10 Places to See Before They Disappear

Places to See Before They Disappear

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

One of the most famed ecological attractions in the world and a hotbed for biodiversity, the Galapagos' unique wonderland of wildlife may be in its final years, for a combination of reasons. Increasing numbers of non-native species are threatening the indigenous animals and upsetting the delicate ecosystem. One of the most dangerous foreign invaders? Humans. Droves of tourists are arriving, and along with them the trash, pollution, and disruption that humans tend to bring. From dropping plastic bags in the sea, to pestering seals for selfies - humans are irreparably harming the Galapagos. Certainly, now is the time to visit Ecuador's islands as the problems only continue to worsen. Here's how you can travel to the Galapagos on the cheap.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

A great example of marine biodiversity, Australia's Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef ecosystem, with more than 2900 separate coral reefs and around 1050 islands. Sadly, this may not last for long. In the past 30 years, the reef system has lost more than 50% of its size, largely due to rising temperatures. Increased pollution in the water has also caused coral bleaching, which turned the once healthy corals white and prone to disintegration. Add to that over fishing, and the trifecta of problems is causing unprecedented destruction of the centuries-old reef. Scientists predict that the Great Barrier Reef could be completely destroyed within the next four decades. This is one of the musts for places to see before they disappear. Get there soon - we recommend visiting Heron Island for an educational experience.

Dead Sea, Jordan/Israel

An outstanding natural phenomenon, the Dead Sea is the only place in the world that lets you float without sinking. Unfortunately, the sea is another wonder that will soon disappear completely. In the past half century, the sea has sunk by 80 feet and lost over a third of its water. The border countries continue to draw vast amounts of water from the River Jordan (the only source of water for the dead sea), increasing the salt concentration of the sea while lowering its water levels. The salt content of the sea is already at 30%, and is incredibly painful if splashed on the eyes and face. Unfortunately, avoiding salty splashes might not be a concern much longer, as currently the Dead Sea is on a trajectory to disappear entirely within the next half century.

Seychelles

One of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations, the Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean off East Africa. Known for its beaches, coral reefs, diving, nature reserves and rare wildlife such as giant Aldabra tortoises. According to scientists, seychelles is in danger of disappearing completely within the century. There is no solution in sight. As the protective coral surrounding the islands has almost irrevocably died off, the islands are now eroding slowly but surely. Some believe the rising sea levels will put most of the archipelago underwater in 50 to 100 years. The rest of it will be left uninhabitable.