Climate change, urban development, and even oil are threatening many of the world’s beautiful destinations. If you haven’t yet planned a big trip for this year, take a look at your travel bucket list and if any of the following 12 places are on it, we urge you to consider visiting one of the many destinations that may not be around in the next few decades.
The Maldives
This beautiful cluster of islands a few hundred miles off the coast of India is best known for its crystal clear turquoise waters and cozy beach bungalows, but beach erosion and climate change is taking a toll on the area and it could be completely submerged within 100 years.
Venice, Italy
Italy’s most beloved and romantic “floating city” has long been sinking, but recent climate change has been bringing severe floods to the area. In fact, there were eight highest-category floods recorded between 2000 and 2013, which could mean trouble by the century’s end.
The Congo Basin, Africa
The Congo Basin is the world’s second-largest rainforest and is home to a vast array of plant species (more than 10,000), bird species (1,000), and mammals (400). However, deforestation, poaching, and climate change could mean big trouble by 2040.
Coro, Venezuela
Founded in 1527, Coro is one of the oldest towns in the area and fuses rich local traditions with medieval and Dutch architecture. It’s on the danger list, however, because of the slated impact of the Venezuelan oil industry and the recent deteriorating effects of weather.
The Great Barrier Reef
The world’s largest coral reef system off the coast of Australia originally stretched more than 1,400 miles, but recent rising temperatures have decreased its size by more than half. In addition, pollution has lead to an increase in coral bleaching and the entire area could be gone by 2030.
Glacier National Park
Montana’s beautiful national park covers more than one million acres near the border of Canada and was once home to 150 glaciers. Now, there are a mere 25 glaciers left and experts say that number could completely diminish in as little as 15 years.
The Galapagos Islands
This volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean is known for its vast number of endemic species as well as beautiful waters and overall scenery. However, too many tourists (more than 170,000 every year), rising temperatures, and foreign species put the area in jeopardy.
The Dead Sea
Bordered by Jordan, Israel, and Palestine, the Dead Sea’s only water source is the Jordan River. Over the past 40 years, neighboring countries have been drawing water from the river and have shrunk its size by one-third. If it continues, experts believe the sea could disappear in 50 years.
Potosi, Bolivia
Once home to what was considered the largest silver mine in the world, Potosi is one of the tallest cities in the world and beautifully blends Spanish and native cultures. But an increase in mining and the use of newer technologies are bringing danger to the city’s foundation.
The Everglades
Florida is home to the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. that protects rare endangered species like the manatee, the Florida panther, and the American crocodile. However, too much water, urban development, and new species have put it in jeopardy.
Abu Mena, Egypt
About 28 miles southwest of Alexandria sits the town and monastery complex of Abu Mena, which was built in A.D. 296. Its remains are made primarily of clay and if water levels continue to rise, it could mean the collapse of many ancient building foundations.
The Great Wall of China
The largest man-made structure in the world has stood along the northern border of China for more than 2,000 years, but recent over-farming has destroyed or damaged nearly two-thirds of the wall and could lead to even more devastation in just 20 years.
No matter where you decide to visit, skip the parking at PHL Airport and make your reservation with Winner. We’ll drive you to the airport in the comfort of your own car, park it for you, and even take care of things like oil changes or detailing while you’re gone.