The start of a new year is a perfect time to plan something different and exciting, whether you like to make resolutions or not. Perhaps it’s the annual goal of losing 10 pounds, learning a new skill or hobby (hello pilates!), or planning how to travel around the world (without going broke!). Now, that’s certainly an exciting objective.
If travel around the world has earned a spot on your 2015 to do list, a good starting point is to review where you’ve already been, and what important things you’ll need—such as a good Canadian travel insurance policy—to accompany you on your adventure. This photo essay of some of the best places I’ve visited over the past few years will help get those “travel around the world” ideas flowing.
Travel around the world, starting with these destinations:
Whistler, British Columbia
As a Vancouver resident, sometimes I forget how lucky we are to live 1.5 hours away from one of the world’s premier ski resorts. Whistler really is an incredible skiing, snowsport and summer resort destination, complete with excellent restaurants, spas, hotels and international village life. The adrenaline of skiing and snowboarding comes with some risk; make sure you have proper gear and ski travel insurance.
Mauna Kea, Hawaii
All of the Hawaiian Islands are different from one another, and worthy of an in-depth visit. But experiencing a sunset at 13,000 feet on Mauna Kea on the Big Island is unique, and should be on everyone’s travel around the world list.
Petra, Jordan
Jordan is filled with antiquities, history and wonderful, friendly people. The crown jewel of attractions is Petra. This ancient home of the Nabatean civilization will not disappoint around the world travellers.
Trevi Fountain, Rome
Toss a coin behind your head into the Trevi Fountain, and you’ll return to the Eternal City. I want to believe this saying, as there is so much to experience in Rome that multiple visits or a month-long stay are barely enough to see everything you might wish to.
Got kids in tow? Here’s how to travel Europe with kids.
Capri, Italy
The island of Roman emperors, with a view of blue waters and Mount Vesuvius, has captured imaginations for centuries. The entire Amalfi Coast south of Naples offers similar dramatic scenery, accented with perfume from local lemon groves.
Zermatt, Switzerland
One of the most recognizable natural wonders in the world, Zermatt and its pedestrian-only alpine village are Switzerland to many people. Take the Gornergrat cogwheel train up to 3,100 meters to be more eye-level with the mountains.
Want to explore more of the country? Here are 5 reasons to wet your toes in Switzerland’s Yverdo-les-Bains.
London, England
My whirlwind long weekend visit to England’s capital was in the midst of a heat wave and far too short to fully taste all of London’s charms. I can’t wait to return to take in the Tate Modern, the Imperial War Museum and catch a few shows in the famous West End Theatre District.
Harry Potter World, Orlando, Florida
It may be fiction, but Universal Studios has made JK Rowling’s dream a reality at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando. The rides are fantastic, the butterbeer cold and frothy and muggles (and their wallets) are welcome.
St. Thomas, USVI
Carribbean island time is embodied in picture-perfect St. Thomas. Climb the 700 feet or take the little cable car up to Paradise Point for the beautiful view of the harbour and the little town of Charlotte Amelie. Do enjoy a sip of frosty banana daiquiri in the humid jungle heat of the island.
Rio Perdido, Costa Rica
The breathtaking scenery, animal and plant life, friendly people combined with benevolent governance have made Costa Rica one of the happiest places in the world (according to the Happiness Index). Staying in a private guest house on stilts in the jungle will help you feel the same way.
Here’s how to take on Costa Rica with kids! And since this tropical country is famed for its fantastic surfing, make sure to take surfing travel insurance with you.
Around the world travel insurance
A successful travel around the world plan needs some quality around the world travel insurance to go with it. The good news is that no matter how old you may be, you are likely eligible for around the world travel insurance to adequately cover your travel and medical insurance needs.
Essentially, you would have to buy a single-trip medical plan; if you’re 59 and under, TuGo’s Traveller policy can cover you for up to one year. If you’re 60 and over, this policy can cover you for up to 6 months. Note that in both instances, extensions may be available if you are away and need extra days.
One of the eligibility requirements to purchase travel insurance from TuGo is that you need to have, or at least be eligible for, a provincial or territorial government health care plan. Before leaving on your trip, make sure you meet your provincial health authority’s eligibility requirements.
Have a question? Leave a comment below!
Happy travels,
Claudia
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