Do you regret not visiting a bucket-list destination or going on an epic travel adventure?
If so, you are far from alone. Numerous places around the world offer life-changing travel experiences for people of all ages, although some of them require a penchant for risk.
Adventure travel company Explore Worldwide conducted a survey of people over 70 who have regrets about missing out on travel experiences.
Well over half of the respondents (62 per cent), said there is a place in the world they regret never visiting. The countries mentioned frequently in their travel regrets include Australia, New Zealand, USA, Japan, and Canada.
The top travel experience that people over 70 most regretted not having was seeing the northern lights. It was also the top experience that people aged 40 to 55 most regretted, with 46 per cent of respondents saying they wished they had a chance to observe the stunning astral display.
The report's authors note that the hypnotic dancing lights "need the right conditions to be admired, which is what makes them all the more captivating. They occur in regions close to Earth's magnetic poles, such as Iceland, Norway, Alaska, and Canada."
Both age groups also regretted never visiting the stunning Maldives, famed for their pristine waters and sparkling white sand beaches. The destination has a range of breathtaking natural attractions including a "vast underwater mountain range" and green lagoons.
The Great Pyramid of Giza was third on the list for the over-70 crowd. As one of the "Seven Wonders of the Ancient World," the iconic monuments leave a profound impression on visitors.
"Whether it's for their historical significance as tombs for bygone pharaohs, their mystical allure as treasure troves filled with ancient bounty and curses, or simply to marvel at the incredible feat of manual construction — many people regret never having gone to see the Pyramids at Giza," said Explore Worldwide.
Machu Picchu came fourth for the older group, lauded for its awe-inspiring views of the Urubamba River and as one of the "few surviving examples of Inca architecture."
An iconic Canadian attraction, Niagara Falls, landed fifth on the list for people over 70. The city welcomes throngs of visitors to the jaw-dropping rapids annually, with many couples choosing to honeymoon in the stunning spot.
The report's authors comment that the natural wonder is "a hugely popular travel experience for anyone who wants to marvel at the sheer power of Mother Nature — with millions of gallons of water cascading over the falls every minute."
These are the top travel experiences around that people regret not having
Find out how more northern lights information and viewing tips in B.C. with our comprehensive guide.
