Everyone has something they want to do before the inevitable happens. As we hope the inevitable will come as late as it possibly can, the activities on our bucket list go unchecked. 

Most people hesitate to do something they always wanted to do. The main reason is that they can’t afford it or they can’t find the time and so on. However, you cannot live your life to the fullest unless you do something for yourself. 

Therefore, you must take a leap of faith, or you’ll end up regretting not doing something. So, live a little will you and give that bucket list another go. That said, here’s why you should check things off your bucket list as soon as possible.

Time is running out.

No, it’s not but the window of opportunity when you can actually do something doesn’t appear very often, so if you don’t take the chase now, you might never decide to actually do it. 

A good example is that lots of guys want to attend an NBA game, in person, of course. They will often browse the best US sportsbooks and perhaps place a few wagers but never actually go to the game. 

The main reason is that tickets are expensive, and they get sold out almost immediately. So, if going to the NBA Finals is on your bucket list, you should plan a guy’s road trip to wherever the finals will take place, on time and actually commit to it. 

In life, something always comes up that makes people hesitate when chasing their dreams. But time is not promised to anyone. See why you should check things off your bucket list as soon as possible:
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Life is a box of chocolates. 

Most people spend their lives grinding through the system, never actually doing anything they like. So, when you’re old and retired, you no longer have the energy or the will to do the things you wanted to do when you were younger. 

Don’t wait to be burdened by regret when you’re old and wrinkly. As they say that life is full of surprises, you’ll never get a chance to find out just how much that is true if you don’t actually do something. 

If we take the aforementioned example, it’s one thing to watch NBA Playoffs at home and a completely different experience to watch a game in person. So, if a chance presents itself for you to actually do something you’ve always wanted, make sure you capitalize on it.

Carpe Diem

The thing that makes people so indecisive about doing something they like that may turn out to be something stupid in the end, is thinking about the future. Future is uncertain to say the least and dealing with consequences of your actions is a bridge you should cross once you actually get there. 

Therefore, seize the moment and don’t look back or forward, for that matter. There’s no time like the present so if you have an opportunity to scratch that thing off your bucket list, then by all means do it. 

Whether it turns out to be an awesome or terrible experience is irrelevant. The fact of the matter is that you’ll never know unless you make that step. And if you don’t do it, you’ll spend the rest of your life wondering about “what if”. 

Don’t forget to Pin this to your favorite Bucket List Board!

The post Why You Should Check Things Off Your Bucket List as Soon as Possible appeared first on The Bucket List Project.

For the thrill-seeker, there is nothing like an adrenaline rush. If you are looking for an adventure that will get your heart racing, you need to check out these four breathtaking options! Whether you are into extreme sports like Climbing Devil’s Tower in Wyoming or you prefer something a little tamer, we have covered you. So put on your adventurer’s hat and get ready to explore some of the most amazing adventures for adrenaline junkies in the world!

1) Base Jumping 

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, base jumping is hard to beat. If you are not familiar with the term, base jumping is parachuting from a fixed structure. This can be anything from a cliff face to a skyscraper. While it may seem like a crazy thing to do, base jumpers say that the feeling of freedom and exhilaration is unlike anything else. If you are looking for an adventure that will push you to your limits, then base jumping is something you should consider. However, it is essential to note that base jumping is hazardous and should not be undertaken lightly. Make sure you do your research and only attempt this if you are confident in your abilities.

2) Bungee Jumping:

If base jumping is too extreme for you, then bungee jumping might be more your speed. While it may not be as intense as base jumping, bungee jumping is still an adrenaline-pumping activity. For the unfamiliar, bungee jumping involves jumping from a high platform while attached to a large elastic cord. The cord prevents you from hitting the ground and makes for a wild ride. So, if you are looking for an adventure that will get your heart racing, bungee jumping is something to consider. Just make sure you pick a reputable company and follow their safety instructions.

Whether you are into extreme sports or you prefer something a little tamer, if you are looking for an adventure that will get your heart racing, you need to check out these four breathtaking options!
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3) Haunted Farm

If you are looking for an adventure that is a little more on the tame side, then you might want to consider visiting a haunted farm. While this may not be the most traditional adrenaline-pumping activity, it can be creepy and exciting. There are many different haunted farms like Connors Farm located worldwide, and each one offers its own unique experience. If you are brave enough to spend a night on a haunted farm, you will have an adventure that you will never forget. Just make sure to do your research beforehand and pick a good reputation farm.

4) Shark Cage Diving

If you are looking for an exhilarating and terrifying adventure, then shark cage diving is something you should consider. Shark cage diving involves getting into a metal cage and being lowered into the water with sharks. While it may sound like a crazy thing to do, many people say it is an amazing experience. If you are not afraid of heights and don’t mind getting up close and personal with some of the ocean’s most feared predators, then shark cage diving is something you should consider. However, it is essential to note that this activity can be dangerous if you do not follow the safety instructions. Make sure you pick a reputable company and listen to their guidelines carefully.

These are just four of the many breathtaking adventures adrenaline junkies can consider. But are there other types of options we should consider for our Adventure Activities or Experience Bucket List? What are some of your favorite activities that make you want to get out there and start exploring? Let us know in the comments below & Who knows! You might inspire someone else to find their new favorite hobby.

Don’t forget to Pin this to your Favorite Bucket List Board!

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When a person is dreaming of places to tackle bucket list adventures, I’m sure Germany tends pop up as an option. That’s because the country is packed with ton of fun and unique experiences. For most people, I am sure items like racing down the Autobahn, taking a river boat cruise down the Rhine River in Cologne, or dancing the Polka at Oktoberfest come to mind. But recently, we discovered a great activity you should add to your bucket list: to Bike Tour Germany.

Wait, you’re not 5, why on earth would you want to spend your day cycling in Germany? I mean aren’t you on Holiday?

Look, we get it! Exploring Germany by bike might sound hard but trust us riding German touring bikes are as easy as, well, riding a bike!

Cycling in Germany is Very Convenient

Travelling around Germany isn’t necessarily hard with countless trains, underground rails, and bus routes. Yet, when you bike tour Germany, you no longer worry about crowds or timetables. Not to mention, often when you arrive by public transportation, you still have to walk to your desired destination.

Of course, you could always rent a car in Germany. However, you still face the challenge of traffic and finding parking. When cycling in Germany, you can easily just ride up to your desired destination and not have to worry about spending hours looking for a spot to park.

Whether it's seeing amazing palaces, admiring the Berlin Wall, or exploring along the Rhine River, cycling in Germany can get you there. See why you should add BIKE TOUR GERMANY to your Bucket List! #DonkeyRepublic #biking
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When You Bike Tour Germany You Discover More

With over 45,000 miles of bike paths throughout the country, it is definitely easy to take a cycling holiday in Germany. Whether it’s something in the main tourist section of a city or a palace on the outskirts of town, using a German touring bike can get you there. Like in Berlin, a lot of the hot spots are near the Brandenburg Gate in former East Berlin. But the famous Charlottenburg Palace is on the other side of town in the former West Berlin. According to Google Maps, from the Brandenburg Gate, you would need to hop on the S Bahn or a bus, then transfer to the underground or another bus, and then walk 5 to 10 minutes totaling about 40 minutes. A forty-minute trip may dissuade you from visiting this beautiful palace. But with a bike, it is an easy 20-minute ride over there from Brandenburg gate.

Also, while riding a bike in Germany, you get to find the hidden gems like a unique historical site or local hot spot. For example, in Munich, riding bikes allowed us to discover a unique World War II historical site often missed by visitors, behind the Feldherrnhalle known as Shirker’s Alley (Drückebergergasse).

You Save Money When You Explore Germany By Bike

While travelling, getting around can be a rather expensive add on to any adventure. With a car rentals, gas, and paid parking, it can often total as much as the plane ticket to get there. If you decide to skip the car rental, then you are forced to use public transportation which is great in Germany but can nickel and dime you every time you use it.

However, when you bike tour Germany, cost becomes less of a factor. Generally, with bike sharing services like Donkey Republic, you can easily find a bike for about €10 ($12 USD) for the full day. That is, it!

Germany Touring Bikes Are Good For Your Body

It is hard to escape all of the sausages, schnitzels, pretzels, sauerkraut, and strudels in Germany. Then to top it off, there is a ton of great beer everywhere. This is why Germany is considered a food and beer heaven. However, all of that good food and beer can lead to some unforgiving vacation weight gain.

This is where exploring Germany by bike, may help. No sane person would deny a good beer and brat combo. So, riding one of those German touring bikes may help burn off some of those extra yummy calories you will be consuming. For example, according to myFitnessPal, a pint of pilsner is about 150-250 calories, and a typical bratwurst can be around 300 calories. Since most people burn about 500-600 calories an hour riding a bike like the ones offered by Donkey Republic, you just earned your lunch cruising around town.

Cycling Holidays in Germany May Relieve Stress

Vacations are supposed to offer you a much-needed break from life at work and home. But TSA lines at the airport, crowds of people bumping into you at Check Point Charlie, or dealing with jet lag can sometimes be very stressful. However, stress relief can happen in several ways when you bike tour Germany.

First, after an hour of any endurance exercise like riding a bike, hormones like serotonin and endorphins get released. This can give you a feeling of happiness while reducing anxiety and stress.

Second, riding a bike can help you get to sleep better at night and fight jet lag. Cycling holidays get you outdoors which exposes you to sunlight. This is great because that sunlight can help in resetting your circadian rhythms. With big, beautiful parks like the Englischer Garten in Munich or the Tiergarten in Berlin, you can set yourself up for a good night sleep as you soak up the vitamin D.

When people think of places with bucketlist adventures, Germany tends to offer a ton of opportunities. Perhaps that's why cycling holidays in Germany are so popular. But are they right for you? #Bikeshare #biking #donkeyrepublic
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You Can Bike Tour Germany Easily With Donkey Republic

It is extremely easy to rent a touring bike in many cities in Germany with Donkey Republic. Just Follow the instructions below and start exploring:

1. Visit www.donkey.bike and download the Donkey Republic app on iOS or Android.
2. Once the app is downloaded, open it and search for bikes in your city. If you are planning ahead, see where what cities in Germany or anywhere in the world Donkey Republic has bikes by visiting www.donkey.bike/cities
3. Then locate the bikes you want to rent. When you get there, choose the number of bikes you need and click “Rent Now”.
4. It will next give you Drop-off options. Then choose one of two options. Option 1 is where you return the bike to the original pick-up location. With Option 2, you can choose to return it to any other return location. This is great if you are just using your bike to get to a far-off location but don’t want to have to ride it back to your origination spot.
5. It then takes you to the payment page, where, if you want, you can purchase theft insurance for the day.
6. The payment page will also give you an option to add a Coupon Code. Don’t forget to enter BUCKETLIST to save an additional 15% off your rental!
7. From there it will tell you the Bike Number that is yours for the day. You can see number on the bike by looking at the cell phone holder on the handlebars.
8. Then make sure you turn on your phone’s Bluetooth. Then tap “Unlock” on your phone and the app will open the bike’s electronic lock. What is really cool is that you can lock or unlock your electronic bike lock whenever you want. So, if you are riding by the Chinesischer Turm beer garden in Munich’s Englischer Garten, you can easily lock up your bike and stop for a Beer and Brats. 
9. Explore Germany by bike and have an unbelievable day seeing the sites.
10. When you are done, return the bike, lock the electronic bike lock, and click end your rental.

Now “Get on your bikes and ride!“

Freddy Mercury’s command at the end of Queen’s famous song, ‘Bicycle Race’, always seemed pretty easy to follow. I mean, as a kid, who doesn’t want to ride their bike? So, it only makes sense that even as adults, cycling holidays in Germany sound bucket list worthy. But have you ever wanted to bike tour Germany before? Have you ever tried cycling in Germany on a bike from Donkey Republic? Which of the reasons why you should explore Germany by bike is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

Don’t forget to Pin “Why You Should Bike Tour Germany” to your Bucket List Board!

Disclosure: The Bucket List Project partnered with the bike-sharing company Donkey Republic in Germany. With that said, all opinions in “Why You Should Bike Tour Germany” are our own. This post may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

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Watching or taking part in sports can be a great way to pass the time. But during the Olympics we often see some unique sports that intrigue us to try something new.  But are there some of the underrated sports that are bucket list worthy? We think so! Read on for some of our favorite underrated sports.

Rugby

If you are a fan of American Football, you will love rugby. This full contact sport is loved all over the world for being intense and messy. The game is so intense, some people have questioned if there are rules in place. The 6 Nations is one of the most popular competitions which takes place every year. Teams from Ireland, England, France, Italy, Scotland, and Wales compete to win the 6 Nations trophy. 

From standard sports like Golf & Rugby to Extreme Ironing or Wife Carrying, there are all kinds of sports for any type of athlete. Discover 10 underrated sports that should be on your bucket list! #BucketlistSports #WeirdSports
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Golf

People tend to be put off the idea of trying golf because golf courses are confined to Country Clubs. This means a lot of people are priced out of joining the sport. However, there is a rise of clubs that don’t cost an arm and a leg to join. Places such as Premier Mountain Golfing in North Carolina are opening the door to people who want to try golf with their vacation packages.

Formula E

With fossil fuels and oil going out of fashion, electric car sports are the way of the future. As far as sports go, this a new one as it was founded in 2011, with the first races taking place in 2014. With 12 teams and 24 drivers, there is plenty of action on the track. There is the added bonus of “fan boost”, a voting system that can give a driver a power boost during the second half of the race.

Ice hockey

This sport is affectionately known as the only time that you will see a Canadian get violent. And we aren’t joking! Ice hockey fights are known for being bloody and where fighting is encouraged. But what did you expect from a sport that was allegedly arranged by a bunch of rugby players? If you can get past the violence that can erupt on the ice from time to time, you will see a fast-paced contact sport that gets your blood pumping, even as a spectator. 

Running

Since the pandemic forced a lot of people to stay at home, a lot of people finally discovered the benefits of running. Professional running encompasses a variety of speeds and distances. From the quick dash of the 100 meters to the long haul of the marathon, there is a level for everyone to enjoy. Marathons are held all over the world but if you aren’t ready for the full 26.2 miles, check out your local area for park runs.

Cheerleading

Long gone are the days of cheerleading being about swinging some pom-poms about. You need to have nerves of steel to take part in cheerleading these days. Routines are filled with complex gymnastics and dance moves that can break bones if performed incorrectly. Cheerleading schools are available around the country but they are very difficult to enroll with them.

Extreme Ironing

This sounds like a joke but extreme ironing is just as the name implies. This is a dangerous sport that combines the thrills of an extreme outdoor activity with the satisfaction of a well-pressed shirt. The aim is to take your ironing board to an extreme place, for example, the top of a mountain, and iron a shirt. This sport is not for the faint hearted because there are opportunities to do it anywhere, including bungee jumping. 

Rowing

This is another one of those sports that gets overlooked because people think it is for posh people. Rowing can be enjoyed by anyone, but it is particularly fun to watch the elite universities of Britain battle out on the River Thames. Rowing clubs can be found all over the world, and many of them are actively looking for new members.

Wife carrying

This is one of those sports that sounds insane because it is! There aren’t many sports that you can do as a couple. The idea is based on an old legend of a robber that used to steal everything that a man owns, including his wife! Although this sport is slightly strange, it is fun to watch the lengths people will go to in order to win.

MMA

Mixed Martial Arts is one of the biggest growing fighting sports in the world. Once it was illegal but the popularity of the no-holds barred cage matches has brought it to mainstream attention. Fights are known for being brutal, and fighters have been known to die in the ring. If you can stomach it, some of the greatest fights have been between female fighters.

Get Warmed Up Cause Your Up Next!

As you can see there are all kinds of sports for any type of athlete. Some of these underrated sports are pretty “normal” depending on where you live. But there are definitely some quirky sporting events out there. So, our question to you is what is your favorite underrated sport? Is there a sport or contest out there that you feel need to be on everyone’s adventure activities bucket list? If so, let us know all about it in the comments below & start stretching cause Coach says your going in! 

Don’t forget to Pin this to your favorite Bucket List Board!

The post 10 Underrated Sports You Should Try at Least Once appeared first on The Bucket List Project.

It’s no secret Asia is the place to go for travelling. Perhaps, that is why we have it on our Adventure Travel Bucket List. It’s a continent full of diversity and beauty, with opportunities to either lay back and relax or explore all it has to offer. For the latter, hiking is perhaps the best way to see the landscape in all its glory – here is just a small selection of some of the best Asian destinations perfect for hiking.

It's no secret that Asia is a perfect place for travelling. But did you know that it there are Asian destinations perfect for hiking? Discover some of the best! #Hiking #Asia
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Kalimpong, India

 Although Kalimpong is populated, unlike a majority of hiking sites across the world, you’ll find its residents live in little hamlets and villages secluded in the rolling hills. As you ascend the peaks of Kalimpong, Audley details how your view of the Himalayas grows clearer and clearer, with India’s highest peak – Kanchenjunga – towering above.

The residents of Kalimpong are extremely welcoming, too. This may be why it’s considered one of the best Asian destinations for hiking. So, you may even be able to stay in a local home for the night should you need to. Elsewhere, activities such as mountain biking and white water rafting are available to take part in across the cragged terrain.

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

It’s arguably the most popular Asian destinations for hiking if not the world, and for good reason. Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit has widely been considered the “holy grail” for hikers, due to its immense diversity and wealth of sights, nature and wildlife.

The trek begins in the jungle. Thus, you will be surrounded by forestry and wild animals, before giving way to sections of deep canyons. You will also discover isolated Tibetan villages and a towering mountain range that is home to Thurung La, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit that nears 20,000 feet. It’s a walk full of wonder, that needs to be done in its entirety to realise its immensity.

The Himalayas, Sikkim, India

Perhaps one of the most underrated destinations in the northeastern India, Sikkim, is definitely one of the best Asian destinations for hiking. That is because this area offers some of the most beautiful views ever. Perhaps, this is because the area is often untouched with beautiful meadows and forests.

Whether you hike the Goecha la trek to see the exotic flowers or you are wanting to witness the extraordinary mountain views of Mt. kabru, Ratong and Kanchenjunga along the Mt. Kanchendzonga Trek, there is something for everyone. But don’t just take our word for it. Sikkim tourism can help you find the perfect hike for any level of adventurer.

Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia

 If you want to experience hiking to the peak of a mountain, look no further than Malaysia’s Mount Kinabalu. It doesn’t take long, either – depending on whether you want to challenge yourself or simply take it slow. But in general, the climb will take you a day or two respectively.

And once you reach the peak of Mount Kinabalu, you’ll see why it’s so popular. The view stretches for miles all around, with equally impressive mountains giving way to lush greenery. Hot springs await you upon your descent, too. So don’t be afraid to relax in a natural paradise when you come back down.

Sapa, Vietnam

Home to Vietnam’s highest peak, Sapa is a must-visit for any budding hiker visiting the country. It’s quickly becoming a tourist hotspot. But for now, it remains relatively undiscovered. So, hiking this Asian destination will feel relatively isolated – except for the hill station and town of Sapa itself.

The main thing that distinguishes the site from any other is how green and flourishing it is. Rice terraces give way to rolling hills, the refreshing mountain air adding to the experience. Consider getting a guide to take you through Sapa’s surrounding countryside. That way you can learn all there is to know about hiking this unique Asian destination.

Whether you want to see some of the most beautiful views ever or just need some quiet time, discover some of the best Asian destinations for hiking! #hiking #Asia
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Doi Inthanon, Thailand

Thailand is arguably the number one destination for travelers across the world. And why wouldn’t it be? With such a range of things to do and see, including unparalleled natural beauty, it makes sense for people to flock to the country. Doi Inthanon, however, is one place that many of them are yet to discover.

And it likely won’t take long for the masses to realize how incredible this peak is. Being the highest point in Thailand is impressive enough, but Tieland to Thailand states that the mountain and its surrounding national park is now their favorite place in the country due to its lush nature trails, secluded waterfalls and sweeping panoramic views.

So Grab your Boots & Get Hiking

So as you can see there are some amazing destinations in Asia perfect for hiking. But which of these Asian destinations would you hope to be able to hike? Are there other hiking destinations in Asia on your bucket list? Have you hiked any of them? Tell us all about it or which is your favorite in the comments below.

Don’t forget to Pin this to your Bucket List Board!

BUCKET LIST 101: THE ASIAN DESTINATIONS PERFECT FOR HIKING is a guest post written by Isabel Leong from belaroundtheworld.com

Disclosure: This post, “BUCKET LIST 101: THE ASIAN DESTINATIONS PERFECT FOR HIKING” may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

The post Bucket List 101: the Asian destinations perfect for hiking appeared first on The Bucket List Project.

Being involved in a traumatic event – be it a car accident or something else – can have a huge impact on your life in a number of ways. One area of your life that can be significantly impacted by any kind of traumatic experience is your mental health and wellbeing – it’s not easy moving past a traumatic situation, and it’s important to understand that.

However, a lot of people find that after being involved in a traumatic situation, take a leap of faith and doing something different, such as going traveling, for instance, could be a good step to take. By taking some time out of normal life to go somewhere new and experience new things can be a great way to start to move past what happened to you and where you are now.

Wondering what it would take to go traveling after being involved in a traumatic event? Below are a few reasons why traveling could be a great step to take, as well as a few tips to help with the practicalities of making your dream trip a reality.

You will rebuild your confidence

Often, after experiencing a traumatic event, people tend to lose some of their confidence and self-assurance. This can have a huge impact on your life in a number of ways and can be really difficult to manage. However, by taking a trip abroad and ticking off some destinations on your bucket list, you can begin to rebuild that confidence and start to feel better about your mindset and mental wellbeing.

A Traumatic event of any sort can have a huge impact on your life. But you might need a way to help you to start to move past what happened. Discover a few reasons travelling might help you heal after a traumatic event!
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Don’t forget to think about the financial side of things

After a traumatic event, sometimes your finances can be negatively impacted, so it’s important to take the time to think about how you will afford your trip. You may have savings in the bank that you can dip into or you may be working with a team of car accident lawyers who actually care and are able to help you to get what you are owed after being involved in a serious car accident – whatever the traumatic event was that you were involved in, it’s worth looking into whether you are able to make a claim.

You will find a new lease for life

It’s easy after being involved in something traumatic to feel that you have lost all of your zest for life. However, that doesn’t have to be the case – by choosing to take some time out to and see the world, you should start to find a new lease for life, and begin to heal from the traumatic experience that you had. Travel is an amazing way to learn more about yourself and find out where your passions truly lay. If you’re someone who has never loved their job, for instance, you might find that by traveling you find a career path that is perfect for you, something that previously you never would have considered.

So as you can see, after suffering a traumatic event, taking some time out to travel and see the world could be the perfect step to take. Have you ever taking a trip somewhere to help you heal after dealing with a traumatic event? Did it help? What are some key points you felt helped you heal or overcome that painful moment in time. Share with us in the comments below and perhaps help someone else too!

Don’t forget to Pin this to your favorite Bucket List Board!

The post Why Travelling Could Be The Perfect Way To Heal After A Traumatic Event appeared first on The Bucket List Project.

The start of 2020 has surely been tough on a lot of people for different reasons. But for me, it has been wrought with challenges that unfortunately have prevented us from chasing our bucket list. Don’t get me wrong, I know that sometimes life can definitely be hard and that means we need to be flexible with our goals. But when things get tough for me, I tend to look for motivational quotes in order to reinvigorate myself and my bucket list dreams.

I find that certain bucket list quotes are a great way to recharge and remind me of my commitment to the bucket list project. Other bucket list quotes, just offer a pick-me-up and make me smile again, which is sometimes all we really need in life.

Quotes are a great way to reinvigorate your commitment to your own bucket list. Discover 36 quotes to inspire & motivate you to chase your own bucket list dreams! #Bucketlistquotes #TravelQuotes #DailyQuote
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So, if you are struggling right now in come capacity, hopefully these 36 Quotes will Inspire your bucket list too. The first 5 quotes under each category are standard quotes meant to offer a bit of inspiration. While, the 6th quote under each category is just a funny quote meant to bring a smile to your face.

Adventure Travel Bucket List Quotes

It’s been hard not being able to travel these past few months. But that doesn’t mean we can’t start planning trips when life returns to normal. So to inspire you to start planning, here are our favorite travel bucket list quotes. Fair warning, these quotes may incite fernweh or wanderlust in most people!

1. “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain
2. “Live your life by a compass, not a clock.” – Stephen R. Covey
3. “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet.” – Rachel Wolchin
4. “For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” – Robert Louis Stevenson
5. “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” – Saint Augustine
6. FUN QUOTE: “I love flying. I’ve been to almost as many places as my luggage.” – Bob Hope

Adventure Activities & Experiences Bucket List Quotes

There is no doubt that there are some items on the Adventure Activities & Experiences bucket list that require a little motivation to help overcome personal fears! I mean who in their right mind would attempt swimming with the sharks or eating fried tarantulas without a little encouragement. So, here are a few bucket list quotes that will hopefully fire you up too!

1. “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” ― John Wayne
2. “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” ― Helen Keller, from The Open Door A Sense
3. “Adventure can be an end in itself. Self-discovery is the secret ingredient.” – Grace Lichtenstein
4. “If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try.”– Seth Godin
5. “Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.” ― Jack Kerouac
6. FUN QUOTE: “Adventure, yeah. I guess that’s what you call it when everybody comes back alive.” ― Mercedes Lackey, from Spirits White as Lightning

Personal Growth Bucket List Quotes

As I get older, it becomes really evident to me that it is very easy to get distracted by outside influences and lose focus on what really matters. In what feels like a matter of seconds, time has just flown by and opportunities to learn and grow sometimes disappear. But luckily the proverbial race isn’t over and if you want it, there are still ways to personally grow. Hopefully these personal growth bucket list quotes will motivate you to focus and get moving like the do for me.

1. “Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michaelangelo, Mother Teresea, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson and Albert Einstein.” – H. Jackson Brown, from Life’s Little Instruction Book
2. “You can only lose your virginity once. But in every aspect of my life — building businesses, raising a family, embarking upon adventures — I try to do things for the first time every day.” – Richard Branson, from Finding My Virginity: The New Autobiography
3. “Many people die with their music still in them. Why is this so? Too often it is because they are always getting ready to live. Before they know it, time runs out.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.
4. “We don’t get a chance to do that many things, and each one should be really excellent. Because these are our lives.” – Steve Jobs
5. “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” — Mahatma Gandhi
6. FUN QUOTE: “If you obey all the rules you miss all the fun.” – Katharine Hepburn

Helping Others Bucket List Quotes 

I am sure we all want to help others if we can. There is nothing worse than seeing someone in this world struggling or even worse suffering. That is why we all need to get out there and try to help others while we have the ability and time to do so. Now, I know for me, it isn’t the lack of desire to want to help others especially when there are Simple Ways to Help Others. No, more often than not it is the lack of motivation. So hopefully, these Helping Others bucket list quotes will get us all moving to make the world a better place.

1. “We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.” – Ronald Reagan
2. “Your true character Is most accurately measured by how you treat those who can do ‘Nothing’ for you” – Mother Teresa
3. “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it to anyone else.” – Charles Dickens
4. “Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” – William James
5. “No one has ever become poor by giving.” – Anne Frank, from The Play of “The Diary of Anne Frank
6. FUN QUOTE: “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” ― The Dalai Lama

Making Amends Bucket List Quotes

As I have said before, the Making Amends Bucket List is definitely one of the hardest to tackle. In fact it is so hard for me that I have not ticked off a single one of these since I started the Bucket List Project. Perhaps, this is because saying your sorry even for the smallest problems can be really humbling and scary. But, I have seen in some people that forgiveness brought great freedom and joy to both sides of the issue. So, I often look at my favorite Making Amends bucket list quotes listed below in hopes of gathering the strength to at least try.

1. “Mistakes are always forgivable if one has the courage to admit them.” ― Bruce Lee
2. “The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and for deeds left undone.” ― Harriet Beecher Stowe
3. “When seeking forgiveness, remember, that forgiveness includes change. Don’t just ask for forgiveness because you are sorry. Ask because you are willing to put the time and effort in to change.” ― Akiroq Brost
4. “You must ask for God’s help. Even when you have done so, it may seem to you for a long time that no help, or less help than you need, is being given. Never mind. After each failure, ask forgiveness, pick yourself up, and try again. Very often what God first helps us towards is not the virtue itself but just this power of always trying again.” – C. S. Lewis
5. “For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness.” –  Ralph Waldo Emerson
6. FUN QUOTE: “Sometimes the first step to forgiveness is understanding that the other person is a complete idiot.” – Anonymous

Our Couple’s Bucket List Quotes

Now, I have only been married for a short time but apparently this covenant I agreed to requires a lot of work and maintenance! But that is okay because officially scratching off bucket list item #2) Marry My Soul Mate was truly an amazing event in my life and I feel blessed everyday. So, I use these couple’s bucket list quotes to continue to motivate us to seek out life-changing events together.

1. “Actually, the best gift you could have given her was a lifetime of adventures.” — Lewis Carroll
2. “As soon as I saw you, I knew a grand adventure was about to happen.” — A. A. Milne
3. “I have found out there is no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” – Mark Twain
4. “Life has taught us that love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction.” — Antoine Desaint-Exupery
5. “It doesn’t matter where you’re going, it’s who you have beside you.” – Anonymous
6. FUN QUOTE: “I believe that if life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade… And try to find somebody whose life has given them vodka, and have a party.” – Ron White

So now it’s your turn to inspire us with your favorite bucket list quotes! Do you have a favorite quote that motivates you? Has any quote inspired you to tackle an item on your own bucket list project? What is your favorite travel quote you have hanging on your wall? Let us know your favorite quotes about bucket list items in the comments below & help to inspire others!

Don’t forget to Pin this to your favorite Bucket List Quote Board!

Disclosure: This post, “36 Quotes to Inspire Your Bucket List ”, may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust.

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The Book Review of Visit Cuba – A Coloring Book about Cuba

Visit Cuba is the perfect gift for travelers, children and artistic adults alike. The Bucket List Project’s first travel inspired coloring book is a fun, lighthearted journey through vintage tourism posters, encouraging the artist to make the colorful heritage of Cuba their own. Above all, travel enthusiasts will find themselves dreaming of the tropical island and wanting to book a trip immediately. Children will love to color the enchanting pictures and stay busy for hours. Plus, adults will sit down to a beautiful canvas of pages that will help relieve stress and transport them to another world. You can’t go wrong with Visit Cuba, and we can only hope that this is merely the first in a line of coloring books from The Bucket List Project that showcase the world’s beauty and heighten our wanderlust in the best way.

Visit Cuba is a fun coloring book for kids & adults alike! If you have a Passion for Cuba, this fun coloring book will definitely feed your wanderlust! Get 1 Today! #ColoringBook #Cuba
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Why we created the Visit Cuba Coloring Book

For those who don’t know, Eric’s mother, Lilian Madan Gamble was born in and spent her early childhood in Cuba. Perhaps that is why he has always been interested in the island. But as he grew older he also yearned to learn more about the people, music, and culture of his family’s origin. As a result, a Visit to Cuba is the top item on the Adventure Travel Bucket List!

While dreaming about Cuba’s beautiful beaches, smoking cigars, and drinking a Hemingway Daquiri, he hopped online. But while searching for old travel photos of his mother’s homeland it happened. In that search, he found incredible old travel posters from now defunct airlines and travel agencies! These posters were absolutely beautiful in color and imagery. For instance, he found images from Braniff Airways highlighting travel to Cuba. These images were simple but definitely inspirational. Thus, in the hopes of stimulating other’s passion for Cuba as well, Eric decided to share them with the world.

How To Purchase

Visit Cuba is published and shipped by Lulu Publishing.  Lulu offers the expertise, independence and flexibility to buy and share what you love with the world. They are passionate about providing a remarkable experience for you to tell stories, share knowledge and fulfill your creative potential. To obtain your own Visit Cuba Coloring Book CLICK HERE!

Product Details of the Visit Cuba Coloring Book

Title: Visit Cuba – A Coloring Book for Those with a Passion For Cuba

ISBN: 9781365589577

Copyright: Eric R Gamble (Public Domain)

Publisher: The Bucket List Project

Published: January 27, 2017

Language: English

Pages: 44

Binding: Perfect-bound Paperback

Interior Ink: Black & white

Weight: 0.45 lbs.

Dimensions (inches): 8.5 wide x 11 tall

Get your Visit Cuba Coloring Book by Clicking Here!

Don’t forget to Pin this to your Bucket List Board!

About Our Book Reviewer:

Darcee Snider Gamble is a Wyoming native, who appreciates the work ethic and strong values that growing up in the Cowboy State afforded her.  New Orleans has been a part of Darcee for a long time and she is excited to now be a part of New Orleans. She believes there is truly nowhere else like the Big Easy and the experiences it affords its citizens; she can’t wait to share them with the family and friends that are sure to visit.  Passion for literature, food, history, adventure and music are reasons why living in New Orleans is such an important part of Darcee’s story. She writes each chapter by enjoying the wonders of the Carousel Bar, exploring the WWII Museum, walking the streets of Uptown, navigating the hidden gems of the French Quarter and eating a Po-Boy at Mahony’s. Visit Darcee’s blog at http://www.BackRoadsAndBootStraps.com

Disclosure: This post, “Visit Cuba – A Coloring Book For Those With A Passion For Cuba”, is a personal product post we have created. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra if you decide to purchase our Coloring Book. If you do purchase a coloring book from our distributor it does help keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

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Sometimes the most exciting adventure in life is made better with someone special traveling by your side! There is just something magical about having a Couple’s Bucket List & crossing off the many items together. However, not everyone who travels as a couple wants to travel to an all-inclusive resort or visit a theme park. Sometimes they want something a bit more active like an adventure race or a travel competition for adventure couples!

Why?

Perhaps, it is because couples who travel together tend to stay together! Or maybe it is just because traveling as a couple is a great way to test your compatibility. A couple’s adventure competition takes it one step further. Nothing clarifies a relationship more than seeing how your loved one handles adversity while adventure racing around the world! But also, it is a great way for active travelers to express themselves to their partner in a fun environment.

Now, we don’t recommend going to extremes like climbing Everest or forcing your loved one to race a Tuk Tuk across India! That would be insane. However, the adventure tourism company, Competitours, does offer a travel competition that will satisfy any adventure couple!

How does this adventure tourism company offer a couple’s adventure that is bucket list worthy?

Well, since 2009, Competitours says they have been creating a unique travel competition vacation for couples who love adventure. Truthfully, all adventure tourism companies say that. So we found three couples who previously competed in this adventure race across Europe and asked if Competitours is truly the best travel competition for adventure couples!

Meet the Competitours Adventure Couples

To determine if Competitours is truly the best travel competition for adventure couples, we did some research. We wanted to know why these couples entered, how they handled the different challenges, how it affected their relationship, and much more. So we interviewed these 3 previous adventure couple teams:

1. Steve and Laura from Seattle, Washington are an adventure couple who competed in 2015 and won the travel competition. They loved Competitours so much that they returned and competed again in 2019!
2. Jerry and Jamie from Cleveland Heights, Ohio, both love to travel as a couple and competed in the Competitours adventure race in 2015.
3. Dan and Elizabeth from Falls Church Virginia, love adventure. Elizabeth had once competed in Competitours with her mother. But Dan was quite jealous of her adventure. In 2011, Elizabeth battled Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. After Elizabeth recovered from her chemo treatment, she and Dan decided to enter Competitours in 2019 and take the adventure honeymoon they both desired.

Did you know ordinary couples can participate in travel competitions like the #AmazingRace? See why a #Competitours travel competition needs to be added to any adventure couple's Bucket List now! @competitours #travelcompetitions
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Why did you enter the Competitours competition as a couple?

• • • Steve and Laura – “We were fans of the tv show The Amazing Race and stumbled across an online mention of Competitours. We actually told friends about it and found out they competed in 2013. So we jumped in for 2015! After we had done it once and won, we needed to return, which we did in 2019!”
    • Dan and Elizabeth – “I (Elizabeth) had been on Competitours once before with my mom, but my husband Dan had always been jealous of how incredible it sounded! So when I realized I might have the energy and availability to go on a real honeymoon, it was top on our list! We’re not into vacations that are just cocktails at the beach or passive observing. Instead, we like to over schedule ourselves with museums, restaurants, and anything meaningful to where we are! So a travel competition for adventure couples was right up our alley! Plus, we could do romantic European stuff for our honeymoon afterward since we were already there!”

Did you have an advantage as a couple compared to other teams?

• • • Jerry and Jamie – “No. The great thing about Competitours is that no one really has an advantage. When you think you might have something locked in, you get beat out by the team you’d least expect to win the challenge!”
    • Dan and Elizabeth – “We didn’t feel like we had an advantage just because we were a couple. I think most everyone on the trip came with someone they knew intimately. So they’d know each other’s strengths and weaknesses.”
    • Steve and Laura – “Even though we’ve been married for 11 years, we didn’t think that would give us any advantage over the other teams. I think the winning team a few years back was two women who had never even met before the competition.”

During the travel competition, what did you argue about most?

• Dan and Elizabeth – “I don’t think we argued much on the trip but then again we don’t ‘fight’ often! But we did argue trying to paint Lake Como, when neither of us could keep track of which water cup was clean or how much paint versus liquid to use!”
• Jerry and Jamie – “We argued only about what letter to pick in the hangman competition!”
• • • •  

What did you learn about each other during the competition?

• Steve and Laura – “The competition tends to highlight your skills and faults. For example, on a scavenger hunt, we recognized that one of us was better at creating a plan of attach and one was better at navigating and map reading. In the escape room challenge, we learned how to give each other space and solve problems. but also to ask for help when we’re stuck. On other days, we learned which one of us had less anxiety talking to strangers and who of us was better at coming up with creating content and acting in video challenges.”
• Dan and Elizabeth – “I knew Dan had built his own computers before, but I was amazed at his cardboard box car design and construction skills! A lot of these challenges mean seeing your partner do things they’ve never done in front of you if at all. Dan says that he thought he knew all my strengths already like navigation, puzzle solving, and public speaking. This just confirmed it to him!”
• Jerry and Jamie – “We learned that we both can travel in a carry on for 11 days, I (Jamie) can’t fly a drone and Jerry can’t paint very well! With fun stuff, we learned that Jerry likes to go really fast down the alpine roller coaster, while I’m pretty good at herding sheep! Jerry has much better taste buds while having dinner in the dark but I am a better skier, even indoors in Germany! We also learned that we make a great team using only one hand each in the cooking competition and building a beautiful flower out of chocolate! Lastly, we can really dance the Tyrolian dance and flamenco!”
• • • • • •  

What was your favorite adventure challenge as a couple?

• Dan and Elizabeth – “Dan loved everything and was very sad that a sudden wrist injury meant he couldn’t go on the via Ferrata. However, since he is a racing fan, he really enjoyed the unique experience of blo-karting on the beaches near Den Haag.”
• Jerry and Jamie – “We did something called Kite Sailing! The intrigue with this activity was how we used the whole wide beach, it was something no one had done before, and how quickly the teams mastered the skill. It was fun, fast, and hilarious! It was right up there as one of our favorite challenges, though climbing the via Ferrata is a close second. We love being outdoors and although we aren’t avid climbers by any means, the thrill of climbing and hiking this iron way is like no other.”
• Steve and Laura – “Choosing a favorite challenge is impossible, but sheepherding in Bex, Switzerland was amazing! It is an example of one of those adventure tourism ideas you just couldn’t do outside of Competitours. Perhaps you could go to a resort and rent a jet ski or hire a plane to go sky diving. But you can’t really show up at a local farm and say, ‘We’d like to herd your sheep today, will you show us how?’ It was so much fun!”
• • • • • • •  

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What was your least favorite adventure challenge as a couple?

• Steve and Laura – “The first time we competed the via Ferrata (basically scaling a Swiss Alp) was incredibly physically demanding and super scary for one of us who is not fond of heights! It was by far the most difficult and an exciting challenge. But we were so happy to be back on flat land afterwards. However, it did inspire us to try again on a via Ferrata in Andorra and another time in Italy!”
• Dan and Elizabeth – “Dan was so frustrated by painting in Italy though I (Elizabeth) loved it. Conversely, he loved cooking, but it stressed me out intensely and I had to ask him to do most of it. I mean how much forearm strength does it take to whisk a custard??”
• • • • • • • •  

Did your Competitours competition strengthen your relationship?

• Jerry and Jamie – “We are on pretty common ground most of the time, but to avoid potential conflict we came up with a plan on how to make a decision should we not agree on a certain challenge. Jerry’s birthday is on September 3rd while mine (Jamie) is on June 4th, so when it was an odd day, he got the final decision and when it was an even day, I got the final decision. Along with that, we couldn’t ever say ‘I told you so’ if things didn’t work out. Fortunately, we didn’t have to use it often, but when we did, it was nice to have a plan!”
• Dan and Elizabeth – “It should strengthen every relationship so long as you’re on the same page about fun versus hard core competition. Competitours is a safe environment where you’re encouraged to try new things  and where you will likely fail – at least partially! That’s a great gift because there are no stakes and no sense of social disgrace. These are all just people going off on an adventure that won’t think any less of you, thus the pressure is off. Then with no pressure, you get to see how your partner handles new skills, you get to practice your communication. Plus you build wonderful memories together of adventure activities that you probably would have never done as a couple before.”
• Steve and Laura – “The travel competition tends to highlight your skills and your faults. Thus, you can take all of these adventure challenges and translate them into areas that can strengthen a relationship outside the game.”
• • • • • • • • •  

Was one of you more competitive than the other?

• Dan and Elizabeth – “Dan and I (Elizabeth) are both competitive but we also knew that enjoying the experience was more important that going balls to the wall. It helps that we would flare up in the skills we were best at for competitiveness, but we were decently well balanced in skills. That meant that one of us was usually calmer and able to reel the other one back in order to remind them to just enjoy the experience. Dan did sulk a bit when I did better in skeet shooting than he did, but we got points together as a team so that helped. While I sulked when he could sculpt amazingly well, yet I was trash. But again, that’s not the formation of a lifelong grudge.”
• Jerry and Jamie – “Neither of us are really competitive by nature, but we both wanted to win something and so we both tried hard and put forth equal effort in each of the challenges. The adventure challenges are so fun that it’s hard not to be competitive.”
• • • • • • • • • •  

What tips would you give other couples entering Competitours?

• Dan and Elizabeth – “Talk about what you both want to get out of the experience and then prioritize that. Personally, we’d say to have fun above all. Remind each other that you came on this couples adventure to experience what life had to offer. That includes the stink of working in a sheep pasture! We also recommend that you get lots of rest, boost each other up in your preferred love languages, and have your stress mechanisms in place.”
• Jerry and Jamie – “Go and have fun! If you win, it’s a great bonus. But if you don’t, you will still say it was the best trip of your life!”
• Steve and Laura – “Listening is extremely important in this travel competition. You have to listen to the instructions and to your partner. For example, on an Iron Chef challenge in Italy, one of us was trying to make ravioli and it cost us valuable time for the other to convince that person we were supposed to make tortellini! Another tip is to not focus on just scoring points. Yes, you need points to win but there are many opportunities for scoring. So even if you don’t excel at one challenge, the next one might be right in your wheelhouse. Plus the less we thought about points, the more fun we had. That led to us taking first place and winning the entire travel competition in 2015!”
• • • • • • • • • • •  

Have you ever wanted to participate in a travel competition like the people on tv? Then discover why you need to add a #Competitours travel competition to your Bucket List now! @competitours #travelcompetitions #AdventureCouple
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Would you compete again as a couple or choose a different partner?

• Jerry and Jamie – “We’d never NOT do it together!!”
• Steve and Laura – “We actually did do Competitours a second time and we did choose each other. We’re very lucky that we enjoy spending time together, even when that time is a whirlwind competition and potentially stressful. We’ve worked hard to communicate completely with each other, which is key to both the travel competition and marriage!”
• Dan and Elizabeth – Dan and Elizabeth did not to answer this question. We here at the Bucket List Project didn’t want to press the question in order to protect them since Elizabeth originally took her mom the first time she ever competed in a Competitours travel competition.  We would hate to be the cause of yelling at the next family thanksgiving on who gets to go with Elizabeth during next adventure race.
• • • • • • • • • • •  

So grab your partner and JUST GO!

So you have convinced your unsuspecting husband or wife to take on the best travel competition for adventure couples ever. Now What?

Well, it’s quite simple and easy! Decide on what dates you want to tour either the U.S. this Spring or Europe this Summer, Click here to Register online, and JUST GO! With several amazing races this spring & summer, you will arrive at a secret starting location & go on an Epic 9 Day/10 Night travel competition! 

Competitours might be one of the best travel competitions for adventure couples and it might be one of the craziest and most unique bucket list experiences any couple can have in Europe!

Have you and your partner ever wanted to be on the Amazing Race? Is entering travel competitions like a Competitours event on your Couple’s Bucket List? If so, which race do you want to sign up for this summer? Let us know in the comments below!

Don’t forget to Pin this to your Favorite Bucket List Board!

Disclaimer: The Bucket List Project partnered with the adventure tourism company Competitours. With that said, all opinions in “Competitours – A Travel Competition for Adventure Couples” are our own. Also, the 3 couples interviewed gave their honest feedback and were not compensated for their opinions from Competitours or The Bucket List Project. “Competitours – A Travel Competition for Adventure Couples” also may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra. Plus, it helps keep The Bucket List Project Blog free, fun, and community supported! We will never recommend a product we don’t genuinely believe in and trust.

 

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When it comes to travel, we, at The Bucket List Project, tend to be more active travelers than passive. That doesn’t mean we don’t love to relax on a beautiful beach somewhere. But overall, most of the Bucket List Project’s Travel and Adventure Activities are focused around unique adventures around the world. Perhaps, that is why we love ideas like the Amazing Race on television. Shows that are based around travel competitions allow us to see people in exotic locations doing exciting things. But is it possible for ordinary people like us to participate in amazing travel competitions like the people on tv? The answer is yes, with Competitours!

Are you wondering what makes Competitours one of the best travel competitions ever? Well, we have come up with 10 reasons why you need to add a Competitours trip to your The Adventure Activities & Experiences Bucket List now!

1) You will discover amazing “mystery” locations

The idea “To boldly go where no man has gone before” given to us by Star Trek is perhaps one of the biggest reasons people travel. Of course, with modern technology, GPS, the ease of modern travel & the countless of travel blogs online, it seems virtually impossible to find a location not already explored by others. However, Competitours offers the unique opportunity to go on an adventure without knowing anything, until you need to know.

No matter which of their travel competitions you choose, Competitours will send you zigzagging through 2-3 unique and unexpected regions across Europe. You may start by flying to Brussels, but later you will be trying to catch a train from Dusseldorf to Vaals, and then find yourself riding the bus to Andorra. You just never know and it changes every year!

“…for us it was Belgium, Netherlands, Italy, and Switzerland. I think the biggest thing you have to understand about Competitours is that it’s an amazing way to see Europe in a way you never would’ve imagined and certainly not one that you’d ever be able to plan yourself.” ~Will Tang of Going Awesome Places, competitor in the 2015 season of Competitours

2) You will participate in thrilling activities that won’t kill you

If you are like us, then there are plenty of thrilling activities on your bucket list. But there are also plenty of wild and dangerous activities that may be on your Anti-Bucket List, things you wouldn’t do for a million dollars! For example, we always cringe when we see bungee jumping or sky diving activities on shows like the Amazing Race.

With Competitours, you will get a chance to attempt interesting and adrenaline pumping activities that you may have never tried before or even considered trying. For example, in one of the travel competitions you might participate in a scavenger hunt in Copenhagen while in another you may be screaming, “En Guard” as you learn how to fence.

Did you know it's possible for ordinary people to participate in travel competitions like the people on tv? See 10 reasons why you need to add a #Competitours travel competition to your Bucket List now! @competitours #travelcompetitions
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3) You will get outdoors

Another great feature of the Competitours’ Challenges is that they will get you outdoors! There is nothing worse than the feeling of being Museum-weary in yet another European city. But there is a good chance that in the mystery itinerary you will find yourself climbing a Via Ferrata in the Italian Alps like Jerry Mizer and his wife. Or perhaps you may end up in Samsø, Denmark looking at a six-acre labyrinth full of twisty multi-path trails through 40-foot tall trees, scrub brush, while trying to capture proof that you found seven stated objects like Joy Richardson experienced.

4) You will get involved in unique cultural activities

Of course one of the biggest reasons to travel is to experience new cultures. Unfortunately, sometimes travelers just observe the different nuances or experiences. But with the travel competitions put on by Competitours, you will find yourself diving feet first into an amazing and unique experience. Plus it will offer a more enriching experience by allowing you to meet locals and try things that you may have never tried if you had planned the trip on your own.

For example, John Moss of team We3Travels, shared how in Barcelona, Spain, he and his teammates had just 30 minutes to learn how to Flamenco and then showcase their “skills” in front of some tough judges! Afterward, the instructors treated them to a show of traditional flamenco dances along with a serenade from a flamenco guitarist.

5) You won’t have to gag down a disgusting food challenge

One of our biggest pet peeves about the Amazing Race is that they often create some challenge that involves eating gross food, often just for shock value. Don’t get us wrong, we would eat a 1,000 Year old egg or live squid to potentially win a million dollars in any of the travel competitions out there. But when it comes to food challenges, Competitours either takes a culturally relevant approach or an experience that is unique and fun for all.

With Regards to a culturally relevant approach, for example, Becky Pokora shared that one of her most favorite challenges of the entire time was making lemon gelato in Sorrento, Italy. Becky shared:

“We didn’t have a recipe!! At the end, we were judged by a master for the closest to a traditional gelato but points were also half-based on your fellow competitors in a blind test. So you end up getting creative and thinking strategically…if you can’t please the judge, can you make something that will be popular with a crowd? The good news is that it’s hard to mess up gelato.“

When it comes to a unique and fun experience, Jo Piz shared how one night she and her mom had a “dinner in the dark” where they ate an entire four course meal in total blackout. For them, it had to be one of the most strange experiences ever. Jo said:

“I can’t really explain it. It was just so weird. I literally used my fingers to eat the majority of the meal because I kept misplacing my fork. I always knew where my wine glass was though :-)”

6) You can’t get disqualified and sent home

For those who watch travel competitions on tv, one of the most disappointing parts is when your favorite team either gets disqualified, voted out by the other members, or is the last to arrive at the pit stop and gets sent home. Who wants to start a race only to not be able to finish it? I would rather race the entire race and finish last, than not finish at all! With Competitours, whether you are ahead on points or at the bottom of the totem pole, you will spend the entire time participating in their mystery events and seeing amazing new places!

7) You might win some amazing prize money

One of the coolest features about the different travel competitions put on by Competitours is that you will get the opportunity to not only accomplish fun, hands-on challenges, but you will do it all in pursuit of several cash grand prizes. Currently they are offering a $3000 grand prize that is be split between the top 3 placing teams. (50% 1st place, 30% 2nd place and 20% 3rd place)

Of course, winning cash prizes and bragging rights is awesome. But one of the coolest things we found was that most past competitors agreed that it wasn’t all that important to them. For example, Bob Maggio who competed with his wife shared:

“We honestly did not care about the prize. I stopped looking at the leader board after day 3; my wife stopped looking after day 5. We both realized we were not in this for the prize or to win. Instead we simply wanted to enjoy each experience and location to the greatest extent possible as this was our vacation.”

8) You don’t have to create some stupid application video

Even if you have an amazing on camera presence, there is no guarantee that you will accepted to those tv travel competitions based on your application video. Therefore, most people don’t even try. With Competitours, you never have to create video to see if they will take you. If you want to compete, all you have to do is register your team for any of the travel competitions they have available. Simple as that.

Plus, you never have to worry about some camera man filming you as you scream like a little girl while you whip down the world’s longest alpine coaster enjoying stunning views of the Swiss Alps. That is of course, unless your teammates want to have something to blackmail you with later!

9) You will meet amazing new friends for life

Famous Irish Poet, William Yeats once said, “There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t yet met.” This is definitely a truism you discover when travelling anywhere in the world. Plus, it can definitely be seen in travel competitions like Competitours. If you have ever participated in any sort of competition, then you know there is always a bit of rivalry. But with these adventures and challenges, you actually find yourself coming together in shared experiences that can create lifelong bonds.

Bob Maggio said, “It was amazing to see such a diverse set of strangers come together and be so comfortable with each other so quickly.” While another competitor, Jerry Mizer similarly said, “we now have friends – good friends – in several States and Canada that we’ve met with since Competitours and regularly keep in touch with several more…their weddings, births of their children, etc.”

10) You won’t meet Phil Keoghan but Steve Belkin is a close 2nd…okay maybe 3rd!

In 2009, after participating in a global scavenger hunt a few years before, Steve Belkin started Competitours. According to an interview with Cleveland.com, Steve shared that he wanted to create less intense travel competitions. Basically, he wanted challenges and adventures that would provide unique twists on familiar destinations.

On top of Competitours, Belkin, also operates a website called bookyouraward.com, which helps frequent flyers book complicated international travel using reward miles. So if you have airline miles and/or credit card points, his team can help you redeem them. Or if you don’t have any, they can help you jumpstart accumulating them so that you can redeem them in lieu of purchasing airfare outright.

On Your Marks…Get Set….GO!!

So you have found an unsuspecting teammate and you are both ready to take on one of the best travel competitions ever. Now What? Well it’s quite simple and easy! Decide on whether what dates you want to tour Europe in the this Summer and register online! With races this summer, you will arrive at a Secret starting location & go on an Epic 9 Day/10Night competition across Europe! This year, Competitours has two upcoming Summer travel competitions available:

Summer 2020 Race #1: July 1 – 12

Summer 2020 Race #2: July 21 – 31

As you can see, Competitours might be one of the best travel competitions ever. Plus it might be one of the craziest and most unique bucket list experience a person can have in Europe! So have you ever wanted to be on the Amazing Race? Is entering travel competitions like a Competitours event on your Bucket List? If so, which So which race do you want to sign up for this summer? Let us know in the comments below!

Don’t forget to Pin this to your Bucket List Board!

Disclaimer: The Bucket List Project partnered with the travel competitions company Competitours. With that said, all opinions in “Competitours – One of the best Travel Competions Ever” are our own. Also, “Competitours – One of the best Travel Competions Ever” may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra. Plus, it helps keep The Bucket List Project Blog free, fun, and community supported! We will never recommend a product we don’t genuinely believe in and trust.

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In 2018 a Gallup Poll was released stating that only 33% of Americans aged 18 to 29 said that they were extremely proud to be an American. In fact in that same poll, only 47% of all Americans described themselves as feeling Extremely Patriotic. So how can we fix this lack of Patriotism in the United States? Good news is that if it is on your bucket list to be more patriotic, then we offer 6 Simple ways to help you do it.

1) Be More Patriotic by taking the time to learn US Flag history

Perhaps one of the easiest ways to be more patriotic is to hang an American Flag. But to increase someone’s patriotism, it goes far beyond just hanging a flag. The US Flag should be revered not only for what it represents to us today but also because it tells the history of America itself. To learn more about the US Flag, turn to organizations like Flags Unlimited where you can learn not only the history of our current United States Flag but all of the flags that have ever flown over our country!

Is it on your bucket list to be more patriotic? Do you want to learn more about what it means to be an American? Check out 6 Simple Ways to be more Patriotic! #BePatriotic #USflag #America
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2) Be more patriotic by visiting a Veterans Memorial or Cemetery

Many soldiers have made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedoms both at home and abroad. So one of the best and simplest ways to be more patriotic is to visit different memorials or cemeteries honoring our brave veterans. When visiting these solemn sites, bring a US flag to place at their headstones. It is a simple way to honor them.

3) Be more patriotic by reading more about U.S. history

There are countless books about America’s history. So a simple way to be more patriotic is to read more about it’s past. Whether you read books about US Flag history, the Revolutionary war, or more modern events, there is a subject out there for everyone to increase your knowledge about where we came from. Perhaps one of the best books to get started is David McCullough’s book entitled 1776 that discusses the events of an important year in American history!

4) Be more patriotic by learning the National Anthem

It is always amazing to see people stand up at the beginning of any sporting event and sing the National Anthem. It is a great way to show your patriotism. But how many people actually know all of the words to the National Anthem? Taking the time to learn the words of the Star Spangled Banner is an easy way to be more patriotic.

5) Be more patriotic by visiting America’s historical places

There are so many places around the world that people add to their Travel Bucket List. But adding some of the amazing places packed with history here in the United States should also be considered. Think about a trip to Boston’s Freedom Trail, Philadelphia’s Independence Park, or any of the museums and monuments in Washington D.C. Or for example, on the Bucket List Project we have #70) Visit the Statue of Liberty. Either way, exploring our great country is one of the best ways to learn more about America’s history.

6) Be more patriotic by being active in Civic events

Perhaps one of the most important ways to be more patriotic is to just be active in civic events. The easiest way to do this is to vote in all elections. Voting is important because you participate in important decisions that will affect the course of our nation on every level. Another way to be active is join in with different organizations or events that support causes that could benefit others in our communities. Whether this is being a member of a political organization or joining a cause you believe in, participation can truly make a difference.

So what items do you have on your bucket list that may increase your patriotism? Which of these 6 simple ways to be more patriotic do you feel is most effective? Or is there another way you personally participate in to be more patriotic? Let us know in the comments below!

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“The crickets felt it was their duty to warn everybody that summertime cannot last for ever. Even on the most beautiful days in the whole year – the days when summer is changing into autumn – the crickets spread the rumor of sadness and change.”
―E.B. White, Charlotte’s Web

Dang you crickets and your warnings that we cannot enjoy an endless summer! If you’re anything like Eric, your heaven will be 365 days of summer and sun and why not? Summer is the greatest season of the year. It is obviously great for those pursuing their various travel bucket list items. But it is also a great way to reconnect with family and friends at a festival or other outdoor event. Plus, who wouldn’t want to reduce stress away from the office while soaking up more Vitamin D producing sunshine while sipping a tiki cocktail at the beach?

But is there a way to avoid the crickets’ warnings of “sadness and change” and have a longer summer? Is there a way to be in a world where it is 78 °F (26 °C) and forever summer? Can it be Summer All Year Round?

The answer is YES an endless summer is definitely possible! So put away those damn Pumpkin-Spiced drinks and burn your heavy coats! We found the best places in the world where it is Summer right now along with some amazing festivals and activities to enjoy with others!

January – India

What is the weather like in India in January?

India is a very large country so chances are you can experience all types of weather depending on where exactly you are visiting.  However, January is a great month to visit since the monsoon or rainy season has been over for a few months.

If you are searching for a longer summer, Goa in January will satisfy you. With temperatures averaging 90°F (32°C) and an average of 0″ of rain, it is excellent weather for a hanging out at the beach.

However, if you are looking to ease your way into your 365 days of summer with more mild temperatures, then head north to the city of Agra to see the many great sights. There, You will be greeted with temperatures averaging 74°F (23°C) as you walk around the Taj Mahal

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in India in January

The people of India love to celebrate life through food, music, dance, and other traditions often highlighted during their many unique festivals and events. Lucky for you, January is loaded with nearly 14 festivals throughout the country. But perhaps the 3 biggest festivals in January are:

1. Lohri – Usually around Mid January, the people of northern India gather celebrate the end of the cold winter and arrival of warmer days!  With bonfires, music, and amazing food, everyone will be celebrating summer with you. To learn more about where a Lohri Festival is near you Click Here.
2. International Kite Festival – Around the same time as Lohri in mid January, this festival is a highlight of all generally along the west coast of India. Like Lohri, the International Kite Festival marks the day when winter “officially” turns into summer in India. So to celebrate, locals and visitors alike launch millions of brightly colored kites into the sky from sunrise to sunset. To find out more information about the International Kite Festival visit the official Gujarat Region Board of Tourism Here.
3. Republic Day – Republic Day is celebrated every January 26th to acknowledge the Constitution of India, which was founded in 1950. The highlight of the celebration is the massive military parade held in New Delhi and in other state capitols around the country.

Top official tours in India in January

Best Flight Deals to India in January

When searching for flight deals to India, Jetradar often finds the best deals especially to New Delhi (airport code: DEL). However, you can search for flight deals to any city in India using the Search Links below. For flights to Goa use airport code: GOI & for flights to Agra use airport code: AGR.

Wish it was forever summer? Well burn your sweaters cause we found the best places in the world where it is Summer right now along with amazing festivals & activities to enjoy with others! #ForeverSummer #ChasingSummer #EndlessSummer
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February – South Africa

What is the weather like in South Africa in February?

South Africa may be the ultimate outdoor playground for anyone who loves being outdoors! Plus you can cross of many adventure activities from your bucket list. Whether you’re looking for the Big 5 in Kruger Park, surfing the warm waters along Port Elizabeth, or enjoying with amazing cuisine in the big cities of Cape Town or Johannesburg, February in South Africa is a great way to extend your Forever Summer Holiday.

If you want a longer summer in the city, Cape Town in February will fit the bill. With temperatures averaging 79°F (26°C) and an average of 1″ of rain, the February weather in Cape Town is perfect for taking in the views from atop of Table Mountain.

However, if you are looking for an endless summer at the beach, then head to the city of Port Elizabeth. But bring your bathing suite because you will be greeted with a similar temperature but the water temperature rises to a warm 72°F (22°C).

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in South Africa in February

With Summer right now hitting South Africa, you wont have a hard time finding a way to celebrate the perfect weather. In February, you will find many fun festivals and events celebrating the country’s wine harvest, music, and people. Perhaps the 3 biggest events in February are:

1. Up The Creek – This may be the most epic outdoor music festival on the continent! About 2-3 hours east of Cape Town in the town of Swellendam, people nearly 3,000 people gather for a 4 day festival at the beginning of February on the banks of the Breede River. Here they will float the river, camp  amid the summer sun, and enjoy the music of nearly 50 bands! What better way to celebrate your 365 days of Summer than on a river! For Festival info click here!
2. Ultra South Africa – Originally touted as Africa’s largest Electronic music festival, Ultra South Africa is an expanded music festival that runs simultaneously in both Cape Town & Johannesburg at the end of February. What’s amazing is that both events are packed with lineups full of the biggest DJs and musicians today. So whether you are in the south visiting Cape Town or up north in Johannesburg, you are bound to catch an amazing show. Check out the latest lineup for Ultra South Africa Here!
3. Wine Harvest Festivals – February is the Harvest month for wine makers in South Africa. But following the Work Hard – Play Hard philosophy, many of the vineyards put on fun harvest festivals, like the Franschhoek Summer Wines Fest. What’s better than chasing summer all year round with a glass of wine you ask? How about letting out your pent up frustrations and participating in grape stomping!

Top official tours in South Africa in February

Best Flight Deals to South Africa in February

If you’re searching flight deals to South Africa, Jetradar often finds great deals especially with flights to Cape Town (airport code: CPT). However, you can search for flight deals to any city in South Africa using the Search Links below. For flights to Johannesburg use airport code: JNB; flights to Port Elizabeth use airport code: PLZ; & for flights to the capital city Pretoria, use airport code: PRY

March – Colombia

What is the weather like in Colombia in March?

When searching where it’s summer right now in March, you will find that Colombia immediately reveals itself as a destination for those chasing the sun! Perfectly placed near the equator, you will find summer all year round, especially along the Caribbean coast. Plus, March is nice and dry since the rainy season is more from April to June.

If you are searching for a summer beach town experience, then you will want to Tour Santa Marta. With temperatures averaging 91°F (33°C) and an average of 0″ of rain, it is excellent weather for a hanging out at the beach or touring the amazing old town where Simon Bolivar lived his last days.

If you are looking for a bigger city feel then head west to Cartagena. Here you will be greeted with the same forever summer weather as you get lost amid the amazing Cartagena Street Art, colorful architecture, and amazing food.

Finally, if a summer in the mountains is more to your liking, then make your way to Bogota. Tucked away in the Andes Mountains in central Colombia, Bogota will greet you everyday in March with temperatures averaging 68°F (20°C) and a daily average of barely 3″ of rain. If you like biking in this type of weather, then you’ll be in heaven as Bogota has one of the most extensive network of bike paths than any city in the world.

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Colombia in March

There is no doubt that Colombians love to party and celebrate anything. So finding a summer festival in March definitely won’t be hard no matter which part of the country you are in. Depending on when Easter falls, you might be there during their religious celebrations. But if you are looking for something a little less religious then these 3 festivals may intrigue you:

1. Festival Internacional de Cine de Cartagena de Indias (FICCI) – If part of your summer ritual is going to the movies then this festival in Cartagena is for you. For 5 days every March, FICCI, brings the hottest Latin American films into the spotlight. Plus, on top of catching the latest film premiers, you can attend special events to learn about new trends in film-making. To Learn More about the next FICCI Click Here.
2. Festival Del Burro – That’s right a Donkey festival! This fun little festival takes place every March in the small town of San Antero. Essentially, it celebrates donkeys for their hard work in helping Colombian farmers. The Donkeys are dressed in costumes, entered into a parade, and then judged on their resemblance to famous characters or local heroes. Then 2 donkeys wearing the best costumes are crowned King & Queen of the festival. For their reward, our two royal donkeys are then given a week off work.
3. Ibero-American Theater Festival (FITB) – Perhaps the largest theater festival in the world, FITB happens every other year for two weeks. The next year for FITB will be in March of 2020. During the event you can see performances from major theater groups from around the world. Plus, there are also circus acts, classical dancers, international music concerts, and amazing street acts. Click Here for the Next Program of Events!

Top official tours in Colombia in March

Best Flight Deals to Colombia in March

For the best deals to Colombia, you can find the best deals usually with flights into Cartagena (airport code: CTG). However, there are often flight deals in the other cities of Colombia as well. For flights to Santa Marta use airport code: SMR. But if you are headed inland look at flights to Medellin (airport code: EOH) or flights to the capital city of Bogota (airport code: BOG).

April – New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

What is the weather like in New Orleans in April?

Okay, Okay, so we are 100% biased here in choosing New Orleans as an endless summer destination since we live here. But in all fairness, sometimes a staycation is a perfect way to extend your summer all year round!

Weather wise, April sits in between our wet chilly winters and our steamy hot summers. So if New Orleans in April is your next stop for your endless summer then grab your seersucker suit! With temperatures averaging 78°F (26°C), it is excellent weather for a strolling around the French Quarter or dancing with Rebirth on a Tuesday Night at the Maple Leaf!

The only thing we recommend is that you grab your favorite parasol as April does to average about 5″ of rain. Besides, if you don’t use it for the occasional afternoon rain shower, you can use it to sashay as you second line to your next bar!

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in New Orleans in April

“Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler, mon ami!”

That is right, “Let the Good Times Roll, my friend!” because April is the kickoff of festival season in Louisiana! Especially in New Orleans, every weekend from Easter Sunday to Thanksgiving there is a festival celebrating music, culture, or best of all FOOD! So grab your dancing shoes, your sunscreen, & your stretchy pants! The 3 best festivals around New Orleans in April are:

1. French Quarter Festival (FQF) – Consistently voted “favorite festival” & “favorite food festival” by locals, FQF is hands down best festival in New Orleans. This free festival held every mid April features New Orleans jazz, blues, and zydeco across 20 stages and venues. But if the music isn’t enough to tempt you, there are hundreds of food tents from some of the greatest New Orleans restaurants and chefs from around the Gulf South. To Learn more about Next April’s French Quarter Fest Click HERE.
2. Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival – If your vision of summer includes a bowl of the freshest, juiciest strawberries, then you need to go to Ponchatoula. Located about an hour from New Orleans, Ponchatoula puts on a 3 day event celebrating all things strawberries. There are tons of strawberry themed foods and wine including my favorite, Chocolate Covered Deep Fried Strawberries. Plus, you can explore the town, enjoy the parade, or just relax and listen to the live music. Check out next April’s Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival lineup of events HERE!
3. New Orleans Jazz Fest – Of course it wouldn’t be April without the New Orleans Jazz Fest at the Fair Grounds. Considered one of the greatest music fests in the world, it features all styles of music played around New Orleans. Openning on last weekend of April along with the first weekend of May, you will have plenty of chances to get in. Of course, in true New Orleans style, once inside you will come across a plethora of amazing food options. Make sure you try the Crawfish Bread! To Get information about the next Jazz Fest click here.

Top official tours in New Orleans in April

Best Flight Deals to New Orleans in April

For the best flight deals to New Orleans (airport code: MSY), check Jetradar first. There are also 2 minor airports outside of New Orleans. One is Gulfport Airport (airport code: GPT) and the other is Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (airport code: BTR). However, both are small airports and most likely not financially beneficial.

Wish you were sipping Tiki Drinks on a beach right now? To do that it would have to be summer, right? But where is it Summer right now? Here are the best destinations to visit to have summer all year long! #ForeverSummer #EndlessSummer
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May – Peru

What is the weather like in Peru in May?

If you’re chasing an epic Bucket List item in May, then you will want to head to in Peru. This is especially a great option if seeing Machu Picchu is on your Bucket List. With the rainy season over, you can expect warm sunny days and cool evenings in the land of the Incas. Plus with the temperatures averaging 77°F (25°C) and an average of 1″ of rain, it’s perfect weather for a hiking the Sacred Valley.

If you are looking for a more cosmopolitan experience then the capital city of Lima is a perfect destination. With temperatures averaging 72°F (22°C), your forever summer weather might be a bit cooler along the coast. But you won’t mind as you sit al fresco at any of the amazing Cevicherias with a Pisco Sour in your hand!

Finally, if a fun summer playing in sand dunes is more to your liking, then make your way to Huacachina. Located between Lima and Arequipa, May temperatures in the sandy oasis average 77°F (25°C) with barely 1″ of rain. This mild summer feel is perfect for riding dune buggies, sand boarding, or just sitting by the pool. Just remember to bring your sun screen as the UV index may hit 10 and there is very little shade.

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Peru in May

Being a predominately Catholic country, you might be there during their religious celebrations in May.  But even if you aren’t religious these festivals may intrigue you as they are packed with music, dancing, colorful costumes, and of course amazing food:

1. Virgen de Chapi – Held on May 1st about 38 miles from the city of Arequipa, pilgrims walk across the desert from Arequipa to the sanctuary of the Virgen de Chapi. There they hold a nightly vigil to the most venerated statues of the Virgin Mary.
2. Corpus Christi – Probably one of the biggest festivals in Peru, Corpus Christi is celebrated throughout the country. However, the biggest celebration tends to be in Cusco where images of Saints are paraded around town to the main cathedral in Cusco. There, an overnight vigil occurs along with a great celebration of music, dancing, and food.
3. Festival de las Cruces – Held every May 3rd in many areas around Peru, the Festival de las Cruces honors the Holy Cross. However, one of the biggest celebrations is in Puno. During the festival, locals parade crosses around town to their churches. Though a religious celebration, you’ll find lots of music, dancing, and an amazing fireworks display at the end of the night.

Top official tours in Peru in May

Best Flight Deals to Peru in May

For the best deals to Peru, you will most likely want to fly into Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima (airport code: LIM). If you’re headed to Machu Picchu, then look at flights to the Cuzco International Airport (airport code: CUZ). To explore the Nasca Lines or Huacachina, fly into the International Airport in Arequipa (airport code: AQP).

June – Morocco

What is the weather like in Morocco in June?

To be honest, Morocco is forever close to our heart as it is where we got engaged in 2018. So we would visit this amazing country any month of the year. Plus, with the countries Mediterranean climate, it almost has 365 days of summer. So in general it probably won’t matter when you go. Although, June is especially nice if you want to enjoy their forever summer weather outdoors since there’s little rain.

If you are needing a to celebrate your engagement like us with a drink at Rick’s Place, then you will need to head to Casablanca. With temperatures in June averaging 77°F (25°C) it’s excellent weather for exploring the largest mosque in Africa, The Hassan II Mosque.

Both, Fez & Marrakech are great places for chasing summer with temperatures averaging 90°F (32°C). Here you can get lost shopping amid their famous medinas or explore the important religious sites! Plus in Marrakech you can sit back with a nice Moroccan Mint Tea in Jemaa el-Fnaa while being entertained by the many street artists.

However, if you are looking for more a fun beach getaway in Morocco, then head to Essaouira. With temperatures averaging 70°F (21°C) and breezy winds, the area is a great location for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Morocco in June

With all of the cultural sights and amazing food, any trip to Morocco is already going to be packed. However, if you love music then you are in luck. That is because some or the biggest music events in Morocco and perhaps the world all happen in June. Plus the oldest festival in all of Morocco also happens in June. So here are the best festivals or events happening in Morocco in June:

1. Cherry Festival in Sefrou – Held for 3 days mid June, the Cherry Festival in Sefrou celebrates their annual Cherry Harvest and it is awesome. About 30 minutes outside of Fez, this festival is the oldest in all of Morocco with their first held in 1920. Of course the festival is all about cherries, but there are also many activities to celebrate the culture. In particular, one of the highlights is to watch the Tbourida or Fantasia. Here ten horsemen wearing the traditional costumes race as one unit while attempting to synchronously fire their Moroccan rifles. Because of the cultural importance of the Cherry Festival, in 2012 it was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
2. Fez Festival of World Sacred Music – The Fes Festival of World Sacred Music is a beautiful festival gathering all styles of music from around the world with the sole purpose to promote world peace. What is really unique is you get to hear amazing concerts in the ancient riads or near famous outdoor monuments. Plus many of the musical events are free to the public! To Check the lineup, get tickets, or see where in Fez some of the free concerts are Click Here.
3. Gnaoua World Music Festival – If you headed to in June for a longer summer at the beach, then you will want to try and catch the Gnaoua World Music Festival. Originally, this beach festival was intended to promote the indigenous north African style of music known as Gnaoua. However, the festival has expanded many of its free concerts to include blues, jazz, reggae, and hip-hop. To check out next year’s lineup Click Here.
4. Mawazine Music Festival – Translated form Arabic to mean “rhythms of the world,” Mawazine, as of 2018, is now the largest attended music festival in the world. Perhaps this is because they bring to the capital city of Rabat nearly 90 big named acts on 7 stages for 9 days! In recent years they’ve had the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Maroon 5, Pit Bull, Ellie Goulding, Rod Steward, Nick Jonas, Christina Aguillera, Demi Lovato, and The Chainsmokers to name a few. To check out next year’s lineup Click Here.

Top official tours in Morocco in June

Best Flight Deals to Morocco in June

There are quite a few entry points into Morocco. However there are 4 main airports that Jetradar recommends for the best deals into the country. Chances are, like us, you will find the absolute best flights into Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca (airport code: CMN). Marrakesh Menara Airport (airport code: RAK) is another popular choice especially if your flying a European airline. To get to Essaouira, you can fly into Marrakesh or you can also look into flying to Agadir (airport code: AGA). Both are about a two hour drive to the famous coastal town though Agadir will allow you access to more southern coastal cities. Finally, there are flights into the capital city of Rabat (airport code: RBA).

July – Spain

What is the weather like in Spain in July?

For active travelers chasing Summer weather in July, Spain won’t disappoint you. With a variety of landscapes you can always find something that fits your personality. So weather you want to head to the beach in the south or hike through the wineries of the north, you will be greeted with warm sunny temperatures.

If you are searching for a summer beach experience, then head south to Barcelona! With temperatures averaging 82°F (28°C) and an average of 1″ of rain, it is excellent weather for a hanging out at Barceloneta Beach. Plus with night temperatures at a pleasant 71°F (22°C), you can easily sit outside in Plaza Reial eating dinner and watching the street performers.

For those who need a bit more of a cosmopolitan feel then chase the Summer Sun to the capital, Madrid. Here you can get lost amid the amazing museums and art galleries, if temperatures ever spike over the 88°F (31°C). Plus it is a great time to visit the amazing flowers at the Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid.

Finally, if a summer pilgrimage is more to your liking, then walking the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. Across all Northern Spain, pilgrims experience temperatures averaging 76°F (24°C) as they walk to the burial site of the Apostle James.

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Spain in July

Spaniards have a zest for life and it shows in their music, culture, and food. So it is no wonder that they have some unbelievable festivals across the country. But be prepared for lots of dancing, unbelievable tapas, and tons of Spanish wine. Here are 3 festivals in July around Spain that may intrigue you:

1. La Fiesta de San Fermin – TORO! For over 400 years, the citizens of Pamplona have been celebrating St. Fermin. To celebrate every morning for one week, people participate in the Running of the Bulls. Here they run from a select number of bulls through the streets of old Pamplona into the Plaza de Toros. Then after the running, there is traditional bull fighting by professional matadors. However, the festival is more than just about the bulls. There is also tons of other events around town including street parties put on by the Peña clubs and their brass bands. To follow in the footsteps of Hemingway Click Here to Learn More.
2. Apostle Santiago Festival – For about two weeks leading up to July 25th, the city of Santiago de Compostela celebrates the feast day of it’s namesake, the Apostle St. James. On the actual feast day though, the Cathedral where the Apostle is buried holds a special mass attended by the Spanish Royal family and top dignitaries. This is on top the normal mass held daily for the thousands of pilgrims who have walked the historical way to the church. After the mass, the city then erupts in celebration with lots of dancing, music, and a unique parade of costumed characters wearing traditional papier-mâché cabezudos. Make sure you sample the oysters or scallops in order to bring you health and wealth in the coming year. To see all that is going on in Compostela during the Apostle Santiago festival Click here.
3. Benicàssim – Perhaps the largest music festival in Spain, Benicàssim happens along coast between Valencia and Barcelona. During the 4 day event you can see major performers like Lana Del Rey, the Kings of Leon, or Fat Boy Slim to name a few. Click Here for the Next July’s Program of Events and to snag your tickets before they sell out.

Top official tours in Spain in July

Best Flight Deals to Spain in July

For the best flights to Spain, Jetradar often finds the best deals to one of the 10 major airports. But in general there are 2 main airports for international travel to Spain. The biggest and easiest to fly into is Madrid Barajas Airport (airport code: MAD) located in the center capital. However, if you are headed east to Barcelona then you will want to fly to El Prat (airport code: BCN). Another interesting travel hack is to consider taking a cheaper international flight into the Lisbon Airport in Portugal (airport code: LIS). Then from there you can access Western Spain by taking a train, a bus, or a bargain local flight across the border.

August – Wyoming

What is the weather like in Wyoming in August?

So here we go showing our bias again since Wyoming is also our home. But truth be told, Wyoming in August is the ultimate playground for those longing for outdoor summer adventures. From water activities like white water rafting or fly fishing to land adventures like rock climbing and hiking the Grand Tetons, you will be greeted with wonderfully mild temperatures.

With so many things to do in Yellowstone, it’s not shocking that it is on most people’s bucket list. So a visit in August will be worth it as temperatures average 76°F (24°C). So whether you are standing outside watching Old Faithful or taking a swim in the secret Boiling River, the weather will be perfect.

If you are looking to escape the crowds at Yellowstone or the high prices of Jackson Hole, then head to the beautiful Northeast Corner of Wyoming near Black Hills. Though mainly in Northwest South Dakota, the beautiful Black Hills do extend about 40 miles into Wyoming. Plus, nearby you can witness America’s first National Monument, Devil’s Tower. Here you will can explore the beautiful area in summer temperatures averaging 84°F (29°C).

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Wyoming in August

With all the natural beauty in Wyoming, it’s not shocking that they love to get outdoors and celebrate. From rodeos to high adventure sporting events, August is a great time to not only get to see the natural beauty but also experience the cowboy culture. So here are 3 events in August around Wyoming that may intrigue you:

1. The Cody Stampede Rodeo – There is no doubt that Wyoming is Cowboy Country. So while there it may be on your bucket list to see a real rodeo. If so, then you will want to head to the Rodeo Capital of America, Cody for their Cody Nite Rodeo in August. Here you can watch cowboys and cowgirls compete in events such as bareback bronc riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, steer roping, saddle bronc riding, calf roping and barrel racing.  To See the Full Schedule of Events Click Here.
2. The Laramie County Fair – Held in the capital city of Cheyenne, the Laramie County Fair is Wyoming’s oldest and largest county fair. For nearly two weeks, this premier Agriculture event, has tons of fun and crazy activities. There is mutton busting, pig wrestling, and a wild horse relay race called the Rubber Check Race. But the highlight of the festival may actually be the wild demolition derby where cars crash all around the track. To get a schedule of the next Laramie County Fair events Click Here.
3. Lander Jurassic Classic Mountain Bike Festival (JCMBF) – If you love mountain biking then this is the festival for you! The JCMBF is a weeklong event where mountain bike enthusiasts all meet up in Lander, Wyoming. Here you can participate in Bike Demos, Group Rides, and as they put it lots of Shenanigans. Or you can just hang out and enjoy the live music while drinking amazing beer by the Lander Brewing Company. Plus, proceeds for the festival go to help create better bike trails and support the Lander, Wyoming Cycling Club.  Click Here for the Next Program of Events!

Top official tours in Wyoming in August

Best Flight Deals to Wyoming in August

To be honest, flight deals to Wyoming are hard to come by since most of their airports are small. Now, you might be able to occasionally find deals on flights to Cheyenne Regional Airport (airport code: CYS) or flights to Jackson Hole (airport code: JAC). However, most travel hackers check flights into Denver, Colorado (airport code: DEN) first since it is only about 2 hours south of the Wyoming border. From there you can look at renting a car or transferring to a smaller flight to the many small regional airports. Finally, if you are headed to Devil’s Tower and the Northwest Corner near the Black Hills, look at flights into Rapid City, South Dakota (airport code: RAP). Though it is a regional airport there are often deals since Sturgis, Deadwood, & Mt. Rushmore are nearby. Plus it is an easy drive into Wyoming from there.

HATE THE COLD? Dreaming of Warmer Weather? But where is it Summer Right Now? Well if you want 365 days of Summer than discover the best places in the world to go along any month of the year! #ForeverSummer #ChasingSummer #EndlessSummer
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September – Italy

What is the weather like in Italy in September?

Italy is probably one of the top countries in Europe on most people’s bucket lists. This is because of their rich history, beautiful architecture, and amazing Italian food. Couple that with the warm Mediterranean weather and it’s easy to see why summer months are packed with tourists. Perhaps, that is why September may be the best time to visit. Since most tourists have returned home and locals are back at work, you can keep chasing summer without the crowds.

With so many things to do, it’s not shocking that Rome is a must-see destination any time of year. A visit in September will be nice as temperatures average 81°F (27°C) and just near 3″ of rain. With temperatures like these, you’ll easily enjoy the amazing ruins or feel comfortable exploring the Vatican. Plus, at night, you can stroll peacefully with loved ones across Piazza Navona in a cool 62°F (17°C) temperature.

Yet if your summer needs more modern culture, music, or high-end fashion, then go north to Milan or Venice! Of course, there are still many historical sites in both cities. But you can feel more cosmopolitan as you explore the best in fashion, art, or design. Whether you head to Venice and the Italian Riviera or head inland you will find temperatures in September averaging 75°F (24°C).

Now, if an endless summer for you is synonymous with time on the water, then Southern Italy is where you need to go. From Naples to Palermo, your time along the Amalfi Coast will greet you with perfect temperatures averaging 79°F (26°C). So you can spend your time sunning on a sail boat rather than praying for a Mount Vesuvius eruption to warm you up.

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Italy in September

With so many amazing historical sites to visit, a festival or event may not be necessary. But that doesn’t mean Italians don’t want to celebrate their rich history and culture. Plus, with so much great Italian food and wine everywhere, what better way to enjoy samples of some of the very best. So here are 3 events in September around Italy that may intrigue you:

1. The Regata Storica – Held every first Sunday of September, the Regata Storica is one of the most important events in all Venice. Essentially a series of rowing races, gondoliers have been participating in this historic event since the 13th century. Make sure you get out to the Grand Canal early as festivities start with the famous Boat Parade. To See the Full Schedule of Events Click Here.
2. EnoEtna (The Grape Harvest Festival) – If drinking copious amounts of Italian wine is a fun summertime activity then head to EnoEtna in Sicily. The grape harvest happens across all of Italy in September, but the Sicilians celebrate it! The Grape Harvest festival of course has not only has lots of wine to sample and amazing food. But, there is also amazing art, live concerts, and barn dancing! To keep up with the schedule of the next EnoEtna Festival follow them on Facebook.
3. The Feast of Rificolona – Every September 8th, the people of Florence light up their city with paper lanterns  to honor the birth of the Virgin Mary. The highlight of the celebration is the parade led by the local Cardinal where kids carry paper lanterns known as Rificolonas. Besides the parade, there is a mass and other fun activities like music concerts and lantern making classes. Click Here for the Next Program of Events in Florence!

Top official tours in Italy in September

Best Flight Deals to Italy in September

Italy is a pretty spread out country and has 77 airports. But overall, one of Milan’s two airports tend to be the cheapest options for flights into Italy. When searching, first try Milan–Malpensa Airport (airport code: MXP) since it’s the largest airport in the country. If you want a price comparison then look at Milan’s Linate Airport (airport code: LIN. If you are headed to the eternal city of Rome, then look at flights into Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (airport code: FCO). Finally, if you are headed south along the Amalfi coast, check out flights to Naples International Airport (airport code: NAP).

October – Jordan

What is the weather like in Jordan in October?

For those Gen X travelers, Jordan has been a hot spot ever since Indiana Jones searched for the Holy Grail at Petra! But the country offers tons of amazing natural wonders too. In Jordan you can have a longer summer swimming in the Dead Sea, exploring the rock formations near Wadi Rum, or staring at the stars at a Bedouin camp in the desert.

It hardly ever rains in Jordan but it does get hot. So if you are searching escape the Pumpkin onslaught in October but not cook to death, then Petra is a must. With temperatures averaging 79°F (26°C) it is excellent weather for exploring the famous treasury. Then with night temperatures averaging 70°F (21°C) you can you can watch the stars in Wadi Rum.

Amman is a great place to extend your 365 days of summer with slightly warmer temperatures averaging 81°F (27°C). Here you can stroll shop at their amazing markets or explore the beautiful visit the King Abdullah Mosque! Plus, if floating in the Dead Sea is on your bucket list, you are only about an hour away.

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Jordan in October

The people of Jordan are always celebrating their heritage in their beautiful country with different types of festivals. But Jordan also looks to the future especially in terms of art and music. That is why it is often a hot destination for major modern fashion, art, and music events. Plus, with amazing landscapes there are often many big outdoor events for anyone to enjoy. Perhaps the 3 biggest events in October are:

1. Amman Design Week (ADW) – ADW is a massive Art event that features talks, workshops, and concerts that celebrate local craftsmanship in all its forms. Truly a unique event, visitors can work on mosaics, practice the arts of glass-blowing, or even try their hand at dagger making. To learn more about activities during Amman Design Week Click Here.
2. Sand Rave Desert Party – If you are a lover of music festivals especially techno, then this is the festival for you. Every mid October, techno lovers from around the world head to Wadi Rum for the ultimate desert rave! But this isn’t your average music festival. Tickets for the 3 day event include yoga classes, fire dancing, traditionally cooked meals, and more. To find out more information and get tickets to the Sand Rave Desert Party in Wadi Rum, Click Here.
3. The Orionids Meteor Shower – Though not an “official” event, catching the Orionids meteor shower is a must see event in Jordan. Usually starting around October 2nd but peaking around the 20th, you can easily expect to see 15 – 20 meteors per hour. Of course, this is all dependent on clear skies. That is why overnights in the deserts of Jordan are ideal since there are no city lights or pollution affecting your view. To catch the Orionids Meteor shower, look between the constellations Orion and Gemini. To see exactly when the Orionids Meteor Shower is peaking, check out International Meteor Organization’s Calendar Here.

Top official tours in Jordan in October

Best Flight Deals to Jordan in October

Jordan is a small country with just two major airports. For international travelers, flights to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman (airport code: AMM) is probably where you will head. However, you can also check flights to the King Husein Airport in Aqaba (airport code: AQJ). If you want to explore Petra, you will most likely have to drive or take a bus there. So it won’t really matter which you fly into as both are about 2-3 hours away from the Treasury.

November – Thailand

What is the weather like in Thailand in November?

With beautiful beaches, amazing cultural experiences, and perhaps the best food in the world, it’s easy to see why Thailand tops most people’s bucket list! Plus it is one of the few countries in the world where you can actually experience 365 days of summer depending on where you actually visit. But with so much to do and experience, why limit yourself to just one area. That is why November in Thailand is the best time to visit!

If cocktails with friends on top of massive skyscrapers sounds amazing to you, then head to Bangkok. In November, you will enjoy temperatures averaging 88°F (31°C) with barely 2″ of rain. So you will have perfect weather for sipping martinis while enjoying the exciting the cosmopolitan nightlife. Plus, afternoons will be cool and dry which is perfect for exploring the Grand Palace and other major Buddhist temples.

Now, if you want to escape the big city life while still diving into the rich Thai culture and amazing food, then you will want to head north to Chiang Mai. Like Bangkok, the weather will be about 84°F (29°C) with hardly 1″ of rain. So this will be perfect for launching your Sky Lantern at the Lantern Festival. Plus at night, the temperatures will be nice and cool averaging 64°F (18°C) which is perfect for sipping their famous Khao Soi soup.

However, for those of you that want to chase the sun at the beach, then Southern Thailand is where you need to go. But there is one catch, you will probably want to head to the west coast beaches of Phuket and Krabi. Along the west coast beaches will find temperatures averaging 86°F (30°C) which will be perfect for snorkeling, sailing amid the Phi Phi Islands, or just relaxing at the beach. Now if you need a bit more luxury the weather along the east coast in places like Koh Samui is perfectly warm. However, unlike the west coast, it is the wettest month for the east coast with up to 18″ of rain in November.

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Thailand in November

The is no shortage of summer like festivals or events in Thailand in November. Perhaps it is because the Thai people love to celebrate life and their heritage or perhaps it is just because of the Full Moon. But there is bound to be an event or festival in November around Thailand that may intrigue you:

1. The Thailand Lantern Festivals – Want to see 1000’s of Sky Lanterns soar into the atmosphere while more Floating Lanterns glide down a river? Then head to the Thailand Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai. Held on the evening of the full moon in November, Chiang Mai celebrates the Lantern Festivals of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng. Here you can join in the fun with parades, amazing food, music, and of course lanterns. To Learn More about the Thailand Lantern Festivals Click Here.
2. The Full Moon Party – If drinking, dancing, and partying is how you want to celebrate a forever summer then head to the island of Ko Pha-ngan, Thailand. Here on the beaches you celebrate the Full Moon with pool parties, electronic dance music, and amazing fireworks! To keep up with the schedule of the next Full Moon Party Click Here.
3. The Lopburi Monkey Banquet Festival – If you are looking to get into some monkey businesses then this is your festival. On the last Sunday of November, a wild feast is laid out for the nearly 3,000 macaques that now have overtaken the town of Lopburi. Said to be the descendants of Hanuman the Monkey King, get a feast of fruits, vegetables, and all kinds of treats from the locals. But be warned, these hungry guys can be a bit unscrupulous as they climb all over you. So pay attention to your belongings!

Top official tours in Thailand in November 

Best Flight Deals to Thailand in November

According to Jetradar, the best deals to Thailand can be usually found by looking at flights into Bangkok. So look into flights to Suvarnabhumi International Airport (airport code: BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (airport code: DMK). To access the northern part of the country, you can look for flights directly into Chiang Mai International Airport (airport code: CNX). However, if you’re headed south to the beach, it might be cheaper to fly into Bangkok first. Then look at getting a connecting flight to Phuket International Airport (airport code: HKT).

December – Australia

What is the weather like in Australia in December?

If you prefer to see Jolly old St. Nick in board shorts and a tshirt rather than an overcoat and snow boots, then it makes sense to head to Australia in December! Being in southern hemisphere, December is the start of their summer so it is not super hot just yet. However, remember that Australia is a large country almost the size of the continental United States. So be prepared for different temperatures depending on if you are in the north, the South, or inland.

Since most people have it on their bucket list to take a road trip in Australia, chances are you will be cruising along the east coast.  In December, if you start in the middle at Sydney, you will have temperatures averaging 79°F (26°C) with maybe 3″ of rain. If you wish to start a little further north in Brisbane it may be a little warmer & a bit more wet with nearly 5″ of rain and 84°F (29°C). However, if you want to drop the top of the convertable you may want to start in the south in Melbourne where the temps are still 75°F (24°C) but barely 2″ of rain.

Now, if you want to escape to the outback to see Uluru or Ayers Rock, then head inland to Alice Springs. Much like the American Southwest, Alice Springs in general is an arid desert grassland. So be prepared for it to be dry and hot as  the weather will be about 97°F (36°C) with hardly 1″ of rain.

However, for those of you that want summer all year round, then Perth along the west coast might be your heaven. It is generally sunny all year round and except for June and July it hardly ever rains hard. In December, especially, you will find temperatures averaging 82°F (28°C) which will be perfect for relaxing at the beach, dining al fresco downtown, or taking a Quokka selfie or Rottnest Island!

Fun Summer Festivals or Events to do in Australia in December

Australians love the outdoors and they do everything to celebrate it especially during December. Of course being in Sydney for New Years Eve is iconic as fireworks explode over the famous Opera House. But there is bound to be other events or festivals in December around Australia that may also intrigue you:

1. The National Cherry Festival –  The town of Young is a few hours west of Sydney and considered the Cherry Capital of all Australia. So you can imagine when it is cherry harvest time, the town puts on a great party to celebrate. This 3 day festival celebrates the harvest with a parade plus tons of crafts and food to sell. But if you love eating cherry pie then try your luck at the Cherry Pie eating contest. For the kid in you, they even have a Cherry Pip Spitting Contest! To Learn More about the National Cherry Festival in Young, Australia Click Here.
2. Woodford Folk Festival – The Woodford folk festival may be the largest folk festival in the world and is definitely one of Australia’s largest and most iconic events. This is because it may possibly have the most diverse list of activities for the whole family. Whether you love music, dance, art, or circus acrobatics, you are bound to find something to interest you at this end of December fest. To see what is happening this year at the Woodford Folk Festival Click Here.
3. Get Ready for the Music – Though it may be Christmas time, the list of musical events hitting Australia in December wont make you think of Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman. Of course there is always live music playing somewhere but throughout Australia, you can find some of the most epic music events around:
   1. • Subsonic Music Fest – A 3 day Electronic Music Fest held between Sydney and Brisbane around the first weekend of December. To see this year’s lineup for Subsonic Music Fest Click Here.
      • Meredith Music Festival – Every December, the small town of Meredith near Melbourne, holds a 3 day outdoor extravaganza. Of course this festival will have amazing music. But there are also tons of outdoor cocktail pop up bars, fun food tents, and even carnival rides. Check out all the crazy things going on at the Meredith Music Festival here.
      • Falls Festival – Heading into New Years Eve, is one of the longest running, music events in Australia, the Falls Festival. It takes place in Marion Bay just outside of Adelaide. Considered the best musical event of the year, it features popular local musicians as well as major international acts. To see who is playing this year at Falls Festival Click Here.
4. Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race – On Boxing Day (December 26), thousands of yachts race from the shores of Sydney to the port of Hobart, Tasmania. This 3 day event showcases the swiftest boats racing to hopefully arrive in Tasmania by New Years Eve. Of course there are tons of events at both ends of the race. But one of the coolest things to do is watch the start of the Yacht Race on the actual water. To see how you can follow the sailing adventure while in Sydney click here.

Top official tours in Australia in December 

Best Flight Deals to Australia in December

According to Jetradar, the best flights into Australia can usually be found to any of their top 5 commercial airports. So it really depends on what part of the country you are exploring. If you are headed to the east coast, start with flights to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (airport code: SYD). Sydney will most likely be the best for any international flights into the country. However, you can also look at flights to Tullamarine Melbourne Airport (airport code: MEL) for alternative options. To access the southern Australia, look for flights directly into Brisbane (airport code: BNE). But, if you’re headed to the west coast, then your best option is to look at flights to Perth International Airport (airport code: PER).

Time to pack up those shorts and t-shirts

So there you have the answer to your question, “where is it summer right now?” If you are a child of the sun like Eric, you can easily keep chasing summer all year round. But now, we want to know from you. Which of these destinations do you think is the best for an endless summer? Have you ever found a destination that gave you a longer summer? Or maybe there is a place we missed that has 365 days of summer weather? Please, Let us know in the comments below before we FREEZE TO DEATH!

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Disclosure: This post “Where is it Summer Right Now?” may contain affiliate links. Using the links doesn’t cost you any extra, and it helps keep the site free, fun, and community supported! Eric & Darcee will never recommend a product that we don’t genuinely believe in, actually use ourselves, have researched, and trust. Please see the disclosure policy for more information.

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When you think about sports, you most likely think about getting your heart racing, maybe being thrown around a little bit, and definitely feeling ready for a good bit of food and drink afterwards. As we get older, it’s actually more rare that people are into their sports. Instead, people settle down into the quiet life, and the sports they once used to know and love die down. But sports gives us something to be passionate about in life, and it gives you something to look forward to. It means that you’re not just going to work, to go back home and eat and sleep, and then to do it all again the next day. It gives you an outlet that’s your own personal space, and it’s a great way to meet new people, and keep new friends. So if you don’t have any sport hobbies at the minute, and you’re dying to get back into one, then keep on reading for some inspiration as to the sports hobbies you might want to go for!

Sports gives us something to be passionate about & is a great way to connect with old & new friends. So if it's on your bucket list to get back into sports, then discover a few Sports Hobbies to get into! #BucketListSports
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Something Relaxing

If all you ever feel like is that you’re on the go more than you are relaxing, then it’s time for that to change. But we bet you’re wondering how you can find a sport that’s going to allow you to relax, when your idea of relaxing is sitting in bed at home. Well, fishing is the answer. Fishing is such a laid back sport, that some people might not even consider it a sport. But you can take part in competitive competitions around the world, just check out Side Bet Sport Fishing to see for yourself. All you have to do is get the equipment, find a good place to go fishing, and get yourself a comfy chair. Once you’re all set up, it’s pretty much a waiting game to see how much of a fish you can catch. It’s a great sport to do with friends, so if you can get a friend to do it with you, that’s great. Or you might just enjoy the solitude of doing it on your own.

Something Thrilling

Sometimes you just need to get your adrenaline racing, and keep your mind sharp. When all you seem to be doing is thinking about the same things in life, something thrilling is definitely going to take your mind off of it. Mountain cycling is a sport that we think is going to do this for you. It’s easy to do, you just need a little bit of physical fitness which will quickly build. The downhill speeds you can reach are huge, giving you a thrill that you need to keep your mind and body alive. Pus, there are so many beautiful mountain ranges around the world that you could go and visit. From the alps in France, to the beautiful winding roads of Sweden, you could find them all! Again, this is a really good one that you can do as part of a group!

So what sports hobbies or activities are on your adventure activities and experiences bucket list? Is there something you would never do? Are you more of a relaxing sports hobbyist or a thrill chaser? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

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The post Kick Back & Relax With These Sports Hobbies appeared first on The Bucket List Project.

Mark Twain once wrote in a letter to William D. Howells, “The Dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven not man’s!” There is no doubt that “man” can be unpolished, disloyal, and generally a disaster. If you don’t believe me, then just attend a professional wrestling match and watch the crowd get unhinged! On the other hand, it is easy for us to see how dogs are often loyal, noble, and courageous creatures no matter how many clotheslines or leg drops occur! Perhaps, that is why people have been erecting famous dog statues around the world in their honor.

Now, I know this may upset a few of you, but currently the Junkyard Dog doesn’t have a statue in his honor. However, we did find 20 famous dog statues around the world that you are definitely going to want to add to your Travel Bucket List!

1) Greyfriars Bobby in Edinburgh, Scotland

The Story about the Famous Dog: Greyfriars Bobby

Greyfriars Bobby is probably one of the most famous dog statues in the world! This statue honors a small skye terrier who’s loyalty to his master even after death is truly amazing. The story goes that John Gray was a simple night watchman in Edinburgh who died and was buried in Greyfriars Churchyard. However, despite his death, the loyalty of this little dog did not waver. It is said that for the next 14 years, the terrier would stand guard over his master’s grave until he himself finally passed.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Greyfriars Bobby

Greyfriars Bobby can be found along Candlemaker Row near the cemetery known as Greyfriars Kirk.

Learn More About Greyfriars Bobby

There are several books about this famous dog, but probably the best one to read before you go is “Greyfriars Bobby” by Eleanor Atkinson. However, if you love movies then you will want to watch the 1961 Disney classic on Amazon Prime, “Greyfriars Bobby: The True Story of a Dog.”

Dogs are loyal, noble, & courageous! Perhaps, that's why people erect statues around the world in their honor. Discover 20 famous dog statues around the world to add to your bucket list! #DogStatue #FamousDogs #DogMonuments
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2) Hachiko in Shibuya, Tokyo

The Story about the Famous Dog: Hachiko

Probably one of the most famous dogs in all of Japan, Hachiko has a similar story of loyalty to his master. The story goes that this Akita was adopted by Hidesaburo Ueno, a professor from the University of Tokyo. Hachiko would follow his master to the Shibuya train station where he would wait for his return from school. This went on for about 2 years until tragically Hidesaburo had a brain hemorrhage at work and instantly died. But Hachiko did not waiver and waited for his master at the station for the next 10 years until he too finally died.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statues of Hachiko

There are several dog monuments honoring Hachiko around Shibuya so chances are you are going to run into one of them. For example, there is a beautiful one titled “Hachiko Finally Meets His Master” located on the campus of the University of Tokyo by the Nogaku Museum. However the most famous one seen in the picture above can be found at the Shibuya Station.

Learn More about Hachiko

Like Greyfriars Bobby there are several books and movies made about Hachiko and Hidesaburo. For those who want to read about him, we recommend, “Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog” by Pamela Turner.

With regards to movies, we found two that will introduce you to this amazing story. The first is a Japanese Film from 1987 titled “Hachi-ko” & another we found on Amazon Prime is from 2009 titled, “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” starring Richard Gere.

3) Balto in Central Park, New York City, U.S.A.

The Story about the Famous Dog: Balto

Balto was a famous husky sled dog that led a team of dogs 674 miles from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska. What makes this story even more amazing was that his sled mushed through a raging blizzard in the heart of winter in order to deliver life saving medicines to the children of Nome who were dealing with a deadly diphtheria epidemic.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Balto

The famous dog statue of Balto can be found in Central Park near the corner of 5th Avenue and East 65th Street along a path across from the Central Park Zoo.

Learn More about Balto

There are many great books about Balto and his life saving adventure. But if you are looking for a book that is fun to read, check out “The Bravest Dog Ever : The True Story of Balto” by Natalie Standiford & Donald Cook. As for movies, you don’t have to look very far. Since 2016, Universal Studios has released 3 blockbuster animated movies about the Adventures of Balto! But if you want to watch it on the flight to NYC then you can easily download the first animated Adventures of Balto on Amazon Prime here.

4) Waghya in Maharashtra, India

The Story about the Famous Dog: Waghya

Waghya (which translates to “Tiger”) was a small mixed breed dog of the Indian Warrior King, Shivaji Maharaj. According to legend, when Shivaji finally died, Waghya mourned deeply. Then at the cremation of his former master, the small “Tiger”, offered himself up as a sacrifice to his former master and leapt to his death into the funeral pyre.

Interestingly, his legend is the center of some conflict in the area. Back in 2012 a group of 73 Maratha extremists stole the statue. They claimed that there is no truth to the story and it degrades Shivaji’s legacy. However, Waghya was later returned to his location beside Shivaji’s tomb.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Waghya

Unless you are wildly racing the Rickshaw Run in India, you will most likely be visiting Waghya from the city of Pune or possibly Mumbai. Waghya along with Shivaji’s tomb can be found at Raigad Fort.

Learn More about Waghya

After much scouring, there isn’t much in terms of books or movies about Waghya. However, it you would like to learn more about the Raigad Fort where he is located we recommend starting with the Official Maharashtra Tourism Government Site.

5) Malchik in Moscow, Russia

The Story about the Famous Dog: Malchik

The story of Malchik (which translates to “Little Boy” in Russian) is somewhat a tragic one that ultimately brought the people of Moscow together. For about 3 years Malchik would hang out in the Mendeleyevskaya Station of the Moscow Metro. He seemed a playful and happy dog that befriended many of the regular travelers along with the local businessmen. However, one night a 22 year old woman by the name of Yuliana Romanova and her little dog got into a fight with Malchik. Yuliana would end up fatally stabbing the poor stray about 6 times and then running off.

Now here is where our tragic story becomes interesting. Most people would not even think twice over the death of a random stray dog. But the locals of Moscow, who had come to love this lost “Little Boy” became outraged. Yuliana was brought to trial, was found guilty of cruelty, and sentenced to a year of psychiatric treatment for schizophrenia. Then to make the story even better, tons of donations came in from around all of Russia to erect this beautiful statue to honor him.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Malchik

The statue of Malchik can be found in the Mendeleevskaya Metro Station in Moscow.

Learn More about Malchik

Currently there isn’t much in terms of books or movies about Malchik. However, in 2019 Russia did release a Stamp entitled “Monument Compassion” which featured the famous dog statue of Malchik. (This was one of the few stamps Not used on Eric & Darcee’s Wedding Invitations!)

6) Sweet Willy & Toby in Cottonwood, Idaho

The Story about the Famous Dogs: Sweet Willy & Toby

Okay, so Sweet Willy is not officially a famous dog statue per se but Toby most definitely is as he stands nearly 12 feet high beneath his beagle brother! Sweet Willy on the other hand is a bed and breakfast that as of 2004 was the worlds biggest beagle reaching over 30 feet. Both of these wonderful roadside attractions are the creations of artists Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statues of Sweet Willy & Toby

Officially known as Dog Bark Park Inn, you can find these towering beagles in Cottonwood, Idaho just northeast of town, on the west side of US Hwy 95.

Learn More about Sweet Willy & Toby

Well as of yet, there is no major motion picture about this crazy Bed & Breakfast. However, Frances Conklin did write a fun book called “Sweet Willy: A Noble & Absurd Undertaking“. This book not only shares the ideas behind & history of Dog Bark Park but it also talks about how two people came together to follow their own bucket list dreams and create a fun life together!

7) Islay in Sydney, Australia

The Story about the Famous Dog: Islay

Imagine sitting next to a beautiful fountain outside the Queen Victoria Building in Sydney, Australia, when you suddenly hear, “Hello, my name is Islay. I was once the companion of the great Queen Victoria. Because of the many good deeds I have done for deaf and blind children, I have been given the power of speech. If you cast a coin into the wishing well now, I will say thank you… Thank you. Woof, Woof!” That talking Skye Terrier is Islay, Queen Victoria’s favorite pooch.

Islay was a Queen Victoria’s dog for a mere 5 years until he tragically got mauled by a stray cat. However, the little dog must have made quite an impact on the Queen as she wrote of him fondly in her diary about how she loved how he stood on his hind legs begging for treats. (As portrayed in the statue).

How to Find the Famous Talking Dog Statue of Islay

To find Islay, you are going to want to head over to the Queen Victoria Building on George Street. There you will find a large life sized statue of the Grandmother of all Europe, Queen Victoria herself. But nearby you will find Islay. His fountain hides a ventilation shaft for a parking garage underneath the building.

Learn More about Islay

There isn’t much at all about Islay except the writings in Queen Victoria’s Diary. However, there are tons of stories & books written about the Queen herself. Perhaps one of the more popular, is “Victoria: A Novel By Daisy Goodwin” in which Goodwin shares from the personal diaries of the Queen during her younger years. If you want to dive more into the life of the queen on TV, Daisy Goodwin’s book is also the basis for the PBS Drama: Victoria. I wonder who will portray Islay on the show?

8) The Brown Dog in Battersea Park, London

The Story about the Famous Dog: The Brown Dog of Battersea Park

So in reality there may or may not be an actual brown dog that this statue “honors.” However, the Brown Dog of Battersea Park has caused as much political strife in this London Community as Wagyha has in India. According to the story, around 1903, a University College of London (UCL) professor was accused of illegal and inhumane medical testing on a brown dog. He was later exonerated of all charges and even won a libel case against his accusers.

However, this did not thwart the community of Battersea. A progressive neighborhood in London, the community appalled by the actions of the Medical Students of UCL, erected a statue of the supposed Brown Dog with a scathing plaque attacking the University. This caused outrage among the medical students who would about a year later attempt to remove the statue and cause what is now known as the Brown Dog Riots! This would go on for several years between the students and the community of Battersea until the town council finally agreed to remove the statue and have it destroyed.

Then in 1985, a new Brown Dog statue was erected along with the original scathing plaque attacking the University College of London.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of The Brown Dog of Battersea Park

The original Brown Dog Statue was located in the Latchmere Recreation Grounds. However the “New” Brown Dog Statue can be found in the Old English Garden of Battersea Park by the Pump House near Carriage Drive.

Learn More about The Brown Dog of Battersea Park

There is a book by Joe Cain titled, “The Brown Dog in Battersea Park” that tells the story of the whole Brown Dog Riots and the challenge of Animal Rights versus Medical Advancements.

9) Fala in Washington, D.C. USA

The Story about the Famous Dog: Fala

It is not often we hear about an American President and his pet but Fala was Frankin D Roosevelt’s (FDR) side kick. It was said that the 32nd President took the little black Scottish terrier everywhere, especially throughout his World War II fundraising efforts. However, Fala, like most in the political eye, was not without scandal. During Roosevelt’s 1944 presidential campaign, Republicans charged that FDR had accidentally left Fala behind on the Aleutian Islands while on tour there. They accused the president of sending a U.S. Navy destroyer to retrieve his little dog at an exorbitant cost to the taxpayers.

After FDR passed away, Fala attended Roosevelt’s funeral and went to live with the widowed former First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt. During that time Eleanor wrote a newspaper column titled, “My Day”, where she often referenced her adventures with the little rascal.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statues of Fala

There are actually 3 different famous dog statues of Fala in different parts of the United States. The first can be found at Puerto Rico’s “Paseo de los Presidentes” in San Juan. The second of the famous dog statues is inside the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, NY. There you can also find Fala’s collar, dog dish, White House dog tags and other artifacts on display. However, the most famous of the dog statues of Fala is at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Learn More about Fala

Though not solely the star of his own book, Fala is featured in the book, “Dogs of War : The Stories of FDR’s Fala, Patton’s Willie, and Ike’s Telek” by Kathleen Kinsolving. In this book, Kathleen shares wonderful stories and photos of all three dogs as they battle against the facists of Europe!

Dogs are loyal, noble, & courageous! Perhaps, that's why people erect statues around the world in their honor. Discover 20 famous dog statues around the world to add to your bucket list! #DogStatue #FamousDogs #DogMonuments
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10) Gelert in Beddgelert, Wales, U.K.

The Story about the Famous Dog: Gelert

If you love legends or fables then the story of Gelert is bound to be one of your favorites. According to legend, the Prince of North Wales, Llywelyn returns from hunting to find his baby missing, the crib flipped over, and blood smeared all over the snout of Gelert. Llywelyn instantly draws his sword and stabs poor Gelert to death. As soon as he does this, he then hears the crying of his young baby under the crib and next to it, the corpse of a dead wolf who had snuck in and attacked the child. In his dismay, Llywelyn realizes that Gelert had not attacked the child but rather saved him from the fangs of the wolf! To atone for his rash actions, Llywelyn buries Gelert with a royal ceremony and legend has it he never smiled again!

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Gelert

Gelert has two monuments to honor the courageous dog in Beddgelert, Wales. The first one has two slate memorials, one in Welsh and the other in English. Another is a Bronze statue of the dog nearby along the banks of The Glaslyn River.

Learn More about Gelert

There are many great stories that reference the story of Llywelyn and Gelert. Probably the best one for readers of all ages is “The Faithful Dog Gelert (Tales from Wales)“ by Myrddin ap Dafydd. Also there is a great animated movie that was released in 2010 entitled, “Gelert” that though in Welsh does come with English subtitles.

11) Rover in Hartford, Connecticut

The Story about the Famous Dog: Rover

According to legend, a man went with his dog Rover to the Hartford Connecticut Hospital after he had just suffered a heart attack. As he walked in, he told his dog to “Stay” and the dog sat outside waiting for his master to return. Unfortunately, the man never recovered and later died in the hospital. However, Rover never budged from his spot waiting for his master to return. Many of the hospital staff encouraged Rover to leave and even during bad weather tried to take the dog home. However, Rover remained devoted to the end of his life.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Rover

The Dog Statue devoted to Rover is along the left side of the front entrance to the Hartford Hospital along the window.

Learn More about Rover

Sadly, there isn’t much beyond the story of Rover at the hospital.

12) The Sheepdog of Canterbury, New Zealand

The Story about the Famous Dog: The Collie Sheep Dog

The story of the Collie Sheep Dog of Canterbury is more of a mutt memorial to all the amazing sheep herding Collies who helped on the farms the McKenzie country region.

However, an interesting side story is how the area got its name McKenzie Country. Apparently, in March 1855, an immigrant by the name of James Mckenzie was caught stealing 1,000 sheep. He alluded authorities for a while but was later sentenced to five years hard labor after being found guilty. A regular Billy the Kid, McKenzie escaped from prison at least twice but finally was chained in irons and guarded nonstop. Then after spending 9 months in jail, a judge re-opened his case, decided he was actually innocent, and pardoned him.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of the Collie Sheep Dog

The Collie Sheep Dog Statue is about an hour drive from Mount Cook, by the Church of the Good Shepherd, along Lake Tekapo.

Learn More about the Collie Sheepdog

There isn’t much about the Collie Sheepdog specifically, but you can always find stories about the area’s famous outlaw, James McKenzie. In 1977, there was even a short lived TV Miniseries called, “The Mackenzie Affair“. In terms of books, they come a little hard to find but the tv miniseries is based off a book of the same name by James McNeish.

13) Constantine (aka Kostya) of Tolyatti, Russia

The Story about the Famous Dog: Constantine aka “Kostya”

In 1995 a German Shepherd was been riding in a car with a man and a girl. The car crashed and the girl was killed on the spot. The man was taken to a hospital where a few hours later he also died. The German Shepherd was apparently left at the crash site and there he waited for his owners to return and retrieve him. It is said that he would anxiously run up to cars looking for his owners but to no avail. Since no one knew his name, people called him “Kostya” which translates to faithful or steadfast. For the next 7 years, the locals tried to coax him to leave or even adopt him but he refused, waiting “faithfully” for his actual owners to return. Then in 2002, his body was found in a nearby woods.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Constantine aka “Kostya”

The bronze sculpture of “Kostya” at the intersection of South Highway and Lev Yashin Street in Tolyatti, Russia.

Learn More about Constantine aka Kostya”

Despite much searching, there aren’t any books or movies about “Kostya.” However, in 2013, a Moscow musician named Cat Sasha released a song entitled “Watchdog” on her album Intercity Traveler.

14) Los Perros De La Plaza in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

The Story about the Famous Dogs: Los Perros de la Plaza de Santa Ana

There is a running somewhat crude joke that goes like this, “Did you know that there are no Canaries on the Canary Islands? It’s weird I know. Also did you hear about the Virgin Islands? Yeah, there are no Canaries there either!”

According to history, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, the Guanches, had a rare breed of dog, called canem in Latin or Canarian hounds in English. They primarily used these dogs for hunting and were quite revered by the Gaunches and over time became the symbol of the Islands. When the Spanish arrived they were amazed by the amount of Canarian hounds and thus the islands were named for the dogs.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statues of Los Perros de la Plaza de Santa Ana

There are actually 8 famous dog statues in the Plaza de Santa Ana. You will find them in groups of 4 immediately in the front of Cathedral de Santa Ana.

Learn More about Los Perros de la Plaza de Santa Ana

In general there isn’t much about the famous Canarian Hounds themselves, though author Goldeen Ogawa does feature the dogs in his Fantasy book, “Professor Odd: The Dogs of Canary Island“. With regards to movies or t.v. again there isn’t anything about the dogs. However, we did discover that the Canary Islands have been the featured back drop of many great movies including: Moby Dick (starring Gregory Peck), One Million Years B.C. (starring Raquel Welch), Fast & the Furious 6 (starring Vin Diesel & the Late Paul Walker), & Jason Bourne (starring Matt Damon) to name a few.

15) Morley’s Dog in Johnstown, Pennsylvania

The Story about the Famous Dog: Morley’s Dog

In 1889, a dam burst in Johnstown, Pennsylvania and virtually destroyed the entire city. However, when James Morley returned to his flooded home amid the destruction he found his old metal dog lawn ornament still intact. So he took the old dog to the park and put it on display to inspire his neighbors. Much like what the Fleur de Lis symbol became to the locals of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, this old metal dog became a symbol of rebirth to the citizens Johnstown.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statues of Morley’s Dog

After 100+ years of dealing with the elements and all the kids attempting to ride him, the original metal dog lawn ornament was taken away for preservation by the Johnstown Area Heritage Association. It can be seen in the lobby of the town’s Heritage Discovery Center, at the intersection of 7th St. and Hwy 56/Broad St. However, there is a replica statue downtown, in a tiny park on the northwest corner of Main and Market Street.

Learn More about Morley’s Dog

There is a fun Kindle e-book by Mike Dudek titled, “The Fairytale of the Morley Dog” that is available for a mere $1 (USD). There are also tons of books about the great flood in Johnstown including “The Johnstown Flood” by David McCullough.

When it comes to movies, if you can find it, there was a movie made in 1926 called “The Johnstown Flood” directed by the famous Irving Cummings who also directed many of Shirley Temple’s films including “Curly Top.” But if you cant then check out the 1992 “Johnstown Flood” movie on Amazon Prime starring Richard Dreyfus.

16) Zinneke Pis in Brussels, Belgium

The Story about the Famous Dog: Zinneke Pis

Zinneke Pis (also known as Het Zinneke) is one of three “Pissing” statues scattered throughout Brussels. Manneken Pis is the first one created by Hiëronymus Duquesnoy the Elder around 1619. It depicts a naked little boy urinating into a fountain’s basin. Then in 1985, a Mr. Denis-Adrien Debouvrie, had Jeanneke Pis created as a way to leave his legacy in his neighborhood. The statue was created showcasing a little girl with her hair in short pigtails, squatting and urinating on stone that dribbles into a fountain.

That brings us to our famous dog statue. In 1998, famous Brussels scupltor, Tom Frantzen, decided to honor his own dog by creating a lifelike statue of him in his own neighborhood. Unlike it’s two predecessors, Zinneke Pis doesn’t actually pee. Oddly enough, in 2015 it was hit by a car but Tom restored it to its former glory!

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Zinneke Pis

Manneken Pis is relatively easy to find at the junction of Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat and the pedestrian Rue de l’Étuve/Stoofstraat. Whereas, Jeanneke Pis is a bit harder to find. She is located on the east side of Impasse de la Fidélité/Getrouwheidsgang (Fidelity Alley), a narrow cul-de-sac near Rue des Bouchers/Beenhouwersstraat. Sadly, she has been vandalized so she is protected behind iron bars. While, Zinneke Pis is also somewhat easy to find as he is located at the junction of Rue des Chartreux/Kartuizersstraat and Rue du Vieux-Marché-aux-Grains/Oude Graanmarkt.

Learn More about Zinneke Pis

Since Zinneke Pis was more of a homage to Tom Frantzen‘s dog, there is really nothing more about him in other mediums. However, the original, Manneken Pis has made cameos in several movies including 1986 Tom Hanks Movie, “The Money Pit“. In the movie, Hanks’ character crashes out a window, down his roof, into a wheel barrel, that rolls down a hill and ultimately into a fountain where a Manneken Pis replica pees on him.

17) Shep in Fort Benton, Montana

The Story about the Famous Dog: Shep

One day in 1936, a sheep herding dog appeared alongside a casket at the Fort Benton Train Station in Montana. Apparently, his master had died and his casket was loaded onto a train heading east back to his family. However, despite the train leaving the dog remained. For almost 6 years, he would greet every train that would roll in hoping to see his master climb off the car. During those years, the dog was given the name Shep by the station employees. Many people took care of him and he became well known to everyone who passed through. Then in 1942, sadly, Shep slipped onto the tracks before an oncoming train and was killed instantly. A few days later a massive funeral service was put on for Shep by the local Boy Scout Troop 47, The Great Northern Railroad, and everyone in Fort Benton.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statues of Shep

There are two mutt monuments honoring Shep in Fort Benton. The first is at his grave on the hillside overlooking the town where there is a painted steel Shep cut out surrounded by lights. However, in town near the Missouri River, is a bronze sculpture erected in 1994 by Bob Scriver.

Learn More about Shep

Shep has had his moment in pop culture. While he was still alive, he actually made it into a syndicated column in newspapers around the world in a Ripley’s Believe It Or Not comic. But in recent years, he was featured in “Shep: Our Most Loyal Dog” by Sneed B. Collard and Joanna Yardley.

18) Dzok in Krakow, Poland

The Story about the Famous Dog: Dzok

A black mutt known as Dzok (pronounced Jock) is often considered “the most faithful friend ever” to the citizens of Krakow, Poland. According to his legend, in the mid 1990’s, Dzok’s first owner left one day only to suffer a heart attack and die. But Dzok waited patiently for one year outside for his master to return. The locals of Krakow felt for Dzok and some even tried to adopt him but he would not budge. Then, after constantly tending to him and feeding him, a widow named Maria Müller finally convinced Dzok to move in with her. However, in 1998 Maria also died and Dzok was taken to a pound. Somehow, though he escaped and made his way to the railyard where he was tragically struck by a train.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Dzok

If you are in Krakow, the famous dog statue of Dzok is located on the Czerwonański Boulevard on the Vistula River in Kraków , near the Wawel Castle and the Grunwald Bridge.

Learn More about Dzok

After searching the web, there were no major television shows or movies that reference Dzok. However, we did find a cute looking children’s book by famed Polish author Barbara Gawryluk. The only catch is her book, titled, “Dzok: Legenda o Psiej Wiernoski,” which translates to “Dzok: A Legend About Dog Fidelity,” is in fact in Polish.

19) Fido in Florence, Italy

The Story about the Famous Dog: Fido

In case you didn’t know, Fido in latin actually means “I am Faithful.” So, it is not just a silly name for a dog made famous in the United States when Abraham Lincoln named his dog Fido. However, “faithful” definitely fits for Fido of Florence, Italy.

As the story goes, Fido was originally a wild dog running the streets of a small town known as Luco di Mugello. One day a brick layer named Carlo was returning from work. At the bus stop, he saw the dog injured in a nearby ditch. So, he picked up the dog, took him home, and he along with his wife nursed the dog back to health. They would then later name him Fido.

Healthy, Fido would every day wake up and follow Carlo to the bus stop in the central square of Luco di Mugello. Then he would sit in the square quietly awaiting his master to return from work on the evening bus. When Carlo exited the bus, it is said that Fido would greet him with joy and excitement! This went on for two years.

Then on December 30, 1943, in the midst of World War II, Carlo’s factory was bombed by Ally Forces and he died. That evening Fido sat at the bus stop waiting for Carlo to return but his master never came. He apparently then returned home to see if Carlo was there but could not find him. Then he returned the next day to the same bus stop to see if Carlo would ever come off the bus. This went on for a remarkable 14 years until his death on June 9, 1958. In case your counting, Fido went to that bus stop to find Carlo nearly 5,110 times!

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Fido

To find the bronze statue of Fido, head over to the Piazza Dante in Borgo San Lorenzo, next to the municipal palace.

Learn More about Fido

There doesn’t seem to be many modern books or movies about Italy’s most faithful dog. But after much scouring, we did find and amazing scenes from an actual Newsreel from 1957 about Fido, from the Istituto Luce on YouTube. Fair warning it is in Italian but you will understand the story. Fido was also featured in the April 1, 1957 edition of Time Magazine under the story, “ITALY: Fido”

20) Bobbie the Wonder Dog of Silverton, Oregon

The Story about the Famous Dog: Bobbie the Wonder Dog

We have all heard the legend of a dog who takes an incredible journey back home to find his family. Well, the story of Bobbie the Wonder Dog is not a legend but actual fact. In August of 1923, Frank and Elizabeth Brazier, took their daughters along with their 2 year old Scottish Collie on a family road trip to Wolcott, Indiana. Along the way, the family stopped for gas and there at the station little Bobbie was attacked by 3 other dogs and ran away. After hours of searching, the Brazier family was unable to find Bobbie. They continued their trip to see their family in Indiana and then returned home to Oregon, expecting never to see their dog again.

Then 6 months later, on February 15, 1924, miraculously, Bobbie came hobbling back into Silverton. He looked a disaster with his toenails noticeably worn down to the nubs. According to the data, this little Scottish terrier walked at least 2,551 miles (4,105 km). He traversed across harsh terrain, swam across wild rivers, and hiked over the mountains of the Continental Divide all while managing to survive an extremely harsh winter.

How to Find the Famous Dog Statue of Bobbie the Wonder Dog

There are actually several murals painted on the sides of many of the businesses in Silverton, Oregon honoring Bobbie’s incredible journey. But the famous Dog Statue and dog house are downtown, on the west side of S. Water Street a block south of East Main St.

Learn More about Bobbie the Wonder Dog

Like Shep in Montana, Bobbie too made it into syndicated column in newspapers around the world in a Ripley’s Believe It Or Not comic right after his incredible journey. Then a short time later, he would even star as himself in the 1924 silent short film about his trek back home called, “The Call of the West“. But in recent years, the story of Bobbie the Wonder Dog fell silent until a book by Susan Stelljes titled, “Wonder Dog: The Story of Silverton Bobbie” was released.

So there you have it, 20 famous dog statues around the world. Have you ever seen any of these 20 famous dog statues? Which of these mutt monuments is your favorite? Or are any of these dog statues not worth visiting? Have we left out other famous dog statues that you would recommend? I know, I know…we are asking a lot of questions here but inquiring minds want to know! So please, let us know what you think in the comments below!

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The post 20 Famous Dog Statues Around the World appeared first on The Bucket List Project.

As I chase the many items on my bucket list, it seems that friends come and go from my life. But I recently read somewhere that “Friends are like stars, they come and go but the ones that stay are the ones that glow!” This is so very true as I grow older. That is why several years ago, I decided to create something I call The Wizard of Oz Dinner. For me it was a way to take the time to take to gather a couple of close friends and tell them, “Thank You for your friendship!”

Disclaimer: I struggled with wanting to tell this story on my blog. Not because I am embarrassed to share my feelings, but because in no way do I want to brag about what I did. After much consideration, I am sharing it to hopefully inspire others to tell their friends and/or family that they love them while they still have time. Oh and if I haven’t told you lately, “Thank You for your friendship and I love you!”

Saying “Thank you for your friendship” is important

Why is it so hard for us to say to those loyal friends, “Thank you for your friendship?”  Is it a sign of weakness as adults to open up and showcase our real feelings to our friends?

I don’t think so.

In fact, I believe just the opposite. In my opinion, showing your sensitive side, especially in a public setting, is a sign that of strength and a big heart.

So, what does all of this have to do with The Bucket List Project? How did saying “Thank You for your friendship” end up on our Bucket List?

Well, when I created The Bucket List Project, I found it extremely easy to add Travel and Adventure Activities to my list. But when talking with older members of Generation X, one of their biggest regrets was not telling those close to them, “thank you for your friendship!”  With this revelation, I created The Helping Others List, as a way to not only help others with their bucket list dreams but also show them that they inspire me.

Why is it so hard to tell friends what they mean to us? It doesn't have to be! Several years ago, Eric gathered a couple of friends & did just that. Go Behind the Scenes of a Wizard of Oz Dinner! #WizardOfOz #Friendship #ShowYouCare
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Behind the scenes of the Wizard of Oz Dinner

If you are a member of Gen X or any generation, there is no doubt you have seen the Wizard of Oz movie. But did you know that the author, Frank Baum, not only wrote The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, but 14 other Oz Books? When I found this out, I immediately added reading all 15 Wizard of Oz Books to my Personal Growth Bucket List!

Whether you read the books or saw the classic movie, no one can forget the famous scene when Oscar Zoroaster Phadrig Isaac Norman Henkle Emmannuel Ambroise Diggs, aka: The Wizard of Oz, gives gifts to the four main characters. When I read this and then how their gifts were used, it inspired me to give similar gifts to the great characters in my life.

But how could I do it? Like Oscar said in the book, “I’m a very good man (At least I try to be). I’m just a very bad Wizard.” Still, how do I give away Brains, a Heart, Courage, or Adventure, to tell my friends “thanks for your friendship?”

Simple: I would choose 4 friends to become the characters of OZ, trick them into coming to dinner, tell them how much they mean to me, and give special gifts to highlight their unbelievable traits. Perhaps, this could be the best way I could say, “Thank You for your friendship!”

Dinner with the characters from Oz

It may seem cheesy to hold a themed dinner party, but if you know me at all, then you know I ooze cheesiness. I also found that it helped me express my feelings through the characters I read in the Wizard of Oz. Plus, it was weird how four of my closest friends seemed to match perfectly with the needs of the four travelers in the book.

So let us meet the four individual characters who joined me for dinner and see how I found ways to say, “thank you for your Friendship!”

1) The Scarecrow gets his diploma

“You don’t need ‘brains’. You are learning something everyday. A baby has brains, but it doesn’t know much. Experience is the only thing that brings knowledge, and the longer you are on earth the more experience you are sure to get.” ― Frank L. Baum, The Wizard of Oz

I met Mike when we both attended Holy Cross High School in New Orleans back in the early ’90s. He was a great guy who always looked out for me growing up. But even though Mike was from a Holy Cross legacy, he never finished high school. When he left, it really bothered me that my good friend wouldn’t finish with myself and the rest of the class. I was sure I would never see him again.

But something weird happened. He kept in touch. He took the time to always talk with me in good times and bad. I loved talking to him because he was always learning something new, trying new experiences, and discovering new passions. He went to culinary school and became a great chef. Then, he decided to work offshore where he became a Captain of a boat!

What was amazing to my small mind was he did all of this without a Holy Cross High School diploma. So I had to take action and show him how much his quest to grow, learn, and experience life always inspired me!

So how did this Bad Wizard give the Scarecrow “Brains”?

“Can’t you give me brains?” asked the Scarecrow. ― Frank L. Baum, The Wizard of Oz

Now, I cannot give nor did I try to give Mike “Brains”! Besides, he obviously has enough to go around. But I did want to express to Mike how much he inspires me; without performing a lobotomy.

In the book, the Wizard gives the Scarecrow a mixture of bran with pins and needles as a symbol of his “Bran-New Brains!” However, in the movie, the only thing separating Scarecrow from other great thinkers in Oz was a diploma  which the Wizard hands him.

Now, I can’t formally hand out diplomas, but at Holy Cross we have a very important creed, called the Holy Cross Man. It represents everything that the boys of Holy Cross in New Orleans strive to be as the grow into Men. To me, it represents everything Mike is and will forever be.

So, I took my own personal graduation tassel and framed it with a special copy of the Holy Cross Man and a picture of our old campus where our friendship began. At dinner, I expressed my gratitude in front of our other guests, presented him with the symbol of the Brains he always had, and hugged him!

2) The Tin Man gets his Heart

“Why, as for that,” answered Oz, “I think you are wrong to want a heart. It makes most people unhappy. If you only knew it, you are in luck not to have a heart.”
“That must be a matter of opinion,” said the Tin Woodman. “For my part, I will bear all the unhappiness without a murmur, if you will give me the heart.” ― Frank L. Baum, The Wizard of Oz

I have never met a more loving man than Joe. I met him when we both attended Holy Cross High School in New Orleans, as well. Though, it was strange. We were never “close” friends. But that doesn’t ever matter to Joe! With his large smile, he will walk right up to you and hug you so tight your ribs will beg for mercy while your heart overflows with joy. He is just that guy! You can’t not be happy when Joe is around. Plus if you ever get a chance to hear him sing anything, you will hear his love of life and music flowing from his voice.

Not only is he lovable, Joe also shows love towards others. One of the most amazing things he ever did was one day in January 2013, he and his friend friend Dane each ran 52.4 miles. or the length of 2 marathons! They did this because their close friend Nicole had it on her bucket list to run a full marathon. However, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and couldn’t gather the strength to run. So Joe and Dane decided to raise funds for Nicole’s treatments and expenses and ran 52.4 miles. That is one marathon for themselves and one for Nicole Teague.

So how did this Bad Wizard give the Tin Man a “Heart”?

“How about my heart?” asked the Tin Woodman. ― Frank L. Baum, The Wizard of Oz

So how on earth does a guy like Joe possibly need a heart? From what I can already tell, his has to be at least 4 times bigger than anyone’s in the world!

Joe is a Holy Cross Man 100%. In fact, it was how I tricked him into coming to the dinner. I told him I needed a Holy Cross Alumnae that Mike, my Scarecrow, knows to help me present the Holy Cross Man to him. When I told him about my “idea” for Mike, he had to be there! Not long before this dinner, we had a Holy Cross High School reunion. Many of our classmates were there catching up and enjoying themselves, especially Joe. But he seemed a bit sad, which is very unlike him! When I asked his wife, Jeanne, what was wrong, she told me that Joe was kind of bummed seeing some of us wear our old Senior Class Rings. She proceeded to tell me that his original ring was stolen from his home not long after graduation and it devastated him. To think that this man who bleeds Navy Blue and Gold and could be the heart of our Graduating class was missing a piece of his heart.

So, I called our alma mater and asked them how to get an exact replica of my class ring. Then with a little luck, I was able to present him this symbol of his missing heart, for the price of a hug! For me, this was one of the best ways to tell Joe, “thank you for your friendship!”

3) The Cowardly Lion gets his Courage

“You have plenty of courage, I am sure,” answered Oz. “All you need is confidence in yourself. There is no living thing that is not afraid when it faces danger. True courage is in facing danger when you are afraid, and that kind of courage you have in plenty.”  ― Frank L. Baum, The Wizard of Oz

When I started working on The Bucket List Project, there was always one guy who would take the time to talk to me about my insane trips and adventures, Steve. I met Steve after he graduated college through his brother Dave. When I met him, we immediately clicked. Perhaps this was because of our mutual love for the outdoors that we both obtained through the scouts, regardless it is an easy friendship. Plus, Steve is a guys guy! He drives a truck, plays lacrosse, and likes winding down with a good cocktail or cold beer.

For me, Steve appeared during some tough times in my life. Yet, despite my struggles, he never walked away. He was always available to talk, deal with challenges, or just grab a drink and be present. His friendship has always meant the world to me.

So how did this Bad Wizard give the Cowardly Lion “Courage”?

“But how about my courage?” asked the Lion, anxiously.  ― Frank L. Baum, The Wizard of Oz

So first off, let me say that it pains me to use the adjective “Cowardly” when relating to Steve. I mean, he is a Guys Guy through and through! Plus, I really don’t want him to smack me with that lacrosse stick cause those guys are crazy tough!

When talking about our bucket lists, the number one thing Steve always talked about doing was going skydiving! Like I said, the boy is kind of crazy because if you have ever read my Anti-Bucket List, then you know that Skydiving is a big No-No on that list! But for Steve, he would go on and on about how he couldn’t wait to try it. So, when I found out and told him he could skydive at Gold Coast Skydiving an hour outside of New Orleans, I thought he was going to jump in his car and drive there immediately. But he didn’t.

So that is when I took action. I contacted Gold Coast and obtained ONE jump (cause Lord knows I wasn’t jumping too) for Steve. Then at dinner, I gave him this token of his courage and shared what he has meant being there in my life. What better way to say thank you for your friendship than helping a great friend fulfill his own bucket list dreams.

4) Dorothy goes on a trip

“if I ever go looking for my heart’s desire again I won’t look any further than my own back yard Because if it isn’t there I never really lost it to begin” ―  Dorothy, from the movie: The Wizard of Oz

I met Sarah at Loyola University New Orleans our freshman year so many years ago. We instantly became friends because we were both in the music program and she is absolutely one of the most fun characters I’ve ever met. When you first look at her and her beagle, Miss Betty, you may not think wild bucket list adventurer. But don’t let this first impression mislead you, she has had some of the coolest adventures around the world!

For me, Sarah has also been a mainstay when so many friends move on. But what makes her special is that she goes out of her way to try and maintain that relationship. Don’t get me wrong, trying to have a normal text message conversation with her gives me grey hairs as it sometimes takes forever to get a response. But, what I love is that she ALWAYS responds and is always suddenly there when you truly need her.

Perhaps, that is why it was easy to see her as Dorothy.

So how did this Bad Wizard give the Dorothy her “trip home”?

“Oh, I don’t think there’s anything in that black bag for me!”― Dorothy, from the movie: The Wizard of Oz

To be honest, the Wizard failed at getting Dorothy home in both the book and movie versions. So how could I tell Sarah, “thanks for your friendship” in a Wizard of Oz sort of way?

Well, let’s rewind a little bit. First of all I had to get Sarah to show up to help me with these gifts. To be honest, I am not even sure how this humbug wizard even convinced her to attend. But like she always magically does, she was there in full force. So I had to try.

In the story, the Wizard tries to get Dorothy home by flying her over the impassable desert via hot air balloon. But we all know that didn’t work and since I don’t have a hot air balloon either, I got her a Southwest gift Card from Raise instead. That way she could fly anywhere she wanted with a simple click of her heels and maybe some computer keys! So with that, an Elvis record, and a simple hug, I was able to thank her for always being a good friend.

“Home Again”

Fyi – “Home Again” is the final chapter in Frank L. Baum’s actual The Wizard of Oz.

So, lets bring you home again. If you have made it this far then you have gone all the way behind the scenes of a Wizard of Oz Dinner. Thank you for allowing me to share my story. I hope that this post helps you think of ways to tell your own friends, “thank you for your friendship!”

Have you ever told your friends how much they inspire you? Is it on your bucket list to be better at expressing gratitude? What is one way you recently showed a friend how much you appreciate them?

Let us know in the comments below what you think or what you did and maybe you will help someone else with their bucket list dreams!

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