Yahoo Finance 
7 Unlikely Nature Destinations That Will Rejuvenate Your Soul
This article was originally on GET.com at: 7 Unlikely Nature Destinations That Will Rejuvenate Your Soul
Are you looking for a lush destination where you can enjoy the beauty of nature? Singaporeans like me are always on the lookout of where to go next for a holiday that won't leave us feeling like we just visited another bustling city that isn't that much different from Singapore. On the other hand, the resorts and nature places like Bali and Lombok that are out on the internet are so often talked about, that they're starting to sound overrated.
That's why we at GET.com have decided to help you out a little bit by rounding up 7 unlikely nature destinations that you can consider to visit to rejuvenate your soul. And don't worry, not all of the places on this list are out of reach. Some of them are right under your noses, you just don't know of their existence.
1. Ulan Bator, Mongolia
The capital of Mongolia has a bad reputation for being quite an unappealing place for travellers. But what people don't know is that this political, commercial, industrial and cultural hub is a great place for you to learn more about Mongolia's history. Even though it is a city, most of what remains from its past can still be seen today.
The best part about Ulan Bator is the humbling experience that comes with it when you visit icons like the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan and the Gandan Khiid monastery. Because Ulan Bator isn't a popular destination for tourists, you can expect the temples and galleries to be authentic and almost untouched by the effects of commercial tourism.
2. Koh Lipe, Thailand
Forget Phuket or even Krabi, Koh Lipe is an unheard of island that is so obscure you can only get there by boat. Located 60km away from the Thai mainland, Koh Lipe is the southern-most island in Thailand.
Everything about Koh Lipe is almost like a dream come true. If you're a little more rugged, you can camp out on their white sandy beaches and sleep in their bamboo huts. Lots of people also snorkel at Koh Lipe because their waters are so clear. But of course they also have luxurious resorts that come with a personal pool that you can revel in to just unwind and relax.
Even though this island is a little more hidden than other popular islands like Langkawi, which is only 30km away from Koh Lipe, the island is up and running with plenty of Thai street food options as well as cafes, which is always a good thing.
3. North Stradbroke Island, Australia
Also known as Straddie Island by the Australian locals, this island which is only a 30-minute ride away from Cleveland in Brisbane, offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a great place to go to if you love to marvel at the great blue while you have warm sand between your toes. While you're there it's a must to walk the trail that leads to point lookout - where if you're lucky, you'll be able to spot manta rays and sea turtles, bobbing their heads on the surface.
If you're willing to plan your trip to Straddie carefully, go between the months of June till November to witness a once-in-a-lifetime sighting of hundreds of humpback whales migrating from the south.
4. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
If you're the Bear Grylls type and your version of forgetting about the city is to immerse yourself in unruly nature, then Alaska is the best place to go to to test your survival skills out in the wild. With no pre-determined routes, roads, or campsites, you're literally trekking in this landscape on your own.
Avid fishing lovers also make the trip here because of fishing opportunities at the six rivers. Of course there's also the Brooks Range mountains, which is a sight to behold beyond the 8.4 million acres of undisturbed and untouched wilderness.
5. Rangiroa, French Polynesia
Another island destination you can consider is the Rangiroa atoll, which is basically made up of coral reefs surrounding a lagoon. Known to be the second-largest atoll in the world, Rangiroa is more than just a pretty place. She offers more than just the usual beach experience, if you love diving, it provides world-class diving experiences and there are also opportunities for you to explore the villages and maybe also check out the working pearl farm.
6. Kobarid, Slovenia
Sometimes the grass is greener on the other side, and in the town of Kobarid nestled in Soča Valley, the pastures couldn't get any greener. With a rich history that dates back to the Iron Age, how this town has survived the Roman Times, World War I and an earthquake in 1976, is worth finding out through the museum available there.
Despite its history, Kobarid today offers not just an experience that takes you back to the past, but also a dining experience that is traditional to its Eastern European roots. Seafood is quite a main focus in Kobarid, but they also have restaurants that serve up wood-fired pizza.
7. Tibet
Tibet is located on the highest plateau on earth. If you truly want an out-of-body experience that will fulfil your soul and cleanse your mind, then by its sheer geographical location, Tibet will be able to provide you with a humbling experience that will stick with you for a lifetime.
Up in the mountains, you can bear witness to some of nature's best works like the turquoise lakes and plains of empty land inhabited by the nomads and their yaks. Be sure to visit Mt Kailash, Potala Palace and the Barkhor Circuit while you're there.
Tips For Your Next Adventure
So, are you ready to book your next adventure? If you're worried about flight ticket prices, check out these 11 tips and tricks on how to get cheap plane tickets.
Don't forget to use your credit card while you're travelling. If you're a budget traveller, here are the 2 best credit cards for budget travellers you should look into.
Spending overseas also doesn't have to be an expensive experience. You can save some money by using one of these travel cashback cards.
What do you think? Share your comments with us below!
GET.com Singapore is Singapore's lifestyle and personal finance website. We help you GET more for your money - food, travel, home loans, credit cards, shopping - everything!
Like GET.com on Facebook and sign up to get the HOTTEST stories delivered to your inbox!
For serious stuff, you can compare home loans, personal loans and credit cards at GET.com.
Our free GETdeals™ App helps you get the best credit card discounts near you for dining, shopping, lifestyle and more. Download it today!
Other Articles You May Like From GET.com
Compare DBS Home Loans
Compare UOB Home Loans
