No matter how many destinations we tick off our list, the avid traveller never underestimates the wonders that lie hidden around the world. We’ve shared our favourite landmarks below: some are renowned and others are slightly ‘off the beaten track’… because we know every traveller loves to find a spot that wouldn’t necessarily be in the guide book!
From the natural to the man-made and the mind boggling, we hope you get to see them all!
Aldabra, Aldabra Islands, Seychelles
As the second largest coral atoll in the world, Aldabra has a deserved place on this list. It’s is a natural beauty, practically untouched by humans, leaving weird and wonderful creatures to flourish. It is also home to the largest natural population of giant tortoises, which has recovered dramatically following being hunted to near-extinction in the 1700s. Thankfully, this priceless piece of marine history was protected in the 1980s, achieving UNESCO World Heritage status – so we can rest assured that this crucial ecosystem will continue to thrive. Flight time from London: 13 hours.
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Heading to Cambodia, this mesmerising temple boasts the title of largest religious monument in the world – and at 402 acres, it’s not difficult to see why! It was built in the early 12th Century and its design is so well respected amongst architectural circles that it is known as the ‘Angkor Wat style’. Walking tours are a great place to start your temple discovery, but a little research beforehand will enable you to fully immerse yourself in Angkor Wat, a whole day can be spent taking in this beautiful structure from every aspect.
Flight time from London: 15 hours. Arrive there refreshed and ready to take in the sights by resting properly on the journey. Sign up to be the first to know when the Kip Kit is available. Also perfect for those long, often uncomfortable transfer journeys.
The Wudang Mountains, Eastern China
If it’s history you desire, you would be hard pressed to find an area as rich as the Wudang Mountains. This small mountain range in eastern China has been home to a whole host of inhabitants since at least 250AD! The area’s Taoist monasteries have been known for centuries as the best centres for meditation, martial arts and Chinese medicines in the world. The breath taking ‘Golden Hall’ is also situated in the Wudang Mountains: and with 20 tons of copper and 300kgs of gold adorning this grand structure, it certainly lives up to its name. In sunshine or snow, the Wudang Mountains never disappoint! London to Beijing flight time: 10 hours.
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey
If you are visiting Turkey then be sure to add Hagia Sophia to your list of ‘must see’ landmarks! This man-made basilica is often considered one of the great wonders of the world. As it currently stands, this Greek Orthodox Church was built in between 532 and 537AD, although two previous iterations once stood in its place before being damaged by earthquakes and decay. Hagia Sophia is known particularly for its colossal dome structure. Mosaics and marble columns provide a grandiose feel. The church itself is the best-known surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. London to Istanbul flight time: 4 hours.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Northern China
Famed for its jaw dropping, dramatic landscape, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park provides visitors with a completely unique experience. It is known as China’s first national forest park. Ice – rather than rain erosion – is the main factor responsible for the column-like appearance of many rock formations at the park. Some of these colossal structures stand at more than 1,000m tall. Remember to stop by the Bailong Elevator for some of the best views – although at 326m high, it’s not for the faint hearted! London to Zhangjiajie flight time: 15 hours.
Travel aspirations and ‘must see’ lists can be particularly subjective, but we hope his list helps to inspire your next trip! Whether historically significant, architecturally ostentatious or a natural wonder, landmarks take on many forms. Have we missed a particularly fantastic one? We’d love to hear from you! Perhaps one or more of these destinations are already on your list? In which case, our Facebook competition could help to build up your travel pot – one lucky person will win £100!
As some of the world’s best sights aren’t typically on your doorstep, you may consider upgrading your journey comfort (without the hefty flight upgrade cost!). Arrive at your dream destinations refreshed and ready for adventure!
Please feel free to contact our friendly team should you have any questions relating to this blog or the Kip Kit itself. We’re here to help. Happy travelling!