The whole world's an adventure

Photographer and filmmaker Conor McCann has been traveling the globe as a content creator since 2017. He documents spectacular places and unique adventures for clients and the Instagram community.

The Canadian globetrotter likes to take the roads less traveled. © Conor McCann

Which destination should be on everyone’s bucket list?
Norway is breathtaking year-round with incredible views and endless hiking trails all over. Anywhere in the Middle East would be a runner-up. It’s such an incredible region full of culture that’s overlooked way too often.

What are your top three travel tips for solo travelers?
One: Visit hostel bars at happy hour – they’re the perfect place to meet like-minded people and make new acquaintances in a relaxed atmosphere. Two: Do some thorough research on your destination in advance and be informed about where you’re going. Being well-prepared will make you less of a target and can help you avoid getting into sketchy situations. Three: Keep your money, cards and IDs separate. This way you’ll always have a backup if anything is misplaced or stolen.

 

Phenomenal perch: McCann visits breathtaking places like the Trolltunga rock formation – his favorite motifs are the fjords and mountains of Norway. © Conor McCann

How do you decide where to go next? What's most important to you?
I definitely choose destinations that offer a lot of variety. It’s also important for me to be self-reliant when I travel, which is why I usually organize my own means of transportation. That way I always have the freedom to go wherever I want.

What destinations are currently on the top of your list?
Namibia, Greenland, Newfoundland, the Faroe Islands, Svalbard, Egypt and the island of Socotra in the Indian Ocean.

 

 

 

 

 

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Off to Sri Lanka

Culture, nature and hospitality: Conor McCann was immediately smitten with the island nation. The capital Colombo is home to the Jami-Ul-Alfar, the oldest mosque in the country. Unforgettable: The train ride from Kandy to Ella leads through tropical forests and tea plantations. For an adrenaline rush, you can climb Little Adam’s Peak or swing above the sea on Pearly’s Dream Cabana Swing for an impressive showpiece act.

Nurturing the child within: McCann likes to unwind on the Pearly's Dream Cabana Swing while traveling. © Conor McCann

Highlights

• Japanese Peace Pagoda, Galle: A visit to the Buddhist temple in the Rumassala Mountains is said to bring inner peace.
• Galle: Pay the 400-year-old fort in the colonial town a visit and be sure to indulge in some roti (flat bread) with banana and chocolate.
• Mihiripenna Beach, Unawatuna: Golden sand, the sound of the sea and lots of peace and quiet, plus Pearly’s Dream Cabana Swing.
• Jami-Ul-Alfar, Colombo: The “Red Mosque” in the country’s capital was built in 1909 from red and white bricks.

Between tradition and modernity in Japan

A photographer’s paradise: Japan is a unique symbiosis of modernity and tradition, and nature and urban areas. In Arashiyama in Kyoto, visitors suddenly find themselves standing between meters of bamboo – and amid unbelievable serenity! For more peace and quiet, head to the Fuji lakes with a view of the volcano. In turbulent Tokyo, you can go from a sea of city lights in the center to an abundance of sakura blossoms in the park.

The sakura cherry blossoms are a must-see. © Conor McCann

Highlights

• Tokyo, Japan: Seeing the sakura cherry blossoms should be on everyone’s list. Conor’s Tokyo tip: dinner at Ichiran Ramen.
• Mount Fuji, Yamanashi: You don’t have to climb the mountain – you can also admire the iconic volcano from Lake Kawaguchi.
• Arashiyama, Kyoto: The beautiful bamboo forest in Arashiyama District, west of Kyoto, is a magical place of contemplation.
• Tea ritual at "Kyoto Maikoya": When you visit Kyoto, be sure to participate in a traditional tea ceremony, known as chado in Japan.

The dunes of Peru

In Ica, McCann braved the desert and marveled at the only oasis in South America. Surrounded by enormous dunes, it’s popular with sand-boarders. The Canadian creative visited the ruined city of Machu Picchu in the company of tame llamas. Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and vibrant Cusco were also on his list. His work goes to show that Peru’s “hackneyed” hotspots are still very much worth seeing – even for a professional traveler!

300 kilometers south of Lima lies South America's only desert oasis. © Conor McCann

Highlights

• Huacachina, Ica: 300 kilometres south of Lima lies South America’s only desert oasis, where no more than about 100 people live.
• Vinicunca, Cusco: The colourful rock layers of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain are a spectacular – and Insta-worthy – photo motif.
• Cusco: The colonial and indigenous architecture in the former Inca capital will swiftly transport you back in time.
• Machu Picchu, Cusco: This place calls for a hike – the iconic ruined city from the 15th century lies at 2,430 meters above sea level.

Island Life in Indonesia

For the content creator, this tropical paradise was just begging to be explored. The Southeast Asian nation’s individual islands leave nothing to be desired in the way of tropical forests, dreamy beaches and diverse culture. Its numerous temples are also a sight to behold. With a total of 17,000 islands, there is more than enough to see in Indonesia! McCann’s personal favorites, however, are Bali and the surfing hotspot Lombok.

"There are views I could stare at for a lifetime," says the Canadian globetrotter. © Conor McCann

Highlights

• Pura Lempuyan, Bali: The gate of this Hindu temple offers a clear view of Mount Agung volcano, the highest point in Bali.
• Campuhan Ridge, Bali: Ideal for long walks – bask in the sunshine and enjoy the lush vegetation as you make your way over the hills.
• Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, Bali: Enjoy the most beautiful view of the Hindu-Buddhist temple from a boat on the crater lake.
• Munduk Moding Plantation, Bali: This four-star resort is home to Bali’s most spectacular infinity pool.

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