One WOW Destination from Each of Our 7 Continents
Welcome, fellow beings with the infliction of wanderlust (longing for adventure and discovery), to a whirlwind trip around the globe! Strap in, buckle up and prepare for a journey filled with laughter, awe, and unforgettable WOW experiences. We're about to embark on a quest to discover one absolutely awesome destination on each of the 7 continents. So grab your passport and your sense of humor, and let's dive right into the fun! The continents are listed in order of size from largest to smallest in this blog.
Asia
In December 2018, I traveled to Tanzania for a week-long Safari, which was followed by a cruise of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, three Ports in India, and Oman.
Asia: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Enter a world of opulence and extravagance in Dubai, the glittering gem of the Middle East. Marvel at architectural wonders like the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and the Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree. Indulge in shopping sprees at luxury malls, embark on thrilling desert safaris, and dine under the stars in Bedouin-style tents. With its endless array of attractions and experiences, Dubai promises a getaway like no other, where every moment is filled with wonder and awe. I had the pleasure of visiting with a nephew and a past coworker while in Dubai, and when friends and family are so far away, getting a chance to connect while traveling makes these reconnect opportunities extra special.
AFRICA
I traveled to Tanzania in December 2018 for a one-week Three Park Safari, followed by a cruise out of Abu Dhabi. The picture on the left is of a luxury glamping photo of the bed and seating area, and the lovely fellow on the right is a picture I took of this majestic giraffe.
Africa: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Welcome to the ultimate safari destination: Serengeti National Park, where the circle of life plays out in all its raw, untamed glory. Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration as millions of buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles journey across the plains in search of greener pastures (I am so grateful to have experienced a Buffalo migration while sitting on the deck of the glamping tent during our stay in the Serengeti National Park). When you go, you should keep your eyes peeled for the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—as they roam freely in their natural habitat (grateful to say we did see the big 5...the rhinoceros on our last day). Just remember to bring your binoculars and your best safari hat—you never know what wild adventures await! Sadly, my safari luggage was lost and when it got back to Canada, our binoculars and SLT camera with special lenses were missing. I had to pull clothing from my Cruise-wear suitcase—needless to say, I was the best-dressed gal on that Safari! Thankfully, I had my cell phone, and our fellow travelers shared their binoculars.
NORTH AMERICA
The wildlife is so vast in Alberta that for safety reasons for both people and animals, they had to build bridges for the wildlife to cross the highways. On the right, is a shot of the stunning turquoise Moraine Lake, cradled by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, located in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.
North America: Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Picture this: towering snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife roaming freely. Welcome to Banff National Park, where Mother Nature puts on her most spectacular show. From hiking amidst breathtaking scenery to soaking in natural hot springs, this place is a haven for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Just be sure to watch out for photobombing elk—they're known to steal the spotlight! When I was 20, I quit my job, sold my car, and flew across Canada to Calgary, Alberta, with a girlfriend. I met my husband of 42 years now there and we came back to Ontario to be with family as we started our family. I had the pleasure of learning to ski in the Rocky Mountains, and during my years there, I witnessed a vast array of wildlife in its natural environment and the spectacular beauty of the mountains. I remember seeing a bear at the side of the road, deer in downtown Banff in front of businesses, and yes, back then, elk were everywhere on the sides of the road as this was 40+ years ago and before the safety mechanisms were all in place. A truly majestic place to visit for so many reasons.
SOUTH AMERICA
I traveled to Ecuador in 2022, taking a Galapagos Islands cruise followed by a land tour with Celebrity Cruises. We also visited Machu Picchu and several other cities in Peru. Above are a few pictures of some of the WOW wildlife we experienced. A giant tortoise and I, a Galapagos penguin basking on the rocks, who did me the honor of lifting his wings for a pose, and the famous Blue-footed booby bird.
South America: Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Prepare to embark on an otherworldly adventure in the Galápagos Islands, where Charles Darwin found inspiration for his theory of evolution. These enchanted isles are a living museum of natural wonders, where fearless wildlife roams freely, and landscapes range from lush highlands to volcanic shores. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, hike through otherworldly lava fields, and marvel at ancient giant tortoises—the true guardians of these mystical islands. Just be sure to keep an eye out for mischievous blue-footed boobies—they're known for their quirky antics and photogenic poses! We did deep-water snorkeling and were as mesmerized by the underwater beauty as we were by what we saw on land. Machu Picchu did not disappoint either—one WOW after another on this trip, for sure!
ANTARCTICA
Antarctica: Penguin Colony, Antarctica
Last but certainly not least, we journey to the icy wonders of Antarctica, where the cutest creatures on the planet steal the show: penguins! Waddle alongside these adorable feathered friends as they go about their daily lives, from building nests to frolicking in the snow. And if you're fortunate, you may even experience the joy of witnessing baby penguins waddling through their first adorable, clumsy steps. Just remember to layer up—this chilly escapade promises to fill your heart with warmth and fuzziness inside while the crisp Antarctic air keeps you refreshed outside! As Antarctica is still on my bucket list as the last continent I have not visited, I have no pictures of my own to share. But here's a fun fact. In September 2024, I won a prize in a cancer lottery, and it was a trip to Antarctica. They sent me a check for the value, and I will use this money to book this trip very soon. Serendipity at its finest!
EUROPE
It was really hard to get a good picture in Santorini as the tourists were thick in every picture-taking hotspot trying to capture the spectacular views. Left—We were there in May 2023 while on a Greek Islands cruise that also included Italy and Turkey. If you look closely at the picture on the right, you will see a bride and groom having their wedding picture shoot at this iconic spot in Santorini.
Europe: Santorini, Greece
Transport yourself to a postcard-perfect paradise in Santorini, one of the most famous Islands in the world, where whitewashed buildings cling to dramatic cliffs overlooking the azure Aegean Sea. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of charming villages like Oia and Fira, where stunning sunsets paint the sky in hues of pink and gold. Indulge in fresh seafood and local wine at seaside tavernas, soak up the Mediterranean sun on black sand beaches, and explore ancient ruins steeped in history and myth. With its breathtaking beauty and romantic allure, Santorini is a destination straight out of a dream. Arriving in Santorini by cruise ship is not as romantic as arriving by plane. The cruise ships tenders you to shore to the Old Port of Fira. You are now at the base of a rocky cliff below Fira. From there you have to either climb a 587-step incline covered in donkey dung, take a donkey ride up, or pay and wait in a line for the cable car. In May, we had to wait close to an hour to get on the cable car. We then hired a private driver to take us to Oia, where we walked around and enjoyed the shops and views. Once back at the Old Port of Fira, we stopped for refreshments at a beautiful spot overlooking the Sea before taking the cable car down again and then the tender to the ship.
AUSTRALIA
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, my buddy gives me a healing hug.
Australia: Gold Coast, Queensland
Explore the Gold Coast, where sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling adventures await. Sink your toes into the golden sands of Surfers Paradise (check), catch a wave at world-renowned surf breaks (nope), and embark on adrenaline-pumping adventures in the lush hinterland (nope). From exploring ancient rainforests to soaring above the city skyline in a hot air balloon (check), the Gold Coast offers endless opportunities for fun and excitement. And after a day of adventure, unwind with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque esplanade or indulge in mouthwatering seafood at waterfront restaurants (check). With its perfect blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication, the Gold Coast is a destination that will leave you spellbound. The above photo is very special to me. We went to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the bus while visiting the Gold Coast, and after patting myself on the back after a successful Segway Safari Adventure Tour that was way outside my comfort zone, I saw the train coming that would take us to the Koala Bear compound. I started to run to catch the train and fell on the interlocking walkway. I did hobble onto the train, but my knee was in a lot of pain, and I was bleeding a fair bit. They took me off the train at the first stop and sent for the First Aid team. I was bandaged up and could not walk any longer, so the manager was whisking me off to the front entrance in a golf cart. I told him I had really come to see the Koalas and was so sad I could not see them now. He took me to the Koala picture booth exhibit, where this picture was taken. I was so thrilled; you can see the smile on my face despite the pain. Then we had an hour on the bus to get back to our hotel. After another day at the Gold Coast, we flew back to Sydney, and I had a few more days of hobbling around and seeing the sites there (including a live show at the Performing Arts Centre in New South Wales known as the Sydney Opera House) and a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. The end of our trip was a very long flight back to Toronto, Canada. There's a lesson in this story that relates to something I have said to my kids and grandkids many times over—I bet you can guess what it is...lol!
And there you have it, fellow beings also suffering with the affliction of Wanderlust: one epic destination on each continent guaranteed to fill your heart with laughter, fun, wonder, and as many WOW memories as they did for me.
As I have stated, Antarctica is still on my bucket list so that is another travel adventure for me to write about in the future.
So make a list, plan a trip, and pack your bags so you can embark on epic adventures to these or another destination of your choice. And remember: the world is waiting and has so much to show you and teach you, so go forth and explore!
I am so excited to share my book with you, Transforming Venus. This book is a toolkit and guide with a section with eight chapters on Awakening and Healing the Goddess within, four chapters on Nurturing and Loving the Goddess within, and a section with six chapters on Adventuring with the Goddess within. It is designed as a guidebook that includes exercises and ideas to further support your growth in a myriad of areas in which we Goddesses may need help! Order a copy for yourself or gift one to a loved one here.
So, my fellow Goddess, go forth with these newfound tools, and may your journey be adorned with the warmth of self-love and the constant glow of living your best life.
Live Bold and Shine Brightly like the Goddess you are!
Love, Positive Paula
Author/Mentor/Entrepreneur/Chief Positivity Officer (CPO) of Wealth of WOW
PS We all have stories. If you have a Travel WOW story to share, I'd love it if you emailed me at paula@wealthofwow.com. Your story might even make it into my Travel WOWs book.
