Fly Over The Grand Canyon
A survey of 2000 Britons by the National Lottery in 2014 placed seeing the Grand Canyon in the top 5 of all bucket list experiences. I was lucky enough to visit Vegas in the summer and during my time there we went on a helicopter tour of The Grand Canyon run by Sundance Helicopters. As we were only staying in Vegas for three days, we wanted to see The Grand Canyon in the most time efficient way possible so decided on a helicopter tour.
A stretch limo picked us up at the hotel which was a lovely touch and with only a short transfer to the helicopter base at Mccarran Airport we were there in no time. After checking you in and weighing you (no one can see this) for weight distribution you are on your way. Pete, the helicopter pilot was very professional throughout, and after we strapped ourselves in, put on our headphones for the narration and protection from the noise, we were off!
The Hoover Dam, Lake Mead And The Grand Canyon From Helicopter
I am a bit of a nervous flier but the trip was smooth as anything and before long I was enjoying the view. To see the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and The Grand Canyon from above was fantastic. Pete gave us a guided tour of the area we were flying over as we headed to our touchdown point. Did you know that the Hoover Dam is 726 feet high, 1244 feet long and provides water for an estimated 18 million people?
Sitting under the shaded canopy admiring the view it was amazing to think what nature had created. We had 30 minutes to explore before our picnic lunch was served, a selection of sandwiches, salad, and dessert with a glass of bubbly. The scenery was breathtaking. Apparently, there are 70 species of mammals, 250 species of birds and 25 types of reptiles here.
We Had Time To Explore Our Surroundings Before A Picnic
After taking some photos, it was time to board our helicopter again. On our return, we flew over the Las Vegas Strip. To see the iconic hotels from the air was awe inspiring. I would definitely recommend a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. You will not be disappointed with the experience.
We Flew Over The Las Vegas Strip On Our Return
See The Northern Lights
There are a number of countries in the world to see the Northern Lights. In fact, you can see them in Scotland in the Winter on a cold and clear night. However I've always wanted to go to Iceland, so this is where I will be going one day. It's best to find a place with little light pollution to get the best view possible. Iceland also appeals with its diverse geology. I'd love to snowmobile on glaciers, tour the Golden Circle and sit in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
The Blue Lagoon
Kinkaku-ji The Golden Pavilion In Kyoto
Copyright: BigGabig Shutterstock
Byodo-In Temple In Kyoto
Copyright: Luciano Mortula Shutterstock
Visit The Temples in Japan
Kinkaku-ji The Golden Pavilion In Kyoto
Copyright: BigGabig Shutterstock
Japan has appealed to me for a long time. The different culture, high-tech shopping, and modern cities are a huge appeal, but it is also a place of tradition and contrast with its castles, temples, and shrines. To get the best out of visiting Japan, I would take a tour with a Japanese speaking guide, to take in the major sites such as Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan.
The Kyoto area alone has over 2000 temples many of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites and national treasures. The gorgeous ornate designs are just beautiful and to find out about these unique structures from the Shinto and Buddhist religions would be intriguing. To visit when the cherry blossom is on the trees or in the Autumn with the gorgeous colours in the countryside would be a dream come true.
Byodo-In Temple In Kyoto
Copyright: Luciano Mortula Shutterstock
So these are my top three bucket list experiences. Would you love to take a helicopter trip over the Grand Canyon like I did or what about a trip to Iceland to see the Northern Lights, or is Japan and its temples your idea bucket list destination. Where do you want to go?
You can read more about my travel bucket list here.
* PR collaboration
