New research shows which destinations travelers think have really changed them – and Japan is number 1 | News

Japan is the most life-changing destination in the world, according to new research from adventure travel company Explore Worldwide
India ranks second as the most life-changing destination, followed by New Zealand and Thailand
Three European countries are in the top 10, with Iceland, Italy and Switzerland all claiming the top spots
To reveal which countries travelers find the most life-changing, Explore Worldwide analyzed more than 1,500 responses and 447 mentions of various destinations from online forums dedicated to discussing the most transformative and life-changing trips travelers have experienced.

From solo trips that helped people heal after a difficult personal time, to vacations where culture shock makes travelers feel alive – New research from Explore shows that there are destinations in the world that seem to facilitate a life-changing experience more than others.

At the top of the list is Japan. From the neon-lit streets and late-night izakayas of Tokyo to the ancient temple districts of Kyoto and the historic streets of Kanazawa, the country has something for everyone. The people and food of Japan are often mentioned among travelers discussing how life is changing, with the delicious cuisine and warm and welcoming culture leaving a long-lasting impression. A traveler on Reddit commented, “It has made me more aware of my daily life, to respect each other and find beauty in things that others might throw away.”

In second place is India, a country that overwhelms the senses from the moment you arrive. The electric energy of Mumbai, the rich history of Delhi and the intense spirituality of Varanasi have left their mark on many travelers who shared their experiences online. A traveler on Reddit added: “I absolutely fell in love with the country, the culture, the people and it massively changed the way I see and behave in the world.”

New Zealand follows in third place, with its breathtaking landscapes that feel like walking onto a movie set and capturing the hearts of travelers who have been there. From the Milford Sound fjords to the vast braided rivers of the Southern Alps, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurous traveler who likes to get up close to natural beauty or someone who enjoys admiring it from afar.

Rounding out the top five are Thailand in fourth place and Iceland in fifth place. Thailand is praised by travelers who discuss how life-changing the country is, for the warmth of its people, the depth of its culture and a ‘transformative’ food scene, from the street food markets of Bangkok to the candlelit temple courtyards of Chiang Mai. Iceland, meanwhile, is repeatedly described as a completely different planet; the volcanic landscapes, the Northern Lights and the sheer geological drama leave visitors in awe.

Luke Judd, adventure travel expert at Explore Worldwide said:

“We’re seeing more and more travelers looking for experiences that go beyond relaxation, wanting trips that challenge, move and give them a different perspective on the world. It’s no surprise that Japan takes the top spot, given its unique culture and the sheer variety of experiences it offers, but it’s great to see destinations like Jordan, Colombia and Nepal also rank so highly (9th, 11th and 10th respectively). These are destinations that don’t just impress you, they stay with you, and that’s what meaningful travel is all about.”

Learn more about the world’s most life-changing destinations here: https://www.explore.co.uk/blog/worlds-most-life-changing-destinations