Part 3: The New Natural wonders of the World...

"I believe the world is incomprehensibly beautiful - an endless prospect of magic and wonder..."

(Ticking off my list of Wonders of the World)

Out of the world's seven official natural wonders, I’ve been lucky enough to explore three of them. These places aren't just beautiful, they completely redefine how you look at the planet. Here is what it’s actually like to stand face-to-face with the ultimate masterpieces of nature.

1. Table Mountain, South Africa (1996)

In November 1996, I accompanied my dear hubby on a work trip to Johannesburg, South Africa. When his meetings were over, we flew to Cape Town for a short holiday and celebrated my 41st birthday with a visit to the Cape of Good Hope.

(The view from the Lower Station)

Leaving Cape Town, it was impossible to miss the iconic Table Mountain. Even through the early morning mist, its unmistakable flat-topped silhouette dominated the skyline, standing majestically over the city. We took the Table Mountain Cableway to the summit, where breathtaking panoramic views unfolded before us - Cape Town, Table Bay, and Robben Island stretching into the distance.

Watching the morning light slowly illuminate the landscape from this vantage point was an unforgettable experience. As the day wore on, however, the famous "tablecloth" of cloud began to spill over the mountain's edges, gradually obscuring the spectacular views. We didn't linger for long, as a scenic drive to the Cape of Good Hope awaited us.

Table Mountain may not be the tallest mountain in the world, but its striking form and commanding presence make it one of nature's most iconic landmarks, and a birthday I will always remember.

(A windy morning in Cape Town)

2. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam (2015)

In November 2015, we embarked on a fly-and-ride adventure through northern Vietnam with six fellow bikers. Our week-long journey took us on a round-trip route from Hanoi to Bac Ha, Sa Pa, and Tu Le before returning to Hanoi.

(The bikers gang at Ha Long Bay)

On our final day, we visited the spectacular Ha Long Bay, renowned for its emerald-green waters and thousands of towering limestone karsts rising dramatically from the sea. Hidden among these islands is a labyrinth of ancient caves adorned with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over millions of years.

After a week of long days in the saddle, our tired bodies and aching backs welcomed the change of pace. We boarded a leisurely cruise, soaking in the breathtaking limestone seascape while enjoying a sumptuous seafood lunch. It was the perfect way to end an unforgettable motorcycle adventure.

Beyond its breathtaking beauty, Ha Long Bay is steeped in history and folklore. Its name, meaning "Descending Dragon," comes from a Vietnamese legend that tells of dragons sent from heaven to protect the land, their jewels forming the limestone islands that now dot the bay. Whether viewed as a geological masterpiece or a place woven with myth, Ha Long Bay is truly one of nature's most extraordinary creations.

(The view from one of the caves)

(A boat cruising among the limestone islands)

3. Iguazu Falls, Argentina & Brazil (2017)

In October 2017, we travelled through South America, visiting Argentina, Peru and Brazil. The continent is blessed with countless natural wonders, and although our journey lasted only two weeks, we managed to experience several of its most spectacular treasures. Topping the list was the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, which straddles the borders of Argentina and Brazil, with Paraguay just a stone's throw away.

(One of the Natural Wonders of the World)

Reaching Foz do Iguaçu was an adventure in itself. We flew from the highlands of Cusco to Lima, Peru, before catching another flight to Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil. After only a few hours of sleep, we were back on the road, boarding a bus across the Brazil–Argentina border to fulfil a dream that had been on our bucket list for years.

We have always been captivated by waterfalls, and Iguazu exceeded every expectation. Countless streams plunge dramatically over towering cliffs, creating a breathtaking panorama of cascading water. We wandered along scenic trails leading to numerous viewpoints, each revealing a different perspective of this magnificent natural wonder. Standing so close to the roaring torrents, we could feel the immense power and energy of Mother Nature at work.

The highlight of our visit was the famous Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo), the most powerful section of the falls. After boarding the eco-train, we followed a long wooden boardwalk suspended above the river. As we approached the edge, the thunderous roar grew louder, and mist rose high into the air. Standing almost directly above the churning water was both exhilarating and terrifying. Surrounded by hundreds of fellow visitors, we all stood in awe of nature's raw, unstoppable force.

We also explored the Brazilian side of Iguazu National Park, where crossing the border was surprisingly quick and effortless. The Cataratas Trail offered sweeping panoramic views of the entire waterfall system - an unforgettable sight from a completely different perspective. Rain fell on and off throughout the day, and by the end of the tour we were soaked to the skin. Yet the downpour did little to dampen our spirits. Although the rain had turned the normally emerald waters a muddy brown, the sheer scale of Iguazu, its deafening roar, and its breathtaking vistas left an indelible impression.

It is easy to understand why Iguazu Falls is regarded as the largest waterfall system in the world. Its immense beauty, overwhelming power, and unforgettable presence make it one of the greatest natural wonders we have ever experienced.

(Another spectacular view of the falls)

(The Impressive and majestic Iguazu Waterfalls)

(A wooden walkway to the Devil's Throat)

(Soaked wet at the Devil's Throat, Iguazu Waterfalls)

(The Devil's Throat)

(Our travel buddies at the Brazilian side of the waterfalls)

There is a big difference between seeing nature on a TV screen and experiencing it with your own eyes. Having visited my third official wonder of nature, I am still in awe of how diverse and powerful our planet truly is.

I have a few more Natural Wonders to visit. Komodo Island is calling my name next.

(Coming soon...)

Part 4: The Original Natural Wonders of the World...👉