Most Picturesque Places In The World — A Complete Guide For Beginners
Alright folks, gather ‘round, grab a virtual latte, and let’s chat about something that makes even the most cynical among us whip out their phone for a blurry selfie: picturesque places. You know, those spots that look like they were Photoshopped by a particularly enthusiastic angel with a penchant for saturation? We’re talking postcard-worthy, jaw-dropping, “is this even real life?” kind of beauty. And for all you travel newbies out there, you know, the ones who might still be debating whether packing socks with sandals is a fashion statement or a cry for help, this is your beginner’s guide to not looking like a total tourist who stumbled into a travel brochure.
So, you’ve decided you’re ready to ditch the couch and see some actual, non-Netflix-produced scenery. Excellent choice! But where to start? The world is a big, beautiful, and sometimes terrifyingly expensive place. Don't worry, I've done the heavy lifting (mostly involving scrolling through Instagram and eating snacks). We're going to break down some of the most ridiculously beautiful spots, and I promise, by the end of this, you’ll be itching to book a flight, even if it’s just to get away from that neighbour who keeps borrowing your lawnmower.
The “Wow, Did My Eyes Just Go Technicolor?” Edition
Let’s kick things off with the kind of places that make you question if you’ve accidentally wandered into a fantasy novel. These are the heavy hitters, the ones that will make your social media feed look like it’s been curated by a professional influencer (even if your only qualification is owning a smartphone and knowing how to tap the screen).
Santorini, Greece: White Wash and Blue Domes, Oh My!
First up, we have the quintessential Greek island: Santorini. Imagine this: fluffy white buildings clinging to cliffs like tiny sugar cubes, all overlooking a ridiculously blue caldera. It’s the kind of place where you half expect a toga-clad gentleman to offer you ambrosia. The sunsets here? They’re not just sunsets, people. They’re full-blown celestial spectacles. Seriously, the sky puts on a show that’ll make you forget all your worries, like that time you accidentally sent a meme to your boss.
Pro-tip for beginners: Don't just stick to Oia for the sunset. While it’s famous, it gets crowded. Like, “can’t-see-the-sun-because-I’m-staring-at-someone’s-head” crowded. Explore other villages like Fira or Imerovigli for a slightly more serene, yet equally breathtaking, experience. And for the love of all that is photogenic, pack comfortable shoes. Those caldera steps are no joke, and your ankles will thank you.
Banff National Park, Canada: Mountains That Make You Feel Small (In a Good Way)
Next, we’re heading to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Banff National Park is basically Mother Nature showing off. Think turquoise lakes so clear you can see the pebbles at the bottom, towering snow-capped mountains that scrape the sky, and forests so green they look painted. Lake Louise? It’s like a mirror reflecting perfection. Moraine Lake? A surreal shade of blue that looks like it was mixed by a unicorn.
Fun fact: The iconic turquoise colour of these lakes comes from glacial rock flour, which is basically tiny bits of pulverized rock that reflect sunlight. So, you're swimming in actual mountain dust! How cool is that? Just don't tell anyone that, they might think you’re being literal.
Beginner’s survival tip: Wildlife sightings are common, which is exciting! But remember, these are wild animals. Keep a safe distance, don’t feed them (no matter how much that squirrel begs for your trail mix), and always, always, follow park guidelines. Nobody wants to be the person who became a bear’s snack because they wanted a selfie with a grizzly. Trust me on this one.
Kyoto, Japan: Ancient Charm and Bamboo Whispers
Now, let’s switch gears to a place that whispers tales of old Japan. Kyoto is a city that feels like stepping back in time, but with really good public transport. We’re talking ancient temples, serene gardens, and the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walking through that bamboo forest? It’s like being in a natural cathedral, with sunlight filtering through and the wind rustling the stalks like a thousand tiny secrets.
Prepare for sensory overload (the good kind): You'll see geishas gracefully gliding through the streets of Gion, experience the vibrant colours of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermillion torii gates, and find inner peace in zen gardens. It’s a feast for the eyes and the soul.
Beginner’s etiquette nugget: When visiting temples and shrines, dress respectfully. And if you see someone meditating, try not to accidentally join them by falling asleep on their lap. It’s happened. Probably.
The “Wait, Is This Even Real?” Hall of Fame
These are the places that make you do a double-take. The ones that are so unique, so ridiculously beautiful, you have to pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming. Or that you haven’t accidentally ingested some questionable street food.
The Maldives: Overwater Bungalows and Underwater Wonders
Ah, the Maldives. If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up in a little hut over the ocean, with water so clear you can see fish from your bed, this is your place. It’s the ultimate tropical paradise, complete with white sandy beaches that feel like powdered sugar and water that’s the exact shade of a perfectly mixed cocktail.
Surprising fact: The Maldives is the lowest-lying country in the world. Seriously, its highest point is only about 7 feet above sea level. So, if you’re a tall person, you’re literally the highest point in the country. Try not to fall over.
Beginner’s packing essential: Besides your swimsuit (obviously), pack an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case. The marine life here is incredible. You’ll want to capture those vibrant coral reefs and playful fish, otherwise, who will believe you swam with a baby shark (from a safe distance, of course)?
Machu Picchu, Peru: Lost City in the Clouds
Prepare for an adventure that’s literally uphill. Machu Picchu, the legendary Incan citadel, is perched high in the Andes Mountains, shrouded in mist and mystery. The sheer scale of this ancient city, carved into the mountaintop, is mind-boggling. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and makes you wonder how on earth they built it without IKEA instructions.
The altitude is no joke: You'll likely feel a bit lightheaded. Take it slow, hydrate like crazy, and maybe avoid doing any interpretive dance routines at 8,000 feet. Your lungs will thank you.
Beginner’s advice: Book your tickets and train in advance! This place is popular, and you don’t want to get all the way to Peru only to find out it’s sold out. Also, wear sturdy hiking boots. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and nobody likes blisters ruining their grand historical moment.
The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Nature’s Light Show
Okay, this one’s a bit different. It’s not a specific place as much as a spectacular phenomenon. Witnessing the Northern Lights is like watching the sky put on its most dazzling disco performance. Ribbons of green, purple, and pink dance across the dark canvas of the night. It’s ethereal, magical, and makes you feel very, very small and insignificant in the best possible way.
Where to catch this celestial party? Think places like Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, or parts of Canada and Alaska. The key is to go somewhere far north during the winter months when the nights are long and dark.
Beginner’s hopeful wish: Seeing the Aurora is never guaranteed. It depends on solar activity and clear skies. So, manage your expectations, enjoy the crisp air, maybe sip some hot cocoa, and if the lights show up? Consider it a bonus round of epicness. And for goodness sake, bring a tripod for your camera if you want to actually capture it!
So there you have it, my fellow adventurers (or future adventurers, or just people who like looking at pretty pictures). This is just a tiny taste of the visual wonders our planet has to offer. Remember, the most picturesque place is often the one you’re experiencing with open eyes and an open heart. Now, go forth, explore, and try not to drop your phone into any of those impossibly blue waters. Happy travels!