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I can’t believe that this is already my fourth post this semester! Today, I decided to talk about one of my more recent additions to my bucket list: Tokyo! When one of my best friends visited the capital of Japan earlier this year, her descriptions of the bright lights and bustling streets juxtaposing the amazing culture seemed straight out of Fast and Furious. There is something in cities that is soothing to me: the constant fast-paced way of life  and an unlimited amount of opportunities and experiences. Tokyo checked all of those boxes and more! Like the rest of my posts so far, Tokyo provides thrilling adventures with a beautiful, rich cultural background. 

There are so many attractions that I could never write about all of them, but one that really caught my eye was Senso-ji, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo.  Built in 645 AD, the Buddhist temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of compassion. Why? It has to do with 2 brothers and a legend of a returning statue.

What really steals the thunder is the Kaminari-mon Gate that is red as a fire engine. The outer gates of the temple catch your eye not only because of the bright color, but also the gigantic lantern that is inscribed with “Thunder Gate.” A worthy name for something so big and powerful. 

Many already know that Japan is famous for cherry blossom (sakura) trees with only a mere 600 species. In fact, the cherry blossoms we are used to seeing in Washington DC are actually a gift from the country to solidify the alliance between the US and Japan. But, if you ever want to see the flowers bloom in their native land, check out Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden that has over a 1000 sakura trees. A bit off the beaten path from the hustle and bustle of the city, the garden offers a beautiful oasis to breathe in the fresh air and live in the moment. 

Doing a total 180, if you’re in Tokyo because you want to feel like you are in a city, you need to check out Shibuya Crossing and Ginza. Both will make you feel like you are transported to NYC! Shibuya Crossing is one of the largest and busiest pedestrian intersections in the world with as many as 3,000 people crossing at once. After marveling at this incredible feat, grab a bus or train to Ginza, Tokyo’s premier shopping district for all things glitz and glam. 

Even if you don’t like shopping at the over 240 trendy stores, there is still something for everyone. Art galleries, night clubs, restaurants and countless billboards that make Times Square look tiny. Even history buffs will enjoy learning that 5 ancient roads connecting Japan’s major cities all met in the center of Ginza when it was a commercial center for the country. 

Even though it is a recent addition, I cannot wait until I can finally see this city with my own eyes. It sounds unbelievable that such a high-tech city has so much history and culture which makes me wonder: does Tokyo make history, or does history make Tokyo? 

The next place that has been on my bucket list for a long time is Singapore. Looking back, the reason is a funny story: the airport. I remember watching a video about the country’s luxurious Changi airport that offers not only the common boutique hotels and duty-free shopping, but also some of the best amenities to its travelers such as the Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall in the world, and Butterfly Park.

You could honestly spend an entire week just in the airport, with many YouTube vloggers doing just that. However, Singapore offers many more attractions that will make you want to leave the airport and explore the new-found opportunities! 

Number 1 on the list of things to see? Marina Bay Sands. Located right on the Singaporean bayfront, Marina Bay Sands gives all of its guests a taste of opulent living. The iconic resort boasts over 20 restaurant options for an exclusive dining atmosphere with celebrity chefs. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with a 4-floor casino and some of the hottest nightclubs where you may even spot celebrities if you’re lucky. Need time to relax? Check out the world’s biggest infinity pool on the roof.  It’s nearly three Olympic swimming pools in length!

An extra bonus: you will be greeted with the best views of the Singapore skyline. The resort’s beautiful, expansive pool deck was also featured in the 2018 romantic comedy Crazy Rich Asians. 

Another famous tourist spot is the Helix Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that connects the two sections of Marina Bay: Central and South. Modeled after the double helix structure of DNA, LED lights illuminate the letters c, g, a and t (the four bases that make up the genetic material) at night. Canopies made of glass and steel offer shade during the day. With a total walking distance of 919 ft (280 meters), the bridge offers beautiful views of the waterfront and easy access to other attractions such as the ArtScience Museum and Youth Olympic Park.

Not only does Singapore have amazing views, but it is also home to delicious cuisine with influences from China, India, Thailand, England and other neighboring regions after its rich political and social history. You will often find authentic Singaporean food in hawker centers around the city.

In fact, they are so culturally prominent that they remained one of the national icons throughout history. An alternative to food carts that chefs once used in the 1800s, hawker centers provide a more sanitary and environmentally conscious location for people of all walks of life to dine. Locals highly recommend chicken rice, the unofficial national dish, Laksa, Rojak or a Saty for an on-the-go snack.

Singapore is a city-state of culture, adventure and fun. It is also a place where one visit would not suffice in exploring all it has to offer. I’m glad that my younger self clicked on that random video on YouTube because now, I cannot wait until I touch down on the runway of Changi airport!

Since last week was all about beaches and tropical destinations, I decided to switch it up and travel further north for the next place on my bucket list: Iceland! If you’re anything like me and despise winter (except for the holidays—and hot chocolate), the first thing you’ll probably think is “Iceland? The country’s name literally has the word ‘ice.’” And yeah, it is cold; the average high temperature is only 60 F, which is practically spring or fall around here. However, this Nordic country is home to some of the most spectacular—and scientifically intriguing—views that we don’t get to experience in the Keystone state. 

Don’t know where to start? If you plan your vacation between September and April, you will be captivated by the beautiful and vibrant aurora borealis—more commonly known as the Northern Lights. But, do you know what causes these dancing waves of lights? Scientists hypothesize that charged particles from the Sun strike Earth’s atmosphere, composed of nitrogen and oxygen molecules; these collisions heat up the gas and cause them to “glow” in captivating shades of green and purple. Although this light show can be seen in many places across the country, dark rural areas such as Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon or Grótta Lighthouse make for the best viewing experience due to limited light pollution. 

Iceland is also famous for its extensive network of hot springs and geothermal pools due to its location smack dab in the middle of two tectonic plates, which cause volcano-like forces to naturally heat bodies of water. Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spot in southwestern Iceland, is only a 20 minute ride from Keflavík Airport and offers a relaxing spa-like environment. Indulge in steaming hot pools with a complimentary silica mud mask (a popular facial treatment) and rinse off using the spa’s original haircare and skincare line: BL+.

You can get all of these plus a towel and drink for just 90 USD (a steal that won’t last long!). Although just a few hours is enough to utilize all the amenities, Blue Lagoon also offers luxurious hotels and dining to extend your stay. 

If you are looking for a thrilling adventure after relaxing, look no further than Ring Road, the main road that loops around the entire island and features waterfalls, hiking trails and so much more. The entire trip usually takes a week with stops along the way (check this link for a guide), but if you are pressed for time, I would check out Skógafoss; one of the largest waterfalls with a jaw-dropping drop of 197 feet, Skógafoss offers a 30 minute hike to the top along gravel trails. When you make it to the top, you are greeted with a picturesque landscape of rolling green hills, seabirds and occasionally, a rainbow. 

Finally, end your vacation at the quaint town of Vik, whose population is only 381—it’s really tiny! It is the home of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, formed from volcanic ashes (just like Greece). Not only can you take a leisurely walk on the beach,  but you can also see the long hexagonal basalt columns that provide yet another view of the crystal blue glacier water. 

Even though Iceland may be cold, it still holds a special place on my bucket list; it is one of the only places that provides serene relaxation and thrilling adventures all in one vacation. 

After mentally debating several topics for an entire week, I thought it would only be fitting if this blog captured my biggest passion: traveling. So, welcome to my digital bucket list of all the places I want to visit! First up: Greece. 

After watching Mamma Mia! for the first time in elementary school, Greece mesmerized me with its sandy beaches, ravishing blue-green water and architecture (new and old) whose influence spans the globe. Since then, the country has been #1 on my list!

Anyone who glances at a world map sees that this southeastern European country consists of over 20 islands speckled over the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. However, each of these islands could not be more different with its diverse culture and tourist attraction spots. The most notable: Santorini. Formed by an erupting volcano, Santorini is home to lava pebble beaches in a variety of earthy colors. For an invigorating swim, try the private and secluded White Beach cascading over tall cliffs. If you adore strolling around the sandy shores, Red Beach deserves a shout-out for its stunning red-hued sand embellishing the salty sparkling water. If you do end up visiting Santorini, make sure you check out the pink beach in Crete (another nearby island), locally cherished as the Elafonisi beach. Just like the name suggests, you won’t find normal tan sand here; instead, uncover crushed seashells that cover the beach in a rosy tint.

 A fan of architecture? Did you know that the iconic white buildings that every tourist has at least one picture in their camera roll were once cave houses (known as yposkafa) built by the Greek to withstand volcanic eruptions? Moreover, the white walls are intentional; not only do they reflect sunlight to keep the homes, churches, and meeting areas cool, but the white color is also derived from limestone, a natural disinfectant! 

Speaking of architecture, you can uncover a whole range of architectural fascination across the islands. Capital city Athens showcases ancient Greek temples that draw from ideas of harmony and balance. Examine these architectural fascinations at the Acropolis of Athens, Palace of Knossos in Crete and treasure even more artifacts of the past at the Acropolis Museum. 

After walking around all day, you will definitely stir up an appetite! Santorini offers authentic Greek food packed full of herbs, meats and olive oil that is a must if you visit. Uncover entrées such as Papoutsakia (stuffed eggplants), Souvlaki (Gyros) or the variety of seafood dishes that dominate restaurant menus. For dessert, definitely check out Baklava (pastry with nuts and syrup) or a traditional Galaktoboureko (milk pie) to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

 

Try making them at home!

 

 

End the day by relaxing at any one of the numerous hotels and resorts located along the coast of the Greek islands. With luxurious amenities and marvelous views of the shore, these locations, albeit pricey, revitalize your energy before you head off to explore Santorini (or maybe another island?) and create memories in Greece. 

Although Greece remains on my wishful bucket list for now, many of my friends who visited praise the postcard-esque views and friendly local residents who helped the country become one of the 10 most welcoming places on Earth!