My Top WOW Destinations From Around The World (Part II)

"A mind that is stretched by new experience can never go back to its old dimensions." - Oliver Wendell Holmes

Did you think my list was complete after the first article? Well, you were mistaken! Truth be told, narrowing down my selection of amazing destinations to just a few is incredibly challenging. With that in mind, here is the follow-up to my previous article, showcasing more of the most awe-inspiring places and unforgettable moments that left me utterly speechless.

Carpathian Mountains, Romania

This is by far my dream fantasy landscape, and I had the privilege of experiencing it first-hand while living in Romania. The enchanting Carpathian Mountains are teeming with flora and fauna most of us only read about in childhood books. Endless coniferous forests, tranquil lakes, imposing mountains with freezing winters and scorching summers – the perfect backdrop for endless adventures and sightseeing. Bears, wolves, and all the wildlife typical of such an ecosystem are not only present but can easily be spotted while exploring. Not to mention the delicious traditional cuisine, the cosy, affordable guest houses found all over, and the authentic rural lifestyle that ties it all together. The Carpathian Mountains will forever hold a special place in my heart (and take my breath away every time I visit).

Phuket, Thailand

Exploring Thailand was a delight, despite the crowds and tourist traps. The reputation of Thai food is well-earned – I relished every meal, whether it was fine dining or street food in Bangkok, Phuket, and the surrounding towns. And of course, there’s the famous Thai massage – it’s no myth! If you ever have the chance to experience an authentic Thai massage, don’t pass it up. It’s high on my list, second only to the hot stone massage. I loved the contrast between the chaotic cities and the serene boutique hotels and chic restaurants. Venturing beyond Bangkok and Phuket on a scooter, where everything was less touristy, was another highlight. Elephants and monkeys casually crossing the roads were an unforgettable sight. But nothing compared to the moment I hopped on a traditional long-tail boat to the Phi Phi Islands and the mythical Maya Bay. Despite the crowds, I was transfixed by the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Coming from the Caribbean and having visited Tahiti, I wasn’t expecting to be so impressed, but the towering limestone formations rising from the sea were mesmerising. It felt like a dreamscape, straight out of a postcard. Our boat guide often switched off the engine, allowing the boat to drift in serene bays, and took us to quieter, more secluded spots. Stepping onto the sugar-soft sands and swimming in the warm aquamarine waters was an absolute treat.

Pic-du-Midi, France

While living near Toulouse, my husband and I visited the Pic-du-Midi with friends one weekend. It’s one of the highest peaks in the French Pyrenees, standing at 2,877 metres. After a short hike at the base, we took a cable car and continued on foot before finally reaching the astronomical observatory. The view from the top was otherworldly – I felt as if I had landed on another planet. We spent hours on the platform, gazing at the endless snowy peaks stretching into the bright blue sky. The altitude made breathing a challenge at first, but we soon adapted and relaxed. It’s safe to say the experience literally took my breath away.

Santorini, Greece

Greece is one of those magical Mediterranean countries I’ve returned to four times, which says a lot for someone like me. Greek summers are warm and laid-back, similar to Italy’s Dolce Vita but with more seafood, seafront views, and island hopping. The Greco-Roman ruins, the exquisite cuisine and wine, and the plethora of boat options to explore the islands make it a dream destination. The sheer variety of boats – ferries, cruises, high-speed hydrofoils, yachts, and more – criss-crossing the Aegean Sea is astonishing. Although each island has its own unique charm, Santorini stood out the most. Yes, the locals might tell you there are more beautiful and less touristy islands, and they’re right. But for me, Santorini lived up to the hype. Arriving by boat, I was struck by the sight of white villages perched atop the cliffs, resembling mountains topped with vanilla ice cream. Exploring the winding pedestrian paths of Imerovigli, staying in boutique hotels with private pools overlooking the sea, and watching the sunset from Oïa were unforgettable experiences. Renting quad bikes to explore the island, visiting vineyards, beaches, and traditional villages, and indulging in the local cuisine made for a truly delightful holiday.

Giant Rock City, Czech Republic

Last summer, while on a road trip across Europe with my husband and our two-year-old, we stumbled upon Giant Rock City near the Czech-Polish border. It wasn’t the easiest place to find, and we even paid a fine for entering the wrong path, but eventually, we reached the park. After changing into hiking gear and paying for our tickets, we ventured into the national reserve. The towering sandstone formations were breathtaking – enormous boulders, walls of rock, narrow passageways, and streams winding through it all. It felt like we had entered a prehistoric landscape. Our toddler loved every moment, and we were in awe throughout the hike.

Bahía de la Águilas, Dominican Republic and Amani-y Les Bains, Haiti

These two beaches, though on different sides of the island of Hispaniola, are incredibly similar. Both are isolated and difficult to access, but the reward is stunning. Endless white sand, crystal-clear aquamarine waters, and a serene, untouched atmosphere. The beaches are unshaded, with the vegetation set far back, and both are quiet, peaceful havens. Though I haven’t visited in some time, they remain etched in my memory as two of the most picturesque and pristine beaches I’ve ever seen.

There are countless other places dear to my heart – the Sine Saloum Delta and Sobo Badé Village in Senegal, the haunting experience of Auschwitz and Birkenau in Poland, the grandeur of Vatican City, the mysteries of Morocco, the power of the Maori culture in New Zealand, the immenseness of Moscow's Kremlin, my amazement of Gaudí's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, or my drunken escapades inside the world's biggest wine cellar at Milestii Mici in Moldova. But this should do for now – I’ll let your imagination fill in the rest.

Sarah the Digital GypSea

Romania, October 2020