There are many reasons for traveling: discovering world cultures, experiencing the diversity of food, or even interacting with the ‘natives,’ but there are several places which stand out for many as ‘must-sees.’

If you’re itching to travel, here are nine places which you should consider putting on your list. The character of each of these places reigns as a beacon for visitors. Pack your bags, and let’s go!

Paris, France

Paris is known as the City of Light. If you see the city by night, you’ll understand that name immediately. The beauty of this city is only the beginning, as Paris hosts some of the greatest museums in the world and churches that have stood for centuries, as well as its famous cuisine. Whether viewing it from the heights of the Eiffel Tower or from the cobbled walks and bridges of the River Seine, you will collect memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand, in itself, has many places to explore, including its vibrant capital of Bangkok.. The island of Koh Samui, an hour from Bangkok by plane, takes some work to find, but is well worth the effort. When you arrive, you’ll find an oasis of peace, removed from the clamor of the big city.

Because of its wonderful climate and beautiful beaches, Koh Samui is a prime destination for travelers to take a load off, relax, and rejuvenate. Health and wellness are at the top of the agenda for visitors to Koh Samui, as there are several yoga retreats like Samahita Retreat scattered about. Visitors can enjoy long-term or short-term pampering before going back to their daily lives.

Tower of London, UK

The ancient Tower of London is actually about 20 towers, each one full of the rich history of England and the United Kingdom. Here you’ll be able to see the world-famous Crown Jewels, including the Imperial State Crown and Scepter still used by the monarchs of the United Kingdom, and hear stories from the guards about the often macabre history of the Tower itself, if you choose to take the tour.

Maui, USA

Maui is sort of a microcosm of Hawaii itself, offering the stunning views and impressive culture of this beautiful land, without some of the modern bustle of some of the other islands. Make no mistake: this island still has the resorts, golf courses, and beaches that Hawaii is famous for, but its proportions are just enough for many visitors, whether it is their first or tenth visit to the Aloha State.

Even its physical location is a great balance—right between the Big Island and the little island of Molokai, making it easy to get a change of pace whenever you want one. But experiencing all Maui has to offer can easily take days, or even weeks.

San Francisco, USA

It’s difficult to suggest only one location to visit in the City by the Bay. From the Golden Gate Bridge that marks the way to the Pacific Ocean, to the tourist’s favorite Fisherman’s Wharf, to the former prison of Alcatraz, you will never run out of things to see or do in San Francisco. Entire neighborhoods like the Castro District are experiences in and of themselves, and everything is easily accessible by the city’s famous cable cars.

Bora Bora

This little island is known worldwide for its amazing natural beauty. It is the very definition of an island paradise. The word has gotten out about Bora Bora, which means tourism is big. You’ll easily find opportunities to snorkel (or learn to snorkel), visit the little town of Vaitape, or hike on the dormant volcano trails that make up the island. The enrichment that you’ll receive from going to this tiny island is well worth the expense.

Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa

As soon as you arrive in Cape Town, and even before, you’ll be able to see Table Mountain towering over the city. The flat top of the mountain gives it its name and also gives visitors a perfect place to stand to see the entire city of Cape Town, as well as the southern tip of Africa itself.

While it’s possible to hike to the very top of the mountain, that’s strictly a route for the more adventurous. The famously changeable weather could easily turn a pleasant climb into a slow and muddy slog to the summit. Most prefer to take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. The cars rotate as they travel, so you can get a full view of Cape Town and the ocean as you ascend. You may want to book tickets online, because waiting in line to ascend can take more than an hour.

Times Square, New York, USA

Like several of the above locations, the city of New York is a world to itself, which can take months or even years to fully explore. Here, we’ll focus on one of the many, many attractions to be found in the United States’ biggest city—Times Square.

Since its renovation, Times Square is undoubtedly a spot for tourists. Yet, it is also a place for the natives of the city, as well. It is planted in the center of Manhattan, which many consider to be the heart of New York City. It is very much like a five-block distillation of what makes New York City so unique. Many travelers recommend a night visit, just to see how the square looks when brilliantly lit by a profusion of colorful neon signs.

Hong Kong, China

Every city is unique, but Hong Kong may be special in its uniqueness. This is a place where two radically different cultures, Chinese and British, have blended to create a place every traveler should visit. While the islands that comprise Hong Kong are no longer a British territory, the Chinese government has allowed Hong Kong certain concessions. English is still one of the official languages and the city even has its own currency, the Hong Kong dollar.

The mixed culture is even a part of the architecture, with neighborhoods packed with skyscrapers giving way to beautiful parks. You’ll find the opportunity to experience city life like no other, but also places of natural peace to simply take a breath and relax.

Of course, there are far more than nine places to see than the nine listed above. Just in New York City or London, there are hundreds of things to see and do. Yet, every great journey has a first step and these are great first steps to take to experience more of the world around us.

Author: Emily Hunter is a SEM Strategist and Outreach Supervisor at the Marketing Zen Group working with the folks at Samahita Yoga Retreat in Thailand. She loves designing strategies with her team and is excited about spreading the Zen gospel. In her spare time, she cheers for Spirit of Atlanta, Carolina Crown and Phantom Regiment, crafts her own sodas, and crushes tower defense games. Follow her on Twitter at @Emily2Zen