25 Oct 2020

If there’s one thing 2020 was good for, it’s that it made us realise how we took travel and the world for granted.

But in 2021 it’s time to make up for lost time and make new memories. From epic hikes and delicious Italian food, here’s 10 awesome experiences to tick off ya bucket list and make 2021 count.

 

Live out your childhood dreams in TOKYO

Say konnichiwa to the land of sushi and sake, where you can pledge to embrace the child at heart. From teppanyaki to a robot restaurant, miniature deers to world-class ski runs…. oh and did we mention go kart riding through the streets of Tokyo dressed as Mario and Luigi? Bring your Mario Kart dreams to reality as you zoom through the streets of Tokyo in your very own MariCAR!

Hike the HIMALAYAS 

Take an epic trek up the Pokhara Valley for unforgettable Himalaya and Annapurna panoramas. The trek is tough, but as you reach the Sarangkot viewpoint and spot the world famous Annapurna peaks ahead, you'll realise it was all worth it. How far can you push yourself physically next year? Take the pledge and find out!

Get in touch with nature in HALONG BAY

Picture yourself passing hidden lagoons, thick forests & dreamy grottos on a junk boat in Halong Bay. Paddle over the emerald waters of Halong Bay by kayak, and visit the wild grottos of the Sung Sot Cave. There’s no better way to get back in touch with nature than this.

Road Trip ROUTE 66

From the glitz of Vegas through to the gob-smacking Grand Canyon, welcome to the Great American Road Trip. The open road has never felt so good! Stop for photos & souvenirs along the famous Route 66, but how about we pledge to live a little more in the moment? Maybe take some pics on a disposable camera rather than your phone - this way you can relive the candid and raw memories later.

Brush up on your history in BERLIN

Berlin is the go-to destination for every history buff. Discover Berlin's tumultuous past on a historical walking tour including the site of Hitler's bunker and the remains of the Berlin Wall. From the Brandenburg Gate to the Reichstag building, what better place to brush up on your Year 12 modern history.

Learn how to make your own pasta in ITALY

Any trip to Italy will leave you up to your eyebrows in pizza and pasta, but maybe in 2021 we can pledge to learn a little bit more. Guided by local chefs who know this recipe better than anyone, learn how to make your own pesto pasta in Cinque Terre and impress your family and friends back home. Delizioso!

Experience adrenaline in the AUSTRIAN ALPS

A trip to Austria should get the adrenaline pumping. If you're feeling really lively, soar over the spectacular Austrian Alps on an exhilarating paragliding experience.

Maybe 2021 is the year to be a lil’ more ballsy!

Visit GoT filming locations IRL in DUBROVNIK

The city of Dubrovnik is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it’s also the ultimate location for Game of Thrones fans. Visit Dubrovnik's Old Town, The Minceta Tower and Fortress Lovrijenac - otherwise known as GoT's King's Landing, entrance to the House of the Undying and The Red Keep. In 2021, I pledge to experience things not on a screen but IRL!

Chillax in KOH PHI PHI

Pledge to relax with the perfect mix of island hopping, swimming and chillaxing in Koh Phi Phi. Picture a beachside stroll with the flickering island lights as your backdrop, soaking up the island sounds and Pad Thai smells... someone call Barry because this is livin’.

Walking tour of LONDON

London's calling! What better way to see this fascinating city than by taking to the streets?

But how can we travel more consciously in 2021? How about taking a not-for-profit tour hosted by the men and women who once lived on the streets of London?! They know this grand old capital better than anyone and will show you secret spots not usually seen by tourists. Get a unique insight into the city’s culture, while supporting the Unseen London social enterprise and its members.

What is your pledge to make 2021 count? Is it travelling more sustainably or taking more photos? Tell Contiki your pledge and you could win a $1000 American Tourister voucher. Plus there's a bunch of prizes given away daily! You can check it out here.

Wanna know more about any of the above experiences? Head here.