Aug 1, 2024
 in 
Local

Bucket list travel destinations

ABOVE: The hill inlet at Whitsunday Island, off Airlie Beach in Queensland, is one of Australia’s most photographed landmarks. The pristine blue waters of the Great Barrier reef are interrupted by the world’s purest-grade silica, which creates mesmerizing shades!

I would like to go on an Alaska cruise with an excursion to Fairbanks to see the Northern Lights.

—Mandy Bills, CFO, Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation

My most favorite bucket list experience was off the coast of Australia. The Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. My husband and I with another couple charted a bareboat. In bareboating, you are the skipper and the crew. It was the best five days and four nights that I have ever experienced. We had storm drama, great first-time snorkeling, abundant fishing and beautiful scenery. There were so many fish we tried knocking them out with a bucket and scooping them up. (Needless to say, that didn’t work.) We anchored in protected waters, checked in every night, never got lost and never without a daily adventure. The water was so clear and tropical fish were everywhere. Sleeping with the waves rocking the boat and the sound of the sea life all around was so relaxing.

 —Linda Bowers, retired

Definitely, Niagara Falls. I have seen so many beautiful pictures. It looks amazing. And also, the Grand Canyon. A helicopter ride over the Canyon would be awesome.

—Rachael Meyer, Restaurant Manager

and mom of four

One of my favorite bucket list trips was touring Australia. My husband, Lauren, and I enjoyed the people! The Climate! The scenery! The food, not so much.

—Tanya Nelson, Women’s National

Senior Games javelin champion

Atop American Falls from an observation deck at Niagara Falls State Park in New York.