of an experience than a place for sightseeing. You must therefore experience, a visit to one of many Bohemian bars and enjoying a Cuban Mojito. Strolling along the streets of Old Havana and admire the brightly painted old buildings.

Don’t forget to visit the most photographed and viewed structure in Cuba, El Capitolio (the National Capital Building). How about basking in the sun or enjoying the waters of one of the pristine beaches in Cuba. All this one must do as part of the experience and feel of Cuba.

If you want to go deeper into the history of Cuba, then a visit to these popular sites is a must. *The San Pedro De La Roca Castle in Santiago, Cuba. *The Valley of Vinales (beautiful valley that produces the world-famous tobacco). *The colonial and colourful streets of Trinidad, which is a UNESCO site. *Bay of the Pigs, with its pristine waters (this area is famous for the unsuccessful U.S. invasion of Cuba).

Most of all, for a relaxing, more home-grown experience, forget the hotels unless you wish to splurge. A stay at a “casa particulars” offers an economical and better Cuban experience. At the end of your vacation, why not leave with your memories on canvas!? Cuba has many excellent artists and artworks; the shops can be found all over Havana at competitive prices. See my article, total guide to a solo vacation in Havana, Cuba, for a more detailed Cuban experience. It also gives tips and other information needed before booking your Cuban Escape. You can now see the reasons why Cuba is one of the 12 must-see bucket list countries you must bucket-list for 2021.

Conclusion

The Covid-19 pandemic has taught us all a valuable lesson. Life is fragile and short. Find your passion (if you haven’t yet) and enjoy life to the fullest now that you have it. Our movements are presently restricted, and we must hold on to our fond travel memories. Like all things in life, this pandemic will have an end someday.

When it’s over, and we once again have freedom of movement, we will resume our (travel) lives. Until then, if you love to traveI as I do, then now is the time to make your travel bucket list. So, I hope my list of 12 must-see bucket list countries, will assist in the selection of destinations post-COVID-19.

Share your thoughts on countries you have visited or would love to add to your bucket list.

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