The easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana, is often marketed as an effortless escape replete with white-sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and a “wrist-banded” version of the Caribbean. But for first-time travelers willing to move beyond the resort gates, the destination unfolds into something far more dynamic: a mix of agriculture, community life, underground landscapes, coastal adventures, and cultural rhythms that rarely sit on a brochure.
Visiting iconic destinations and landmarks is often considered the gold standard of travel. The fancy canals and bridges of Venice, the postcard-worthy Swiss Alps, the pristine, perfect beaches of Koh Samui, etc., we have perhaps romanticized them all while scrolling on social media. However, these ‘must-visit’ destinations can often prove to be far less romantic!
If the thought of braving a treacherous path, irrespective of blistering sun or bone-chilling cold, gives you an adrenaline surge like no other, then this article is for you. From the iconic Everest base camp tucked in the Himalayan ranges to Africa’s towering Kilimanjaro, to Europe’s majestic Mont Blanc, and the formidable trails of Nepal’s Annapurna, we have rounded up eight of the most epic hikes on the planet.
For many, a perfect hotel stay equals a cozy bed, infinity pool, world-class amenities, and, of course, a scrumptious breakfast spread worthy of royalty. Agreed; nothing beats the luxurious charm of a fancy five-star or seven-star hotel. But there is also a realm of the hospitality industry waiting to blow your mind with whimsical, wild, weird, and wonderfully innovative hotel experiences.
