Tag: travel

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? Whether you’re planning a luxurious vacation or a crucial business trip, proper trip preparation is the key to a successful and stress-free travel experience. From choosing the perfect destination to securing necessary documents, every step of the planning process is vital.

But what if we told you there’s a way to take your travel experience to the next level? Imagine the freedom of flying on a private jet, where comfort, convenience, and luxury blend seamlessly to create an unparalleled adventure.

In this article, we will not only explore essential tips and insights for trip preparation but also unveil the exclusive benefits of chartering a private jet.

1. Assess Your Travel Goals and Destination

Before diving into trip preparation, it’s important to assess your travel goals and choose the perfect destination. Are you seeking relaxation, adventure, or a blend of both? Consider the purpose of your trip and what you hope to gain from the experience. Once you have a clear vision, select a destination that aligns with your goals.

2. Research and Plan Ahead

Thorough research and careful planning are key to a well-organized trip. Learn about your chosen destination, including its attractions, local customs, and hidden gems. Plan your itinerary in advance, ensuring you make the most of your time there. By doing your homework, you can create a personalized travel experience tailored to your interests.

3. Enjoy the Benefits of Chartering a Private Jet

When it comes to air travel, chartering a private jet offers numerous benefits that enhance your trip from start to finish. By choosing a private jet, you gain flexibility, comfort, and convenience. You can customize your flight schedule to suit your needs, avoid long security lines, and enjoy spacious cabins with luxurious amenities.

Private jets also offer privacy, allowing you to relax or work in a tranquil environment, making your journey a seamless and enjoyable one.

4. Secure Necessary Travel Documents

Ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents in order before your departure. Check the validity of your passport, and if needed, apply for or renew it well in advance. Additionally, research visa requirements for your destination country and allow ample time for processing. Having your travel documents in order saves you from unnecessary stress and delays.

5. Arrange Accommodations

Choosing the right accommodations plays a vital role in your travel experience. Research and book accommodations that align with your preferences, whether it’s a luxury hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a private villa. Consider factors like location, amenities, and reviews from previous guests. By securing your accommodations in advance, you can relax knowing you have a comfortable place to stay.

6. Pack Smartly

Efficient packing is essential for a stress-free trip. Make a checklist of essential items, considering the weather and activities at your destination. With a private jet, you have the advantage of generous luggage allowances, allowing you to pack everything you need without worry. Pack versatile clothing, comfortable shoes, and any necessary accessories. Don’t forget to include any specialized equipment or items you may require during your trip.

7. Consider Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a wise investment that provides peace of mind during your journey. Look for a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events. With private jet travel, you can also explore insurance options specifically tailored to private aviation, ensuring you have coverage that meets your unique needs.

8. Stay Connected

Maintaining connectivity while traveling is important for both personal and professional reasons. Research mobile phone plans or consider purchasing local SIM cards to stay connected with your loved ones and have access to important information. With in-flight Wi-Fi options available on many private jets, you can also stay connected during your journey, enabling you to work or stay entertained while flying.

9. Be Mindful of Health and Safety

Prioritize your health and safety throughout your trip. Check if any vaccinations are recommended for your destination and schedule appointments accordingly. Familiarize yourself with local laws, customs, and emergency contact numbers. It’s important to prioritize your well-being by practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. With private jet travel, you can have greater control over your surroundings and minimize exposure to crowded airports, further enhancing your health and safety during your journey.

10. Manage Finances

Effective financial management is crucial for a successful travel experience. Set a budget for your trip, considering all expenses, including accommodations, transportation, meals, and activities. When it comes to private jet travel, it’s important to compare different charter options to find the best value for your money. While private jets offer exclusivity and luxury, you can still find cost-effective solutions that align with your budget.

Conclusion

Are you ready to embark on a travel experience that surpasses your expectations? With careful trip preparation and the added benefits of chartering a private jet, you can elevate your journey to new heights of luxury and convenience. Imagine the freedom to customize your flight schedule, the comfort of spacious cabins, and the peace of mind knowing that every detail is taken care of.

To make your travel dreams a reality, consider contacting The Early Air Way, your trusted partner in private jet charter services. With their expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, they can assist you in planning the perfect itinerary and ensuring a seamless travel experience from start to finish. Let The Early Air Way handle the logistics while you focus on creating unforgettable memories.

Don’t settle for ordinary when extraordinary is within reach. Experience the unparalleled benefits of chartering a private jet with The Early Air Way. Contact their team today and unlock a world of luxury travel possibilities. Your next adventure awaits.

Are you someone who would love to get out, travel – and see the world? What stops you? Are you an adventurer at heart, but can’t quite make it on the plane? Are you someone who hasn’t seen their family in years due to the distance and fear of traveling?

For some, booking a flight and heading out is simple and doesn’t come with many roadblocks. For others, the idea of air travel can be suffocating – amongst other things – thanks to travel anxiety. But, what if we told you that there was a way you could travel regardless of your anxiety? Believe it or not, chartering a private jet can reduce travel anxiety – and we are going to show you how.

Do You Have Travel Anxiety?

Before we go any further, let’s take a moment to talk about travel anxiety. What is it? What are the signs and symptoms?

In its most basic form, travel anxiety is the fear of visiting unfamiliar destinations. It is also impacted by the stress of making travel arrangements – and then following them through, such as boarding an aircraft.

The way that it manifests itself will vary for every individual. However, below is a list of the most common signs and symptoms of travel anxiety:

• Increased heart rate (or rapid heart rate)
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Inability to concentrate or focus
• Irritable
• Restless
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Sleep disturbances

In small doses, these symptoms don’t necessarily seem as though they will be debilitating to life. But they can become very overwhelming – and are capable of even triggering a panic attack.

Reasons for Travel Anxiety

Travel anxiety can happen for many different reasons, based on the person, their experience, and the circumstances. It rarely ever comes down to a single reason. Just like some may have had the fear for as long as they remember while others may have been avid travelers who now have an intense fear of doing so. Here are a few reasons why travel anxiety can appear.

The fear of flying. Many who dream of visiting incredible destinations around the world find their dreams crushed when it comes to air travel. The fear of flying can keep someone with travel anxiety on the ground. Sometimes this has to do with lack of control, turbulence, uncomfortable setting in general, and so forth.

Missing home. There are many people who find that home is a great source of comfort and security. Leaving it behind for an unknown place can cause a great amount of anxiety. This is especially common among those who suffer from agoraphobia because their home is considered their only safe space.

Worries about the details. Still, others worry about the small details. Maybe it is worrying about what is going to happen at home while you are away, the jetlag you may get, the nervousness about losing your luggage, etc. Compound all of these worries and it can send anxiety through the roof.

As we said, everyone is different and their life experiences play a role in how we react in certain situations. That means these are only three of many possible reasons for travel anxiety.

Tips to Overcome Travel Anxiety

So what do you do if you have travel anxiety? Are you doomed to forever remain in the same geographical location? We’ve got a few tips to help you overcome this crippling anxiety.

• Avoid alcohol. You may think that alcohol will help calm you down, but it actually impairs the way that the brain works when it comes to anxiety.
• Don’t travel alone. Sometimes having a travel companion can help ease your anxiety – especially an experienced traveler who understands your fear.
• Listen to music or watch a movie. While in-flight, put on some of your favorite music or watch a movie. This will keep your mood up and your mind occupied.
• Get in a pre-travel workout. If you have a high level of anxiety or nervous energy, try working out before you leave. This will release calming endorphins, keep your muscles loose, and give you a little distraction.
• Learn breathing techniques. Meditation and breathing techniques can help to calm the symptoms of travel anxiety to make the experience more comfortable.

While all of these are fantastic ideas that are capable of making a huge difference in your travel experience, there is, perhaps, one more tip that will change your life: charter a private jet.

How a Chartered Private Jet Can Help

Chartering a private jet can be a big help in reducing your travel anxiety. This experience is much different than other air travel experiences with commercial airlines. Let’s take a look at why that is.

More control. You don’t have control over actually flying the jet, but you are able to book a charter flight to meet your preferred time schedule. And, if you are a few minutes late, that’s ok, too as you are the passenger. You can get to know your pilot and feel a sense of ease because of it. You also will have your luggage with you at all times so you know that it will make it to your destination.

Comfortable accommodations. If a crowded plane of strangers makes you anxious, a private charter jet is quiet without all the other passengers. It’s private. Plus, you get luxurious seating and can even indulge in a comfort meal. Request all the things you like and be able to do what makes you happy – and comfortable.

Safety ratings. Feel confident that you are in good hands. Not only is your chartered jet free from germs, but it also comes with safety ratings that should make you feel secure and at ease. You can even request to see their license and certification. 

Don’t Miss Out On Your Future Adventure

Travel anxiety can feel very real and be very debilitating. But, you can’t let it keep you from missing out on all the beautiful destinations around the world that you are just waiting to explore. Take steps to reduce your anxiety – and book your travel on a private jet charter. It may just change your life.

BOOK NOW!

Thinking ahead and planning your trip wisely can allow you to have the best experiences around the world while being conscious of responsible travel.

As we move forward in life, we are encountering so many new terms and words for things – especially travel – and we are not quite sure what they mean. See, as our society grows and changes, so do our preferences. With the current generations driving the course of our future, the focus has turned more toward a mindful, environmentally friendly outlook.

We want to do better for ourselves and our planet. And this is beginning to show in our travel trends.

So, what is responsible travel? And why is it so important? That is exactly what we are here to find out today.

What is Responsible Travel?

When countries, cities, towns, and communities open their doors for tourists to visit, they expect to reap the rewards. They want the exposure and the increased economic gains to help propel the area into the future. And who can blame them? So many areas have relied heavily on tourism to drive their economy – and they have done well.

What these same areas didn’t expect, though, is the damage that heavy tourism can leave. For instance, places that have been home to many travelers over the years can end up dealing with consequences such as:

• Loss of habitats and nature
• Traffic congestion
• Destruction of natural (and historical) landmarks
• Drying up of natural resources (and other resources)
• Loss of cultural identity
• An increased cost of living
• Increased crime rates
• Increased pollution of all types

This can lead to a breakdown of the country or community, losing a sense of what it was, leaving it sort of washed up and shoved aside.

We need to stop doing this – and we need to start respecting the land and areas where we decide to travel. This is where responsible travel comes in. It is about being conscious of our impact – taking the focus away from visiting places on the surface and turning it towards the culture. Responsible travel means embracing this current culture – and showing it gentle respect.

Can you change your way of travel to focus on the community as a whole rather than your own needs and desires?

How You Can Travel More Responsibly?

If you are ready to transform your travel plans into something that has minimal impact on the world around you, then you need to pay attention to your choices. Responsible travel is all about making the best choice for yourself, for others, and our planet.

For example:

1. Book your accommodations in a large chain hotel or you can opt for a local bed and breakfast.
2. Spend your time supporting tourist attractions that contain caged animals or you can find a local group in the community to show you around nearby nature perseverations.
3. Rent a car while you are visiting an area or you can choose to walk or take advantage of the local mass transit system.

Can you see just how much power you hold in your own hands? It all comes down to your decision to be conscious of responsible travel.

Support Local

Local communities thrive when tourists come to visit. Unfortunately, as soon as big business see that the destination is growing, they step in. Soon enough, travelers begin booking with the big names they know (and who can afford the large advertisements) – leaving the locals hurt and hungry.

If you want to travel responsibly, then it is time you take steps to choose local each time you visit a new destination. And this applies to restaurants, goods, services, overnight accommodations, and more. Choose local and have a positive impact on the local community – and experiences you otherwise would not have had.

Slow Down, Be Mindful

You can book your travel with all intentions of being responsible when you get there. But, often, heading out on an adventure tends to shift our focus – and it may cause us to overlook the impact we are having.You must slow down and be mindful. Plan your travel ahead of time so that:

• You know the things you will do,
• The things you won’t, the places to visit,
• The places to avoid.

Be diligent in your research so you can rest easy knowing you have chosen to utilize the destination in ways that will leave a minimal impact, and maximize your responsible travel efforts.

While you are there, consider opting for a single retreat or visit one area. Slowing down in this way allows you to not only appreciate the place more, but it cuts down on the damage of your additional traveling.

Finally, be mindful of how much you pack (as heavier luggage uses more fuel to transport), how much water you use when showering, flushing, or brushing your teeth, and how you can stay away from using plastic cups, toiletries, and so forth.

Fly Private

Here is something to think about. When you are traveling to your destination, what is the best way to get there? The easiest choice for most of us would be air travel – but do you know just how much carbon emissions are released into the atmosphere with each flight? About 25%! And just think how many times a commercial jet must land and take off – especially if you have a layover or two. Sure, you could book a straight-through flight if it is available. But, what about a better alternative altogether?

Private flights.

Smaller aircraft produce much fewer emissions than commercial. And they fly directly to your destination. No extra, unnecessary travel or stops. Not to mention that you can also call ahead and make sure that your private jet is equipped with all sustainable drinkware and so forth to further be responsible.

Private jet charters allow you to visit the heart of local cultures (especially since they can reach places commercial aircraft cannot) while leaving minimal impact on their environment.

COVID-19 has kept us all indoors for much longer than we’d prefer. But, as we start heading out on explorations and adventures, we have to be mindful of the damage our travel can cause. Thinking ahead and planning your trip wisely can allow you to have the best experiences around the world while leaving the smallest carbon footprint imaginable.

If you’re planning to travel during the pandemic, then it’s ideal to prepare and keep a few flying tips in mind. Fly safely this holiday season by following the 8 tips below.

The holidays are fast approaching. Have you decided to travel? This year has been a weird one – and many people have been weighing their options when it comes to holiday travel. Is it safe? Is it worth the risk?

It is safe to say that travel won’t likely stop again during this coronavirus pandemic, but we can all take steps to fly safely this holiday season. To make sure you are fully prepared to head out into the COVID-19 travel arena should you decide to travel this month, we’ve put together a list of 8 tips to keep you safe.

1. Research Orders and Mandates

Since control has ultimately been left to the states, many state and local governments have been creating orders and mandates that apply specifically to their areas. Some communities have seen high numbers of COVID cases while others not so much. Some have requirements for outside travelers, such as required quarantining. And others require masks to be worn at all times.

Educate yourself on those orders and mandates that apply to your destination, so you know what to expect before you go. Be sure to continue checking up until the time of your flight as things in this climate can change abruptly.

2. Follow the CDC’s Guidelines

The U.S. Center for Disease Control has been providing guidelines to help us stay safe since the pandemic began. Generally speaking, these guidelines include wearing a mask, practicing good hygiene such as regular handwashing or using hand sanitizer, and maintaining a safe 6-foot distance from others.

Though keep in mind that if you are traveling via a commercial airliner, it may be tough to follow some of these recommendations.

3. Get Tested for COVID-19

Do your part whether you have symptoms or not. Getting tested before your travel date – and then quarantining afterward – is one of the best measures you can take. This means that you know when you board that plane to visit others, you are doing so with a negative test. So, if you take precautions at the airport and on-board the plane, you should potentially be safe once you arrive.

Though, keep in mind that there is no guarantee.

It is best to do your research before going to determine if there are any local orders or mandates requiring testing. Some destinations may require you to present proof of a negative test within a specified amount of time before you will be able to enter the city.

4. Plan for Your Transportation in Advance

The less time you spend in the crowded airport, the better. If you can, plan for your transportation in advance. Know how you are getting to and from the airport so that you don’t have to spend extra time searching for a ride, waiting for one, or discussing transportation with strangers.

Planning simply reduces your risk.

5. Pack the Right Things

You need to pack all the right things if you want to stay safe. You are going to be out of your home’s safety and surrounded by hundreds of strangers that, like you, have been traveling. This means adding a few extra precautionary items to your suitcase. Be sure to include good face masks, back-up face masks, face shields, your own pen in case you need to sign documents or receipts, test result documentation, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing wipes.

Note: Be sure that all of these items are packed in your carry-on bag and not solely in your checked baggage. For your health and safety, you need to be able to have access to them during your travels.

6. Practice Safety in the Air

There are things you can do while in the air that will keep you safe. For instance, stay in your seat as much as possible. The more you are up and moving around, the more you are accessing different germs in different areas of the plane. Just stay seating.

Wear your mask – and a face shield. For no reason should you remove your face mask while flying. Be sure it is securely fitted around your mouth and your nose at all times.

And, finally, bring sanitizing wipes with you and wipe down the immediate surfaces, such as the armrests, table, seat and headrest, window area, and more. Airlines have stated that increased cleaning measures have been put into place, but wipe it down yourself as an extra precaution.

7. Consider Flying Short Distances

The more you are at the airport and on the airplane, the more you are being exposed to germs. Consider flying shorter distances, if possible. Though, keep in mind that this is really only necessary when traveling commercially.

8. Book Travel on a Private Jet

If you are looking for the safest and most satisfying travel arrangements, consider traveling via a private jet. With this mode of preferred transportation being more accessible and affordable than ever before, now is a great time to take advantage. Not only would you not have to worry about coming in contact with countless strangers in busy commercial airports (thank you, private airports and FBOs), but you will also avoid sitting in a flying vestibule of germs from hundreds of fellow passengers.

Private jets are just that – private. That means you don’t have to worry about sharing the breathing space with hundreds of others. And, you can rest easy knowing that time and care was put into cleaning and sanitizing the jet prior to your flight – especially since they are not under the rigid time constraints of the commercial world.

Plus, not only are you keeping yourself – and your loved ones – safer, but you also get all the perks that come with private air travel. This includes more flexibility in scheduling and airport selection, luxurious accommodations, and so much more.

Fly Safely & Happy Holidays!

This holiday season, if traveling is in your plans, then take steps that can ensure everyone is gathering safe and well. Do your part by following the recommended guidelines and making changes that can benefit everyone involved – including choosing to fly private.

It is time for you to make some new and fresh goals for the new year. After all, this is the time of year when optimism is at its peak. Everyone is making plans and resolutions for things to make them happier, healthier, and an overall better person. The avid traveler can do the same. You often hear people say their New Year’s resolution is to travel more. But, these travel resolutions are not specific.

We’ve put together a list of travel resolutions that will change the way you look at your future vacations and travels. And, because we know how easily these travel resolutions can be broken, we are going to show you how to stick with them!

1. Do not overplan.

If you are the type of traveler who never wants to miss a sight, an adventure, or an experience on your vacation, there is a good chance that you create an itinerary before you ever leave home. There is also a good chance that your itinerary schedules your time down-to-the-minute. While doing research and planning your trip can be incredibly helpful, your travel resolutions should include not over planning.

When you plan a tight schedule, you don’t leave room for anything spontaneous. And, quite honestly, when you are traveling to unfamiliar places, not every local detail may be discovered online. Be sure to save some free time – or a loosely organized itinerary – so that if you encounter something that sparks your interest, you can just do it without worry!

Resolve to allow for exceptions to the plan in order to gain richer experiences.

2. Take exploration over all things material.

Sometimes there are places that you would love to see that require more money than you generally like to shell out for your getaways. It is still possible to have your cake and eat it, too. All you have to do is make one of your travel resolutions to put your money towards exploring new places and encountering new experiences, rather than buying more material possessions.

Resolve to create a plan for your travel savings and make it happen.

3. Use all your vacation days.

How many vacations days do you let disappear each year? It is easy to get caught up in the work routine and think that you don’t have the time or ability to leave the office for more than a few hours. You do – and you need to. After all, that is why you have vacation days. These days are earned so that you can get out of the office and rejuvenate your mind.

Resolve to not allow any vacation day to go unused this year.

4. Pack smarter.

If you travel more than most, you may have a packing system that works for you. But, does it, really? Spending time lugging around a bunch of baggage, having to dig and dig to find a pair of socks, or requiring two people to zip your bag because of that souvenir you just had to have is not the way to go. Packing can be so much easier if you just pack smarter. If one of your travel resolutions includes packing smarter, here’s how:

• Take less than you need, especially if you can wash your clothing while on your trip.
• Take two pairs of shoes – one for walking, one for dress. Leave the rest at home.
• Create a color scheme among the clothes that you take. This will allow you to mix and match your outfits.

Resolve to pack smarter on all your trips this year.

5. Unplug – if only for a moment.

Vacations are meant for gaining new experiences and exploring unfamiliar places. But, they are also good for letting you get rejuvenated and refreshed. It is your break from your normal day-to-day life. So, try unplugging from your electronic devices for a bit while on your trip. This will allow you to disconnect from everything that overstimulates your brain daily. And, it will ensure that no matter how much you try to fit in your schedule, you will still have some downtime.

Resolve to unplug from your phone, computer, tablet, or any other electronics so that you can feel refreshed and rejuvenated when you return from your vacation.

6. Indulge in the local culture.

When you travel, do you stay in the resort or tourist area? Or, do you let yourself get lost among the locals? Traveling is so much more than being a tourist. It is learning about the culture. It is indulging in the local cuisine, spending time meeting locals, and learning of the best places to visit. Maybe one of your travel resolutions involves getting more active in the local culture. Doing this will allow you to get a real understanding of the destination you are visiting. Think about it – locals live where they do because that is home. To truly see your destination, see it through the eyes of a local!

Resolve to dig deep into the local culture of your travel destinations this year.

7. Spoil yourself.

Last, but not least, spoil yourself. You may travel a lot, but perhaps you do so economically. And, perhaps that is the reason you can travel. At least once this year, you should spoil yourself. This could mean choosing to travel by a private jet charter, choosing to dine on a meal at the hottest restaurant in the city, or maybe it means upgrading to the hotel suite.

Resolve to do what spoils you on at least one vacation this year. You deserve it.

How to stick to your resolutions

Nearly half of the people who create resolutions break them within the first month of the new year. Yikes! If you are looking for how you can create travel resolutions and keep them, then you are going to need to take a few steps:

• Be specific about your travel resolutions.
• Write it down (with details) and put it where you will see it very often.
• Be realistic in your resolution.
• Attack one resolution at a time.
• Remember the resolutions you make and vow to keep them.

Take your travels to the next step by making and keeping your new years travel resolutions. Then, when you reach your next destination, you will see what it means to enjoy it to the fullest!

Ever since the movie “The Bucket List”, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman came out, more and more people are creating their own list of life experiences to check off. These lists can involve such items as dining on the Eiffel Tower, having a private audience with the pope, or singing onstage with Bono. But many bucket lists revolve around travel. For, to experience the world in a whole new way may be the ultimate luxury.

Often, these lists easily merge with the next, citing such experiences as diving in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking to Machu Picchu, or walking on the Great Wall of China. Fascinating stuff, no doubt. However, every bucket list item does not have to be as expensive or far reaching. And each person’s bucket list will prove to be as unique as the individual. To create your very own bucket list, follow your interests but then, just maybe, seek out a more authentic experience to make it your own.

Cambodia

There is no shortage of options for the history lover. A constant top choice is Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The largest religious compounds in the world, these vast ruins encompass over 400 acres, featuring hundreds of sites. The best sightseeing option is to make a base camp in nearby Siam Reap and purchase the multi-day pass. Early mornings are best for avoiding the heat, if not the crowds, but an insider tip is to head back to the site in the late afternoon. Most visitors rush to get in a morning of touring before spending afternoons at the many cafes, or around the pool, and you may just find yourself waltzing through ruins all alone.

Egypt

For another idea, perhaps a trip to Egypt is in your sights. And no, we don’t mean the Pyramids of Giza or the Valley of the Kings, no matter how remarkable those might be. Visit the biggies, but for a truly memorable experience, head to Luxor, but book a day with a local guide visiting places the hoards ignore. Instead of standing in line to visit King Tut’s tomb, head to the workmen’s village of Deir el-Medina, and the modest homes of the artisans who created the Kings tombs. Descend alone into tiny, yet stunning personal tombs, a sample of the exact same work, all without the crowds. Take in some more magic at the practically unknown Tombs of the Nobles, and finish your day on the West bank of the Nile, sharing tea with the taxi drivers, confident that your day in Luxor was unlike nearly anyone else’s.

Africa

Africa is the obvious and instant answer. Nowhere else on earth can you experience such incredible diversity and numbers of animals. Krueger Park is justifiably famous, but for a different experience, head to the Okavango Delta of Botswana. The waterways of the Delta lesson as they drain to the parched Kalahari Desert, but at their source is the lifeblood for dozens and dozens of species, including the largest elephant population in Africa. Sunrise safari drives, sunset river cruises, and overnights into the Delta bring the magic of Africa alive. Book a mokoro, a locally made cutout canoe, and move silently through the reeds, fully aware of all of your senses as you get up close and personal with the great wildlife of the world.

India

On the other side of the planet, be amazed by the big cats of India. Gravely endangered, and with numbers continuing to dwindle, the Bengal Tigers of northern India rate as their very own bucket list. Certainly, the entire experience is one for the list. Although jeep safari options exist, the most amazing way to search for the big cats is atop the back of an elephant. Imagine quietly working your way through the forest, the great beasts making surprisingly little noise. The scene makes you feel breathtakingly alive, as you slowly move through the tiger’s natural habitat. Of course, there is no guarantee of a sighting, but this fact, when combined with the drama and the excitement of the day barely dims the overwhelming emotions.

No Motor

Humans have forever been drawn to the idea of flight. For an once-in-a-lifetime experience, head to the exotic center of Turkey. The Cappadocia Valley is a miracle, all on its own. For centuries, the people have lived in houses literally carved into the jagged cliffs.  This surreal landscape of limestone cliffs, reaching towards the sky, is the perfect place for to take to the air in a hot air balloon. Watch the sunrise at elevation, the ever-lightening sky revealing more than you will ever be able to experience from the ground.

Open Air

Victoria Falls. One of the great natural wonders of the world. It is impossible to truly comprehend the enormity of the raging water from the ground. Sure, you could book a fixed wing or helicopter flight, but for a bucket list experience, taking in the scene in a microlight is the only way to go! Microlights are fully open air, thus ensuring that you not only get the view of the falls, but can appreciate the thundering crash and water spray as well. Many trips even include animal sightings in the river above the falls. Microlights are capable of flying much lower than helicopters, and with no sides, the experience of truly flying can simply not be underestimated.

Jet Fueled

Perhaps you’re not looking to connect with nature. Perhaps streaking through the skies in the utmost comfort is what you truly desire. Although many air carriers’ offer stunning first class and suite class options, this is a bucket list we’re talking about. It may be time to go all out. In that case, consider booking a private charter jet. Embrace your inner celebrity fantasies and book a seat on a private jet charter. With some companies offering up individual seats on private jets, the “lifestyles of the rich and famous” are easier than ever to achieve. After all, you only live once!

A bucket list can be ever-evolving, but now is the time to start checking those items off the list to make room for something new.