An Alternative Bucket List
For so many people, a travelling bucket list means pretty much the same thing. New York at Christmas to feel like you’re in a rom-com, Las Vegas for the glitz and the glamour, Australia for the laid-back lifestyle and glorious beaches, or Iceland to take a dip in the hot springs and maybe catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Don’t get me wrong, that all sounds great, but how about trying something different? For the lucky, the arty, and the fairytale lovers, here is an alternative bucket list; three different destinations with slightly off-the-wall reasons to visit them.
Yorkshire, UK – For the Lucky (or the Unlucky)
Known to residents as “God’s own country”, there’s something charming about Yorkshire, the biggest county in the UK. From its beautiful landscapes and historic roots to the friendly locals, it’s definitely worth a visit.
The main reason? In a study conducted by mFortune, Leeds has been found to be the luckiest city in the UK.
While you’re there, why not check out Yorkshire Wildlife park (home to the country’s only polar bear), Meadowhall Shopping Centre (the land of shopportunity), or head out onto the purple, heathered Yorkshire Moors (the setting for Wuthering Heights)?
Amsterdam, The Netherlands – For the Arty Types
We all know what Amsterdam is best known for, however, it is also the home of the world’s first fluorescent art museum. Electric Ladyland was opened in 1999 by artist Nick Padalino; a psychedelic experience that allows visitors to participate in the creation of the art. Take off your shoes and step into a world of kaleidoscopic sculptures and art to the soundtrack of the iconic Beatles and Jimi Hendrix.
While you’re there, why not wander down the sleepy canals of Jordaan and up to De 9 Straatjes, nine cobbled streets nestled in the center of Amsterdam where you can shop your heart out. For a bit of history and culture, Anne Frank’s house sits right on the canal; an immersive experience into Amsterdam’s haunted past.
Bavaria, Germany – For the Fairytale Lovers
Schwangau in Bavarian Germany is home to the most enchanting castle you’ll ever lay your eyes on. Neuschwanstein Castle was the inspiration for so many of the fairytale castles we know and love, including Sleeping Beauty’s castle at Disneyland and Cinderella’s Castle in Magic Kingdom. Designed by theatrical set designer Christian Jank and built way back in 1869, the castle served as a retreat for Ludwig II of Bavaria (known as the ‘fairytale king’). Embrace your inner enchantment and pretend you’re in a fairytale of your own with a trip to this magical place.
While you’re there, why not head over to Munich, home of Oktoberfest. Drink your fill of Bavarian beer and, if you’re there at the right time, you may be able to visit the world-famous Christmas Markets.