This year, I had the privilege of visiting three of the most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each destination offered not only stunning views but also deep cultural and historical significance. Here’s a snapshot of my incredible journey and tips for making the most of your visit.

March 2024 - The Great Wall of China 🇨🇳

There’s no better time to visit the Great Wall than March, when it’s least crowded. We had an entire section of the wall to ourselves, making the experience even more magical. To top it off, we enjoyed a private, catered lunch right on the wall itself—a memory I’ll treasure forever. The Great Wall stands as a symbol of China’s effort to protect and unify its territories over centuries, and walking its ancient paths truly feels like stepping back in time.

My Tip for the Great Wall of China: It’s a further drive from Beijing, but some sections of the wall (closer to Mongolia) are less crowded. Hire me to VIP you—our driver can enter the site and literally drop you off at the base of the wall and cater a private lunch or dinner at the wall!

August 2024 - Machu Picchu 🇵🇪

High in the Andes Mountains lies Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of Inca civilization. While its advanced engineering and spiritual significance are awe-inspiring, the journey can be challenging, especially with the altitude. I’m grateful for the guidance we received to navigate the immense crowds and mountain trails. Despite the throngs of visitors, everyone was courteous, allowing us to capture those classic “I’m the only one here” photos. Trust me, though—the reality is far from solitary. Still, the experience is worth every step and every deep breath.

My Tip for Machu Picchu: If budget allows, book the Belmond Hiram Bingham train from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, and back to Cusco if you’re only doing a day trip. Not only is this an experience all on its own, it provides all sorts of skip-the-line priority access to the site.

November 2024 - Tiger’s Nest Monastery 🇧🇹

Perched dramatically on a cliffside at 3,120 meters (10,240 feet), Bhutan’s Tiger’s Nest Monastery is an unforgettable spiritual and physical journey. This sacred site perfectly reflects Bhutanese culture and spirituality.

Plan your hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery for the second-to-last day of your Bhutan adventure. After conquering the cliffside trail, reward yourself with a rejuvenating Bhutan Hot Stone Bath and a soothing massage—the ultimate post-hike luxury. Cap off your trip with a relaxed day in Paro, browsing vibrant markets for authentic Bhutanese treasures and one-of-a-kind gifts to bring home. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to end your journey!

My Tips for Tiger’s Nest:

• Start your hike at the crack of dawn. Riding horses up to the café and walking the rest of the way felt like a scene from an Indiana Jones movie.

• Bring proper walking sticks for stability.

• Layer your clothing. The weather shifts from chilly to warm and back again.

• Wear proper hiking shoes, though I did see a few adventurers in Crocs and sandals (to each their own!).

• Pack water (Liquid IV is a lifesaver), snacks, a sun hat, and sunglasses.

These three sites are more than just destinations—they are living stories of human perseverance, culture, and history. Ready to embark on your own journey to some of the world’s most iconic wonders? Contact us to start planning your next adventure!