By Ann Abel

Machu Picchu, the Great Wall and the Taj Mahal used to occupy top spots on many people’s bucket lists. But the “bucket list”—a term I’ve always despised—is giving way to a general desire to go big, splurge on an adventure and seek out dream experiences now, because we’ve all been pent up for too long and because we’ve all seen how quickly plans can change, how quickly opportunities might disappear.

Also, for various reasons, visiting places that get millions of visitors each year is less appealing than it used to be. We want to have mind-blowing experiences in mind-blowing places, but without the crowds. The pandemic isn’t finished, overtourism is back, and we don’t want to be part of either. Here’s some better dream fodder … continue reading

Ann Abel is a travel writer and editor and was a senior editor at ForbesLife. She writes for Forbes, Departures, Conde Nast Traveller, Robb Report, Afar, National Geographic Traveler, Islands, Hemispheres, Brides, Modern Bride, Well + Good NYC, and other print and online publications.”In the name of lifestyle journalism, ” she says, ” I’ve gotten a tattoo in Bora Bora, been bitten by a massage therapist, and flown small aircraft above three continents.” She lives in Lisbon.