See more. Clearly.

Sure, you’ve visited the Grand Canyon, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, or the Pyramids of Egypt, but did you really see them?

I mean, you have the photos and everything to prove it, right? But when you were actually there, beyond your phone and camera lens, your partner complaining about their feet, and the thoughts about what you were going to do for dinner, did you truly see them in all their magnificent glory?

We know the trivialities above can get in the way of us being fully in the moment and noticing all the detail and hard work that went into something. But despite their stubbornness, they’re not always such a problem. Poor eyesight, on the other hand, is a different story.

For instance, let’s say you wear glasses or contact lenses and you want to experience the surreal spectacle which is the Northern Lights — one of the world’s most dramatic and spectacular feasts for the eyes. You definitely wouldn’t want this magical moment to be framed by thick rims or compromised by irritating — not to mention dangerous — pieces of plastic.

What’s more, it’s not like something like this happens every day. If you want to see them, you’ll need to plan your trip sometime between late September to March and be out on a clear night anywhere from 6 pm to 6 am. Even then it’s not guaranteed, as it can’t occur without solar flares that drift across on the wind. Even more reason to make the most of it.

A more guaranteed but just as incredible experience — in its own weird way — is the Waitomo caves in New Zealand. These enchanting caves, also known as the Glowworm Grotto, are lit up by larval fungus gnats. These eerie blue insects cling to the walls and ceilings and appear like psychedelic stars hanging in the night sky. Again, a sight that can only be truly appreciated with crystal clear vision.

Something a little bit closer to home and that doesn’t glow, but is still sure to provide your eyeballs with hours of sensory pleasure, is the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia.

This Unesco World Heritage-listed park is a diverse palette of colours and a safe haven for all sorts of wildlife. Visitors explore its interlinked lakes, caves, forests, and waterfalls via a series of wooden trails and walkways, perfectly positioned to capture its most scenic offerings. It would be simply rude to turn up with a missing lens or a headache from wearing your specs all day.

And if breathtaking landscapes are your thing, then where better than our very own Lake District. From the calm waters and undulating hills of Derwentwater and Friar’s Crag, to the picturesque cottages and greenery of Grasmere, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Sure, a few pints of real ale may make your vision a little fuzzy, but nothing compared to the dirt splattered glasses or dusty contact lenses.

And while we’re at it, for an all-round sensory experience and the ultimate in visual fodder, you’ll want to pay a visit to the Iguassu Falls on the border of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. With two hundred and seventy-five separate falls, and at a size wider than Victoria and taller than Niagara, this is one of those sights that need to be seen — with your best vision — to be believed. I don’t need to tell you how vision correction equipment could get in the way of you enjoying this one.

Prepare to see the world in all its glory by booking a consultation at our Harley Street clinic today.