Couples Bucket List: 77 Ideas for Exceptional Travel Experiences 

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There is something incredibly therapeutic about listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. Sleeping in an overwater bungalow is one of the ultimate luxury experiences.

My husband and I have had the pleasure of enjoying this unique accommodation in both Bora Bora and the Maldives. We stayed at the Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana in Bora Bora, which had more traditional decor and a glass coffee table that allowed you to see the fish (and your husband, lol) swimming below!

In the Maldives, we have stayed at three different resorts known for their incredible house reefs, but my favorite is the Outrigger Maafushivaru.

The huge bedroom has herringbone floors, white crisp bedding, and a massive white marble bathroom. We also had our own personal plunge pool that faced the ocean.

The best part was the stairs leading from the overwater villa right into the ocean. We saw harmless blacktip reef sharks, sting rays, and numerous tropical fish on a daily basis.

If you love wine and you love biking, booking a trip to Burgundy, France is a must!

Our vacations tend to have a theme. We book travel centered around amazing food & wine and some kind of incredible outdoor experience.

For example …

• Dining at Maido in Lima, Peru and hiking Machu Picchu
• Tasting all the Ports in Douro Valley, Portugal and hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
• Sipping Champagne and then hiking to Lac Blanc in Chamonix, France
• Trying New Zealand’s best Pinot Noir in Central Otago and biking the Otago Central Rail Trail

See a trend?

Burgundy, France is another location you can combine these two passions: great food and the great outdoors.

You can join a small group tour to take all the stress out of planning your bike + wine tour, or you can do it yourself as we did and go at your own pace. The bike trail is well-maintained, and you can decide how far you want to go through the countryside.

Yes, this couples bucket list experience is as romantic as it sounds!

Charming wine villages, endless vineyards, grand chateaus, and of course mouthwatering food and exceptional wine.

If you are a foodie, you have probably watched the documentary Jiro Dream of Sushi. It is the story of 85-year-old sushi chef Jiro Ono (now 97) whose one goal is to master the art of making sushi.

When my husband and I were planning a trip to Japan, we knew the #1 thing we wanted to do was to experience the best sushi from a master chef.

Jiro Ono’s restaurant had mixed reviews, so we decided to seek out a lesser-known (to tourists)  but well-known (to locals) sushi restaurant. And we found it! 

We have dined at plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants and mom-and-pop restaurants.

Dining at Sawada in Tokyo goes down as the BEST MEAL of my life. There are only 6 seats, and it’s run by Chef Sawada and his lovely wife.

Good luck getting a reservation. The sushi gods were on our side, and we were able to secure a reservation through our hotel concierge MANY MONTHS in advance.

This is a serious experience. No photos were allowed, so the only photo I got was of the outside of the building. 

If you have been to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, then you understand the thrill of trying to weave in and out from all the racing scooters. Although it seems chaotic with no defined lanes, the drivers seem to know how to navigate without crashing.

I like to define it as organized chaos. And yes, we wanted to experience this thrill! Not as drivers though but as passengers.

Best way to do this? Join an incredible food tour that will take you to all the local places discoverable only by scooter because they are tucked in tiny alleyways.

We joined a private Chef Tour with Back of the Bike Tours for an incredible foodie experience. I was a little nervous at first holding on to my guide’s waist as she expertly navigated the roads. After a while though you start to relax and really enjoy the pulsating city with the wind in your hair.

So much fun!

In full disclosure, I was terrified to come within feet of a great white shark.

Prior to our epic 14-day Africa trip, I developed major insomnia because I was so worried about getting in the cage.

When the big day came, I was still nervous but swallowed my fear and jumped into the cage. It was exhilarating!

My husband and I saw several feisty bronze whalers on the first dive, and then on our second dive a beautiful great white shark graced us with her presence. I was thankful for the metal that stood between us. And yes, I would do it again!

Read more about our experience below.

The Eiffel Tower is to France as Angkor Wat is to Cambodia. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and probably one of the most iconic. Do not miss it if you go to Cambodia.

The temple’s beauty and sheer size are breathtaking. One of the best ways to witness its magnificence is to see it at sunrise.

Hearing our alarm go off at 5 am to get ready was painful but definitely worth it.

As the sun rises, the temple is bathed in this warm golden glow and its mirror-like image is seen in the reflecting pool. You cannot help but be overwhelmed by this serene and magical atmosphere.

Book your temple tour with Sam, and he’ll take you to all the cool places.

I admit it.

We are coffee snobs.

Even when we go to the airport, my husband will pick which coffee shop he wants based on who has the best espresso machine.

As we travel the world, we have enjoyed this magical brew in some incredible locations like Japan, Vietnam, and Croatia (check out #2 on the best things to do in Zagreb).

The best coffee we have had in the world though is from Truth Coffee in Cape Town. The coffees are so full of flavor and never bitter.

In fact, they purposely do not put sugar on the table because no sugar is ever required. It’s that good.

To find out more, check out #7 on my top things to do in Cape Town.

My husband and I love snorkeling and will often plan a vacation around an incredible snorkeling destination.

Everyone knows about the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, but did you know Belize has the second-largest barrier reef in the world?

It is beautiful! We saw so many tropical fish and sting rays. One of the highlights though was snorkeling with numerous nurse sharks in Shark Ray Alley.

They are known as the puppy dogs of the sea and it was exhilarating to be near so many. I have detailed everything you need to know in my article below.

If you have not experienced the cocktail culture in Japan, book that ticket to Tokyo now. The attention to detail, presentation, and service is quite impressive and unlike anything you have experienced.

Takao Mori is the legendary Japanese bartender and owner of Mori Bar. His famous drink is the Martini. He even wrote a well-known book about it called Martini-ism.

Finding the bar was a challenge. It’s located 10 floors up in a high-rise building in a dimly lit room. It is well worth the effort, and yes we were the only foreigners there. Luckily, we got by with lots of smiles since we spoke no Japanese.

Mr. Mori is usually seen seated in the back of the bar working on some papers. When you order his signature drink, the gentle-mannered, well-dressed master himself gets up and personally makes you his perfect gin Martini.

There is no measuring. He has mastered the art of the free pour as seen in this video. His iconic recipe includes Boodles gin, a touch of vermouth, a drop of orange bitters, and a faint essence of lemon from the mist that is encouraged from the peel at the very end.

Of course, this magical liquid is all presented in a beautifully etched coupe glass.

To learn more about Japanese cocktail culture, check out the book Tokyo Cocktails: An Elegant Collection of Over 100 Recipes Inspired by the Japanese Capital.

My husband definitely had to coax me into doing this next couples bucket list item.

Who in their right mind would dangle off the world’s largest waterfall? I guess that would be us!

Exciting, scary, and exhilarating all at the same time. Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is truly breathtaking to witness.

Devil’s Pool is a naturally made infinity pool that sits on top of this mighty waterfall. You can only swim in this pool during certain times of the year when it’s safe. No one has died, and we lived to tell our story.

We are huge foodies. My husband loves to cook, and I love to eat.

We try to explore a country’s culture through its food. One of the best ways to do this is by joining a cooking class.

One of our favorite cooking classes was learning how to make fresh tagliatelle and ravioli from scratch in the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Exceptional Italian wine was included.

The hands-on class was conducted in a local family’s beautiful home. The hosts, Majla and Marco, showed us the warmest hospitality.

I have included the link below to the tour company we used.

Romantic, exotic, and one of the most unique experiences we have done.

Imagine curling up with your loved one in a warm bed with fluffy white covers out in the African bush. Then you look up through the canopy of your bed at the open sky to witness millions of stars glittering above.

In the morning, enjoy a Champagne breakfast while watching the animals roam in the open savannah below.

If you are going to South Africa, book a safari with Lion Sands River Lodge and make sure to spend one night in their Chalkley Treehouse!

Onsen means hot spring. Soaking in natural hot water baths has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. It’s the ultimate stress reliever.

One of the famous onsen towns is Hakone. Onsens are often connected to a ryokan (hotel). We stayed at the incredible Hakone Ginyu, which overlooks the Haya-Kawa River and the Hakone Mountains.

The location is breathtaking!

There are strict rules of etiquette to follow when participating in this communal mineral-rich bathing. Get naked. Yep, no bathing suits allowed. No tattoos are allowed, which is associated with the Japanese mafia. Ladies, tie your hair up because it is not allowed to touch the water.

Inside Japan summarizes all the rules in their post How to Onsen.

My husband and I booked a private onsen because we wanted to be together. Onsens are normally separated into male and female sections.

After this therapeutic experience, enjoy a lovely kaiseki meal. This set multi-course meal is selected by the Chef based on what is in season. It’s presented beautifully, and every dish is a surprise!

My husband and I booked a fantastic tour of Machu Picchu with the tour company Cusco Local Friend. At the end of the tour, our wonderful guide asked us where we wanted to eat lunch. He offered a few options, one being at his mom’s house.

Momma’s cooking? Yes, please. Sign us up.

Imagine our surprise when the star of the meal was cuy (guinea pig), which is a traditional Peruvian delicacy.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do, right?

I managed to get a few bites down and then smiled sweetly at my husband who took one for the team and finished the rest.

We also enjoyed some delicious potatoes and avocados the size of my face.

Great experience! I found out I’m not a fan of cuy, but we really enjoyed hanging out with our guide’s family.

I share this to say be open to new experiences!

If you need someone to show you around Peru, I strongly recommend Cusco Local Friend. Their contact information is below.

Yes, it is touristy, but it’s still worth it!

Soak those tired muscles with your partner after hiking to all of Iceland’s wonderful waterfalls. The Blue Lagoon’s geothermal water is incredibly therapeutic. It’s enriched with silica, algae, and minerals.

I also enjoyed an in-water massage, which is one of the more unique massages I’ve had. Don’t forget to grab a refreshing Prosecco or Skyr smoothie. Incredibly relaxing.

There are several destinations around the world where you can experience the thrill of swimming beside a majestic 41,000-pound fish.

Don’t worry. These beautifully spotted sharks are gentle giants, swimming around and munching on enormous amounts of plankton. Humans are not on their diet.

We were lucky to see these amazing creatures twice, once in the South Ari Atoll in the Maldives and at Isla Mujeres in Mexico.

They are quick! Once you spot one, you jump in the water and swim like Michal Phelps to keep up with them. Prepare for lots of smiles after this excursion.

We booked the Whale Shark Tour in the Maldives through our hotel, Outrigger Maafushivaru. In Mexico, we booked with an adventure tour company. Great experience with both! Links are below.

There are several elephant rescue centers in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where you and your partner can get up close and personal with these gentle giants.

Walk with them, feed them, and watch them play in the water. Learn the elephants’ stories and what the sanctuary is doing to give them a happy home.

Culture Trip has provided a list of all the places you can see elephants in an ethical manner.

A place this beautiful seems unreal.

As you stroll along the wooden walkways, you encounter waterfall after waterfall, green lush forests, and 16 terraced lakes.

The water is so clear you can see little fish swimming around. No wonder it’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

There are 8 different hiking routes and 2 entrances to choose from. Lots of choices. How do you pick?

There are 140 three-star Michelin restaurants in the world, and 13 are located in the United States.

Of the 13, one is located in our home state of Virginia, and it requires a little effort to get there.

Located in the rural town of Washington, Virginia, The Inn at Little Washington (IALW) offers a truly unforgettable dining experience thanks to the culinary expertise of famed chef, Patrick O’Connell.

Eclectic, whimsical, French flair, and friendly service. It deserves all its stars and then some.

When I found out we were going to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica to celebrate the wedding of one of my husband’s good friends, I went in full planning mode.

Manuel Antonio is known for its beautiful beaches and rainforest. What you may not realize it’s also known for its adventure sports such as whitewater rafting and an adventure park.

We decided to arrive a few days before the wedding and participate in the adrenaline-pumping ADR Adventure Park. 

In 5 hours, we did multiple mini-adventures including zip-lining into a waterfall, free-falling into a river pool, a dry rappel, a Tarzan swing, 3 jungle zip lines, and 2 canyon zip lines. 

Book with Amigos del Rio. Great tour company.

Maui is special. My husband and I had a simple wedding on a “secret” beach in Maui with only our immediate family. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

One of the festivities we participated in after the wedding was a luau. The Old Lahaina Luau is considered one of the most authentic luaus in Maui, so of course we had to experience it.

Our families enjoyed a fantastic evening of hula dancing, local music, great food, and many Mai Tais. All the festivities are enjoyed right by the ocean and the swaying palm trees.

You cannot help but get into the aloha spirit!

Think of a cenote as a large collapsed cave filled with clear water. The collapse can be partial or complete. They make a great swimming hole to escape the sweltering heat.

You can snorkel and even scuba dive in some of them, where you can see cool rock formations, fish, and even turtles. Some cenotes are really exotic-looking with large hanging vines and steep cave walls.

Most of these cenotes are located in Playa del Carmen and Tulum. They cost anywhere from 30-500 pesos ($2-$28 USD) per person to enter.

We rented a car and drove to Centoes Dos Ojos (meaning two eyes), which is between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. The refreshing water was so clear that we could see little fish and even a turtle.

If you do not want to drive, you can also book a highly-rated cenote tour.

If you are not afraid of heights, enjoy an exhilarating walk across one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges.

The Arouca Bridge in Portugal is 516 meters long and is suspended by steel cables. It does sway a little bit as you walk across. The views of the valley and the Paiva River below are breathtaking.

After you walk across, make a day of it and hike the wooden walkways that snake along the Paiva River. Paiva Walkways is an incredibly scenic day hike.

The cute, cuddly koala is one of the most iconic animals in Australia. There are several places where you can have very close encounters. One of them is Moonlit Sanctuary, which is about an hour south of Melbourne.

In addition to cuddling with a koala, you can also hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies and hang out with a friendly dingo.

We enjoyed our koala encounter as part of an all-day tour, which also included watching the famous penguin parade at Phillip Island. This event is not to be missed.

You will witness hundreds and sometimes thousands of little penguins waddle their way back onto the beach to their homes after fishing all day. Super cute.

The African safari is one of the most epic lifetime experiences. My husband and I had the pleasure of doing two safaris on our 2-week trip to Africa. One was at Chobe National Park in Botswana and one was at Sabi Sands in South Africa.

I wasn’t sure if I would get bored riding around in a Jeep all day looking for animals. Quite the opposite! It was thrilling especially when you fall upon something seen on National Geographic like a leopard dragging up her meal in a tree.

Africa seeps into your soul and is unlike any other place we have been.

I can strongly recommend Lion Sands River Lodge in South Africa to provide an incredible safari experience.

Read our review below for more details.

Drink wine from the country it originates.

We love wine vacations and often plan vacations around a whole wine region.

Some of our best wine vacations include …

• Port tasting in Douro Valley, Portugal
• Champagne tasting in Epernay, France
• Pinot Noir tasting in Burgundy, France
• Cava tasting in Penedès, Spain
• Sauvignon Blanc tasting in Marlborough, New Zealand
• Malbec tasting in Mendoza, Argentina 
• Pinotage tasting in Stellenbosch, South Africa

Cheers! Saúde! Santé! Salud!

Greece is blessed with multiple gorgeous islands. One of the quintessential islands is Santorini.

The photos are all true. Whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and cobblestone streets.

Book a hotel on the hilltop on the west side, and you will be mesmerized by spectacular golden sunsets. The most popular town to experience all its glory is Oia.

However, I would recommend staying in the much more affordable town of Fira. We loved the Panoramic Boutique Hotel! You still get the same spectacular sunsets for half the cost and fewer crowds.

Most people will recognize Barcelona by the iconic La Sagrada Família. Artist and architect Antoni Gaudí was the man responsible for this iconic symbol of Catalan modernism.

The building is still being finished and is predicted to be completed in 2026. Purchase tickets in advance, and definitely book a ticket that includes visiting one of the towers!

You have the option of picking the nativity or the passion tower. We booked the nativity tower, which is considered to be “grander,” offers spectacular city and mountain views, and was designed by Gaudi himself.

When you think of France, images of berets, the Eiffel Tower, and croissants immediately come to mind.

One of the best travel experiences to have is to learn how to make the iconic food a country is known for. When we recently went to Paris, we knew we had to learn how to make a French croissant with a Chef.

Yes, it involves a lot of French butter, but it’s so delicious and worth every calorie. We booked our class with Maison Fleuret through Airbnb Experiences. See the link below. Highly recommend it!

Ha Long Bay is the quintessential attraction in Vietnam. It has a staggering 1,600 limestone islands and islets that tower out of the sea.

Kayak, explore caves, island hop, and visit floating villages. The best way to soak in all this mystical bay has to offer is to join an overnight cruise.

There are several fantastic cruise companies to pick from, but we ultimately went with Era Cruises. Our room was modern and had a private sun terrace to take in all those views.

It even had a Japanese toilet!

We were very happy with our experience with this cruise company.

If you like to snorkel like we do, the Great Barrier Reef has to be on your list. It’s the world’s largest reef system and is one of the most iconic snorkeling destinations.

Yes, coral bleaching has occurred, but there’s still plenty of beautiful pristine coral and a great variety of fish. We even saw a reef shark!

We based ourselves in the adorable seaside town of Port Douglas and joined a snorkeling tour with the highly-rated, marine biologist-owned company, Wavelength Reef Cruises.

Is it touristy? Yes.

Is it worth it? 1,000 times, yes!

You can book a private or shared gondola ride. My husband and I chose a private ride for a romantic evening.

We really enjoyed taking the city in while our charismatic gondolier navigated the small canals and bridges of this incredibly picturesque floating city.

When you first walk onto the ground of Machu Picchu, it almost doesn’t seem real. It’s breathtaking.

When we first arrived, I was disappointed because it was pouring rain. Then all of a sudden the sun came out, and this mist swept over the ruins giving it a mystical feel. We couldn’t have asked for a better photo.

Be prepared for many llamas roaming around. They look cute but don’t get too close or they may spit on you to back you up.

I also highly recommend hiking to one of the two viewpoints. There is a lot of debate on which one is better, Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. We preferred Machu Picchu Mountain for the better views!

The first organized commercial bungee jump occurred in New Zealand with local AJ Hackett. Hackett along with Auckland scientists developed the bungee cord. To showcase this new adventure sport, Hackett jumped off the Eiffel Tower in 1987 (luckily, successfully)!

The rest is history, and now Hackett offers 5 different bungee experiences in New Zealand. I wasn’t planning to do it, but with a sudden surge of courage, I decided to take the 47m plunge while we were in Queenstown.

This goes down as one of the most intense experiences I have EVER done. I definitely needed a shot of vodka to calm my shaking body after the jump. And yes, I loved it and couldn’t stop talking about it!

This is the one couples bucket list experience I couldn’t get my husband to do. It’s not for the faint of heart.

I have watched all the episodes of Chef’s Table, but my favorite was the episode on self-taught female Chef Ana Roš.

We were so excited to try her dishes that we booked a ticket to Slovenia and constructed a vacation around dining at her restaurant Hisa Franko.

The restaurant is located in the picturesque town of Kobarid, next to the turquoise Soca River and the spectacular Kozjak Waterfall.

Her food is of course exceptional and is paired with the best Slovenian wine, but what makes the dining experience stand out even more is the warm hospitality.

She graciously met all of her guests at the end, which was the highlight of my evening!

It’s a pretty cool experience to have custom clothing made. We have done this experience twice together. Once in Bangkok, Thailand, and once in Hoi An, Vietnam.

I really liked the dresses I had made in Hoi An. They know how to fit the female body. I strongly recommend Yaly Couture.

My husband had a few suits made and was very pleased with the quality.

Multiple steps are involved. First, you share pictures of what clothing you want to be made. If you are not sure, they have massive books with pages of ideas for inspiration. They take your measurements.

Then you pick out your fabric. Make sure you are there for at least several days because you will need to go back for multiple fittings as they tweak the fit.

Flying in a seaplane is one of the quintessential experiences in the Maldives. There are over 160 resorts in the Maldives. Each one is located on its own island.

To get there, you need a speedboat or seaplane. If given the choice, choose the seaplane.

It’s a thrilling experience!

We fell hard for the beautiful alpine town of Chamonix. It has some of the most picturesque hiking trails we have ever done.

One of our favorite trails, Grand Balcon Nord, led us to The Mer De Glace, France’s largest glacier.

Once you reach the end of your hike, take a small cable car and navigate multiple steps to access the ice cave. A pretty unique experience. 

Kauai’s Napali coast is pure rugged beauty. The coastline runs 17 miles and has razor-sharp cathedral cliffs, lush green valleys, hidden sea caves, and spellbinding waterfalls that spill into the ocean.

You can visit by sea or air. We have done both, but our favorite was witnessing its natural beauty by helicopter. It is breathtaking. I highly recommend Blue Hawaiian Helicopters for your flight.

We did this couples bucket list experience for our honeymoon. 

This 2-week long famous German festival is unlike any other event I have been to. Expect copious amounts of beer, pretzels & oxen, lederhosen, and traditional Bavarian live music.

There are 38 tents to choose from. Each one has its own vibe and personality. It’s easier to attend if you make a reservation ahead of time, but you can still score a seat if you didn’t by following a few tips and tricks.

Our group of 6 got lucky by following these tips and found free seats next to a fun group of Italians at the Paulaner Festzelt tent. 

Alternatively, book an Oktoberfest Group Tour Experience with other fun travelers.

I have an embarrassing confession to make. I LOVE wine but not beer. Luckily, they also had mugs of wine on hand. Later I found out there is a tent for wine lovers. Next year!

Prost! 

You may be surprised to hear that the best ramen in Tokyo is actually underground in a train station.

In fact, there are so many delicious ramen shops along this alleyway it’s called Tokyo Ramen Street.

There are many types of ramen, and each shop has its specialty. We wanted to try Tsukemen, which is ramen that serves cold noodles on the side often with a ramen egg. When you are ready, dip those noodles into the flavorful, concentrated broth and slurp away.

My husband and I experienced this mouthwatering ramen at Rokurinsha. Expect a long line, but it’s worth the wait.

This was one of our most exhilarating snorkeling experiences. Snorkel at night? Are you crazy?

Yes, I was scared initially. Once you are in place and witness these graceful 10-foot giants sweep in, your body relaxes as you watch their choreographed feeding dance.

We booked with Fair Wind Cruises (4.9 on Google and 5.0 on TripAdvisor!) and had a great tour. 

My husband and love to travel, and we love wine. Often, we combine the two.

When we stumbled upon the exquisitely designed Casa do Rio in Douro Valley, we started crafting our Portugal itinerary to include this hotel.

The architect sandwiched this boutique property among vineyards, olive and orange trees, and the meandering Douro River. To call it simply stunning is an understatement.

Casa do Rio is part of Quinta do Vallado, one of Portugal’s most respected wineries. That means your lovely farm-to-table meals are paired with some of Portugal’s most exceptional wine.

If that is not enough, the hotel also offers plenty of activities including kayaks, hiking, boat tours, gourmet picnics, and a swimming pool that offers sweeping panoramic views.

This might be my favorite hotel.

We visited the five beautiful villages of Cinque Terre on a day trip from Florence.

The quaint, brightly-colored villages are connected by well-marked hiking trails that navigate the coastline on the Italian Riviera. You might even hear a local Italian serenading you with his saxophone as we did on your hike.

One of our favorite Cinque Terre villages was Vernazza. It offers a small sandy beach and several local restaurants and bars. I highly recommend the focaccia bread and a bottle of sparkling Niasca Portofino limonata.

We also really enjoyed the village of Manarola. Enjoy the best view in the house by having a glass of wine at Nessun Dorma and watching the cliff jumpers.

Grab a What The Foc ?! focaccia sandwich and enjoy a picnic under the Eiffel Tower as dusk settles in.

When that happens, the Eiffel Tower will twinkle with golden lights. This sparkling light show will occur at the beginning of each hour starting at dusk and lasts five minutes. The last show is at 11 pm, so plan accordingly.

Incredibly romantic!

Yes, there is a science behind it!

Paris offers several perfume workshops, but we also discovered one on the French side of the beautiful Caribbean island of St. Martin (#15 on my top things to do in St. Martin!).

Tijon Parfumerie walked us through how to choose a base oil and three additional oils based on what scent profile we enjoyed (woodsy, floral, etc). After your selections, they bottle up your customized perfume.

Of course, since you are on the French side of St. Martin, you celebrate your new scent at the end with a glass of sparkling wine!

One of the most unique cuisines is Japanese-Peruvian called Nikkei. We traveled to Peru to experience this delicious marriage of flavors at Maido, one of the top restaurants in the world.

Mitsuharu “Micha” Tsumura is chef and owner of Maido. He was born in Lima, but he’s a descendant of Japanese immigrants. Before he started Maido, he worked at the highly-regarded Seto Sushi in Japan.

We enjoyed a wonderful evening of interesting combinations like sea urchin rice, made of Chiclayo rice, Atico sea urchins, avocado cream, wan yi, and baby corn.

The enchanting area of Ninh Binh, Vietnam will steal your heart. This UENSCO-protected site is known as “Ha Long Bay on Land.”

You can explore Ninh Binh in several different ways. One is by river. Take a rowboat and explore the pagodas, dark caves, and karst formations.

Alternatively, discover it on foot by hiking 500 limestone steps to the top of Hang Mua. Not only do you get to see a cool dragon to celebrate your accomplishment but you will also get breathtaking views of the rice paddies, limestone islands, and winding river below.

We did this hike around 4:00 pm, and it was PACKED. I would consider hiking in the early morning to avoid some of the big crowds.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is well known for its thousands of bright orange-red torii gates. Each torii gate is donated by an individual or company, as noted by the donator’s name and date on each gate.

Inari is the god of rice, and the fox is the messenger of the gods. Fox statues can be found all over the property.

There is a hiking trail that winds around the mountain showcasing these torii gates. There were some crowds when we went, but everyone thinned out as we walked around the complex of shrines and gates. A very unique place to visit together!

A Thai massage is very different than your typical Swedish massage. It’s an intense full-body massage.

Clothes are kept on. No oils are used.

The massage therapist will put your body through a series of stretches as they rock and pull you around on the floor mat.

My husband and I had our first Thai massage at Fah Lanna Spa while we were in Chiang Mai. It was 60 minutes and only 200 Thai Baht ($5 USD)! Now, I believe the cost is 800 Thai Baht ($23 USD).

I was very sore afterward, but it was a good sore and incredibly therapeutic! I love Thai massages so much now that I continue to get them back home in the United States. 

If you live in the DMV area, message me and I’ll share my favorite massage therapist.

The hiking trails in Chamonix, France are quite possibly some of the most beautiful in the world. One of our favorite trails was the hike to the pristine alpine lake called Lac Blanc.

Once you reach the sparkling blue lake, you also get incredible views of the Mont Blanc Massif. 

Later that evening replenish all those calories lost by enjoying some of the best fondue of your life at Cremerie du Glacier.

Life is good.

Maya Bay may not sound familiar, but you may remember the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach. The Beach was recorded on Maya Bay, and it is stunning.

This pristine white beach is surrounded by coral reefs and limestone cliffs. Once you arrive, you know why this beach is so famous.

We joined the highly-rated tour company Simba Sea Trips for their small group sunrise tour of the Phi Phi islands, which included Maya Bay. Do not miss this tour if you are staying in Phuket.

After reading this Saveur article, my husband and I were so excited to find the hidden restaurant that possibly serves the best pho in Hanoi.

Don’t be put off by appearances. Yes, you walk through a dark alley and up a scary-looking staircase but trust me it will be worth it.

At the top of the staircase, we entered Ms. Minh’s actual home and sat on one of the low-lying red plastic stools. She is the creator of this delicious flavorful liquid laced with yummy fresh noodles and thinly sliced lean beef.

This was also the first time I had pho served with fried dough sticks (called quẩy) on the side. Oh my goodness, these are so delicious! I loved dunking them and soaking up all the broth. This seems to be a Hanoi thing, but I think all pho should be served this way.

Incredibly soul comforting.

I love lobster rolls, and Maine has some of the best in the world. My husband and I and my in-laws took on the challenge of trying out some of the best crab shacks as we drove Maine’s coast from Portland to Bar Harbor.

We all had different favorites. Here are my personal ratings. Key: 🦞🦞🦞🦞🦞 = best.

• The Highroller Lobster Co.: 🦞🦞🦞🦞🦞

• Eventide (nontraditional, bao style):  🦞🦞🦞🦞🦞

• Bite into Maine: 🦞🦞🦞🦞

• The Travelin Lobster: 🦞🦞🦞🦞

• Clam Shack: 🦞🦞🦞

• Red’s Eats: 🦞🦞🦞

Pink dolphins? They do exist, and we want to see them!

There are two highly-rated luxury cruises that offer this water safari experience: Aria Amazon and the Delfin. You can also make this an extended trip and include Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Lima for the ultimate South America experience.

Pink dolphins are not the only animals you’ll experience on these cruises. You’ll likely see spider monkeys, sloths, and brightly colored macaws. There are plenty of outdoor activities offered too like fishing for red-bellied piranhas, swimming (hopefully not with the piranhas lol), and kayaking.

Cool fact. When an Amazon river dolphin gets excited, it turns a brighter pink. I guess dolphins can get rosacea too.

Of course, lots of Pisco sours are included! After all, you are in Peru.

The lavender fields of Provence, France have been on my bucket list for a long time.

My husband and I rarely take photos of each other on vacation. However, this destination is where I would make an exception.

I am dying to purchase a beautiful light golden yellow flowy dress and straw hat and walk side by side to get that quintessential photo standing amongst the rows of lavender fields.

One of the most famous places to see the lavender fields is Lavandes Angelvin in Valensole. Peak bloom is early to mid-July.

Afterward, enjoy some of the best rosés from one of the many famous surrounding vineyards.

We love mezcal and often gravitate towards it anytime we go to a cocktail bar. It’s the star ingredient in one of my husband’s favorite cocktails of all time, The Naked and Famous.

The distinct smoky flavor of this spirit is incredibly addictive.

The foodie city of Oaxaca is responsible for making 70% of the mezcal production in Mexico. There are plenty of tasting rooms in Oaxaca to learn more or you can visit a distillery.

Better yet, don’t worry about driving and book a mezcal tour with an experienced guide like Alvaro who has near-perfect reviews on Airbnb experiences.

Cappadocia has one of the most unique landscapes in the world. An interesting way to experience it is by hot air balloon.

You will glide over these interesting rock formations called the fairy chimneys along with the 100+ other balloons surrounding you.

There are a couple of tips I have learned when researching this epic couples bucket list experience.

First, schedule it on the first day you arrive. The flight can get canceled due to bad weather and you may have to rebook to a later day.

Second, pick a company with experienced pilots. Although this is considered a relatively safe experience, accidents have happened.

Most tourists speak highly of  Royal Balloons, but I love that Discovery Balloons lists the names, photos, and years of experience of their pilots. They are highly rated with a wealth of flight experience.

This couples bucket list snorkeling experience has been on our list for a long time. We have snorkeled with quite a few cool creatures but never with millions of jellyfish.

Welcome to Jellyfish Lake in Palau, home to about five million jellyfish!

Don’t worry. These bright orange jellyfish do not have stingers. They do not need them because there are no natural predators in this saltwater lake.

The family-run Swings Palau Tours is highly-rated and offers small group tours to experience this once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling adventure.

We love coffee! Some of the best coffee we had in the world was in Cape Town, South Africa. I enjoyed a delicious single-origin coffee from Burundi, which is located in east-central Africa.

Besides Africa, there are several countries that produce high-quality beans. Colombia is one. They have a region known as the Coffee Triangle that is supposed to produce some of the best coffee in the world.

One of our couples bucket list items is to stay at the gorgeous boutique Hacienda Buenavista and go on a tour of a local coffee farm to learn all about the process.

I am fascinated with these tiny little creatures with big bulging inquisitive eyes and human-like fingers. They look half monkey and half gremlin, and you could actually fit them in the palm of your hand.

You can visit them at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary on the island of Bohol in the Philippines. These primates can only be found in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Borneo.

Although they look cuddly and you want to pick them up and hug them like a teddy bear, do not touch them. They are ultra-sensitive. If you stress them out with light, noise, or touch, they can beat their heads against a surface and commit suicide. Yes, this is true. Respect them.

After you get your fill of these adorable primates, visit the nearby Chocolate Hills. The Chocolate Hills look like chocolate truffles or Hershey kisses during the dry season due to their round brown cone-shaped appearance. Very unique landscape!

The vintage car is an iconic symbol of Cuba.

Cuba imported American cars for many years until the U.S. embargo was enacted in 1960. To keep the cars running, Cubans had to get creative. They continued to keep these classic cars running with replacement parts from Russian vehicles.

Cubans are truly genius mechanics!

A cool way to experience this part of Cuban culture is to go on a tour in a colorful classic car and cruise around Havana’s seafront Malecón roadway.

Book a tour with the highly-rated Old Cars Havana. You actually get to pick out your exact vintage convertible car. Our choice is the beautiful orange 1953 Convertible Buick Super!

The Galápagos Islands are considered a melting pot of all these cool unique animal species. Meet 500-pound Giant Tortoises, blue-footed boobies, cute penguins, and of course the adorable sea lions.

One of our couples bucket list items is to snorkel with sea lions in the Galápagos. How can you not get excited when you see those sweet inquisitive faces?

There are several ways to make this adventure yours. You can either set up a base on one of the islands and do a day excursion or enjoy a multi-day luxury cruise.

I am not a “cruise” person, but I think I may have to make an exception for the Elite Galapagos Luxury Cruise. Floor-to-ceiling windows, super light and airy, and private balconies! 

I am all about self-care and purposely seek out unique spa-like experiences. Turkish baths were originally used for hygiene maintenance but now serve as a means for relaxation.

You will have a personal attendant of the same sex to wash and vigorously exfoliate your skin with a cloth known as the kese. This cleansing ritual is then often followed by a deep pressure massage.

Be prepared for glowing skin and gooey muscles afterward. 

One of the best places for a Turkish bath is Cağaloğlu Hamamı, which has been in operation in Istanbul since 1741! You can reserve ahead of time. Book the Ottoman Luxury Service for the ultimate experience.

There are several places in the world where you can see the northern lights or the aurora borealis. This phenomenon is caused by the collision of gaseous particles between the Earth and the sun.

The result is a dazzling light show that is spellbinding and feels out-of-this-world.

The northern coast of Norway is one of the best destinations to witness this display of bright dancing lights.

If that is not epic enough, you can check this bucket list item off by staying at a very unique property called the Holmen Husky Lodge. Stay in the Arctic Dome room that has a skylight ceiling!

The best part (besides the chance to see the northern lights of course)? You get to cuddle with the resident huskies, who will also take you dog sledding.

The Istrian truffle has been Croatia’s best-kept foodie secret. France and Italy have some competition.

We first experienced this delicious fungus at Restaurant Dubrovnik. I will never forget our waiter asking us if we wanted more truffles on our pasta dish.

Yes, please! He didn’t stop shaving this incredible delicacy on our plates until like a minute later.

So much truffle! I was shocked by the generosity.

Another couples bucket list idea is to go truffle hunting with the super-smeller dogs through the Croatian forests. One of the best truffle hunting tours is run by the Karlić family. After the hunt, enjoy your finds with a lovely truffle meal.

I have been mesmerized by the stunning color of Chile’s Patagonia lakes for as long as I can remember. Everyone should have Torres del Paine National Park on their couples bucket list. There are many spectacular hiking trails to choose from.

We have explored the beautiful capital city of Santiago and the gorgeous coastal town of Viña del Mar, but we haven’t traveled to Chile’s stunning national parks yet.

Stay at the charming boutique cattle ranch Estancia Cerro Guido about 30 minutes outside the park. I heard their restaurant is incredible, especially their roasted lamb. They use the ingredients grown in their garden.

My husband and I have had the amazing opportunity to fly first class a few times using points and airline status.

Warning. It spoils you for all future flights.

The ultimate couples bucket list item is to fly first class together on Emirates! 

The private first-class suites with closing doors are gorgeous. Luxurious perks include first-class lounge access at Dubai airport, complimentary chauffeur service, unlimited Dom Pérignon Champagne, gourmet meals, “moisturizing” pajamas with shea butter and argan oil, onboard lounge & bar, and an onboard shower with heated floors!

Imagine how it would feel to get amazing sleep on a 12+ hour flight and squeeze in a quick shower. I’m not sure I would want to leave the plane.

Ah, one day …

We have done two safaris: one at Sabi Sands in South Africa and one at Chobe National Park in Botswana.

Both were incredible, but one of the ultimate safari experiences is the Great Migration. This event takes place in the Serengeti, which is located in Tanzania and Kenya.

Over a million wildebeest along with zebras and gazelles make this clockwise journey in search of greener pastures and water. It starts with the births of many baby wildebeests in Tanzania followed by two river crossings, and ends in Masai Mara in Kenya.

Of course, the big cats and the crocodiles are always waiting for their lucky chance to have a tasty meal.

One of the best safari lodges to witness the migration action around July is Singita Faru Faru Lodge.

I love the decor, which I would describe as contemporary African chic. It’s open, airy, and intimate. Relaxed, understated luxury.

If I ever win the lottery or maybe for our 50th wedding anniversary, I am booking this incredible lodge.

Jordan is known for its intriguing landscapes, ancient architecture, and warm hospitality of the Jordanian people.

One of the best things to do and should be on your couples bucket list is to spend a romantic night in the Wadi Rum Desert.

Book a Panoramic Luxury Tent at the Memories Aicha Luxury Camp, which offers incredible unobstructed views of the night sky from your king-sized bed.

Do not miss reserving the sunrise camel ride the next morning to really take in the unique desert landscape.    

One of the most romantic ways to enjoy the gorgeous Tuscan countryside is hopping on a Vespa together with the wind in your hair. 

Take a Vespa Tour and drive around vineyards and olive groves before stopping at a boutique winery for a seasonal local lunch.

Then stay in an agriturismo in the heart of Tuscany. An agriturismo is a farm that is open to hosting guests.

One of the best agriturismos in Italy is Relais Ortaglia B&B. This 17th century farmhouse is run by the lovely couple Sandra and Phil. They offer fun experiences such as cooking classes, horse back riding, hot air ballon rides, and romantic dinners in the vineyards.

Marina Bay Sands is a very nice hotel with modern comforts and fine dining. The reason you stay at this hotel though is the jaw-dropping 150-meter-long rooftop infinity pool.

It looks like a ship floating on top of three towers.

The pool sits 57 stories up and offers breathtaking views of the city below. Sunsets from the rooftop are pretty incredible. Grab a glass of Champagne and snuggle up with your partner.

FYI: You cannot enter the pool UNLESS you are a hotel guest!

Singapore has an incredible food scene. Do not miss all the hawker stalls and food courts during your stay.

Many things come to mind when I think of Argentina. Malbec, tango, empanadas, and the rugged gaucho … the South American cowboy.

One of the best ways to experience the gaucho culture is a stay at an estancia.

La Bandana Estancia is an incredibly charming, colonial-style ranch.

It offers a host of activities including cooking lessons, horseback riding, swimming, and participating in the asado.

Think of the asado like an Argentine BBQ. The best Argentinian beef is slowly roasted on a spit set at a 45º angle. Of course, all of that delicious food is washed down with incredible Argentinian wine.

A ranch stay makes for a perfect relaxing couples getaway!

Sleeping in a castle in a fairytale setting has always been on my couples bucket list.

I think I finally found the perfect castle.

The Burghotel auf Schönburg in Germany has very romantic traditional decor. Although I normally prefer a more contemporary feel, I appreciate the fact it actually feels like a castle but with modern comforts.

My favorite room is Sieben Jungfrauen- Suite No. 13. It has a large terrace that offers fantastic views over the Rhine River.

Enjoy plenty of romantic things to do together including wine tasting of the famous Riesling and a cruise down the Rhine River

Giraffe Manor is probably one of the most unique properties in the world! This safari lodge has been on our couples bucket list for a long time.

Located in the suburbs of Kenya, Giraffe Manor has been around since 1932. It is committed to giraffe conservation and offers guests several unique encounters with these beautiful graceful animals.

Enjoy a visit from your spotted, long-tongued friend while eating pancakes in the morning or during an afternoon tea break. They love to poke their heads in the windows of the property looking for a treat.

Fun Fact: A giraffe’s tongue can measure 18-20 inches long!

According to Giraffe Manor’s website, “Be brave and give a ‘giraffe kiss’ a go by offering a pellet between your lips – giraffe saliva contains antiseptic properties.”

I’m not sure about that one, lol, but breakfast with giraffes in Africa is certainly on our list of top things to do together!

Sipping on a Mint Julep while watching one of the most famous horse races in the world should be on your couples bucket list.

The first Kentucky Derby was held in 1875 and is steeped in tradition. One of those traditions is sipping on a refreshing Mint Julep, which is made of bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice.

Of course, for the ladies, wearing a beautifully adorned hat while partaking in this tradition is a must!

After all the fun horse racing festivities, do not miss a sipping journey on Kentucky’s famous Bourbon Trail. Enjoy all the best bourbons and learn how this revered spirit is made.

Make it easy and let Mint Julep Experiences do all the planning for you.

The best base for a long weekend of all this amazing fun is the incredibly charming Chateau Bourbon B&B. Expect delicious bourbon-themed breakfasts, bourbon cocktail happy hour, and the most genuine Southern hospitality.

We love seeking out the best cocktail bars from the places we visit. We have had some pretty cool experiences including the Little Red Door in Paris, Old Man Bar in Hong Kong, and Nê Cocktail Bar in Vietnam.

My husband’s favorite cocktail is the Naked and Famous. One of our couples bucket list items is to visit the bar that created this magical cocktail, Death & Co in New York City. The equal parts of Mezcal, Yellow Chartreuse, Aperol, and lime juice give this sexy drink the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, bitter, and sour.

Afterward, enjoy an evening at one of the most iconic, no-frills comedy venues.

The Comedy Cellar is known as the “comic’s comedy club” and big names like Jerry Seinfeld and Dave Chapelle will sometimes just “drop in” to run through some new material.

You now have 77 exceptional experiences to add to your couples bucket list! Hopefully, this list gets you well on your way to creating some incredible lifelong memories to share and cherish. Travel can be life-changing and truly strengthen the bond you share together. I know it has for my husband and I. Happy bucket-listing!

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