Hi Everyone,

I'm all for a spontaneous 'get out of town' trip but sometimes, a trip worth taking is a trip worth planning. With that in mind, I'm listing off five places in this big worlds of ours that I recommend putting the extra research and planning into. Let's kick it off...

ANTARCTICA

Surreal in its remoteness; Antarctica will humble you like no place else with its eminent sense of being. It isan epic and magical place made up of massive sheets of ice, untouched mountain ranges, silent and mystifying waters and some of the most spectacular wildlife the world has to offer. About five years ago, I made the trek to Antarctica with my sister to explore thisnatural and wild destination onour planet and itis dramatically changing elements, as well as to photograph my series Antarctica: The White Continent. For our trip, we researched quite extensively before landing on the National Geographic Expedition Tours.

CAMBODIA & THAILAND

Earlier this year, Jeff and I went on a three week excursion to Cambodia and Thailand. In fact, I already wrote and entire travel guide on Thailand, but I thought I'd take the opportunity here to chat about Cambodia. To plan the big trip, we worked withDianna Uptonfrom Travel Beyond, who was excellent at providing a well thought out itinirary for us. Not to be missed - Angkor Wat, which isfiguratively meant to meanheaven on earth. It is the earthly representation of Mt Meru, the Mt Olympus of the Hindu faith and the abode of ancient gods.

AUSTRALIA

Yes, I'm putting all of Australia into one trip...a two-week trip to be exact. Yes, I know Australia is massive, but once you've made the trek, you might as well see as much as you can, right? Fly into Sydney, and enjoy the perfect combination of urban culture and beach scene vibes gallore!

Sydney Opera House followed by a trip to any number of the city's epic pools chiseled into rock overlooking beaches like Bondi, Shelly, Manly or Tamarama...

From there, head toMelbournefor an amazing food scene and art museums to surfing lessons in Byron Bay, then exploring theWhitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. There's something for everyone, whether it be of the adventurous variety or keeping it simple by unwinding on the beach.

BHUTAN

When it comes to Bhutan and when to go, it'll really come down to what you'd like to do and see.If you want to go on a guided trek, the best months to go are April, May, September and October as the weather is at its most suitable. Aside from the country's sheer beauty, another reason to gois for their festivals which showcase traditional dances in elaborate costumes, with Bhutanese in attendance dressed to their best and unsurprisingly, a large population of curious travelers, as well. For more insight on my own experience, look no further than right here.

SOUTH AFRICA

I absolutely love South Africa. It’s a fabulous country to visit as it has beautiful white sand beaches, wine country and adventurous safari experiences available all in one visit. It is also a year-round destination due to its varying climates according to region and outdoor as well as wildlife adventures.In my humble opinion, it should be a must on anyone’s bucket list!

And, there you have it! These are my recommendations on five trips to plan a year in advance, as I've already done them. Thus, I know it can be done! There are quite a few more on my bucket list: Japan, the Patagonia, the BrazilianAmazon...the list goes on! I guess, I should start planning...

Cheers,

xx

Gray