Bucket List Dreams: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going

In episode 78 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by guest co-host Melissa. Together, they explore the idea of travel bucket lists, sharing dream destinations, recent adventures, and how their travel priorities have evolved over time.

From African safaris to the icy Arctic, Tracy and Melissa reflect on the appeal of iconic world wonders, the power of community travel, and how bucket lists evolve as we connect with new people and experiences.

Packed with practical advice, candid stories and inspiring ideas, this episode is all about building and ticking off your own travel dreams with confidence and camaraderie.

Episode 78 – What you’ll learn in this episode

Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned

Places

• Table Mountain (South Africa): Tracy’s childhood bucket list goal—an iconic natural landmark with sweeping Cape Town views.
• Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco, USA): A legendary sight Tracy finally reached after decades of dreaming.
• Anchorage, Alaska (USA): Tracy’s dream touchdown to Michelle Shocked’s “Anchorage”—and a springboard for Dalton Highway road trips and Alaskan cruises.
• African Safari Destinations (Botswana, Namibia, Masai Mara, Southern Africa): Longtime favourites for their wildlife and adventure experiences.
• Greece (and its islands): Both a personal and community bucket list staple—especially for island-hopping. Corfu, famed for literary references, is Tracy’s dream.
• India: Both Tracy and Melissa recently travelled across North and South India, highlighting transformative women-only group travel and immersive local experiences.
• Churchill (Canada): High on Tracy’s list for polar bear encounters—a rare, climate-challenged wildlife adventure.
• Antarctica: Upcoming for both hosts; the allure of remote, icy wilderness.
• Iceland: Endlessly popular in the community, noted for nature, culture, and Northern Lights.
• Galápagos Islands (Ecuador): A dream for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.
• Machu Picchu (Peru): A legendary trek and must-see, celebrated in group stories.
• Rwanda: Desired for its gorilla trekking adventures, a unique wildlife spectacle.
• Europe’s Christmas Markets (esp. Germany): Favourite cultural experiences, with talk of river cruises.
• New Zealand’s South Island: Tracy’s exception to her “no hiking” rule, a favourite for outdoor adventure.

Foods

• Local cuisine (India, Greece, Germany): Highlighted for authentic cultural immersion.
• Christmas market treats: Referenced as a must-try during European winter travels.

Words/Concepts

• Bucket List: Both an evolving inspiration board and practical planning tool—shaped by community, literature, and serendipity.
• “Slow Travel”: A growing preference among the hosts for spending quality time in fewer destinations for deeper local immersion.
• Flexibility & Adaptability: Recognised as keys to more rewarding and stress-free travel – embracing unexpected opportunities.

Links

Podcasts

• Episode #39 – Planning Your Dream Trip in 2025: Expert Tips and Strategies
• Episode #56 – Essential Tips for Surviving Long Haul Flights 
• Episode #47– Pack Like a Pro: Essential Tips, Tricks + Travel Hacks

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