There are many places to see in this world. To narrow things down, it can be helpful to make a list.

Fortunately, someone already made that list for you.

And they capped it at a manageable 1,000 destinations across the globe.

1,000 Places to See Before You Die is an aspirational read from author and travel writer Patricia Schultz. Originally released in 2003, the best-selling book has been updated and re-released as a "deluxe edition." The new version is an attractive 544-page hardbound tome filled with the kinds of destinations and photos that will make you put down the book, pick up your laptop and book a trip.

Inside, you'll find detailed entries on major cities around the world like Paris, Istanbul and Buenos Aires, including must-see sites in each. But you'll also find profiles of less-trodden places in Africa, Southeast Asia and Scandinavia. 

Through Schultz's tireless journeying and her words, you can visit the ancient towns of Transylvania, the floating markets of Myanmar and a glacial river canyon in Iceland. And then you can visit them for real, with this book as your blueprint.

Shrugging off all your responsibilities and checking a few dozen of these places off your list wouldn't be a bad way to spend 2020. Flipping through the 1,000-plus vivid photos from the cozy confines of your couch wouldn't be so bad, either.

But only one of the above gets your passport stamped.