5 Places to Visit Before they Disappear from the Earth

Climate change on the earth isn’t a figment of scientists’ imagination anymore. The average global temperature has increased by 0.8 degrees centigrade, and this has its own set of repercussions on global landscapes. While the world dabbles with solutions to beat this dangerous change at both an individual and societal level, there are some scintillating places on the Earth that are likely to cease in existence in the foreseeable future. So consider travelling to these 5 alluring gems now as a chance might not present itself in the future.

1. The Maldives

The Maldives, famous for its clear waters, shimmering white sands and calmness, is the most low-lying country on the earth, with 80% of all 1190 islands just a metre over sea level. With global climate change ultimately resulting in sea level rise, the Maldives are expected to be fully submerged by the next century.

Why it deserves a visit: For memorable experiences and sights intrinsic to this island nation, such as underwater shipwreck remains, diverse coral ecosystems, opportunities for snorkelling, beautiful dives, and picture perfect photographs of all things beach.

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2. The Great Barrier Reef'

Stretching over 2000 kilometers almost parallel to the Queensland coast in Australia, this World Heritage Site has one of the most wildlife-rich underwater ecosystems around the world. Coral bleaching due to rise in ocean temperatures, indiscriminate fishing and mining, and dumping of pollutants has resulted in the Great Barrier Reef to be rumoured dead. The 25 million years old reef recently got its own obituary, and news columns around the world lamented the loss of the world’s biggest coral ecosystem. However, it is important to note that although in a dire state of affairs, the coral reef can still mend itself, and isn’t dead yet. A plan of action for repair till 2050 has been undertaken, and effects are starting to show.

Why it deserves a visit: One of the seven wonders of the natural world, this marine park is larger than the Great Wall of China and is incredibly the only living thing on earth visible from space. Enjoy its diverse beauty responsibly before it is gone.

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3. Miami, Florida

Travellers have been drawn to the laid-back, calm, beachy vibe of Miami, an international city in Florida, for generations. However, in recent times, a rise in sea level threatens to inundate the beautiful coastal city of Miami in as little as 15 years. High tides in the ocean cause the streets of Miami-Dade County close to the beach to flood, and the city’s administration is taking measures to elevate roads to escape the regular floods.

Why it deserves a visit: For its unique art deco buildings, tropical beaches, a prominent Cuban influence and exciting nightlife. Plan a vacation to Miami now to experience the lively character of the city to the fullest.

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4. The Dead Sea, Jordan

The most saline water body on the earth, the Dead Sea with about 34% salinity, is technically a lake. Floating in the Dead Sea has been a bucket list item for a lot of us, and continues to find its way into future bucket lists, because it is eight times saltier than ocean and hence makes our bodies rather buoyant. Unfortunately, scientists say this isn’t going to be around for long. Closed on all sides, the main source of water for the Dead Sea is the Jordan River, and has already shrunk by eighty feet in the last 40 years. The Dead Sea is predicted to disappear by 2065 on account of rise in temperatures.

Why it deserves a visit: For the once-in-a-lifetime floating experience. For treating your skin to the benefits of a mud bath better than any spa because the black mud found on the seabed here is high in magnesium, sodium, potassium, and calcium.

5. Alaskan Glaciers

Iceberg and glacier calving in the last twenty years has been studied, and it has been noted that Alaska, the largest and most sparsely populated U.S. state, is losing both land and water ice mass at the rate of 75 billion metric tons a year. Owing to the severe effects of climate change, Alaska and other polar regions are losing their ice cover. By 2040, it is being said that travellers can sail right over the North Pole. A scary thought indeed!

Why it deserves a visit: Alaska should be witnessed for the majestic beauty of the ice cover and polar wildlife. Alaskan glacier and wildlife cruises let you experience frigid marine life like sea otters and harbour seals up close. Alaskan flights let you watch and marvel at the shapes and formations created by such humongous masses of ice.