8 Countries You Need to Visit in Your Lifetime

The world is a big place with an endless array of sights to see and things to experience. With so much variety out there, it can be hard to know where to begin for anyone who is trying to decide where to go and what to do. The following countries are the ones that any discerning traveler should be putting at the top of their list of places to visit. Each of the following places has something completely unique to offer.

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Morocco

Home of Casablanca, Morocco is a country unlike any other. Located in the Northernmost point of Africa, separated from Europe by the Gibraltar strait, Morocco is an irresistible blend of gorgeous landscapes, spice markets, and some of the most beautiful religious architecture in the world in the country’s many mosques. Morocco is also home to a cuisine unlike any other, one which blends influences from a number of different sources including African, French, Persian, and Arab.

Canada

Canada is home to one of the most varied landscapes in the world. It is a huge country, much bigger than many people realize. Within its vast expanse there are tundra, forests, and of course urban environments. Each of these has a diverse range of wildlife to offer. Canada’s most famous animals include bears, beavers, and elk. It’s best known cities, Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, and Ottawa, each have something different to offer to visitors, and the country as a whole is known for its hospitable attitude.

Japan

One of the most unique countries on the planet, Japan is in fact known for just how unlike anywhere else it is. Many people think that they can get to know Japan from afar, but it actually requires first-hand experience to truly understand this place. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are the most popular tourist destinations. The country itself is home to a couple of thousand Buddhist temples and shrines which exemplify the Japanese architectural style.

Egypt

Egypt is home to some of the most famous architectural sites in the world, most notably the Great Pyramid, and the Sphynx. However, these world wonders are far from the only reason to visit Egypt (for example with Egypt Tours). The country is also home to an inordinate amount of history and a totally unique culture. There is a huge amount to see and do in Egypt, so much that it can be difficult for a first-time visitor to navigate their way around. Egypt tours from Memphis Tours are a great way to ensure that you make the most of your time in Egypt. Also, celebrating Christmas in Egypt is quite an experience and should ideally be on the itinerary of every visitor who is in the country during the season. 

Portugal

Spain’s smaller neighbor, located on the western side of the Iberian Peninsula, is often not appreciated for its distinct cuisine and culture compared to its larger neighbor. However, with its own language and colonial legacy (Brazil is the largest Portuguese speaking nation on Earth) Portugal is a small nation with a huge amount to see and do.

Chile

Bordered to the East of the extensive Andes mountain range, Chile is kept isolated from the rest of the South American continent, and indeed the world, by this extensive natural barrier. Chile is also home to the Atacama Desert, possibly the most inhospitable and barren place on Earth. Chile is a country that is defined by its extreme landscapes. 2018 marks 200 years of independence for the nation, and with non-stop flights from many of the world’s major airports, there has never been a better time to visit Chile.

South Korea

South Korea is one of the most modern and high-tech nations in the world and boasts a very high standardof living. In the capital Seoul, where the majority of the population lives, soaring skyscrapers dominate the skyline, while the city at street-level is a cornucopia of cafes, restaurants, and retail outlets. A high-speed railway line can whisk travelers from across the country at record speeds.

New Zealand

Perhaps best known today as the place where the Lord of The Rings films were shot, New Zealand contains some of the most amazing, unique, and utterly beautiful landscapes in the world. The small island nation hasn’t just attracted those seeking to see the greatest sights, it has long been the go-to destination for thrill seekers and extreme sports enthusiasts. There are numerous hiking trails around New Zealand, allowing any curious traveler to experience the full majesty of the country on foot.

The above countries are all must-see destinations, but they are far from the only places on Earth worth visiting. For more travel destination ideas, check out this guide from Lonely Planet.