Don't miss out: four places to see before they're gone

The world as we know it is changing every day. As we embrace new trends and opportunities, thrilled at the chance to be the first, we also recognize that for some destinations, we may be among the last. Whether natural or man-made, seemingly immortal travel icons are succumbing to the tests of time, and we would hate for you to miss out on seeing a travel dream come to life. If everywhere is on your list, below are a few destinations you may want to visit first. Reach out to take advantage of our travel expertise and connections- it would be our pleasure to share them with you.

GORILLA TREKKING IN THE CONGO BASIN

AFRICA

The Congo Basin is the world's second-largest rainforest (right after the Amazon) and spans across six countries. Every year, two million acres are lost due to illegal logging, ranching, mining, and civil warfare. Researchers today estimate that only a third of the forest will remain in twenty years. The diverse wildlife of the Congo Basin is also at risk due to the modernization of roads, which have created easy routes for poachers to track down many endangered species. Highly sought after animals, like mountain gorillas, are at risk of deadly diseases inflicted by heavy tourism. For this reason, pricey permits are now required for gorilla trekking in an effort to maintain the dwindling population. Ask us about our luxury Africa travel partners who create custom, private safaris and make conservation a priority.

FLOATING IN THE DEAD SEA

ISRAEL

The saltiest spot on Earth has seen irreversible damage over the past 40 years as farmers and cosmetic companies mine the sea of its rich resources while freshwater sinkholes dissolve salt from the land. A third of the Dead Sea's contents have been drained, evident by formerly seaside restaurants and hotels now isolated a mile from the shore. If the coastline continues to recede at a rate of 3 feet per year, we have just 50 years before it's gone for good. To experience the best of the buoyant waters, Mineral Beach is famous for spa treatments and sulfur pools with modern amenities. You can also travel beyond the coastline to visit Qumran National Park, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Reach out for ideas on where to stay with our private VIP perks.

WALKING THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA

CHINA

Among China's most quintessential tourist destinations is a protective fortification monument constructed during three dynasties dating back to 221 B.C. You can find some of the most well reserved portions of the wall 1-2 hours from downtown Beijing, however, the total length coils for13,000 miles across six Chinese provinces. Erosion and looting have contributed to the most deteriorated sections, though many efforts have been made to restore portions of the ancient wall. To see one of the greatest man-made wonders in the world before the inevitability of old age changes it forever, get in touch. We have access to incredible private experiences on the Great Wall of China as well as luxury hotels with private perks in the heart of Beijing.

EXPLORING THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

AUSTRALIA

Even the largest living thing that can be seen from space (spanning 1,250 miles, to be exact) is no match for the devastation of Earth's atmospheric changes. The colorful, sprawling, bio-diverse Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. While it took millions of years to produce the magnificent bedrock we think of today, it took only the last 30 years for half of the organic buildups of the slow-growing corals to deteriorate due to increases in temperature, pollution, and overfishing. To get up close and personal to this natural wonder, ask us to arrange a tailor-made experience fit for your unique travel style.