The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system on Earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a haven for divers and snorkelers, with its vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations. However, rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification are causing widespread coral bleaching and putting the reef’s future in jeopardy. To experience the underwater beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, there’s no time to waste.
Venice, Italy
Famed as the "City of Canals", Venice offers an enchanting blend of historical architecture and scenic waterways. Sadly, this unique city is gradually sinking, and frequent high tides (acqua alta) are threatening its very foundation. Visiting Venice is not only a trip through history but also an opportunity to see a city valiantly battling to preserve its heritage.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains, is a marvel of architectural ingenuity and historical significance. However, the site faces multiple threats, including erosion, overcrowding, and improper preservation. To enjoy this archaeological treasure and breathtaking vistas, it’s essential to visit before it’s potentially further damaged or restricted due to over-tourism.
Maldives
The Maldives, a collection of tropical atolls in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its turquoise waters and overwater bungalows. However, the country’s low-lying islands are highly vulnerable to sea-level rise caused by climate change. While the Maldives is actively taking steps to combat this issue, there’s no guarantee that all of its islands will be saved in the long run, making now the perfect time to explore this tropical paradise.
Glacier National Park, USA
Nestled in Montana, Glacier National Park boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes in the United States, with its glaciers, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. Sadly, these glaciers are vanishing rapidly due to global warming, and experts predict that by 2030, most could be gone. Visiting soon ensures you can witness these majestic ice formations before they disappear.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are a living laboratory of evolution and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The unique wildlife and diverse ecosystems found here played a crucial role in Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection. However, the islands are facing challenges from invasive species, habitat destruction, and tourism impacts. A visit to the Galápagos provides an opportunity to see some of the world’s most unique creatures, like the giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, in their natural habitat.
The Dead Sea, Israel/Jordan
The Dead Sea, famed for its hyper-saline waters and therapeutic mud, is among the saltiest bodies of water on the planet. Unfortunately, it is shrinking rapidly due to the diversion of water from the Jordan River and increasing regional aridity. To experience the Dead Sea's unique buoyancy and health benefits, make plans to visit before it recedes further.