Half of people in the North-west regret not travelling more and experiencing different places around the world, according to a new survey.

It was carried out by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) as they launch the new World Experiences brochure for 2009.

A BHF spokesman said: "We are encouraging people of all ages to make 2009 the year of no regrets and a time to embrace a new challenge by participating in a BHF World Experiences trek or bike ride.

"Whether you fancy testing your fitness by cycling from London to Amsterdam, taking in the outstanding beauty of the Great Wall of China, or tackling Mount Everest Base Camp – there’s a BHF World Experience to suit everyone.

Some of the other exciting destinations in the 2009 brochure include:

Peru Inca Trail Trek.

3 Volcano Challenge.

River Nile Bike Ride.

Adventurer and television presenter, Bear Grylls, is a huge fan of BHF World Experiences and said: "Heart disease has affected my family; I lost my dad to it. Anything I can do to raise awareness and support the British Heart Foundation’s World Experiences gets my thumbs up. We each get one life and life is for living!"

The BHF supports all participants who are raising funds for our lifesaving work and since 1994 World Experience participants have raised over £5.5m.

If you’re ready for an adventure of a lifetime in aid of the BHF, then call for a free World Experiences brochure on 0844 847 2788, email world@bhf.org.uk or visitbhf.org.uk/world.

Confirmed World Experiences events for 2009:

Everest Base Camp Trek – March/April 2009London to Amsterdam Bike Ride – April 2009Peru Inca Trail Trek – May 20093 Volcano Challenge – September 2009 Great Wall of China Trek – October 2009 River Nile Bike Ride – November 2009