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53 Dream Destinations to Add to your Travel Bucket List

Creating your own bucket list full of dream destinations is the first step to traveling more. Recently I have been updating my own travel bucket list and decided to put together this list of dream destinations to spark that sense of wanderlust in you as well!

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, explore ancient ruins, or simply relax on pristine beaches, these dream destinations offer a little something for everyone.

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Below I’m sharing my ultimate list of Dream Destination Spots to add to your Travel Bucket List:

• Dream Destinations – Europe
• Dream Destinations – Caribbean
• Dream Destinations – USA
• Dream Destinations – North America
• Dream Destinations – Central America
• Dream Destinations – South America
• Dream Destinations – Asia
• Dream Destinations – Africa
• Dream Destinations – Middle East
• Dream Destinations – Oceania

Dream Destinations in Europe

Blue Lagoon | Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland, also known as the “Land of Fire and Ice”, is a dream destination home to otherworldly landscapes, black sand beaches, Nordic culture, and the opportunity to chase the Northern Lights.

Iceland boasts of a variety of ice caves, volcano tours, and natural hot springs, making it an ideal destination for outdoor lovers. During the summer months, the sun rarely sets (also known as the Midnight Sun), and offers even more daylight to explore everything this beautiful country has to offer.

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a must-visit destination renowned for its geothermic spa and natural hot spring. One of the key features of the Blue Lagoon is its dreamy mineral-rich, milky blue waters. These waters contain a unique combination of silica, algae, and minerals, which are known for their healing properties and skin-rejuvenating effects. Taking a dip in these tranquil waters is not only soothing but also incredibly beneficial for the skin.

Best Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland: Eating, Sightseeing & Hot Springs

Lapland, Finland

Lapland, Finland is the largest and northernmost region of Finland, located in the Arctic Circle. This winter wonderland is renowned for its pristine landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a dream destination for many travelers.

Lapland offers a wide range of activities that allow visitors to fully immerse in the enchanting winter experience. One of the highlights is a magical reindeer sleigh ride, where you can glide through the glistening snow-covered forests, listening to the gentle sounds of reindeers’ bells. 

Lapland is also one of the best destinations to chase the Northern Lights! These vibrant dancing lights in the sky create a surreal and awe-inspiring spectacle, and is definitely something to check off your travel bucket list. 

Santorini, Greece

One of the most notable features of Santorini is its iconic whitewashed cliff-side towns, which create a stunning contrast against the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. 

Santorini is renowned for its famous sunset views in Oia. As the sun sets, the sky is painted with dreamy colors that perfectly complement the white buildings, which earns this destination a spot on your travel bucket list.

Sarakiniko Beach | Milos, Greece

Sarakiniko Beach, located in the charming island of Milos, Greece, is a true treasure waiting to be discovered. This Greek island stands out with its dreamy lunar-like landscape that creates an otherworldly feel.

Not only is the beach surrounded by these remarkable white rocks, but it also boasts crystal clear turquoise waters, making it a true paradise for lovers of swimming and snorkeling. The contrast between the strikingly white landscape and the vivid blue water is simply breathtaking. 

Paris, France

Known as the City of Love, Paris is a dream destination for those looking for an array of cultural experiences. Paris is home to some of the most iconic architecture, renowned museums, picturesque neighborhoods, and a rich tapestry of history and art.

Lavender Fields | Valensole, France

Valensole, France, is a dream vacation spot as it is home to some of the most stunning lavender fields in the world. Nestled in the heart of Provence, these fields are renowned for their vibrant purple hues and captivating fragrance.

The ideal time to visit Valensole is between late June and mid-July, when the lavender is in full bloom. During this period, the fields are transformed into a breathtaking sea of purple, creating a picturesque and dream-like landscape.

Amalfi Coast | Province of Salerno, Italy

The Amalfi Coast, located in the Province of Salerno in Italy, is a popular dream vacation spot for a reason. Situated in the southwestern part of the country, this province is famous for its breathtaking coastal landscapes and enchanting villages. With its colorful buildings cascading down the rugged cliffs, Amalfi is a postcard-perfect destination.

Another must-visit spot is Positano, a picturesque village that has become synonymous with the Amalfi Coast. Positano is a favorite among travelers with its pastel-hued houses and panoramic vistas. Here you can indulge in the laid-back atmosphere and lounge on the pristine beaches while taking in the beautiful views of the coast.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre, Italy, is a breathtaking and unique dream destination that offers visitors an enchanting mix of coastal villages, colorful houses, and scenic hiking trails. Situated along the mesmerizing Italian Riviera, this collection of picturesque towns is renowned for its charm and beauty.

The most iconic feature of Cinque Terre is its collection of coastal villages, each with its own distinct character and allure. From the moment you arrive, you will be captivated by the vibrant hues of the cliffside houses that dot the landscape. The vivid colors create a stunning contrast against the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, making for truly awe-inspiring views.

The Dolomites, Italy

For anyone looking for a more mountainous dream destination, The Dolomites are a great addition to your travel bucket list. Located in northeastern Italy, The Dolomites are a remarkable mountain range part of the Southern Limestone Alps, and are renowned for their unique composition and breathtaking beauty.

This mountain range is predominantly made up of dolomite rock, a type of sedimentary limestone rich in magnesium and calcium carbonate. This composition gives the mountains their distinctive pinkish hue, which has captivated travelers for centuries. 

Pena Palace | Sintra, Portugal

Pena Palace, situated in Sintra, Portugal, is a dreamy architectural masterpiece that enchants travelers with its vibrant colors and remarkable design. This iconic palace holds looks like something out of a fairytale and holds great historical significance, as it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A Guide to Visiting Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Ibiza, Spain

Nestled in the stunning Balearic Sea, Ibiza is an island that needs little introduction. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and breathtaking beaches, this Spanish hotspot has earned a well-deserved reputation as a paradise for beachgoers and party enthusiasts alike.

While Ibiza is mainly known as a party destination, its idyllic location and stunning coastline also make it the dream vacation spot for tranquil beach days.

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Dream Destinations in the Caribbean

Pig Beach | Nassau, Bahamas

Pig Beach in the Bahamas is a dream destination for animal lovers and offers a truly unique experience as it is home to a population of swimming pigs. The beach gets its unique name from the charming and surprising sight of pigs swimming in the crystal-clear blue waters.

The origin of the pigs on the island remains a mystery, with various theories circulating among locals and visitors alike. Some attribute their arrival to shipwrecks, while others believe they were left behind by sailors. Regardless of their origin, the pigs have quickly become a beloved and iconic part of Pig Beach.

What sets Pig Beach apart is the pigs’ interaction with tourists. These friendly creatures are known for their fearlessness and curiosity, eagerly approaching visitors in search of food and attention. The pigs have become accustomed to the presence of humans and have actively embraced the attention, leading to a delightful and interactive experience.

Flamingo Beach | Renaissance Island, Aruba

Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island in Aruba is another dream vacation spot for animal lovers and beach lovers alike. One of its main attractions is the opportunity to encounter majestic flamingos in their natural habitat. The sight of these elegant birds, gracefully wandering along the shoreline, is truly mesmerizing and adds a touch of magic to this tropical paradise.

But Flamingo Beach has much more to offer than just its feathered residents. The tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear waters create a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Dream Destinations in the USA

Big Sur, California

Big Sur, California, offers an abundance of awe-inspiring coastal views that should secure a spot on any traveler’s bucket list. This dreamy destination has everything from waterfalls and beautiful beaches, to hiking and dinner with a view. 

Taking a road trip along the iconic Highway 1 is truly a one of a kind experience and is a big bucket list check. Whether you’re enjoying a hike along the coastline or simply admiring the scenery from the comfort of a car, you will surely be captivated by the natural beauty of Big Sur.

Big Sur Road Trip: The Best Stops for Your Drive Along CA Highway 1

New York City, New York

New York City, known as the “Big Apple,” offers a plethora of attractions, activities, and highlights – which makes this a dream destination for every type of traveler. It is home to iconic landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, to diverse neighborhoods and a vibrant food scene.

Stroll through the bustling streets of Times Square or take a walk through Central Park, with its beautiful landscapes and iconic sites, is a true highlight for nature enthusiasts.

New York City also springs to life during the holiday season with its famous Christmas displays. The dazzling lights of Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree and the ice-skating rink create a magical atmosphere for all to enjoy. 

You also won’t want to miss out on the vibrant food scene in New York City. From Michelin-starred restaurants to food trucks serving the best pizza and bagels, the city offers a mouthwatering array of culinary delights. You can indulge in diverse cuisines from all corners of the world.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, located in California, is a dream travel destination that boasts a unique and striking landscape. One of its most distinctive features is the Joshua Trees, which are preserved within the park, and has attracted travelers from around the world. These otherworldly trees provide a stunning backdrop for exploration and photography.

Here, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy rock climbing and hiking during the day, and stargazing while you’re camping at night. Not to mention, the sunsets here are incredible.

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Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara, California is a captivating coastal city situated along the pristine coast of California, just north of the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles. Its idyllic location makes it a popular dream destination for both locals and tourists seeking respite and relaxation.

One of the main draws of Santa Barbara is its exquisite beaches. With picturesque stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters, these beaches offer the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. Visitors can bask in the warm California sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, admiring the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

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Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in the state of Wyoming, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Established in 1872, it holds the distinction of being the world’s first national park and draws in visitors from all corners of the globe.

Yellowstone is also known for its unique wildlife. Visitors have the chance to spot a range of animals, including the iconic American bison, majestic bears, elusive wolves, graceful moose, elegant elk, and even spunky badgers. Observing these creatures in their natural habitat is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. The park also boasts breathtaking waterfalls and geysers, adding to its appeal. 

Zion National Park | Springdale, Utah

Zion National Park  in Utah is a dreamy destination full of natural wonder that must be witnessed firsthand. This awe-inspiring park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, lush oases, incredible wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities and hiking.

The most striking feature of Zion National Park is its towering sandstone cliffs that seem to touch the sky. These majestic red rocks create a dramatic and picturesque backdrop that is truly a sight to behold. 

It is definitely worth it to wake up early here to catch the sunrise in the park.

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Dream Destinations in North America

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, located in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, is renowned for its breathtaking attractions and rich cultural significance, which makes it a dreamy destination for all kinds of travelers.

The Tulum ruins, a majestic archaeological site overlooking turquoise waters, offer a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. 

Tulum’s pristine beaches are a major draw for tourists, with their powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Relaxation and rejuvenation are easily accomplished while soaking up the sun or taking a dip in the Caribbean Sea.

For eco-conscious travelers, Tulum offers a plethora of eco-friendly hotels and accommodations. From sustainable practices to sustainable architecture, these accommodations cater to those seeking an environmentally conscious and luxurious vacation.

The region is also home to renowned cenotes, natural sinkholes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, which offer a unique swimming and diving experience. These crystal-clear freshwater pools are ideal for cooling off and exploring the underwater world.

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Dream Destinations in Central America

Caye Caulker, Belize

Caye Caulker, Belize, is a charming island known for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. With its sandy beaches and vibrant marine life, Caye Caulker is a popular dream destination among travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.

One of the main attractions of Caye Caulker is its stunning marine environment. The island is surrounded by the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the second-largest barrier reef in the world. This makes it an ideal spot for activities like snorkeling and diving. The clear turquoise waters teem with colorful fish, turtles, and other fascinating sea creatures, providing a mesmerizing experience for underwater enthusiasts.

A Guide to Visiting Caye Caulker, Belize

Roatán, Honduras

Roatán, Honduras is a popular tourist dream destination known for its breathtaking beauty and stunning natural attractions. Situated off the northern coast of Honduras, Roatán boasts a paradise of beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters that attract visitors from all around the world.

One of the main draws of Roatán is its diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkelers and scuba divers can explore the underwater wonders that lie just off the coast, encountering colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The coral reefs are a sight to behold, with their kaleidoscope of colors and intricate formations.

Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Lake Atitlán, located in Guatemala’s western highlands, is a picturesque lake surrounded by volcanic mountains and indigenous Mayan villages. It is not only a stunning natural wonder but also a significant UNESCO World Heritage site, which makes this a dreamy destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The lake offers a wide range of activities for visitors to indulge in. Adventurous souls can explore the surrounding volcanic mountains through hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. Those seeking a more leisurely experience can rent kayaks and paddle along the calm waters, appreciating the peaceful serenity of the lake.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna, Costa Rica is an incredible dream destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for travelers. One of the most prominent features of this area is the Arenal Volcano, which is an active volcano that provides a stunning backdrop to the town. 

Another unique feature of La Fortuna is the abundance of hot springs. These natural hot springs offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors. The mineral-rich waters are known for their therapeutic properties and can soothe and invigorate both body and mind.

Dream Destinations in South America

Cartegena, Colombia

Located in the vibrant country of Colombia, Cartagena is a city that exudes an explosion of colors and an undeniable energy. Strolling through its streets, one cannot help but be captivated by the vivid hues that adorn the colonial buildings and the bustling marketplaces. The vibrancy of Cartagena is not only reflected in its architecture but also in its people, who are known for their warm and lively personalities.

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Patagonia, Argentina

Patagonia, Argentina is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. One of the must-visit attractions in this vast region is the Perito Moreno Glacier. Located in Los Glaciares National Park, this stunning glacier offers a truly mesmerizing experience. You can witness the sheer magnitude and beauty of the glacier from various viewpoints or take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the towering ice walls.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, located in Peru, is a historical marvel of immense significance and is a must-see item to add to your travel bucket list. This ancient Inca citadel is nestled high in the Andes Mountains, and served as a prominent center for the Inca Empire.

Visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience. There are various options to explore the site, depending on one’s preference and fitness level. Adventurous individuals can choose to climb the steep slopes, overlooking picturesque views along the way. Hiking enthusiasts can opt for the famous Inca Trail, a four-day trek leading to Machu Picchu, offering breathtaking scenery and an immersive experience. For a more relaxed journey, touring on horseback is a popular choice, allowing visitors to take in the surroundings at a leisurely pace.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands in Ecuador offer a plethora of top attractions and activities, making it a dream vacation spot for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The islands are home to a diverse array of endemic species, making it a prime destination for wildlife observation.

One of the most enchanting experiences on the Galápagos Islands is the opportunity to befriend sea lions. These playful and curious creatures can be found lounging on the beaches or swimming alongside snorkelers and divers. Interacting with them is an incredible encounter that allows visitors to witness the beauty and grace of these marine mammals up close.

Darwin’s research station is also a must-visit spot. Named after the renowned scientist Charles Darwin, who visited the islands in 1835, the research station is dedicated to studying and conserving the unique ecosystem of the Galápagos. Visitors can learn about the ongoing scientific research, conservation efforts, and the delicate balance that exists between the indigenous species and their environment.

Dream Destinations in Asia

Bali, Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia, is a dream destination for travelers seeking stunning beaches, iconic temples, diverse landscapes, and even off-the-beaten-path exploration. One of its top attractions is the famous beaches on the southern side of Bali. Places like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu offer beautiful coastlines with golden sands, perfect waves for surfing, and vibrant beach clubs.

Another must-visit destination is Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. Known for its lush rice terraces, traditional markets, and sacred temples, Ubud offers a unique experience enriched with Balinese arts, crafts, and dances. You can also explore the nearby Monkey Forest, a sanctuary where hundreds of playful monkeys reside.

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Angkor Wat | Siem Reap, Cambodia

Catching the sunrise here is a must when visiting the temples of Angkor Wat. This dreamy and awe-inspiring destination attracts visitors from all around the world, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning an enormous 400 square kilometers, this ancient site is home to hundreds of temples and ruins.

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Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh is a more rural part of Vietnam, about a 2-hour train ride south from Hanoi. This dreamy destination is known for its natural landscapes, including limestone caves and karst mountains. Here you can take boat tours through enchanting river systems, passing by lush greenery and towering limestone cliffs.

A Travel Guide to Visiting Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Supertree Grove | Singapore

Supertree Grove in Singapore is a remarkable futuristic dream destination where nature and innovation flawlessly intertwine. These towering artificial trees serve as iconic landmarks, representing the city-state’s commitment to sustainability and green technologies.

Undoubtedly, the Supertree Grove is the highlight of Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, attracting tourists from all over the world. The supertrees harness solar energy through photovoltaic cells located on their canopies, providing electricity for the nearby conservatories, making it an eco-friendly attraction.

Singapore is also known as being a diverse melting pot of cultures. With a population made up of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences, Singapore creates a truly unique experience for travelers.

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Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, Thailand, is a dream vacation spot that never fails to captivate the hearts of visitors. Renowned for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant nightlife, this tropical paradise offers an array of attractions and highlights that cater to all types of travelers.

Additionally, Phuket is also home to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, which is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants from the exploitation of the elephant trekking industry there. 

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The Maldives

The Maldives, an exquisite tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its luxurious spots and unparalleled natural beauty. It encapsulates everything one envisions in a dreamy getaway: warm and sunny weather, pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and an abundance of marine life.

One of the main reasons why the Maldives stands out as a luxurious destination is its collection of world-class resorts and accommodations. These resorts offer unparalleled luxury, with private villas perched over the water, giving guests their own slice of paradise.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, and is renowned for its timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is home to numerous attractions and highlights that reflect the true essence of Japan.

The best time to visit Kyoto is during the spring months to see the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms. These delicate pink petals adorn the city every spring, creating a breathtaking spectacle that attracts millions of visitors from around the world. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Dream Destinations in Africa

Giraffe Manor | Nairobi, Kenya

Breakfast with the giraffes? Say less.

Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya is a unique and enchanting dream destination that offers an incredible experience for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike. This boutique hotel is known for its key features and attractions that center around the magnificent giraffes that call it home.

One of the main highlights of Giraffe Manor is the opportunity to interact with giraffes up close and personal. Guests can have breakfast with these gentle giants as they poke their heads through the windows and enjoy their morning meal alongside visitors. It is an unforgettable experience to be able to feed and pet these majestic creatures, and create lasting memories.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech, Morocco is a captivating city situated at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Known for its dreamy architecture and ancient palaces, this destination is truly one of a kind.

Marrakech is also famous for its lush gardens. The city boasts stunning green spaces, such as the Majorelle Garden and the Menara Gardens, that offer tranquility amidst the bustling streets. These gardens feature vibrant flowers, shaded pathways, and serene water features, inviting visitors to relax and unwind in their natural splendor.

Serengeti, Tanzania

The Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is a dream destination for those looking to add an African safari to their travel bucket list.

The park is a renowned natural wonder that encompasses over 30,000 square kilometers of wild terrain. Its name, loosely translated as “endless plains” in the Maasai language, perfectly encapsulates the vastness and breathtaking beauty of this iconic dream destination.

The Serengeti National Park is not only renowned for its impressive size and remarkable biodiversity but also for its role in the annual Great Migration. Each year, millions of wildebeests and zebras embark on a treacherous journey, following the rains and in search of fresh grazing land. This event is not only a spectacle to behold but also an integral part of the park’s ecological cycle.

Boulders Beach | Cape Town, South Africa

Boulders Beach in Cape Town, South Africa is a hidden gem nestled along the scenic coast. Located just outside of the city, this picturesque beach is renowned for its unique attraction – a bustling colony of African penguins.

The beach itself is characterized by its large granite boulders, giving it its name, and these boulders create small sheltered coves where visitors can relax and swim in calm turquoise waters. The stunning views of the ocean, with the Table Mountain range serving as a majestic backdrop, make Boulders Beach a truly idyllic spot.

Giza Pyramids | Cairo, Egypt

The Giza Pyramids, located in Cairo, Egypt, are an iconic dream destination and symbolize the country’s rich history and architectural grandeur. These pyramids hold immense historical significance as they were built as tombs for the pharaohs during the Old Kingdom period of ancient Egypt. 

Standing tall with their impressive size, these pyramids serve as a testament to the remarkable engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians. They were constructed using millions of limestone blocks, precisely cut and stacked to form the pyramid shape. The intricate design and precision of their construction continue to awe visitors from around the world.

Avenue of the Baobabs | Marofototra, Madagascar

The Avenue of the Baobabs in Marofototra, Madagascar is a must-visit dream destination for any traveler. This unique landscape is lined with towering baobab trees, creating a picturesque and rare scenery that is unlike anything else in the world.

The Avenue of the Baobabs is a natural wonder that has garnered worldwide attention for its beauty and significance. The avenue is made up of a long stretch of dirt road that is flanked on both sides by these magnificent baobab trees.

What makes this landscape truly unique is the size and age of these trees. The baobabs can reach heights of up to 30 meters and have been standing for centuries. This creates a stunning and otherworldly atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else.

Dream Destinations in the Middle East

Petra, Jordan

Petra, Jordan, is an ancient archaeological site of great historical importance. Carved into pink sandstone rock faces, this magnificent city offers a glimpse into the vibrant and advanced civilization that flourished centuries ago. 

Exploring Petra is like stepping back in time, as visitors wander through narrow passageways, marvel at detailed carvings, and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient city. Whether you are captivated by history, architecture, or simply the sheer beauty of the surroundings, Petra is an unparalleled dream destination that leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.

Be sure to schedule a visit to Wadi Rum as well – Also known as the “Valley of the Moon,” this desert is well-known for its association with Lawrence of Arabia, tall sand dunes, and excellent stargazing opportunities.

Dead Sea, Jordan

The Dead Sea in Jordan is an incredible natural wonder that is known for its therapeutic properties. The high salt concentration, mineral-rich mud, and dreamy atmosphere make it a sought-after destination for healing and rejuvenation. 

Located at the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea is situated more than 1,400 feet below sea level. One of the most popular activities at the Dead Sea is to simply relax and float in the saltwater. Thanks to the high salt concentration, swimmers are effortlessly buoyed by the water, creating a truly unique sensation. It’s virtually impossible to sink, allowing visitors to relax and effortlessly float on the surface.

Muscat, Oman

Muscat, the vibrant capital city of Oman, is a gem nestled between stunning architecture, pristine turquoise waters, and breathtaking mountain views. The city’s unique blend of modernity and traditional Arabian charm has been attracting more visitors in recent years.

Muscat’s dreamy architecture is truly awe-inspiring and earns it a spot on this list of destinations. The turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea that hug the city’s coastline provide a picturesque backdrop, inviting visitors to indulge in swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the stunning sandy beaches.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, Turkey, is a truly enchanting destination that captivates the hearts of travelers from all around the world. This dreamy region is renowned for its mesmerizing hot air balloons, unique lunar landscape, ancient cave dwellings, and enchanting rock formations – Making it a must-add destination to your travel bucket list.

One of the main attractions in Cappadocia is the breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Imagine soaring through the sky at sunrise, as you witness the stunning views of the valleys and fairy chimneys that dot the land. The hot air balloon rides offer a unique perspective of the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia. 

Furthermore, the ancient cave dwellings in Cappadocia offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and unique cultural heritage. These carved caves, once home to communities seeking shelter, now serve as intriguing reminders of an ancient past. Walking through these historic dwellings and exploring the underground cities offers a sense of wonder and awe, as you immerse yourself in the ancient stories that lie within the rocks.

Pamukkale, Turkey

Situated in Turkey, Pamukkale is a truly dreamy destination that boasts unique and stunning landscapes. It is renowned for its mineral forests, petrified waterfalls, and terraced basins, which create a surreal and ethereal atmosphere. The surreal white terraces of Pamukkale are formed by the flowing hot springs that deposit calcium carbonate, creating the appearance of icy slopes and cascading waterfalls frozen in time.

Pamukkale is often referred to as the “Cotton Palace” due to the white, cotton-like appearance of its terraces. This natural wonder is truly a sight to behold and should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list.

Dubai, UAE is a truly unique city that captivates visitors with its luxurious lifestyle and impressive range of attractions. This dreamy cosmopolitan metropolis destination boasts a futuristic skyline filled with majestic skyscrapers that seem to touch the sky. 

Beyond its natural and architectural wonders, Dubai also offers a diverse range of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether it is shopping at the world-renowned Dubai Mall, skiing on real snow at Ski Dubai, or taking a thrilling desert safari, the city leaves no stone unturned in providing entertainment and adventure for all.

Taj Mahal | Agra, India

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and significant monuments in the world. This dreamy majestic structure is celebrated for its extraordinary architectural features and carries immense historical importance, making it a destination to add to your travel bucket list. 

The Taj Mahal’s status as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world draws millions of visitors each year. Its ethereal beauty, with the white marble changing hues throughout the day, leaves people awestruck. The meticulously manicured gardens that surround the mausoleum add to its charm. Moreover, the captivating combination of intricate carvings, calligraphy, and inlaid precious stones on the walls of the Taj Mahal further enhances its splendor.

Jaipur, India

Known as the “Pink City”, Jaipur, India is a magnificent dream destination that encapsulates architectural wonders, bustling markets, vibrant fabrics, and the alluring aroma of spices. Jaipur is known as the “Pink City” because of the pink hue that adorns many of its buildings.

The city is a hub for traditional Indian spices and is home to a bustling spice market. Walking through the city streets, you will experience an aroma of spices, colorful textiles, and vibrant fabrics, making this destination a paradise for shoppers.

Dream Destinations in Oceania

Byron Bay | New South Wales, Australia

Byron Bay is a picturesque coastal town located in New South Wales, Australia. Known for its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and alternative lifestyle, it is a dreamy destination that captures the hearts of both locals and tourists alike.

The pristine beaches of Byron Bay are a major drawcard for visitors. With crystal-clear waters and pristine stretches of sand, they provide the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports such as surfing. In fact, Byron Bay is hailed as one of Australia’s premier surfing destinations, attracting surfers from around the world.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a renowned tropical destination known for its luxurious accommodations and turquoise waters – making it a dream vacation spot to add to your bucket list.

What truly sets Bora Bora apart is the opportunity to stay in the iconic overwater bungalows. These bungalows, perched above the ocean, offer a luxurious and romantic getaway, which makes them a popular choice for honeymooners. Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves and stepping right into the clear blue waters from your own private deck. This unique experience provides an unparalleled connection with the surrounding nature, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti, French Polynesia, is a dream destination known for its stunning beaches, abundant marine life, cultural richness, and a wide range of activities. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine sands, Tahiti boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you prefer relaxing under the shade of a palm tree or engaging in thrilling water sports like snorkeling or scuba diving, Tahiti offers something for everyone.

The marine life in Tahiti is unrivaled, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and underwater adventurers. The vibrant coral reefs teem with a kaleidoscope of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures. Snorkeling or diving in these azure waters gives visitors an unforgettable opportunity to explore an underwater world of breathtaking beauty.

Fiji is a dreamy destination for those looking for a relaxing tropical getaway. This picturesque archipelago in the South Pacific is made up of over 300 individual islands, and is renowned for its beautiful beaches, exclusive private islands, and crystal-clear waters.

One of the highlights of Fiji is its world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

Have you traveled to any of the dream destinations on this list? Share your favorites and experiences with me in the comments below!

Weekend Trip Packing List: The Ultimate Guide for any Getaway

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• TripAdvisor.com for all things travel reviews
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• Kiwi.com for finding the best flight deals
• Booking.com for hotel deals
• Hostelworld.com for booking hostels around the world
• VRBO.com for vacation rentals
• Rentalcars.com for easy rental vehicles

The Gal Behind the Blog

Hi I’m Rylie – Welcome to my corner of the internet!

I’m a solo traveler & photographer turned full-time corporate travel agent – born and raised in Southern California but now based in Colorado.

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Dream Destinations For Your Bucket List + Budget Tours To Get There

What’s on your travel bucket list?  All of us have dream destinations that we hope to get to one day.  Find out some of the most lusted-after destinations in the world, and learn how to make your travel dreams a reality with small group tours at prices everyone can afford.

Especially these last few years, looking forward to future travel has kept many of us going.  Perhaps you long for the beaches of Bali, the energy of Tokyo, or to trace the footsteps of ancestors in Italy or Ireland.  But with limited vacation time and funds, as well as family responsibilities, it can be hard to make these travel bucket lists a reality.

The solution: I’ve got dreamy additions to your bucket list, but I’m also sharing REAL recommendations for budget and mid-range tours so you can actually get there. Follow along with awesome travel inspo plus top tour recommendations. Then start turning your bucket list into your favorite memories!

I’ve compiled my list from polls of dream travel destinations as well as up-and-coming spots where I see other bloggers and Instagrammers traveling, including my own favorites.  These itineraries are perfect for solo travelers, friends and couples, plus some options specifically for families or parents with kids and teens. 

Pin these dream destinations and tours to your travel inspo board!

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

In this Guide to Dream Travel Destinations

The Americas  | Asia Destinations  |  Europe Destinations  |  The Middle East  | Africa Destinations  | Oceania | Antarctica | Airfare Tips

What are Small Group Adventure Tours?

Small group tours take care of the planning and logistics of travel, so that you can focus on the experience. They make travel more attainable and affordable, with tour styles at a variety of price points. Adventure tours also take away some of the stresses of traveling solo or to off-the-beaten-path places.

I started out traveling with small group tours, and it gave me the experience and confidence I needed to travel solo later. This is my #1 tip for anyone who wants to get started traveling!

Two of my favorite adventure travel companies are G Adventures and Intrepid Travel. Read my reviews of adventure tour companies to find out why there’s a small group trip right for you.

A Tour? Really?

Yes! These are small group tours based on authentic experiences, not buses depositing you at the Grand Canyon. Plus no one will ever know from your selfies that you’re on a tour. It’ll be your secret when your trip mates help you get the perfect shot at Machu Picchu.

Trip Styles 

In this guide, the tours I recommend will fall into the categories below. Keep in mind that the tours generally don’t include meals or airfare (but I have some airfare hacks for you later in the article) :

• “Original” or “Classic” tours:  budget to mid-range tours for all adult travelers
• “Basic” tours for 18 to thirty-somethings: budget itineraries geared toward younger travelers with active adventures 
• “Family” tours: geared toward families or parents with children or teenagers, with family accommodation and itineraries
• “Sailing” tours: yes, for real – there are affordable sailing adventures in many coastal destinations!

Dream Destinations in the Americas

Machu Picchu, Peru | History & Adventure Dream Destination

UNESCO site and “New World Wonder” Machu Picchu is one of the top dream destinations for many travelers. This Inca city was built in the 15th century but later abandoned. It was lost to the outside world for centuries until “rediscovered” by historian and explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.  Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is mysterious and iconic.  Get the best views of its green terraces and preserved stone buildings from the peak of Huayna Picchu, which a limited number of travelers can climb each day.  

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is in June – September during the dry winter season, although travelers who want smaller crowds and greener landscape can visit when I did, at the beginning of the rainy season in October – November.

Most visitors reach Machu Picchu by train.  But in the last 20 years, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has become a rite of passage for adventure travelers.  I trekked with my sister, and it was one of my most challenging yet ultimately fulfilling adventures yet! 

Discover the mysteries of Machu Picchu yourself with these tour options from $1257:

Inca Trail Trek | Machu Picchu Adventure | Peru Family Experience

Mexico: Maya Ruins & Day of the Dead | Bucket List Destination for Culture & History

Mexico is one of my own favorite travel destinations, with stunning natural landscapes, rich culture and history, and fantastic regional cuisines.  Two Mexico attractions in particular are bucket list items for many travelers: seeing Mayan ruins and experiencing the Dia de los Muertos festival.

Mayan ruins stretch from sites in Cancun throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, with Mexico’s most famous being Chichen Itza, seaside ruins at Tulum , and Palenque set deep in the jungle. There are even ruins you can climb at Ek Balam near Valladolid .

The annual Day of the Dead festival is celebrated at the end of October each year. In particular, Oaxaca and Mexico City are popular places to experience the holiday.  In Mexico City, explore Day of the Dead history and traditions including street festivities and the famous parade.  For Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca , learn about the holiday’s history and culture with traditional cemetery vigils, local parades, and visits to the surrounding villages.

Immerse yourself in Mexico’s history and culture with these tours starting from $1222:

Mayan Encounter | Classic Mexico Adventure | Day of the Dead in Oaxaca | Mexico City Day of the Dead

Galapagos Islands | Nature Dream Destination

The Galapagos Islands are known for their diversity of plant and animal species, including many not found anywhere else in the world. For true nature and adventure travelers, visiting the Galapagos is at the top of their dream places to visit. See sea lions, tortoises, marine iguanas, and an array of birds, plus experience active hiking and fantastic snorkeling in one of the world’s most special destinations.

Check out these pared-down affordable itineraries to make your Galapagos dreams a reality, starting from just $1799:

Galapagos Adventure [18-39] | Galapagos Island Hopping | Family Land Galapagos

Asia Bucket List Destinations

Bali, Indonesia | Beaches, Temples & Culture

Bali is a dream destination for so many travelers.  Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali has long been a place for people seeking balance through meditation and yoga.  It’s also a popular destination for surfing and active adventures.  Explore volcanoes, tour ancient temples, and relax on its beaches: white sand in the south, and black sand on the northern and eastern coasts. 

Much of the tourism in Bali is centered around its cultural capital, Ubud. But throughout the island you’ll discover ornate Hindu temples, lush landscapes, and friendly people. The best time to visit Bali is the dry season, April through October; avoid the rainy season October – March.

I was lucky to get to see Bali’s green rice terraces, Monkey Forest, temples, and waterfalls, as well as beaches and snorkeling in the Nusa islands.  If you’re looking for a destination with nature, culture and adventure, Bali belongs on your bucket list too! 

Bliss out on the beaches of Bali and its close neighbor Lombok with these dream destination itineraries starting from $1089:

Beautiful Bali | Classic Bali & Lombok | Bali Family Holiday with Teenagers

Maldives: Beaches Dream Vacation Spot

It’s hard to think of a travel spot more iconic than the Maldives: a remote tropical paradise with overwater bungalows (ranging from luxury bungalows to affordable water villas !) and unspoiled white sand beaches.  Made up of over 1,000 islands, the Republic of Maldives is a haven for travelers who want to swim, snorkel, scuba, and relax on secluded beaches.  The Maldives are a popular honeymoon destination, but there’s no reason to wait to check this destination off your bucket list.  

Make everyone you know jelly with your Tiktoks from the Maldives. Set off on a liveaboard cruise on a traditional dhoni sailboat priced from $1350:

Maldives Island Hopping | Maldives Dhoni Explorer | Maldives Cruise [18-39]

Vietnam | Classic Backpacking Destination

Vietnam has become a major Asia travel and backpacking destination thanks to its gorgeous natural landscapes, busy cities, and rich cultural and historical sites. 

The country is flanked by rugged mountains bordering Laos and Cambodia in the West, the South China Sea to the East, and the Red and Mekong Rivers in the North and South.  You’ll want to see the colonial architecture of Hoi An, vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, and the dramatic karst scenery and floating villages of Halong Bay.

Vietnam is over 1,000 miles long and the climate varies widely by region, from temperate in the north to a tropical climate in the south.  This makes planning a visit tricky, but generally the best time to visit is spring, from March – April, or October.  Generally, Vietnam has two monsoon seasons, between October and March in the northeast and between April and October everywhere but the mountains. 

Go crazy pho Vietnam (pun alert) with these affordable tours starting at $862:

Classic Vietnam | Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

Thailand | Temples, Beaches & Friendly People

A Thailand and Cambodia trip with G Adventures (then Gap Adventures) was the start of my travel addiction! I always recommend Thailand as a good destination for new travelers. It’s an easy place to travel, including on a budget, and has long been a popular destination on the Asia backpacker trail.

Bustling Bangkok is a must-see, with its iconic temples, canals, tuk tuk rides, and street food. Thailand’s north has its own treasures: ancient capitals, elephant conservation, and experiencing the Thai way of life in local villages. And of course, Thailand’s beaches like Phuket, Ko Phi Phi, and Krabi are the perfect way to end a trip.

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and early April. This is the driest time of year, since the rainy season runs from July – October.

Plan an adventure in the Land of Smiles with these budget tour options starting at $824:

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express | Thailand Island Hopping | Thailand Family Holiday

Cambodia | History + Iconic Temples

Cambodia is home to the temples of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Exploring here feels like stepping back in time, discovering the Khmer temples deep in the jungle. Reliefs and statues seem to tell ancient stories, and tree roots have reclaimed some of the temples, including “Ta Prohm” made famous by Tomb Raider.

Cambodia’s tumultuous recent past can be felt in its capital of Phnom Penh. The brutal Khmer Rouge, a Marxist regime in power from 1975-1979, claimed the lives of up to two million people. Much of the tourism in the capital is centered on this, but it gives an important context to country’s past and the spirit of the Cambodian people.

Along with Machu Picchu, Petra, and the Mayan ruins at Tikal, the temples of Angkor Wat belong on the bucket list of every adventure traveler. Try to visit for sunrise if you can!

Many Cambodia itineraries begin in Vietnam and end in Thailand, which lets you experience the history and culture of the overall region. Check out these super-affordable options starting from $689:

Cambodia Experience | Cambodia: Ancient Ruins

Uzbekistan & The Silk Road | The OG Adventure Route

When I visited Uzbekistan, following in the footsteps of Marco Polo along the Silk Road, I truly felt I had become a traveler.  The Silk Road connected eastern China to what is now western Turkey, a 4,000-mile passage that connected East with West for more than 1500 years. 

Uzbekistan sits in the middle of this route, and includes the ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand.  In the last few years, Uzbekistan has again begun embracing tourism. It’s welcoming travelers to discover its intricately-tiled blue-domed mosques, colorful bazaars with carpets and pottery, and traditional cuisines of plov and shashlik.

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring from April to May, when weather is temperate and flowering trees bloom.  And again in autumn, from September to early November.  It’s best to avoid the summer, when temperatures soar to over 100F.

I loved the history, people, and cuisine of Uzbekistan. Set off on your own Silk Road adventure with these tours from $1399:

Highlights of Uzbekistan | Best of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan

Jaipur, India | Culture & Photography Dream Destination

India has long been a classic journey for travelers, with its array of hectic cities, bustling markets, history sites, and holy places.  And in a country full of colors, Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” is a photographer’s dream. 

But with so many more things to explore – the Taj Mahal, rural life in Rajasthan, the heart of Hinduism in Varanasi, and temples across the landscape – a full trip to India should be on every traveler’s dream places to visit.

The best time to visit most of India is during the cool, dry season, between November and March.  But the country is large, so temperatures can vary by region.  Many travelers wish to visit for the colorful festival of Holi, which occurs in most cities on the day after the full moon in March.

Delve into the history, cuisine, and spiritualism of India (with a side of Bollywood and iconic photo ops) on these budget tours starting from just $639:

Golden Triangle | Essential India

Sri Lanka | Nature & Culture Bucket List Destination

This island nation might be small, but there is a bounty of nature, history, and beauty among the best places to visit in Sri Lanka .  Located just off the Southeast tip of India, Sri Lanka is a destination for beaches, jungles, temples, and wildlife.

A trip to Sri Lanka offers the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat at the country’s national parks.  Visit spice and tea plantations in the central hill country, spend time in colonial towns, and explore temples with thousands of years of human history.  Sri Lanka’s coasts are the perfect place to snorkel and relax on the beach at the end of a trip.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka varies by region: for the southwest coast, visit between December to March, before the monsoon season.  In the East, visit from May – September for less humid weather.

Discover the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ with these tours, priced from $977:

Sri Lanka Express | Sri Lanka Family Holiday   | Sri Lanka: Spice Gardens & Seasides [18-39]

Dream Travel Destinations in Europe

Ireland | History, Landscapes & Culture

So many travelers have Ireland on their bucket list!  Known as the Emerald Isle due to its green landscapes, Ireland was home to writers like Yeats, Joyce and Wilde.  Top Ireland sights include the capital Dublin, the picturesque Ring of Kerry, and dramatic scenery of the Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway. 

Ireland has a maritime climate, with relatively mild winters and summer temperatures in the 70’s.  The best time to visit is from April through until September, but expect rain and cool weather even then!

I haven’t yet been to Ireland. But having met travelers from Ireland around the globe, I definitely want to visit its friendly people and beautiful landscapes. 

Getaway to the “land of Saints and Scholars” with these itineraries starting from $2599:

Highlights of Ireland | Northern and Southern Ireland

Santorini, Greece | Top Dream Vacation Destination

Santorini is a dream island vacation destination in Greece, located halfway between Athens and Crete.  Part of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is best known for its whitewashed cliff top villages with sweeping views of the azure sea. 

But the sea below hides a secret: there was once a single island here until a 16th century BCE volcanic eruption.  The resulting caldera, or crater, is now mostly-submerged and surrounded by dramatic cliffs, picturesque towns, and volcanic sand beaches.

Most visitors to Santorini stay on its largest island of Thira in the towns of Fira, its capital, or best-known Oia.  But there are many wonders to discover here, including the ancient ruins of 3 civilizations like the Minoan town of Akrotiri, black and red sand volcanic beaches, fantastic local wines, and hikes for views of the caldera. 

The best time to visit for warm weather and fewer crowds is April to May and September to October.

Got Santorini or Greece on your bucket list?  Make it happen with these tours including sailing trips starting from $1679:

Best of Greece | Sailing Greece | Athens to Santorini | Ancient Ruins & Iconic Islands

Italy: Rome & Amalfi Coast | History & Landscapes Bucket List

Is there anyone who doesn’t have Italy on their bucket list?  The sights of Rome and charming towns of the Amalfi Coast are some of the most-lusted-after spots in Italy and the world! 

In Rome, must-see sights of course include the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain, as well as amazing food, wine, and world-class art.  The Amalfi Coast has hiking for wooded and coastal views, cliffs lined with colorful Mediterranean architecture, and beaches framed by picturesque towns.

The best months for Italy travel are from April to June and mid-September to October, when temperatures are mild and crowds are less. 

Escape to your dream destination of Italy with these tours priced from $1574:

Tuscany to Cinque Terre | Local Living San Gimignano | Exploring the Amalfi Coast | Italy Real Food Adventure | Sailing Italy to Croatia

Budapest, Hungary | History & Culture Dream Destination

Budapest has jumped to the top of many bucket lists in the last few years.  Bisected by the Danube River, its regions of Buda and Pest are connected by eight bridges, including the iconic 19th-century Chain Bridge. 

In Buda, take a funicular to the top of Castle Hill to reach Old Town. Then explore sights like Buda Castle, St. Mattias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion, a turreted fortress with city views.  

In Pest, visit the Hungarian Parliament, Great Market Hall for snacks and souvenirs, and the Shoes on the Danube memorial.  Be sure to also see St. Stephen’s Basilica including climbing (or taking the elevator) to the top for views of the city. 

Throughout Budapest you’ll also find ruin pubs, the city’s famous hidden bars in abandoned buildings, and historic thermal baths fed by the more than 100 hot springs beneath the city.  The two most popular are the outdoor Szechenyi Baths and indoor Gellert Thermal Bath. The latter is also a prime example of ornate Art Nouveau architecture found throughout the city.

The best time to visit Budapest is between April to September for warm weather. However, I loved visiting in December for Christmas markets and cold weather perfect for the Szechenyi Baths! 

Try these tour itineraries for experiencing the best of Budapest and the region, starting from $1349:

Budapest to Berlin [18-39]| Budapest to Sofia Adventure by Rail | Budapest & Europe Christmas Markets | The Best of Eastern Europe

Portugal | Dream Destination for Beaches, History & Foodies

Named as the Travel + Leisure “Destination of the Year” in 2016, Portugal has seen an explosion of travel in the last few years.  But for good reason: it’s a quick flight within Europe or from the East Coast of the US, and appeals to foodies, culture lovers, wine connoisseurs, and beach-goers. 

Be sure to visit the historic sights in the capital of Lisbon, fairytale palaces of Sintra and Obidos , and tiled churches and port wine houses in Porto. And don’t miss Portugal’s gorgeous Algarve beaches .

The best time to visit Portugal is from March – May, when spring flowers begin to bloom and the crowds are less.  Or visit in autumn in September – October, when days are still warm, the countryside turns golden, and wine grapes are harvested in the Douro Valley . 

Discover the history, culture and cuisine of Portugal with these tour options, from $1407:

Highlights of Portugal | Best of Spain & Portugal | Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas [18-39]

Scotland | Top Dream Country to Visit

Scotland has always been a bucket-list favorite for many travelers. Now, so many more are dreaming of Scotland after getting hooked on Outlander! 

Delve into history in Edinburgh with its famous castle, and stroll the shops and restaurants of the famous Royal Mile to the 16th-century Palace of Holyroodhouse.  Hike to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city and tour the National Museum of Scotland.  In Glasgow, explore its museums, music scene, and Victorian and art nouveau architecture.

But no trip to Scotland is complete without the Highlands and the Isle of Skye for history and stunning landscapes.  Tour the iconic Eilan Donan castle, see the infamous Loch Ness, and visit Culloden Moor, the site of the Jacobite rising of 1745. 

Stay in the picturesque town of Portree, hike the iconic Old Man of Storr, and witness the stunning natural beauty of Scotland at Kilt Rock and Glen Coe.  And don’t forget a whisky distillery tour!  Be ready to take a million photos – when I visited Skye, the scenery was more beautiful with each step I took.

Scotland’s busy tourist season in summer is also its rainy season.  The famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival, is held each August.  I visited in September and had many sunny days,. I recommend the spring or early fall as a great time to visit for less crowds. 

I visited Edinburgh for work and then extended my trip with a tour to the Isle of Skye. There are several short break options like this, and Scotland’s local tour operators have the best ratings I’ve seen in all of my travels. Check out this 3-day Skye and Highlands tour or this 5-day Best of Scotland from Edinburgh .

Or set off on a complete Outlander pilgrimage with these longer tour options from $1675:

Classic Walks of Scotland | Highlights of Scotland

Northern Lights & Iceland | Dream Nature Experiences

The small island nation of Iceland is an adventurer’s dream: hot springs, waterfalls, volcanoes, and even the Northern Lights. 

Most tourists here choose to follow the scenic “Golden Circle” loop, visiting geothermal springs and geysers, the waterfall of Gullfoss, volcanic black sand beaches, and Skaftafell National Park to hike Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier.

For hiking, the best time to visit Iceland is in summer, when midnight sun and warmer temperatures prevail. But to see the Northern Lights, February, March, September and October are typically the best time to visit Iceland.

Escape to the “land of fire and ice” with these Iceland tour options priced from $899:

Three Days in Iceland | Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle | Best of Iceland

Dubrovnik, Croatia | Bucket List Beauty & Charm

Dubrovnik landed on everybody’s bucket lists thanks to Game of Thrones, where it served as the fictional city of King’s Landing.  But Dubrovnik, and Croatia as a whole, does look straight out of a fairy tale even without any CGI! 

Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the Old Town of Dubrovnik is full of cobblestone streets, palaces, and churches, all located within medieval city walls.  Just outside the city, Dubrovnik’s Adriatic beaches make for a good day trip, as does Lokrum Island, with a monastery, botanical garden, and beaches of its own.

Dubrovnik itineraries often include Split, Korcula, and Hvar, more maritime cities brimming with history, charm, and architecture. 

The best time to visit is in May and June or September and October when the weather is sunny and perfect for swimming; avoid the busiest tourist season of July and August.

Fall under Croatia’s spell with these affordable tour options priced from just $1099:

Sailing Croatia | Explore Croatia | Zagreb to Dubrovnik [18-39]

Georgia | Culture & Nature Dream Destination

The buzz about Georgia (the country) as a travel destination has been growing among travelers and Instagrammers.  Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, the Caucasus region has a wealth of cultural, natural, and foodie experiences to explore. 

Wander the cobblestone maze of streets that make up the capital Tbilisi, tour a 12th century monastery, and hike on a glacier, then indulge each evening with Georgian food and wine.  (If you haven’t yet discovered buttery, cheesy khachapuri bread, here’s a recipe to make it from home!)

The best time to visit Georgia is April to May for adventuring in comfortable temperatures, or in September and October for autumn color.  Some tours of Georgia also include neighboring Armenia to fully explore the region.

Check out these affordable tour options starting from $1749:

Georgia Adventure | Best of Georgia & Armenia

Dream Destinations in the Middle East

Egypt | unesco sites & beaches bucket list.

Egypt is home to one of the world’s earliest civilizations and seven UNESCO-designated world heritage sites.  It’s known, of course, for its history and ancient archaeological treasures including the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx.  But some travelers might not realize that it is also famous for its beach resorts and scuba diving!

Travelers to Egypt must visit the buzzing capital of Cairo, the pyramids at Giza, and Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, where treasures from ancient tombs and even mummies themselves are on display. 

But it’s also possible to sail down the Nile en route to see the Valley of the Kings at Luxor.  Then a stop at the Red Sea for some beach time before heading back to Cairo is the perfect way to round out a trip.

Egypt is a destination that I would recommend to be seen with a tour, both based on current travel warnings and because an experienced guide can give important context for history and culture. 

Egypt’s weather is sunny year-round. The best times to visit for more comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists are the shoulder seasons, from March to April and October to November.  Winter is the busiest tourist season. 

Set off on a journey through history with these Egypt tour options starting at $879:

Egypt Boats & Bazaars | Egypt Adventure 8 days | Highlights of Egypt 14 days

Petra and the Dead Sea, Jordan | History & Adventure Travel

After seeing the ancient city of Petra everywhere from travel ads to National Geographic and Indiana Jones, I had Jordan at the top of my own bucket list for a long time.  And when I finally got to visit, Jordan was even more awe-inspiring than I could have imagined. 

Bucket-list sights in Jordan include the ancient Roman town of Jerash, floating in the Dead Sea (yes, it works!) , and visiting the lost city of Petra.  Add on an overnight in a Bedouin camp in the desert, and your adventure-meter will be full.  Also the food is spectacular: you’ll never be happy with grocery-store hummus again!

I traveled to Jordan on my own, but it’s definitely a destination I recommend to visit on a tour or with a buddy. It helps to split the costs, plus women travelers tend to get a lot of attention.  (Not problems per say, just leering, comments, and offers of marriage.) 

The best time to visit Jordan are spring from March to May or fall from September to November, when the days are warm but nights are cool.

Visit Jordan’s wonders including the “Rose Red City” of Petra with tours starting at just $1299:

Highlights of Jordan | Jordan: Women’s Expedition

Dream Destinations in Africa

Morocco | culture & adventure travel destination.

I am not alone in counting Morocco as one of my favorite destinations.  Its mix of cultures, historical sites, and landscapes have made it a top spot for adventure travelers the world over. 

Tour Roman ruins and labyrinthine medinas, then sip mint tea overlooking landscapes out of movies and picture books.  Many tours to Morocco include an overnight in the Sahara via camel, which is one of my top travel adventures to date! 

Be sure also to explore the souks and squares of Marrakech, and its idyllic Majorelle Gardens.

Morocco is definitely a destination where I recommend a tour, to bridge the cultural and language barriers. Plus, overland transport with a small group tour is significantly easier than arranging it on your own or renting a car.

Set off on the adventure of a lifetime in Morocco with these itineraries starting from $659, including the Best of Morocco tour which I chose:

Morocco Kasbahs & Desert | Best of Morocco | Morocco Family Journey

Kruger National Park, South Africa | Dream Safari Destination

Every traveler I know has a safari on their list of dream destinations.  One of the most iconic safari spots is Kruger National Park, a game reserve located in South Africa. 

Here you can spot the “Big Five,” as the top five game animals are called: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.  Enjoy South African cuisine under the stars, head out on game spotting drives and nature walks with naturalist guides, and retire to a comfortable safari lodge.

The best time to visit Kruger National Park is at the beginning or end of the region’s dry season, between April and September. Temperatures during this time are mostly pleasant, with overnight lows in the 40s and daytime highs occasionally reaching into the mid-80s.

Typically, safari experiences don’t come cheap: in addition to offering all-inclusive once-in-a-lifetime experiences, safari operators often fund conservation projects.  But forgoing the typical “luxury” additions of a safari trip can put it within reach for many more travelers. 

Check out these pared down experiences with all of the excitement but less of the sticker-shock of a typical safari, starting from $1312:

Kruger 5-Day Lodge Experience | Kruger In-Depth | Explore Kruger

Dream Travel Destinations in Oceania

New zealand | nature dream destination.

New Zealand made its way onto many bucket lists thanks to the gorgeous scenery of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies.  But many travelers don’t know that there are two islands here to discover. 

New Zealand’s South Island has mountain ranges, glaciers, and forests. While the North is renowned for gorgeous coastlines, geothermal springs, and glowworm caves.  The country also has attractions that allow visitors to explore its indigenous Maori culture and history.  Do I even need to mention NZ’s friendly people and world-famous wines?

The best time to visit New Zealand is during their summer months of December to March, when sunny temperate days provide the perfect setting for visiting beaches and hiking.   I haven’t yet checked New Zealand off my bucket list, but my sister traveled there with G Adventures and had the most amazing trip!

Get to know the charming Kiwis and their stunning country with these tours starting at $1715:

Highlights of New Zealand | New Zealand South Island Family Holiday

Antarctica | Ultimate Bucket List Adventure

For adventurers, Antarctica is truly the ultimate dream destination. Visiting the most uninhabited place on earth offers the chance to see sea lions, orcas, humpback whales, and many types of penguins against an otherworldly landscape.

Most Antarctic expeditions begin at the southern tip of Chile, literally the end of the world. Voyage by ship through the Drake Passage, a notorious body of water that stretches across 500 miles between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands. It’s known for being some of the roughest seas in the world.

Most voyages make landfall in Antarctica at least once, giving you the chance to walk among penguins and sea lions, or hike up for views of glaciers and icebergs. And there are daily “Zodiac” trips, smaller inflatable craft that get you close-up with wildlife and icebergs.

The crew on Antarctic ships includes experts in marine biology, geology, and more, who share their knowledge along the journey. The ships themselves typically offer a bar, library, gym, pool, sauna, and more, to include a bit of comfort along with your once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

A journey to the Great White Continent takes a lot of planning and prep, including an Antarctic packing list and gear. Check out these itineraries from Intrepid Travel, starting from $5795:

Antarctica Classic | Best of Antarctica

Tips to Save on Airfare

You’re probably saying, OK Adrienne, these tours are not a million dollars, but how am I going to get there?

Believe me, I know that one of the most expensive parts of travel is airfare! So if you’re interested in a destination, start researching flight prices now to get an idea of what the average costs are.

Flight Searches and Alerts

My favorite flight search engines are Google Flights and Momondo because they also show trends. I always recommend booking direct with the airline rather than a third-party platform like Expedia, to make it easier to select seats, be clear on baggage allowances, etc. Especially now, I think it’s better to deal directly with the airlines in case of flight schedule changes or cancellations.

You can also set up flight alerts with search engines like Kayak or TripAdvisor to keep a eye on prices.

Gounf [Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights]

Another great resource for flight deals is Going. Sign up for their free email alerts, and get notifications for deals from your local airports. (There’s also a paid service that gives you mistake fare deals, but the free one works great for most travelers.)

Turkish Airlines Layovers & Stopovers

If your home airport is served by Turkish Airlines, be sure to check their flight pricing. By flying through their Istanbul hub, it often makes flights very affordable. You can even schedule a long layover or stopover (a day or more) without an additional charge. Check out the perks they offer for free layover tours or stopover hotels – it’s an easy way to get more from your travel dollars.

New to travel? Be sure to read my 20 tips for new travelers and how to create a packing list !

Ready to start checking things off your bucket list?

I hope this list has given you some ideas of amazing dream destinations and also affordable tours to get there. If you book one of the tours, consider clicking my links before you book. I might earn a small commission percentage, and it helps me know I’m creating content that is helpful to my readers!

Save these bucket list destination ideas for later!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

25 Dream Travel Destinations You Need To Visit In 2024

Imagine a year of wanderlust fulfilled, a year when your passport collects more stamps than ever before.

As a seasoned globetrotter who’s gone through the hassle of travel planning, I totally get the struggle of finding authentic and inspiring travel info online.

But don’t worry, that’s why I’m here! Drawing from my years of globe-trotting experience, I’ve put together this list of dreamy travel destinations, each with its own unique charm and allure .

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first big adventure, this post is here to ignite your wanderlust and provide invaluable insights for your next journey. Let’s dive in!

I’m Magdalena, your guide to the world’s hidden gems. Let’s embark on a virtual journey to discover the 25 dream travel destinations you need to visit in 2024.

25 Unforgettable Dream Travel Destinations That You Need To Add To Your Bucket list

Bocas del Toro is a must-see if you are traveling in 2024 in Panama. Certainly, it has charm with its sprawling beaches that are never too crowded and its turquoise waters.

In fact, its beaches are home to 95% of the coral species found in the Caribbean Sea. The vibrant hotels and eateries that surround Bocas Town’s streets and coastlines are its most unique characteristic.

Memorable wildlife encounters include night time snorkeling in the bioluminescent waters. But it also includes exploring the underground lakes of Nivida Bat Cave . This is done with the help of headlamps and an experienced guide from Hello Travel Panama.

The mountainous region of Chiriquí is equally enchanting. Indeed, between its beaches and highlands, the active Volcán Barú dominates.

First, check into the new 10-room boutique hotel, Finca El Oasis . Then, leave at midnight for a hike to the summit at dawn for a panoramic sunrise above the clouds. 

Drink locally grown coffee that you won’t find at home, like Chiriquí’s beloved Geisha coffee . But, if a hike seems too intense, there are also off-road excursions to the top of the volcano. It’s also possible to try zip-lining through the canopy directly on the property.

While in Bocas del Toro, you will taste Caribbean flavors that will awaken your senses and your desire to explore the local cuisine.

So check out this list of the island’s best restaurants and hotels and better plan your stay. 

2. Mexico 

European tourists often have an exaggerated image of a country where insecurity reigns. Rest assured, Mexico is not more dangerous than any other country.

If you’re here to enjoy the natural wonders, restaurants, archaeological sites, and natural sites, no one will want to harm you. Mexicans are very welcoming.

Mexico, and in particular the Yucatan region, is sunny all year round, so whatever the season, you can travel to Mexico without worry. If there is a rainy season from July to October, it is not at all restrictive to visit the Yucatan.

The days remain warm and sunny, which explains why many families go to Mexico during the school vacations.

Where should you go in Mexico? The country offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences.

From the beaches of Yucatan to the volcanoes of the center, there are so many things to do in Oaxaca , including exploring its archaeological sites. An overview of the different regions to see in Mexico.

If you dream of a trip to Mexico that combines culture and nature, the Yucatan is the ideal region to set down your bags!

Explore the different archaeological sites. Considered the 7th wonder of the modern world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chichén Itzá is surely the most emblematic.

Another must-see is Uxmal, known for the excellent conservation of its architectural details. Calakmul, which is more confidential, is located in the middle of the jungle.

The cities of Yucatan have a nonchalant atmosphere. Take time to lose yourself in the colorful streets of Valladolid, in the white city of Merida, or in the charming colonial buildings of Izmal.

Want to experience life on an island? Make travel plans to the charming island of Isla Mujeres , known for its white-sand shores and turquoise waters.

The Yucatan coastline keeps its promises. On the program: relaxation in the shade of a coconut tree on immaculate white sand; diving to explore the extraordinary underwater world; and succulent restaurants on the beach.

My favorite is the one in Celestun, where you will even have the chance to observe pink flamingos.

You should include the city of Bacalar and the famous lagoon on your map while arranging your journey through the Yucatan Peninsula. 

Of course, a stay in Peru will pass by the discovery of the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu and Lima , the capital, will surprise the tourists by its unusual visits and its modernity.

But why go to Peru exactly? Because it is also a country of an unequaled human and cultural wealth which asks only to be discovered and appreciated by the adventurers of the XXIst century!

Why should you visit Lima , Peru? Even just for the architecture – to view the cathedral, church, and convent of San Francisco, or the stronghold of Real Felipe – and its museums, which are essential to understanding the history of the nation, it is an inescapable trip.

It is also an opportunity to visit Peruvian shops and buy some local wares, particularly wool clothing like ponchos, gloves, and hats.

After Lima, most vacationers staying in Peru head for Cuzco , the center of Inca culture and the city nearest to the renowned Machu Picchu. The best mode of transportation between these two cities is by air. 

After touring Cuzco and its unique neighborhoods, it is time to begin climbing the Andes in order to reach Machu Picchu , the lost metropolis of the Incas. It can be reached either by railway , which is very unique, or by a beautiful but lengthy hiking trail.

Discover your next dream destination with this interactive quiz, tailored to your travel preferences and interests!

4. thailand .

The land of smiles is a dream travel destination for winter. The best time to visit Thailand is between November and February.

On the spot, you will clearly have something to forget the cold with the various activities to do, the Thai gastronomy , the visit of temples and sanctuaries , as well as the escapades on the nearby islands !

5. The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a must for lazing on the beaches. It is also an opportunity to recharge the batteries after a bleak and nearly depressive winter.

So, explore the jungle, dive under the turquoise waters, enjoy the delicious beaches of Punta Cana , and take a day trip to Santo Domingo . In short, choose this country in 2024!

6. The Canary Islands

Whether it is Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife, or Fuerteventura, the archipelago of the Canary Islands is only a few hours’ flight away.

To escape the winter, you can enjoy the many landscapes, ranging from volcanic to paradisiacal . If you want to go with your family, the Spanish archipelago is the perfect destination for a vacation in an island setting.

7. The Maldives

Considered a true paradise on earth, the Maldives have always been popular. At the same time, is it impossible to resist the turquoise lagoons , the dominant sun, the multicolored fish, and the famous bungalows on stilts?

Without any hesitation, choosing the Maldives as a winter destination is an excellent choice. In terms of temperatures, the thermometer reads 30 degrees minimum! 

Most tourists don’t think much about it, but Africa is a continent you should visit at least once. For example, I recommend that you visit Kenya , a culturally significant destination known for its safaris.

But it’s not only that; go and discover Nairobi, the capital, as well as the Masa Mara reserve and the Amboseli park.

9. The French Caribbean

For a moment of escape, I recommend Guadeloupe and Martinique to enjoy a warm climate without leaving France .

During your trip, you can discover different cultures, Creole traditions, and beautiful natural landscapes. Of course, take the time to taste the local cuisine to bring a little balm to your heart.

10. Vietnam

Located near China and Thailand, Vietnam remains a protected country and is preserved from mass tourism.

Take advantage of the winter months to learn about a culture that is off the beaten path. Among the top activities to do, visiting Hanoi is a must, as is also visiting the city of Saigon, formerly known as Ho Chi Minh City… So, are you in?

11. Costa Rica

Located in Central America , Costa Rica offers interesting temperatures during winter: on average 26 degrees between December and April.

This advantage makes this country a favorite destination to enjoy the sun in the middle of winter. During your stay, discover the various natural parks, volcanic sites, the Rio Celeste waterfall , its forests and its sublime beaches. 

It’s true that the overwhelmingly green color of Costa Rica is what first catches your eye when you arrive. Of course, the many different animal species that call this nation home find its lush and verdant environment to be a true paradise. 

Want to unwind for a moment? Costa Rica has a variety of beaches that are all equally stunning. The Caribbean shore offers a completely different landscape, a Caribbean vibe, a mingling of Amerindian cultures, and untamed terrain. Natural basins and remote beaches can be found. 

One of the most well-liked things to do in the south of Costa Rica is to visit Nauyaca Falls . You can enjoy rock climbing, horseback riding, or swim in the 1000 square meter pool in addition to admiring the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Santa Teresa is a small beach town located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.

Because of its laid-back hippie vibe and incredible surf beaches, Santa Teresa has been on many people’s radars in recent years.

Without a doubt, Santa Teresa is gaining popularity over time and becoming one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica.

The smallest and busiest National Park in Costa Rica is Manuel Antonio . The cause is not really a mystery…

It’s quite simple. It has stunning white-sand beaches and is encircled by a lush, lovely rainforest where it is simple to view wildlife like sloths and monkeys.

12. Iceland

If you want to avoid the snow, I recommend you visit Iceland in the spring. It is the ideal time to discover the green landscapes, the cliffs, and above all, the return to light by leaving the winter behind!

On the temperature side, they are not warmer in the summer than in the spring; you should expect an average of 10 degrees, but the setting is really exceptional.

13. Croatia 

Cities such as Split and Dubrovnik have grown in popularity among tourists in recent years. So why not visit Croatia in 2024?

The season is ideal for exploring national parks, taking boat trips, and visiting cities on foot. Ideally, I advise you to organize a road trip through the Croatian regions, just for fun!

Unavoidable, Greece is a mythical destination in spring. Choosing this time of the year is a direct ticket to peace and quiet during your stay.

Once there, the Greek hospitality will make you feel good, not to mention the many historical monuments, archaeological sites, relics, beaches, and, of course, the Cyclades islands like Santorini ! If you want to know where to go in Greece, don’t hesitate to consult my article on this subject.

15. Andalusia, Spain

Spain is a must-see country for vacations. But I strongly recommend you visit Andalusia at the southern end of the country.

It’s a region rich in culture and history, with a past that is still very much alive but can be seen through its monuments.

So, consider renting a car to visit the cities of Seville , Cordoba , Granada , Cadiz , and the surrounding area to discover the local culture!

16. Italy 

To visit historic cities such as Bologna, Venice , Florence, Rome or Siena, I highly recommend leaving during the spring.

In addition to enjoying an excellent climate, you won’t be bothered by the tourist crowds. If you love mountain scenery, you want to go to the Dolomites in Italy!

Now it’s up to you to enjoy good pizzas , discover the must-see monuments and enjoy the typical Italian dolce vita.

17. United States

During this time of the year, the weather is really favorable in many parts of the United States. This is a great time to spend a nice vacation in the West, going to New York , Los Angeles , or Miami .

However, be careful; when you go to visit sites at high altitude, you may run into snow, so be careful and organize yourself well!

18. Namibia

Although Namibia is a dream travel destination at any time of the year, it is most interesting in the spring. From April onward, temperatures start at 15 degrees, reaching 30 degrees in May and June.

Overall, this is the perfect time to visit the national parks, the Namib Desert, go on safari, or explore the nature reserves.

Brazil is a vacation destination that is regularly forgotten. However, flying to this country in summer is a great advantage: it is a low-tourist season.

In addition to delivering warm and pleasant temperatures, go on a road trip to visit Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia, and Sao Paulo, as well as mythical places like the Amazon and the Iguazu Falls.

20. Bali, Indonesia

Summer vacations allow you to unwind, and there is no better place to do so than Bali! Without hesitation, I recommend this destination to discover the most beautiful rice fields, beaches, temples, and sanctuaries of the island.

One of the must-visit spots is the Karang Boma Cliff , offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes.

To relax, why not treat yourself to a massage session and some meditation? So, is this something that tempts you?

21. Corsica

The island of Beauty awaits you, if only for its idyllic beaches…Corsica is one of the best destinations to visit in 2024.

Corsica’s culture is really rich, as are its gastronomy and its history. Nevertheless, you should know that the island is famous for having the most beautiful creeks and natural pools in Europe.

It is a considerable asset not to be neglected!

Surprising and fascinating, Norway is perfect for nature lovers. If you want to experience something out of the ordinary during the summer, this is the country for you.

Although the cost of living is high, you’ll be amazed by the fjords, glaciers, and northern lights .

If you have a flexible budget, this is a dream travel destination to discover, even if you travel with children!  

23. Portugal

For those who don’t want to go very far in 2024, I think that Portugal is an excellent compromise.

Whether you want to visit Lisbon in three days, Porto , or the Algarve , your sun vacations will not disappoint.

Get ready for an amazing adventure with mindful travel in Portugal ! I’ve got an awesome agenda lined up: enjoying tasty local specialties, chilling on beautiful Portuguese beaches, and immersing yourself in authentic landscapes.

24. Malta, Gozo and Comino

Need a sunny vacation? I can recommend Malta as well as the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino.

Although Malta is not very big, it has a huge cultural and historical heritage. If you like museums and archaeological sites, you will be served. Or you can simply laze on the sand and bask in the hot sun!

25. The South of France

If you can’t afford to go abroad, why not stay in France and focus on the south of the country?

In fact, there are many beautiful places to visit, such as the French Riviera , Provence lavender fields , Pyrenees , the Camargue, Occitania, and many other fascinating places.

Plus, the temperatures are always very good in the south and even throughout the year, so why not take advantage of it?

In conclusion, these  25 dream travel destinations  offer a diverse range of experiences for  adventurous  travelers in 2024.

Whether you’re seeking  breathtaking natural landscapes ,  rich cultural heritage , or  thrilling adventures , there is something for everyone on this list.

So start planning your next dream trip and  explore  the world in 2024!

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I’m Magdalena – Globetrotter, Free Spirit, and your personal travel guide. Since 2017, I’ve been calling France my home while exploring and falling in love with 35+ diverse countries, from the frost-kissed ski towns to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica and El Salvador. Thrive and Wander is a testament to my adventures, filled with destination guides, travel itineraries, and tips for solo female travel. So grab your backpack, let go of your fears, and join me on this journey to explore our beautiful world!

37 Dream Destinations to Add to Your 2024 Travel Bucket List

Looking for the absolute best places to put on your travel bucket list? Lucky for us, our beautiful globe is filled with so many stunning destinations that we will never run out of new places to travel to.

So if you need some travel inspiration for your next trip, you are in the right place! From lush tropical islands and majestic mountain ranges to breathtaking metropolises, fairytale small towns, and incredible natural wonders, here is a list of the most breathtaking destinations in the world that you need to visit at least once in a lifetime.

I personally visited all these dream destinations so I can assure you from first-hand experience that no matter which destination you choose from this list, it will surely leave you speechless. Let’s dive right in!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Most Breathtaking Dream Destinations in the World

1. petra, jordan.

If we’re talking about the most breathtaking dream destinations in the world, the ancient city of Petra has to feature on top of the list. The rose-colored city of Petra is one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World and no Jordan itinerary is complete without visiting this magical place!

The most famous spot in Petra is the Treasury which you most likely know from the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade movie.

But there are many more interesting sites in Petra, like the Royal Tombs, the Theatre and the Monastery so it’s best to spend at least one full day in Petra.

If you’re looking for the best view in Petra, don’t forget to check out the Treasury from the above viewpoint !

A one-day ticket to Petra costs 50 JD ($70.50 US) per person but if you’re planning to spend more time in Petra, you can purchase multi-day tickets as well.

It’s worth checking out the Jordan Pass  before buying your tickets as it already includes the entrance ticket to Petra besides the mandatory visa for Jordan.

2. Dolomites, Italy

Covering more than 140,000 hectares with 18 peaks rising above 3,000 meters, the Italian Dolomites are one of the most stunning mountain destinations in the whole world.

Jagged peaks, breathtaking viewpoints, emerald alpine lakes, fairytale towns, amazing hikes, and delicious food – you can have it all in the Dolomites!

If you want to discover one of the best places to visit in Italy , make sure to include the Dolomites in your Northern Italy road trip itinerary .

Getting to the Dolomites is a bit tricky as there is no dedicated airport in the area but luckily you can find bigger airports within a few hours drive such as in Venice, Bergamo, or Milan.

Although you can spend weeks in the area, 5 days in the Dolomites will give you enough time to visit the must-see spots, such as Alpe di Siusi, the church of St. Maddalena in Val di Funes or the Seceda ridgeline.

Hiking at Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the best things to do in the Dolomites and if you want to find one of the best viewpoints in the area, you should also do the Cadini di Misurina hike .

Don’t worry, if you’re not much of a hiker you will still find plenty of amazing things to do in the Dolomites!

You can visit the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites such as Lago di Carezza or the Instagram-famous Lago di Braies, and discover charming little towns like Ortisei or Cortina d’Ampezzo (which is one of the best places to stay in the Dolomites ) or just simply enjoy the delicious Italian cuisine while admiring the stunning landscape at one of the restaurants.

3. New York City, USA

New York City is undoubtedly one of the most popular dream destinations and no USA bucket list is ever complete without visiting the Big Apple.

Many people choose summer for their first trip to New York City but since it’s one of the best Christmas destinations in the USA , visiting the city during the holidays is also a good idea.

If you’re planning to visit New York in December, make sure to check out my article about the best NYC Christmas photo spots and the perfect Christmas in New York itinerary !

NYC boasts so many amazing sights that even a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to discover everything, however, you can easily see the best sights in just one day in New York City .

If you’re visiting NYC for the first time, spending 4 days in New York is the perfect amount to get a better feel of the city and visit more interesting places, even outside of Manhattan.

Midtown Manhattan and Lower Manhattan are definitely some of the best areas to stay in NYC and you can also find 3 of the most iconic viewpoints here: the One World Observatory , the Empire State Building , and the Top of the Rock .

No matter which one you choose, the view will definitely leave you speechless!

Seeing the colorful neon lights in Times Square, taking a stroll in Central Park, and visiting the Statue of Liberty is a must when visiting New York. If you love theatre, you definitely need to watch one of the Broadway Shows for an unforgettable experience.

For history and art lovers, there are tons of museums to choose from such as the American Museum of Natural History or the Metropolitan Museum of Art .

4. Provence, France

Visiting the lavender fields in Provence is a true bucket list experience. If you want to see the fields for yourself, you need to be aware of your timing as it can make or break your trip.

The lavender season in Provence generally lasts from mid-June to mid-July, so make sure to plan your trip according to these dates. For seeing the lavenders in full bloom, the best time to visit is either the last week of June or the first week of July.

Although you can find lavender fields practically anywhere in Provence, the most beautiful fields are located around Valensole so it’s worth staying nearby.

The closest towns are Valensole and Riez but since they are really small, it’s better to stay in one of the bigger towns like Manosque where you will find plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from.

The closest airport to the lavender fields is in Marseille. As there is no public transportation in the area, having a car is necessary so the best option is to rent a car at the airport.

This way you can explore the area at your own pace and you can also include visiting some of the most beautiful towns in France like Roussillon, Gordes or Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

If you’re an outdoor lover, you can also visit Gorges du Verdon where you can rent a boat or a kayak, or just simply chill at the beach.

Apart from lavender fields, you can also find many other fields like sunflower, sage, or hay. Provence is really one of the most beautiful dream destinations in the world so it’s worth spending at least 3-4 days there to be able to explore all the beauty Provence has to offer.

5. Bali, Indonesia

The lush tropical island of Bali is certainly the most famous of the more than 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia. Bali is a dream destination to many and it’s easy to see why.

Whether you’re looking for white sandy beaches, forested volcanic mountains, incredible waterfalls, unbelievably green rice terraces, or beautiful temples, Bali really has it all.

There are so many wonderful sights to explore and various activities to do that it’s recommended to spend 2 weeks in Bali if you really want to see all the beauty the island has to offer.

You can rent a scooter to get around the island but if you’re visiting Bali for the first time , it’s better to hire a private driver who can show you around.

The southern side of Bali is the most touristy area on the island and it’s packed with beautiful beaches, posh cafes, fancy restaurants, and cool party places. Canggu is one of the most popular hotspots for digital nomads and as a result, you can find many amazing restaurants and cafes in Canggu .

The central area is the cultural heart of Bali and it is also the most picturesque side of the island. Ubud is one of the best places to stay in Bali as a first-timer and from there you can reach easily reach some of the best sights on the island such as Tegallalang rice terraces, Campuhan ridge walk, and some of the best waterfalls in Bali like Tegenungan or Kanto Lampo.

If you want to see how Bali looked like 20 years ago before it became a tourist hotspot, make sure to visit the nearby Nusa Islands . Nusa Penida is the most famous one thanks to its T-Rex-shaped beach (Kelingking beach) but the two smaller islands – Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan – are worth visiting as well.

6. Budapest, Hungary

If you’re looking for gorgeous architecture, fairytale castles, world-famous thermal baths, cool ruin bars, and delicious cuisine, you need to put Budapest on your travel bucket list right away. The Hungarian capital has a rich history and it offers many unique things to see and do.

Moreover, Budapest is a really affordable destination, which makes it one of the best places to travel for college students or people traveling on a budget.

Spending a weekend in Budapest will give you the chance to visit the most famous Hungarian landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament, the Buda Castle, and the Fisherman’s Bastion, which is undoubtedly one of the most instagrammable places in Budapest .

If you have more time, it’s even better to spend at least 4 days in Budapest so you can get to experience more sides of the city. Whichever you choose, taking a walk along the Danube river and seeing the majestic buildings rising on both sides will be an unforgettable memory!

Summer is definitely the best time to visit Budapest when the weather is perfect for strolling around. However, it’s also the most crowded time of the year so if you would like to avoid the crowds, it’s better to visit in late spring or early autumn.

Winter is also an amazing time for visiting as the city is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and you can find many amazing Christmas markets in Budapest  as well. In case you’re planning to visit in the holiday season, check out these amazing festive things to do in Budapest in December !

7. Santorini, Greece

The whitewashed cliff-side towns, deep blue roofs, pink bougainvillea flowers, and the endless view of the shimmering Aegean Sea definitely make Santorini one of the most beautiful islands in Greece and it’s one of the best dream destinations that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime!

If you’re visiting Santorini for the first time , try to spend at least 3 days in Santorini to be able to properly explore the island. Oia is one of the most popular places to stay in Santorini and if you’re looking for that postcard-perfect view with the blue domes, you definitely need to put it on your Santorini itinerary.

You will find the best sunset spots in Santorini  in Oia along with some of the most instagrammable places in Santorini , so it’s certainly worth staying there at least one night.

Fira is another great place to stay as there are more options to choose from and it’s generally cheaper as well. Apart from Oia and Fira, make sure to visit the cute town of Imerovigli and the black sandy beach in Perissa, and it’s also worth going on a boat tour to see the sunset.

8. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The ancient city of Angkor Wat is considered the largest religious monument in the world and it has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992. The name Angkor Wat translates to Temple City and it feels quite fitting as the 400 square km area comprises more than 1000 temples.

The closest city to Angkor Wat is Siem Reap so if you want to stay close to the temples, it’s best to book accommodation in Siem Reap.

In order to visit Angkor Wat, you need to purchase an Angkor Pass. It can only be purchased at the official ticket center and you buy a 1-day pass for $ 37 US, a 3-day pass for $62 US, and a 7-day pass for $72 US.

If you’re visiting Angkor Wat for the first time, it’s recommended to purchase a 3-day pass to be able to properly explore the area. Apart from the world-famous Angkor Wat, the other temples like Ta Prohm, Bayon Temple, and Pre Rup are also worth visiting. Keep in mind that these are all religious sites so you need to dress accordingly (you need to cover your knees and shoulders).

9. Venice, Italy

Known for its hundreds of canals, gondolas, and footbridges, it’s no question that Venice is one of the best dream destinations in the world. Plan to spend at least 2 days in Venice if you want to visit the best spots and enjoy the delicious food and the super romantic vibe of the city.

As Venice has been built on more than 100 small islands, there are no roads in the city, hence no cars or motorbikes. The only form of public transportation is the Vaporetto boats that move on the Grand Canal of Venice and they can also take you to smaller islands like Burano, Murano, or Lido.

Taking a gondola ride is one of the best ways to see the city but be prepared to pay big bucks for that, as a 30-minute long gondola ride typically costs around €100 ($109 US).

If you love photography, you’re in for a real treat as you can find countless instagrammable spots in Venice , such as the St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, or the Scala Contarini del Bovolo.

10. Dubai, UAE

The futuristic city of Dubai with its majestic skyscrapers, beautiful parks, gorgeous flower installations, never-ending highways, and insanely beautiful views is definitely a place that needs to feature on your travel bucket list.

The scorching heat makes it impossible to enjoy Dubai in the summer so it’s best to visit either in late autumn, winter, or early spring to have the best weather for sightseeing.

Whether you are looking for a laid-back beach vacation or a holiday filled with adventure, you will definitely find it in Dubai. There are countless amazing things to do in the city so if you want to get the best of your holiday, it’s best to spend at least 4 days in Dubai .

The Burj Khalifa with its 830 meters (2,723 feet) height is currently the tallest building in the world. You can admire it from the ground but it’s worth going up to the top as well from where you can get an awesome view of the city.

Want to make your Dubai trip even more memorable? Then make sure to book one of the best hotels in Dubai with Burj Khalifa view !

Other great things to do in Dubai include visiting Dubai Miracle Garden, swimming at Jumeirah Beach, going on a Dubai desert safari tour , and seeing the Dubai Mall Aquarium. Dubai is also a paradise for photographers as you can find many amazing instagrammable places in Dubai .

You can take some amazing sunset photos at Dubai Creek Harbour, snap a picture with the Burj Khalifa at the Wings of Mexico statue or enjoy the beautiful sand dunes at the Dubai Desert.

11. Paris, France

Paris is not only one of the most beautiful cities in France but it’s also one of the most breathtaking dream destinations in the world. You can easily spend weeks there without getting bored but spending 4 days in Paris is a good start to discovering the best of the city.

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, seeing the famous Eiffel Tower must be on your itinerary. No pictures do justice to how incredible the Iron Lady is in real life!

If you want to take some amazing pictures with the Eiffel Tower, head over to Trocadero on the other side of the Seine River. This beautiful square offers an incredible view of the Eiffel Tower, no wonder it’s one of the most popular Instagram spots in Paris !

Paris is also home to many world-class museums and while many people decide to visit the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa, Musée d’Orsay and Musée Rodin are also worth exploring.

The best things to do in Paris include shopping on the Champs-Elysées, eating countless macarons and croissants, visiting the Sacré-Coeur, wandering through the cute streets of Montmartre, and seeing a show at the famous Moulin Rouge.

If you’re planning to stay longer or you have some extra time, it’s worth considering doing some day trips from Paris. Disneyland and the Palace of Versailles are usually the most popular choices but thanks to the amazing train system, you can easily reach Strasbourg, Metz, or even London within a few hours.

12. Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan, which was once the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful dream destinations you can ever visit.

Located in the Mandalay region of Myanmar, Bagan is mostly famous for its ancient temples and the hot air balloons flying above the temples during sunrise.

Bagan is an absolutely wonderful place to visit and no Myanmar itinerary is complete without spending at least 3 days in Bagan. The area was once home to more than 10,000 temples but unfortunately, a big chunk of them was destroyed during the centuries.

Don’t worry though, you can still find more than 3,800 temples scattered around Bagan that are waiting to be explored.

Temple hopping is definitely one of the best things to do in Bagan, especially at sunrise when you can admire the hot air balloons in the sky above the temples. If you’re interested, you can also go for a hot air balloon ride which is certainly an unforgettable experience.

Since Bagan covers a huge area, you either have to hire a driver with a tuk-tuk or if you want to explore the area by yourself, you can rent an electric scooter.

If you want to stay close to the temples, you can choose between 3 different places. Old Bagan is the closest one to the temples but you won’t find so many accommodation options there, mostly just luxury hotels.

New Bagan is a little bit further but it offers a wider range of accommodations. The last (and in my opinion the best) option is to stay in Nyaung-U, which is quite close to the temples and you can find amazing hotels and restaurants in the city.

13. Hallstatt, Austria

Located in the Salzkammergut area, the picturesque little town of Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria and a dream destination for anyone who loves fairytale villages.

The town is sitting on the shores of Lake Hallstatt at the foot of the Dachstein Mountains so the incredible scenery is guaranteed. Hallstatt is dotted with many beautiful Alpine-style houses and amazing cafes and restaurants tucked away in cute little alleyways.

The best things to do in Hallstatt include getting lost in the small streets of the old town, taking a stroll on the lakefront, renting a boat to see Hallstatt from the lake, and trying the most delicious Austrian treats in one of the cafes or restaurants.

If you’re looking for the best viewpoints in Hallstatt, there are two of them you need to visit. The first viewpoint called Aussichtpunkt Hallstatt is located right by the lake and offers a postcard-perfect view of the town.

The second one, the World Heritage Skywalk is located on top of the mountains where you can get a panoramic view over the entire town, the lake, and the surrounding mountains. The easiest option to get to the World Heritage Skywalk is to take the funicular but if you’re not afraid of a little workout, you can hike up as well.

Hallstatt is really popular among foreign tourists, therefore it’s insanely crowded during the summer. If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, try to visit in the shoulder season instead of summer.

Spending one day in Hallstatt is enough to explore the best places in town and if you don’t want to stay there, you can stay in Salzburg instead, from where you can reach Hallstatt within 1.5 hours.

It also fits nicely into any Austria road trip itinerary so there is absolutely no reason to skip this cute little town during your Austria adventures!

14. Bangkok, Thailand

The vibrant, chaotic city of Bangkok is the most popular starting point of any Thailand vacation or Southeast Asian adventure. While many people only have a short layover in the city and often have only 24 hours in Bangkok , it’s best to set aside some extra days for discovering all the beauty the city has to offer.

It’s worth spending at least  4 days in Bangkok  to be able to see the best places in the city and visit a few attractions around Bangkok as a day trip. From stunning temples like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, or Wat Arun, huge shopping malls like Siam Paragon or ICONSIAM to sprawling markets and countless amazing rooftop bars, Bangkok really has it all.

Bangkok is home to many unique markets, such as the Talad Rot Fai Night Market or the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is currently the biggest open-air market in the world.

You can also visit two of the most unique markets, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Maeklong Railway Market. These are located outside of Bangkok so you will need to have your own scooter or  book an organized tour  in order to get there.

If you want to make your stay in Bangkok even more memorable, make sure to check out these incredible Bangkok hotels with infinity pools !

15. Bavaria, Germany

Located in Southeast Germany, the region of Bavaria is mostly known for its fairytale castles, magical small towns, and incredible landscapes. Bavaria is easily the most beautiful region in Germany and doing a road trip through Bavaria has to be on the top of your Germany bucket list.

One of the most beautiful dream destinations in Bavaria is the Neuschwanstein Castle. Located in a small town called Hohenschwangau close to the German-Austrian border, Neuschwanstein Castle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful fairytale castles in Europe .

You can easily visit Neuschwanstein Castle as a day trip from Munich but it’s worth spending a few days nearby to be able to properly explore the area. You can find many amazing viewpoints at Neuschwanstein Castle and there are some well-established hiking trails in the area as well.

Another unmissable place to visit in Bavaria is Lake Eibsee. The lake is located at the foot of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, so it’s possible to visit both places on the same day. You can take a cog-wheel train or a cable car to the top of Zugspitze from where you can get an amazing panoramic view over the area.

If you’re looking for the best small towns in Germany, you can’t leave Bavaria without visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The town boasts many half-timbered buildings and cobbled lanes so walking through Rothenburg ob der Tauber definitely feels like being in a fairytale.

Berchtesgaden and Garmisch-Partenkirchen are also worth visiting, as well as Munich, the capital of Bavaria.

16. Hong Kong

The lively and vibrant city of Hong Kong is one of the must-see places in East Asia that you should add to your travel bucket list right away.

Located in the southern part of China, Hong Kong is actually a special administrative region of China with a high degree of autonomy. While you need to have a visa to visit China, luckily most nationalities can enter Hong Kong visa-free.

There is no shortage of beautiful green parks, bustling street markets, huge shopping malls, and world-class art exhibitions in Hong Kong, not to mention all the amazing restaurants and cafes you can find all over the city.

Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon area are the most popular places among visitors but it’s also worth taking a day trip to Lantau Island where you can visit the huge Tian Tan Buddha statue.

Hong Kong boasts many interesting sights to see, therefore it’s worth spending at least 2 days in Hong Kong to be able to see all the beauty the city has to offer.

Some of the best things to do in Hong Kong include riding the Star Ferry, strolling around Victoria Harbour, admiring the Monster Building, exploring the different neighborhoods, and shopping at Temple Street Night Market.

If you want to find one of the best viewpoints in the city, take the Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak from where you can get an amazing panoramic view over Hong Kong. Another great viewpoint is the Red Incense Burner Summit on top of Braemar Hill which also offers an incredible view of the Hong Kong skyline.

17. Jungfrau region, Switzerland

Although the whole country of Switzerland is absolutely wonderful if you only have limited time or you want to concentrate on only one region, make it the Jungfrau region.

Located south of the Swiss capital city, Bern, the Jungfrau region is actually a smaller part of Bernese Oberland and it’s mostly known for its diverse landscape consisting of beautiful alpine lakes, snowcapped mountains, amazing hiking trails, and fairytale small towns.

Interlaken is one of the largest towns in the area, located between two amazing lakes: Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. You will find plenty of things to do around Interlaken, such as going on a boat tour or taking the cable car up to Harder Kulm.

On top of that, Interlaken can also serve as the perfect base for discovering the area, or even as a base for a larger Switzerland road trip .

One of the main highlights of the region is Jungfraujoch, a 3,454 meters (11,330 ft) high mountain peak that was used as a filming location for one of the James Bond movies (On Her Majesty’s Secret Service). Although the view from the top is definitely fascinating, be prepared to pay big bucks for the experience as a return ticket starts from 195 CHF ($221 US).

Grindelwald is another unmissable sight in the Jungfrau region. You can take a cable car up to Grindelwald-First from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the nearby mountains. If you’re up for a little workout, you can do a 3 km (1.8 miles) hike to reach one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland, Bachalpsee.

When in the Jungfrau region, you can’t miss the picturesque fairytale town of Lauterbrunnen. Set in the Lauterbrunnen Valley featuring rocky cliffs and beautiful waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is one of the most beautiful dream destinations in the region and an absolute must-visit on every Switzerland itinerary.

18. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia is definitely a place that needs to feature on every Southeast Asia bucket list. Majestic skyscrapers, historical landmarks, colonial architecture, luxurious shopping malls, beautiful parks, friendly locals, and stylish cafes and restaurants – Kuala Lumpur really has it all.

While most tourists stick to the Golden Triangle – Kuala Lumpur’s main hub that comprises KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Chinatown – the city is actually pretty big and it offers numerous amazing sights to see.

It’s worth spending at least 3 days in Kuala Lumpur but even if you have one week to spend in the city, you will definitely not get bored.

The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the city’s skyline and they are certainly one of the most well-known landmarks and also one of the most Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur . The towers with their 452 meters (1,483 feet) height used to be the tallest twin towers in the world until 1996.

Visiting the Petronas Towers and admiring the beautiful view from the Observation Deck on the 86 th floor is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

If you love panoramic views, you can also visit the 421 meters (1,380 feet) tall KL Tower, otherwise known as Menara KL. Even if you have only one day in Kuala Lumpur , it’s worth visiting the colorful stairs at Batu Caves, a 400 million-year-old limestone cave with a 100-year-old temple.

Other great things to do in Kuala Lumpur include visiting the Perdana Botanical Gardens, taking a stroll in KLCC Park, getting lost in Chinatown, grabbing a meal on Jalan Alor, and taking a day trip to the Cameron Highlands.

19. Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is mostly known for its vibrant nightlife and great bars so it’s undoubtedly a perfect destination for traveling with friends or as a couple, but it can be a great place for a family vacation as well thanks to its laidback vibes.

Like most of the islands in Greece, Mykonos is also well connected to the other islands and Athens by ferry, but since it has its own airport it’s easily accessible by plane as well.

If you’re visiting Mykonos for the first time, it’s best to stay in Mykonos Town which is the liveliest part of the island. You will find the most instagrammable places in Mykonos there, along with many amazing cafes and restaurants.

Windmills are one of the icons of the island, you can find 5 of them lining up next to each other near Little Venice in Mykonos Town. It’s also one of the most popular sunset spots in Mykonos so it’s worth going there in the evening to see the breathtaking sunset colors.

There are many public buses running between Mykonos Town and the most popular beaches so it’s quite easy to get around the island. You can also rent a car or an ATV so you will be free to go around at your own pace.

Spending 3 days in Mykonos is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights of the island but if you’re looking for a more relaxing holiday and planning to spend more time at the beaches, you can easily spend one week in Mykonos as well.

20. Lake Bled, Slovenia

The fairytale-looking Lake Bled with its small island in the middle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful dream destinations to visit in Europe. Surrounded by the snowcapped Julian Alps, the emerald-green Lake Bled is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a family vacation as well.

Lake Bled is one of the most popular day trips from Ljubljana – the capital city of Slovenia – but since it offers countless amazing activities, it’s best to spend at least 2 days at Lake Bled.

Walking around the lake is definitely one of the best ways to explore the area. The lake is quite small so you can easily complete the whole lake circuit in just 1-2 hours.

If you’re up for a little workout, you can climb up to Mala Osojnica, which is one of the best viewpoints at Lake Bled and it offers an incredible panoramic view over the lake and the whole area. The hike can be completed in 45-60 minutes and it’s a fairly easy one, although wearing proper hiking shoes is highly recommended.

Sitting on top of a steep cliff, 130 meters (425 feet) above Lake Bled, Bled Castle is another unmissable sight in Bled. It’s said to be the oldest castle in the country and it’s currently one of the most popular tourist attractions in Slovenia.

When in Bled, you can’t miss renting a boat or kayaking on the lake, and if the weather permits, you can also swim in the crystal clear waters.

21. Rome, Italy

Rome is one of the most popular travel bucket list destinations, for a good reason! The Italian capital is just simply stunning and it’s definitely not to be missed when planning a trip to Italy.

Rome is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and you can easily spend weeks exploring all the beauty the city has to offer. Although it’s possible to see the major landmarks of Rome in a day , it’s best to spend at least 3 days in Rome to be able to fully explore the city.

And of course, to try as many amazing Italian foods as you can!

Some of the best things to do in Rome include strolling up the Spanish Steps, admiring the Trevi Fountain, visiting Forum Romanum and the Colosseum, exploring Castel Sant’Angelo, wandering around the Trastevere neighborhood, and climbing up to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica from where you can get an incredible panoramic view over the city.

If you’re a first-time visitor in Rome, it’s best to stay in Centro Storico which is definitely one of the best areas to stay in Rome if you want to explore the classic highlights or find the best Instagram spots in Rome .

Other great areas to stay in include Esquilino, Trastevere, and Monti. Monti is the home of the Colosseum so you’ll find many amazing hotels with views of the Colosseum in this area.

22. Siquijor, Philippines

Although the small, charming island of Siquijor is located quite close to the southern coast of Cebu and Bohol, it’s not so popular among tourists which makes it one of the best islands in the Philippines if you want to escape the crowds.

It takes only 1.5 hours to reach Siquijor from Bohol by ferry so it’s worth combining a trip to both islands.

Pristine beaches, dramatic waterfalls, beautiful corals, and friendly locals are just a few of the many highlights Siquijor has to offer. Cliff diving in Salagdoong Beach is one of the most popular things to do on the island, where you can jump from a 10-meter (33 ft) high cliff into the crystal clear water.

If you’re looking for the most beautiful beach in Siquijor, head over to the white sandy Paliton Beach which is also one of the best sunset spots on the island.

Another must-visit is Cambugahay Falls – a three-tiered waterfall offering many pools to swim in and ropes and swings to let your inner child out.

It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places on the island but since it’s also one of the most popular tourist spots in Siquijor , it can get quite crowded during the day. It’s better to get there early to have the place all to yourself!

Since Siquijor is quite small, you will only need 2 full days in Siquijor to explore the best places on the island but if you’re looking for a laid-back, relaxing holiday, you can easily spend up to one week on the island.

The best option for getting around is to rent a scooter but tricycles, private drivers, and organized tours are also available. Most of the tourist spots are located on the southern coast so it’s best to book a hotel in this part of the island.

23. Golden Circle, Iceland

Although Iceland is one of the best dream destinations in the world in itself and it’s worth spending at least a week in Iceland, if you’re short on time then you can concentrate on one of the most popular sightseeing routes in Iceland, the Golden Circle.

The Golden Circle consists of three unique and beautiful sights: the Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

All three sights are relatively close to Reykjavik – the capital city of Iceland – so it’s possible to visit all of them in just one day. The whole route is just under 230 km (140 miles) in length so you can complete it in 3 hours but you will need a full day if you want to enjoy the attractions as well.

You can find countless tours operating on the Golden Circle route but if you rent a car, it’s possible to do the tour by yourself as well.

Start your Golden Circle route by visiting Thingvellir National Park first. Thingvellir was the first parliament of Iceland (and the world’s first parliament as well) and the national park is also famous for being the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

The next stop is usually the Geysir Geothermal Area, where you can find beautiful volcanic landscapes, and the Strokkur Geysir, which erupts every 6-10 minutes. The last stop in the Golden Circle route is Gullfoss waterfall which is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.

It’s worth taking a detour on the way back from Gullfoss waterfall and seeing Kerið crater as well. If you have more time in Iceland, make sure to spend some time in Reykjavik as well and you can also visit the famous Blue Lagoon, located only 45 minutes away from Reykjavik.

24. London, United Kingdom

London is one of the most iconic and well-known cities in Europe, attracting millions of tourists every year. Home to the British royal family and many historical landmarks, London is definitely a city that needs to be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Seeing Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament is a must when visiting London, and no London bucket list is complete without admiring the Tower Bridge and taking a ride on the London Eye.

Apart from the historical landmarks, there are many unique things to do in London. If you’re a Harry Potter fan you definitely need to go for a  Warner Bro’s Studio Tour  where you can explore the wonders of the Wizarding World.

You can also visit the Madame Tussauds wax museum and the London Dungeon or watch a musical at one of the famous theatres in London. Don’t forget to try an authentic English breakfast and fish and chips while you’re in the city!

Spending a weekend in London is a good start but if you want to properly explore the city, you will need to stay for at least 5 days in the city. If you’re planning to do a few day trips from London, you can stay even longer!

25. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Although Dubai mostly outshines Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates is still one of the top dream destinations in the world and it’s very well worth visiting.

Most people only spend one day in Abu Dhabi , either as a layover or as a day trip from Dubai. However, if you have more time, it’s better to spend 2-3 days in the city as it has lots of amazing things to offer.

One of the highlights of Abu Dhabi is the fairytale-looking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the entire world and it also offers some of the best photography spots in Abu Dhabi .

Visiting the Mosque is free but there is a really strict dress code. As a woman, you need to wear an abaya they gave you at the entrance which has to cover your whole body and your hair as well. The dress code is not that strict for men but they still need to cover their arms and knees.

Another must-see place in Abu Dhabi is the Qasr al Watan Palace. It’s a fairly new landmark (opened in March 2019) inside the Presidential Palace and it looks absolutely incredible both from the outside and inside as well.

Most people don’t know that, but you can actually find a Louvre in Abu Dhabi as well. It’s significantly smaller than the one in Paris but if you love museums, you will definitely enjoy it. If you have more time in Abu Dhabi, you can take a desert tour, visit the Ferrari World or enjoy one of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi as well.

26. Florence, Italy

If you love art and culture, you definitely need to put Florence on the top of your travel bucket list. Being the birthplace of the Renaissance, the capital of Tuscany boasts many interesting museums such as the Uffizi Gallery where you can see Botticelli’s Birth of Venus or the Galleria dell’Accademia which is home to Michelangelo’s famous David statue.

It’s recommended to spend at least 2 days in Florence to be able to discover all the beauty the city has to offer. Florence can also serve as a base for your Tuscany road trip as it’s easy to visit the highlights of Tuscany from the city and it also offers countless day trip opportunities.

Apart from the countless museums, visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, otherwise known as the Duomo di Firenze is a must. Other great things to do in Florence include crossing Ponte Vecchio, strolling around Mercato San Lorenzo (the famous outdoor leather market), and visiting the Basilica of Santa Croce.

If you’re looking for the best viewpoint in Florence, head over to Piazzale Michelangelo where you can admire an amazing sunset over the city.

27. Singapore

The vibrant, futuristic city of Singapore is one of the biggest hubs in Southeast Asia and it’s also one of the most beautiful dream destinations in the world.

Singapore is a totally walkable city and all the main sights are relatively close to each other so it’s easy to see all the best spots in just one day in Singapore . This is also good news for budget travelers as Singapore is quite expensive!

The Supertree Grove is the most iconic spot in Singapore and you definitely have to include it in your Singapore itinerary. These Supertrees are actually not trees – they are made of concrete and steel and they work like a vertical garden, giving a home to more than 158,000 plants.

Walking amongst them feels like you are in another world!

The Supertrees look really amazing in the daylight as well but the real magic comes when the night falls. The trees are performing a magnificent music and light show which is an absolutely magical experience to witness.

Another great show to see in Singapore is the Spectra, which is a light and water show performed by many dancing fountains and colorful visual projections.

Singapore has so many unique things to offer that it’s impossible to get bored in the city. You can visit the world’s largest indoor waterfall in the Cloud Forest, enjoy the beautiful tropical plants in the Flower Dome, take a stroll around Chinatown or see the iconic Merlion statue in Merlion Park.

28. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Often referred to as the Venice of the North due to its hundreds of canals, Amsterdam has a truly unique vibe and it’s undoubtedly one of the best bucket list destinations to visit in Europe.

The city is mostly known for the Red Light District and the world-famous coffee shops (aka weed shops) but it has many more amazing things to offer.

You can find many great art museums in Amsterdam like the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum and if you’re interested in Jewish history you can visit the Anne Frank House as well. For the best panoramic views, head over to A’DAM Tower where you can also try Europe’s highest swing on the observation deck.

Going on a canal tour is certainly one of the best ways to see the city and if you want to learn more about its history, you can join a free walking tour as well.

Spending 2 days in Amsterdam is enough to cover the main tourist spots but if you have more time in the city, rent a bike and take a day trip to the nearby Zaanse Schans windmills  as well! It’s worth scheduling your visit in spring to see the tulip fields in full bloom and enjoy the mild weather in Amsterdam.

29. Chiang Rai, Thailand

The small town of Chiang Rai is often overlooked by tourists, however, it’s definitely one the best places to visit in Thailand and a real dream destination for those who love visiting unique temples. Located close to the borders of Laos and Myanmar, Chiang Rai is home to some of the most unique temples you can find in Thailand.

Wat Rong Khun, or otherwise known as the White Temple is the most famous one with its fully white and majestic design. It’s actually no longer a temple but a privately owned art exhibit. The White Temple is filled with Buddhist symbolism and the white color represents the purity of Buddha.

Besides the White Temple, you also can visit the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) which is a relatively new attraction since it’s only been finished in 2016. The deep blue colors against the shiny golden details create a very unique atmosphere and since the temple is free to visit it’s definitely worth including it in your Chiang Rai itinerary .

If you have more than one day in Chiang Rai, you should go up to the nearby hill to visit the Huay Pla Kung Temple. The temple is mostly known for the huge statue sitting on top of the hill which is often mistakenly referred to as the Big Buddha, but it actually represents the goddess of Mercy.

The stairway leading up to the statue is guarded by beautifully designed, white dragon statues and once you are up there, you will have the most amazing view over the city.

30. Cinque Terre, Italy

If you love colorful small towns, Cinque Terre is definitely one of the top dream destinations you need to visit on your next trip to Italy. Cinque Terre (which means ‘Five Lands’ in English) comprises five small villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

Located on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, these five small fishing villages are known for their colorful little houses, incredible vineyards, beautiful harbors filled with fishing boats, and amazing restaurants selling delicious seafood.

You can spend a few days in each village if you want to properly discover them but even if you have one day in Cinque Terre , it’s still possible to see them all.

You can find many amazing Airbnbs in Cinque Terre and if you’re on a budget, La Spezia is one of the best places to stay in Cinque Terre .

Cinque Terre is closed to car traffic but don’t worry, you have countless other options for visiting the small villages. The easiest option is to take a train which connects the five villages with La Spezia and Levanto, a one-day ticket costs €18.20 ($19.80 US).

You can also decide to hike between the villages, in this case, you only need to purchase a Cinque Terre Trekking Card which costs €7.50 ($8.20 US) for one day. In the summer months, it’s also possible to get to the villages by boat but they don’t run as frequently as the train does.

31. Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Located in the southern part of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Mostar is mostly known for its iconic Stari Most, otherwise known as Old Bridge. The bridge is not only beautiful to look at but if you’re up for an adrenaline rush, you can also jump off from the 24-meter (almost 80 ft) tall bridge.

As Mostar can easily be visited in one day, many tourists are only going there as a day trip from Dubrovnik or Split. However, it’s worth spending at least one night in the city to experience its charming vibes and soak in the beautiful views.

Mostar can be extremely crowded during the day (especially in the summer months) but if you are staying the night you can explore the city the next morning in a much calmer way.

Some of the best things to do in Mostar include visiting the Old Bridge Museum, shopping in the Old Bazaar, and climbing up to the top of Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque which offers an amazing panoramic view.

Mostar also boosts many amazing restaurants – many with an amazing view of the Old Bridge – where you can try some of the best dishes from the Balkans such as cevapi or burek.

32. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Lying on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is definitely one of the best dream destinations in Europe.

Often referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, this charming city has recently become quite famous among visitors as it was the main filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Even if you haven’t seen a single episode, you need to put this city on your travel bucket list right away!

The city is quite small so spending 3 days in Dubrovnik is enough to discover the best places but if you’re looking for a more relaxed holiday, you can easily spend up to one week in the city. Even if you have only one day in Dubrovnik you need to go up to the city walls – the view is just incredible from up there!

If you have more time, you can take a ferry ride or a kayak tour to the nearby Lokrum island , go for a Game of Thrones walking tour , relax at the beautiful beaches or take a day trip to Kotor (Montenegro) or Mostar (Bosnia-Herzegovina).

On a clear day, it’s also worth riding the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ from where you can get an incredible panoramic view over the city.

33. Prague, Czech Republic

Known for its rich architectural heritage and beautiful old town, the city of Prague has become a popular tourist hotspot in Europe over the last few years. The historical center of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exploring the charming little streets in the Old Town is a really unique experience.

Walking across the charming Charles Bridge is one of the best things to do in Prague and if you’re traveling with your significant other, you can also put up a lock on the Love Lock Bridge.

Other great things to do in Prague include taking a walking tour in the Jewish Quarter , admiring the unique Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square,  visiting the Prague Castle , and trying the delicious Czech cuisine.

The Czech Republic is also famous for its world-class beers so if you’re a beer lover you can go for a beer tour or visit the Prague Beer Museum as well. Prague is one of the best weekend getaways in Europe but you can easily spend more time in Prague without ever getting bored.

Located in the heart of the French Riviera, the micro-state of Monaco definitely belongs to the best places to visit once in a lifetime. One day in Monaco gives you plenty of time to explore the country but if you plan to stay longer, there is no shortage of amazing hotels and apartments in (or very close to) Monaco.

If you’re short on time, you can also visit Monaco as a day trip from Nice but if you can stay longer, it also fits nicely into a French Riviera road trip .

When thinking about Monaco, the casino of Monte-Carlo is often the first one that comes to mind. Even if you’re not into gambling, seeing the beautiful building of the casino will surely leave you speechless. Not to mention all the fancy and expensive cars parking in front of it!

Taking a walk around Port Hercules and admiring the gorgeous yachts is another unmissable thing to do in Monaco. After that, head over to ‘The Rock’ – the oldest part of Monaco where you will find plenty of cute pastel-colored houses.

You will get the best views of the marina from there and you can also check out the Prince’s Palace and the Saint Nicholas Cathedral.

35. Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, the fourth smallest country in Europe is a must-visit for anyone who loves alpine landscapes and beautiful medieval castles. Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein covers only 160 km 2  which makes it possible to see all the best places in the country even if you have only one day in Liechtenstein .

Vaduz, the capital city of Liechtenstein is certainly the most popular place to visit in the country. It offers many great sights to see, such as Vaduz Castle, the Kunstmuseum, or the Vaduz Cathedral.

You can find some cute cafes and restaurants in the city so you can easily spend half a day in Vaduz and if you’re interested, you can also get a stamp on your passport at the tourism office.

Apart from Vaduz, it’s worth visiting the mountain town of Triesenberg, the cute little town of Balzers with its majestic castle and the beautiful lake of Stausee Steg.

Although you can visit Liechtenstein as a day trip from either Switzerland or Austria, it’s worth staying there longer, especially if you’re planning to do a few hikes.

36. Barcelona, Spain

Nestled between the beautiful mountains and the inviting coastline, Barcelona is definitely one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe. The capital of Catalonia is mostly known for the famous La Sagrada Familia and the many colorful and breathtaking works of Antonio Gaudi across the city.

Starting from the gorgeous architecture to the most amazing local food, there are just so many things to love about Barcelona!

Although you can see almost all the must-see spots in just 24 hours in Barcelona, it’s worth spending at least 3 days in the city to truly experience its unique vibe.

Walking through the Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter, admiring the unique architecture of the La Sagrada Familia, visiting Casa Batlló and Casa Mila, and seeing the sunset in the Park Güell are some of the best things to do in Barcelona you can’t miss.

If you have more time in the city, you can go up to Mount Tibidabo where you can spend a fun day in the amusement park and have an amazing panoramic view over Barcelona.

Since Barcelona is really popular among tourists, it usually gets very crowded during the summer. If you want to visit without the crowds, try to plan a trip to Barcelona in the off-season.

37. Kotor, Montenegro

If you’re looking for a beautiful and affordable hidden gem in Europe, you need to put Kotor on your travel bucket list. Located in gorgeous scenery right next to the Adriatic Bay and the limestone cliffs of Mount Lovcen, Kotor is not only a dream destination to visit but it can also serve as a great base for discovering all the beauty Montenegro has to offer.

The Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Old Town, the fortifications, and the bay. Inside the city walls, you will find a maze of cobbled streets with many stone houses and piazzas.

If you’re not afraid of a little workout, you can climb up the 1,350 steps to the Castle of San Giovanni where you can have an amazing panoramic view over the city, the bay, and the mountains. Taking a boat tour and visiting the Lady of the Rocks on an artificial island is another great thing to do in Kotor.

If you want to properly explore the city, you should spend at least 2 days in Kotor but if you’re planning to use it as a base to discover the rest of the country, you can easily stay up to one week.

Some great places to visit close to Kotor are Tivat, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and the Lovcen National Park and it’s also possible to take a day trip to Dubrovnik as well.

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6 thoughts on “37 Dream Destinations to Add to Your 2024 Travel Bucket List”

wow this awoke my wanderlust! wish to visit all these places once in my lifetime 🙂

I hope you will get to see a lot of these dream destinations in the near future! Can’t wait to travel again!

very nice website.

I was expecting to see a few African destinations such as Cape Town or Zanzibar. Much to my disappointment..

Unfortunately, I haven’t been to Africa yet and since I only featured destinations where I’ve actually been to, I couldn’t include anything from Africa. Hoping to change that one day though!

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15 Dream Travel Destinations to Visit Before You Die

Looking for dream travel destinations to fuel your wanderlust? Look no further!

As an avid traveller and travel blogger, it’s probably no surprise that I have a list of dream travel destinations as long as my arm.

I’m always dreaming of travel and all the places I want to visit – or re-visit.

My bucket list is already fairly lengthy, but continues to grow every year as I discover more adventures to add.

This list of dream destinations is my personal list, but be warned: I think you’ll get a healthy dose of wanderlust, too.

From well-trodden countries to off-the-beaten-path destinations, cities to beaches, here’s my list of dream travel destinations that I want to visit at least once in my life.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

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My dream travel destinations

1. australia.

After being an expat for 8 years, exploring my own country is right at the top of my list.

There are so many things to do in Australia , and upon returning home to Melbourne I realised how little of my own country I’ve seen.

I’ve fixed that somewhat, with a visit to Uluru , a hike in Tasmania and a 3.5 month road trip around half the country – through South Australia, stopping in quirky towns like Coober Pedy , up through the Northern Territory , through the Kimberley , and all the way down the Western Australia coast .

Of course, there’s so much more I still need and want to do – an East Coast Australia road trip from Melbourne to Sydney. Drive all the way up to the Cape of York . Hike Western Australia’s Cape to Cape trail. Another trip along the incredible Great Ocean Road .

READ NEXT: An epic Adelaide to Darwin road trip

Spain is my spirit country. I feel so alive when I’m there and so comfortable. This is always one of my dream travel destinations, and a place I’m so happy to return to each time.

Our incredible southern Spain road trip a few years ago took us through the beautiful Andalucia region . I could easily live in Seville , and eat all the tapas and become gorda .

I’ve been to Barcelona and Madrid, but next time I return to Spain, I would relish the chance to get out into the countryside, especially in the north of the country. I’d love to return to San Sebastián and eat all the delicious pintxos , or try more wine in La Rioja . I’ve heard incredible things about the Asturias region, and all of the coast of Spain looks spectacular.

Also on my bucket list is completing the Camino de Santiago , the famous pilgrimage route.

READ NEXT: How to spend the perfect 2 days in Granada

My husband and I were supposed to visit Italy for our 5 th wedding anniversary in 2019. But because we went on a 5-month road trip around the USA that year, we decided to postpone it until 2020. Obviously, that never happened!

Why do I want to go Italy? I don’t think I really need to explain why it’s one of my bucket list destinations. Italy has so much to offer, but for me, number one is the food . Sitting in a café devouring handmade pasta, or feasting on fresh seafood in an oceanside village or eating all the street food in Naples sounds pretty idyllic.

I would love to visit some lesser touristed places , like Puglia, Sicily or Umbria. But I also want to explore the churches in Rome and more popular spots!

In the meantime, I’ll be satisfied with the pizza that our Italian neighbour hands over the fence and fresh pasta delivered from Melbourne’s abundance of Italian restaurants.

4. Papua New Guinea

I was lucky enough to live in one of the most fascinating countries on the planet, Papua New Guinea (PNG). Papua New Guinea is the most linguistically diverse country in the world, with more than 800 languages spoken. It has mind-blowing festivals that are a riot of colour, song and dance.

From stunning beaches and islands (with few other tourists), to the challenging Kokoda Track hike , to incredible birds and wildlife, Papua New Guinea offers some pretty awesome adventures that are – dare I say it – off the beaten path.

While I’ve done many of the best things to do in PNG , I am still desperate to visit the Ambunti Crocodile Festival , which celebrates the importance of the crocodile to the people around the Sepik River.

I also desperately want to go back to Kavieng and stay in one of the overwater bungalows at Nusa Island Retreat , or maybe even bike the whole way up the island of New Ireland.

If your jam is finding bucket list adventures , you’ll discover quite a few in PNG.

READ NEXT: 20 things to know before you visit Papua New Guinea

5. New Zealand

For all the fun we Aussies make of our neighbours “across the ditch” and the number of their celebrities that we claim as our own, there’s one thing we can all agree on: New Zealand is unimaginably beautiful .

Our second-closest neighbour (after PNG) is practically an extension of Australia (with a funnier accent), and the Trans-Tasman hop barely feels like you’re “going overseas”.

While I’ve been to New Zealand many times, it’s usually been quick trips to cities for work. In the future, I imagine hiring a campervan and taking a lazy few weeks to cruise around the country, visiting friends, tasting delicious wines and fresh food, and enjoying the splendour of New Zealand’s outdoors .

I’ve been to Mexico so many times – like Spain, it’s one of those countries I could easily live in.

For years, however, I’ve never been able to make the timing work so that we could visit during Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which celebrates life and death. This experience is high on my bucket list.

One of my favourite cities in the whole world is Oaxaca , and I’d love to return there (and again, live there!).

Another favourite city is Mexico City , and if you’ve never been there, you’re really missing out. The food , the architecture, the history all make a visit to Mexico City memorable.

And don’t believe everything you hear – Mexico is actually quite safe to visit.

READ NEXT: What to know before you visit Oaxaca

7. Scotland

My husband’s grandfather was from Scotland, and I’ve always thought it would be wonderful to visit the country of his heritage.

While I’d prefer better weather, the rugged landscape , castles, whisky and cosmopolitan cities would make for an entertaining few weeks of road tripping.

When we were last in Spain we actually met a couple of Scots who told us about Burns Night and Hogmanay . Scots strike me as people who love to have a good time , so I can only imagine the wild fun of celebrating these events with them!

8. The Amazon

Sailing down the Amazon River has always been one of my bucket list adventures. I imagine sleeping on the deck of the boat in a hammock, lazily whiling away the days reading books and playing card games, spotting birds on the shore and pink dolphins in the water.

Who knows if that’s actually what it’d end up being like, but it still remains on my bucket list.

I’ve always wanted to visit the Brazilian Amazon , and sail from Manaus to Belem, but I’ve also read about amazing experiences visiting the Amazon from Peru, Colombia, Bolivia or Ecuador (all of which are also dream travel destinations of mine!).

READ NEXT: The best places to visit in Brazil

Before the pandemic hit, Iran had just started to become a hot spot for tourism . It seemed like everyone and their mother were visiting this Middle Eastern country.

The food, the hospitality , the surprising sophistication all intrigue me.

Unfortunately, Iran doesn’t have the most amazing reputation at the moment, so it may be some time before I can visit.

My first – and only – experience of Peru was a few days in Cusco followed by the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu . It was just a taster of a country that has been calling me ever since.

If you haven’t caught on yet, food is usually what draws me to a country, and with Peru it’s no different. I adore Peruvian food , and if I’m ever visiting a city and I see a Peruvian restaurant, I’ll be there straight away. I also make a pretty mean Pisco Sour if I do say so myself.

The next time we go to Peru, I plan to head to some of the lesser-visited ruins like Chan Chan or Choquequirao, fly over the Nazca Lines, explore historic Arequipa, and spend some time by the beach .

READ NEXT: The ultimate Salkantay Trek packing list

11. Colombia

I’m sad that we never visited Colombia while we lived in Argentina or the United States. We always talked about it but just never got there.

This South American country is stripping off its dangerous reputation, and visitors have been streaming in to discover its beautiful beaches , lush mountain villages and colourful culture .

A hike that’s been on my radar is the Ciudad Perdida trek . This hike is only 44 kilometres long, but the mountainous jungle terrain means it take 4 to 6 days to complete. The reward is arriving at the “Lost City”, ancient ruins buried deep in the interior.

Plus, every Colombian I’ve ever met speaks such clear Spanish, so this dream travel destination is also a great place to learn or practice Spanish.

12. Malaysia

For Aussies, the first overseas destinations we head to are usually in Asia. Because we’re at the bottom of the world, it’s the closest continent for us to reach – and even if it were harder to get to, we’d still make the effort.

The variety of food, the breadth of cultures, the amazing beaches – Asia does have it all .

One country I’ve only spent a bit of time in and would like to go back to is Malaysia. I’ve visited the capital, Kuala Lumpur, for a few days, but it’s other areas of the country that are drawing me back. Penang for its food (indeed, all of Malaysia for food…), the Perhentian Islands or Langkawi for beaches, and Mt Kinabalu for active views.

There are also so many other places I want to visit or re-visit in Asia : Thailand, Laos, Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam… the list is endless.

I remember once reading an article about a road trip through Oman , and it sounded like such an adventure.

This small Middle Eastern country is quite surprising. It has lovely cities, ancient sites, expansive rust-coloured deserts, and turquoise-coloured waters backed by jagged beaches.

Like other Middle Eastern countries, I expect that it’s filled with amazing food and warm hospitality, too.

14. Argentina

I lived in Buenos Aires , the capital of Argentina, for almost two years and I’m dying to return.

The 8 th largest country in the world has so much to offer: a beautiful capital city reminiscent of Europe, an expansive north that’s perfect for road tripping , incredible wine , the vast Patagonia wilderness and friendly people always up for a good time.

I’ve previously written a blog post about how to spend two weeks in Argentina that barely scratches the surface of everything that’s wonderful about the country.

I would love to go back soon to visit Argentina and explore some areas that I didn’t get to, like the Iberá Wetlands – as well as rediscover my favourite parts. Consider putting it on your list of dream travel destinations, too.

READ NEXT: The best things to do in Argentina

15. Ethiopia

A country that sounds so fascinating – and one that’s also become a bit of a hot spot in recent years – is Ethiopia.

The ancient traditions , churches carved out of rock, tribes of the Omo Valley and fiery Danakil Depression have put this intriguing country on my wish list.

With a visit to Ethiopia, I could also tie in a return trip to East Africa with my husband, given we’ll be in the area. I’d love to take a road trip around Uganda , and climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania or Mount Kenya in Kenya . And I’d definitely end the trip with a few days on the beach in Zanzibar again.

READ NEXT: 9 reasons to hire a private guide while on safari in East Africa

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Now it’s your turn! What dream travel destinations are on your wish list? Let me know in the comments below.

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these articles:

• How to Plan a Trip: 15 Easy Steps to the Perfect Travel Itinerary
• 11 Ways to Travel More With a Full Time Job (+ Downloadable Vacation Planner!)
• Carry-On Essentials: How to Survive a Long-Haul Flight in (+ Downloadable Packing List)

BOOKING A TRIP SOON? HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL LINKS

• Book your flight online with Skyscanner – it’s where I always start my flight research.
• Find a great hotel on Booking.com .
• Need a rental car? Compare prices and vehicles on DiscoverCars .
• Omio is a great site for booking buses, trains and ferries across Europe.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout major cities and countries on GetYourGuide , Klook or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance . Travel Insurance Master  allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while  SafetyWing  is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
• Stuff I always pack? A reusable water bottle , packing cubes and a handy electronics organiser .

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

8 thoughts on “15 Dream Travel Destinations to Visit Before You Die”

Regarding less touristy Italy I strongly recommend Lecce in Puglia and Procida Island off Naples. Lecce is very pretty and the surrounding countryside is worth a drive. Procida is a lovely fishing village with very few tourists when I visited although this may have changed now that it has been voted the cultural capital of Italy for 2022. I would like to forward photos but can’t do that under the circumstances but have a look online and you will see why I liked them so much.

Oh thank you so much Kevin!! I’ll definitely add these to my list. I can’t wait to get to Italy when I can.

Many of the countries you mention here are also on my wishlist. Oman, New Zealand, Peru, Ethiopia, Colombia, Spain, Italy, Iran, and… Papua New Guinea — oh how much I want to see Indonesia’s neighbor to the east! I think when the pandemic is over (or at least under control), overseas travel will be limited by region, before global travel begins in earnest again. So, realistically Southeast Asia might be where I will go in a post-pandemic world.

Agree… but at least there are so many incredible places to visit in SE Asia so you are spoilt for choice! Hopefully I’ll also be able to get over that way soon too!

Omggg! I know what you mean… I am dreaming up so many new vacation ideas. Many new Pinterest boards (lol). We travel for food too, and really want to go to Italy, Spain, and Peru for that reason. Kudos for visiting so many places!

Yes, the food is always the drawcard for me!! And you always make such delicious food. Where else is on your list?

I’m dreaming of travelling again too Bec. Big sigh. Top of my bucket list is the Sepik and, like you, I also wanted to tie it in with the Ambunti Croc Festival this year. Now that looks to be out, but I’m determined to get to the Sepik at some stage before I leave PNG… if that ever happens 🙂 Thanks for this article – some places on there I hadn’t even considered. Sending love to you and yours xx

Ohhh we need to do the festival together then!!

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27 Unforgettable Dream Destinations That You Need To Add To Your Bucket list

There is nothing that brings me more joy than travelling ( hence why I went into travel blogging LOL) and because of that I have a list of dream destinations that I want to visit! 

Slowly but surely I am trying to check these off and I know there are soo many other countries that still need to be done but through all my travels, these dream destinations are ones I couldn’t recommend more. If you are looking to make a dream destinations travel list- take a look at my favourite 23 places below to add to yours!

27 Dream Destinations That You Need To Travel To:

#1. maldives.

I am starting this dream destinations list of with my favourite place in the world. Literally.

Out of all the places I have travelled, nothing quite took my breathe away more than the Maldives. It is like living in an actual screen saver and is a true slice of heaven in every sense of the word.

I would recommend staying at Gili Lankanfushi ( ranked one of the best hotels in the entire world several years in a row by Trip Advisor) if you do make this bucket list dream destination come to life!

The Maldives is made up of tons and tons of islands and each hotel essentially owns their own island or atoll ( as they officially call them) so it is super remote and exotic. It has the whitest sand and the clearest waters and you really just can’t beat the overwater bungalows that most of the resorts feature. It’s a total dream.

This is probably one of the most well known dream destinations in the world and for good reason.

Check out some dream destination hotels and guides below:

• Maldives Vs French Polynesia: Which one is for you?
• Gili Lankanfushi: Ranked the #1 Hotel in the world by Trip Advisor
• Antigua and Barbuda: Luxury in the Caribbean
• 5 Star Hotel in Turks and Caicos: Wymara Villas
• The Iconic Fairmont Lake Louise: Review
• Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship: One of the most glam ships on the waters!

#2. Lake Louise, Alberta

Of course I need to include my home country of Canada in this dream destinations list and it’s not just because I am biased! There are so many places in Canada that people travel to from all over the world but as a Canadian, I can confidently say that Lake Louise, Alberta is truly remarkable and one of the most unique lakes you will ever lay eyes on. The shade of turquoise is so bright that it almost looks like it’s photoshopped in some photos.

I found myself rubbing my eyes because I was truly in disbelief of the beauty in front of me.

What I love about Lake Louise is that it’s one of those dream destinations that also allows for some adventure. You are not just sitting on a beach and reading. If you like to explore and sight see a bit, there are so many amazing hikes in the area.

You can even kayak on the lake itself! Or if you visit in the winter, you can skate

Whatever you do, you need to stay or at least visit the iconic Fairmont Lake Louise that sits right at the foot of it. It is honestly a dream destination in itself!

#3. Kauai, Hawaii

Arriving in Kauai, Hawaii makes you feel like you have arrived at a spot where Heaven got it’s inspiration from. It’s simply out of this world.

The Na Pali coast ( pictured above) is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes and truly one of the most beautiful places on earth. You can hike the Na Pali Coast or sail through the waters to see it ( we did both) and I can confirm it was the most stunning thing I have laid eyes on.

I have been to Maui and Oahu and I personally feel they don’t even compare at all to Kauai!

#3. Moorea, French Polynesia

Ahh French Polynesia- another absolute favourite of mine.

While most travelers flock to Bora Bora, I prefer Moorea and for good reason. It has the right mix of luxury, culture, beauty and allows you to really take in the entire island overall.

Moorea, French Polynesia is a close 2nd to the Maldives in terms of my own personal dream destinations preference.

If you decide on French Polynesia, most people decide to visit a few of the islands and a pretty standard route is Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea.

#4. Key West Florida

You might be thinking…Florida? One of the best dream destinations? Really?

But honestly, Key West, Florida is one of the most unique and special places I have visited. With the comforts of the North American way of life but with water colours as blue as can be, it is a place that must be experienced at least once in your life.

I recommend starting a road from trip from Miami and making stops along the way until you reach the very tip! We loved the stop in Islamorada and enjoyed eating all of the Key Lime pies ( what Key West is also known for!)

#5. Cinque Terre, Italy

You really can’t go wrong with any area of Italy but Cinque Terre, a charming and colourful seaside area on the east coast of Italy is definitely a dream destination to add to your list.

With 5 towns total that make up the Cinque Terre region (Cinque means 5 in Italian!), you have plenty of areas to explore…and eat at. Oh boy the food in this area!

This region is specifically known for Pesto and Limoncello and we basically spent our 5 days there eating and drinking just that.

While some people recommend Cinque Terre for only 2-3 days, I would recommend visiting for a week to really experience each of the towns and their charm. It’s also much more reasonable than Capri or the Amalfi Coast!

#6. Muscat, Oman – One of the Most Unique Dream Destinations That You May Never Heard Of!

Image Via Adventures of Nicole

I bet you are wondering where the heck is Oman??

Well, you are not alone! This under the radar country is in the Middle East ( just a few hours of a drive from the well known Dubai) and is slowly becoming more and more known due to it’s extremely beautiful architecture, turquoise waters and mountainous views.

It’s a luxurious Arabian hideaway that you need to visit before it gets too popular!

Here are some other related posts for all the hardcore travel lovers out there:

• Maldives VS French Polynesia: Which is Better?
• Luxury Hotel in Turks and Caicos
• The Most Exclusive Beach Town in Mexico
• Hotel Punta Islita in Costa Rica
• Dubai Travel Guide

#7. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech, Morocco is one of the dream destinations that will ignite all of your senses.

It is colourful, fascinating, and vibrant city and it’s one that you really can’t explain fully unless you go.

Between the bustling souks, relaxing hammams, architecture and historical landmarks, there is plenty to do and discover. The best way to experience Marrakech is to just immerse yourself in the streets and culture. I also recommend staying at a really nice Riad to fully get the Marrakech experience. We stayed at Riad Yasmine and it definitely lived up to the Instagram hype.

#8. New York, New York- A Christmas Dream Destination

Visiting New York City at Christmas time is something that should be on everyone’s bucket list! There is a magic in the air like no other and though photos online really do showcase the beauty of it- it honestly needs to be felt.

Between Rockefeller Center to Skating in Central Park to all the window displays that are decked to the 9’s, it is one of those dream destinations that you will never forget ( even coming from a girl who hates winter!)

#9. Santorini, Greece

If you are looking for some dream destinations for your honeymoon, make sure to add Santorini to the list. Santorini is pure magic and is one of those places that I really cannot say anything bad about.

Between the iconic white and blue buildings, firey sunsets and bougainvilla flowers popping out from here there and everything, it is easy to see why this is one of the most romantic spots in the world.

Stay in Oia and prepare to feel like you are living in a postcard.

#10. Iceland

Image via Getty Images

Normally my dream destinations do not include places that are cold but Iceland is the exception.

Visiting Iceland feels like you are visiting a different planet ( I honestly felt like I was on Mars at times).

Located between North America and Europe, Iceland -despite it’s name- is actually more green than cold. It is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, it has tons of waterfalls ( you can’t drive 5 minutes without seeing one) and has some of the coolest black sand beaches.

Make sure to visit Thingvellir National Park

#11. Seychelles

If Jurassic Park existed and decided to marry a tropical island, it would produce the gem of a spot that is the Seychelles.

This dream destination is situated in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya and Madagascar. It features unique coral species, spectacular nature, and pristine beaches. There is over 115 islands all together that make up this beautiful place and one of the most well known ones is the Anse Source d’Argent (pictured above)

Truly exotic spot!

#12. Postiano, Italy

Positano, part of the Amalfi coast in Italy, is a cliffside village that is bright, colorful and has the best pasta and wine in the world.

If you are a foodie like me, Positano, Italy is a dream destination! There are bougainvillea bushes that fill up narrow, cobblestone paths, little cafes serving up delicious espressos at any time of the day and of course they have their famous pebble beachfront with it’s iconic orange umbrellas.

Positano is one of the most popular destinations in all of Europe…especially during summer time. I recommend visiting in June or September to avoid the heavy crowds!

#13. Exuma, Bahamas- Dream Destinations That Are Extremely Remote!

If you are looking for dream destinations that are off the grid, Exuma, Bahamas is for you.

Located south from the popular island of Nassau, Bahamas, Exuma is home to over 360 little islands that hands down have the most insane shades of blue I have ever seen. Most people take boats to some of the neighbouring cays as it’s the only way to get to them.

One of the coolest cays to visit is Pig Island where you can find families of pigs that have made this tiny island their home. This is not a typo!! haha. You can see some Snaps from my trip years ago when I had the chance to swim with some.

Dubai is one of the most advanced, modern and luxurious cities in not only the United Arab Emirates but in the world.

It features an iconic skyline with state of the art skyscrapers ( including the tallest building in the world – The Burj Khalifa) but it also features some of the best beaches and restaurants. It truly has it all and each year more and more things are popping up.

What I love about Dubai is that you can get a city fix and just a car ride away, you can visit the full on desert and be on a camel. It’s also a great place to fly into if you are visiting places like the Maldives or Seychelles!

#15. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is hands down my favourite city in the entire world. I have visited 3 times now and I still cannot get enough!

It reminds me of a mix of New York, London and LA all rolled into one amazing place. You can find some of the craziest and most luxurious shopping ( There are designer stores every few blocks), some of the world’s best restaurants and what makes this city even more cool- is that it offers a slice of nature even though it is a sprawling Metromalitan center.

If you haven’t visited Asia at all, this is a perfect starting point to experience the amazing and fascinating culture.

#16 Malibu, California

I couldn’t do this dream destinations list without including one of my favorite places in North America and in the United States. Though California is one of the 50 states, to me it truly feels like it’s own world.

I love California and I specifically love Malibu.

Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway from the madness that is LA will never get old and there is a reason why this highway is written into so many songs. It’s mind-blowingly beautiful.

Further more, the beaches in Malibu truly compare to some of these other exotic beaches that I have included in this list. El Matador State Beach is at the tip of Malibu and is a place not to be missed if you visit. I also recommend driving from Santa Monica all the way up the coast of California if you do have the time! There are many road trip itineraries you can find that take you through some pretty phenomanal routes.

#17. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Oh Zanzibar! This island in Africa is one of the most beautiful ( and affordable) exotic destinations you can visit! I call it the Maldives of Africa as it truly has some of the whitest sand and clearest water- just like you would find in the Maldives.

Unlike the Maldives however, Zanzibar is very, very reasonable and you can find some luxury hotels and accommodations for under $350 a night.

Zanzibar features shallow sandbars so you can quite literally walk out into the ocean and you can whisk yourself off to other nearby islands. What makes this place even more special is that you can get a dose of culture along with some of the best beaches in the world!

#18. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, Mexico is a destination that has gained a lot of popularity over the years

Known for it’s buzzing restaurant scene, design savy hotels and complete jungle vibe, Tulum is a really, really cool and unique place to visit!

While the main strip can put you in a trance you for the entire duration of your trip, what makes Tulum even more cool is that you can visit neighboring cenotes ( large swimming holes) if you are craving some adventure and activities. They are ONE OF A KIND and just a short drive from town.

#19. Nosara, Costa Rica

Nosara is a small surfing and yoga haven in the middle of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province that stole a piece of my heart. It is a special place and I am not alone in saying that I could very well pick up and spend the rest of my days there.

It’s immersed right into the jungle, has nightly sunsets that are some of the best I’ve ever seen and is a mecca for living that pura vida lifestyle.

PS: If you are looking to visit the infinity pool pictured above, it’s actually an AIR BNB we stayed at!

#20. Ochos Rio, Jamaica

Waterfalls, lush vegetation, stunning beaches and Jamaican patties 24/7…does it get much better than that? If that sounds like a dream destination to you- add Ochos Rios, Jamaica to your list!

What makes Ochos Rios so special is that you can experience so many adventurous activities as well as pure relaxation.

The Dunn’s River Waterfall and cruising along the Martha’s Brae River in a traditional bamboo raft are two things that need to be done in this lifetime!!! One of my favourite days EVER!

#21. Jaipur, India

Ahh India- a place that really captured my heart in so many ways.

Between the world famous sights like the Taj Mahal, the colors, the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the food and the hearts of the many locals I came to meet, India is a once in a life time trip that will surely rock your core and fill you up all at the same time.

Though many put the Taj Mahal as the top priority on an India trip, I really recommend the romantic and pink city of Jaipur. It is a dream destination and one that has a lot of beautiful and luxurious hotels. It’s a nice place to visit after the craziness of some of the landmarks in India that are super busy and hectic!

#22. Scotland- Dream Destinations That Feel Like a Fairytale!

Out of all the coastlines in the world, I think that Scotland takes the prize for the most dramatic and beautiful ones.

With it’s red and yellow sand cliffs, lush greens , loch views and enchanting castles, it is one of those places that feel like you are living in a fairytale.

The Eilean Donan Castle, pictured above, is worth the trip alone and it is a place where many movies have been filled.

Scotland is also home to the most pubs per square foot so you are almost guaranteed a good time…even with all the rain that it gets!

#23 Rio de Janerio, Brazil

Rio de Janerio, Brazil is a land filled with samba, dramatic mountain landscapes, rich city culture and some of the best beaches.

It is also home to Carnival, one of the biggest festival ins the world that brings in over 2 million attendees. This world renowned festival showcases Brazilian culture and is filled with parades, costumes, music and parties. Carnival alone is a bucket list item for many but visiting Rio is also exhilarating on it’s own!

South America in general is filled with so many dream destinations and I recommend pairing Brazil up with some other popular spots down south to truly get the feel of this continent!

#24 Algarve, Portugal

The coastline of Portugal is one of the most beautiful in the world. Their towering deep orange cliffs, glorious sandy beaches and bright waters make it one of Europe’s most visited spots!

There are several towns to visit in the Algarve but some of the most famous spots are Faro, Praia da Marinha, Lagos, Praia de Dona, Portimão and Albufeira.

Add in Portugal’s cuisine and you certainly have a dream holiday! I personally feel that Portugal is one of the best dream destinations in Europe!

#25 Sri Lanka

We visited Sri Lanka as part of our honeymoon and we fell so in love with the country.

It is such an underrated country and between the hospitality of the locals, the beaches, the historical sites and even safaris, it checks so many boxes. You can literally be spotting Leopards in the wild one day and the very next day be on one of the most beautiful beaches.

Your money also goes a long way here as well which is nice

You can read all about the best things to do in Sri Lanka HERE

#26 New Zealand

Image via Planetware.com

This is one of MY dream destinations!

While I visited all of the locations within this post, New Zealand is a place that is on my list that I have yet to experience! I thought I would include it so I can perhaps manifest me getting there soon haha

With so many national parks, wine regions, mountainous landscapes and scenes that honestly look like a scene from what I imagine Heaven being like, I need to get there asap.

It is a massive country though ( and quite far from North America) so people that do end up getting there often stay for a long duration in order to see all the sites!

#27 Turks and Caicos

I couldn’t do up a list of dream destinations without including one of my all time favourite places in the Caribbean – Turks and Caicos!

Turks and Caicos is home to Grace Bay Beach which has been named one of the number one beaches in the world year after year ….and for good reason.

It features crystal clear waters and the whitest, softest sand that stretches over 5 miles. It’s so serene and because of it’s size, you often feel like you have it all to yourself!

When I visited Turks, I couldn’t stop taking photos because it was honestly too beautiful.

If you are looking for a place to stay as a couple, I definitely recommend the luxurious and modern Wymara Resort and if you are visiting with a family, there is no better place than Beaches Turks and Caicos.

I hope you enjoyed reading through the Top 27 Dream Destinations that you need to add to your travel bucket list!

I’ve included 27 but when I started to write up all the destinations, I found myself thinking of even more place. Like Ankor Wat in Cambodia home to the largest religious monument in the world or Paine National Park in Chile…and ugh, it got me realizing how beautiful this planet is and how many wonders there are!!!

I hope to add ( and eventually check off) many more countries in the years to come and I hope you get the chance to do a few of these spots yourself!

DREAM DESTINATIONS PIN THIS POST

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[…] is a dream destination, well-known for its luxurious boutique hotels along the coast. The hotels primarily cater to […]

[…] 27 Dream Destinations Perfect for any Women […]

Wow, this article has truly ignited my wanderlust! The list of 27 dream destinations is incredibly diverse and filled with breathtaking places that I never even knew existed. From the mesmerizing landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, each destination seems like a unique adventure waiting to happen. I’ve already started updating my bucket list, and I can’t wait to start ticking off these unforgettable locations. The detailed descriptions and stunning photos have made it easy to imagine myself exploring these places one day. Kudos to the author for compiling such an inspiring list – now, the challenge is deciding which destination to visit first!

[…] 27 Dream Destinations to add to your Bucket list! […]

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How to plan your dream vacation

Sometimes you crave a vacation — but actually taking one feels out of reach. Maybe you're struggling to find the time or save up the money. Or maybe you just can't seem to launch those plans out of the group chat. Overcome that planning inertia and take the big trip of your dreams. Here's where to start your search, organize your logistics and enjoy yourself.

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Dreaming about traveling here's what it means, according to experts.

When it comes to dream interpretation, so much of it depends on the context and finer details of the dream. To dream about traveling is no exception, with a myriad of variations that can change the meaning of the dream . So, we asked experts about a few of their top interpretations for travel dreams—here's what they had to say.

Dream interpretation.

Before diving in, it's worth noting that any scientific validity to dream interpretation is sparse. Generally, dreams are thought of as a means of memory consolidation and potentially even "predicting" the future (i.e., our brains running through potential scenarios that could happen).

Nevertheless, we've all had dreams that seemed a bit too relevant to our waking lives, raising the question, What was that dream trying to tell me? Only you can truly understand what the symbols in your dreams mean to you, but there are still some common tropes in dreams that interpreters take to have specific meanings.

7 reasons you're dreaming about traveling:

You're craving freedom..

According to dream expert  Leslie Ellis, Ph.D., dreaming about travel can indicate that you're on a quest for freedom. "In this pandemic era where travel has been so restricted, travel dreams could be some form of vicarious way of gaining freedom of movement," she says, adding, "Freud was not entirely wrong about dreams being a form of wish fulfillment, at least some of the time."

You're experiencing some kind of movement in your life.

Along with a craving for freedom, travel dreams can also suggest there's some sort of movement or momentum happening in your life. "Traveling usually represents forward movement—progress in some area," notes professional dream interpreter  Lauri Loewenberg . And as Ellis adds, this "movement" could be personal or professional, as well as actual geographical movement.

You feel in control.

If you're traveling in a vehicle in your dream and it's running smoothly, Loewenberg tells mbg that can mean you feel in control of some aspect of your life. "You want to be driving the car, for example, because that's letting you know that whatever issue this dream is commenting on, you're in control of it," she explains.

You feel out of control.

On the other hand, Loewenberg says, if the car is having some hiccups, such as malfunctioning brakes, "that's a good indication that you're having a hard time getting something started in your real life, or you don't have a good handle on whatever path of progression this is connected to."

She adds that if you're driving a car in your dream and get into an accident, this can mean you're experiencing a sort of emotional or energy crash in your life.

You're experiencing some sort of ending.

Crashes or accidents in travel dreams can also mean something is on the verge of coming to an end in your life (or already has), Loewenberg notes.

The theme of endings existing within travel dreams can also relate to life stages and death, Ellis explains. "They can, at the far end of the journey, indicate preparation for death. There are many accounts of dreams easing people into the final stages of their life , preparing them in ways that tend to be calming and spiritual," she notes.

You're advancing in your career (or thinking about it).

According to Loewenberg, dreams about traveling in a plane , more often than not, are related to your career path, "because the plane takes off and we want our careers to take off and reach new levels." Planes can also represent your spiritual or religious path , she adds.

You're searching for something.

And lastly, depending on your destination, travel dreams can mean you're looking for something in your life. "If your destination is a beach, for example, that means you're trying to reach a place in your life where you are having peace of mind," Loewenberg explains. Or maybe you're traveling to a hospital, which would indicate you're on a healing path, she adds.

Interpretations based on travel companions:

Family members..

With the previous interpretations in mind, it's also important to consider who's accompanying you in the dream. In the case of family members, Ellis says, this could relate to feeling of moving on, or moving forward, as it relates to the family members in the dream.

A romantic partner.

Loewenberg says dreaming about traveling with a partner can offer good insight into how the relationship is going and how you both are reacting within the relationship. "Pay attention to who's behind the wheel and how well the vehicle is moving forward," she suggests, for example.

If you're on a boat, she adds they often represent our relationships. (Relation-"ship," get it?) "A ship or a boat will be commenting on a relationship more than any other vehicle because it travels on water, and water tends to represent the emotional self," Loewenberg explains.

In that case, are you on an extravagant cruise liner that's sailing smoothly? Or are you in a broken-down boat that's sinking fast ? You can guess which one indicates a relationship is heading south.

Co-workers.

If you're dreaming about work colleagues, Ellis says this situates the dream story in the world of work. "Again, it can be telling to look at the mode of travel, ease of transport, and nature of the destination," she notes. Ask yourself if you're getting to where you want to go. "This can be a big life question. Are the people you are with helping or hindering your progress?" Ellis adds.

Traveling solo.

Of course, there's a chance you'll be traveling solo in your dream, as well. Loewenberg says a common vehicle in travel dreams is a bike or motorcycle, which are, of course, single-passenger vehicles. This would be a dream about a path you are on alone that doesn't affect anyone else, she explains.

"You also have to have good balance to operate a bicycle or a motorcycle, so take a good look at your emotional balance or anything you're trying to balance in your life," Ellis adds.

The bottom line.

Dreaming about travel isn't uncommon—and interpreting these dreams always comes down to their context. With these potential interpretations at the ready, you're all set to open your mind to the world of your travel dreams—and consider how they relate to your reality.

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5 sunny vacation destinations to dream about on this freezing winter day

Across the country this week, there have been back-to-back winter storms. And our friends in Texas have been walloped by the bitter cold, snow and ice storms, and have lost both power and, in some cases, water. The bad news is the forecast remains cold in much of the United States for the next few days.

If you're bundled up at home, grumbling about this winter weather, we invite you to dream about your next fabulous vacation to a warm and sunny destination when the cold -- and pandemic -- breaks.

If you're tired of drab, dark and snowy landscapes, set your future travel dreams on Marrakesh.

In western Morocco , you'll find the medina -- a medieval walled city — that's beguiling. You can stay in luxury hotels or raids (traditional accommodations) within the medina or just outside one of its 19 gates.

Visit the palaces and mosques, gardens and colorful souks (marketplaces). If you appreciate art and architecture, this is the place for you. You'll see Moorish-style buildings with intricate tilework as well as incredible painted ceilings, carved wood and fine stucco finishings.

And the food! Local dishes are made with fragrant spices such as cumin, saffron, paprika, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg and coriander. Be sure to try regional specialties such as tajine (slow-cooked stew), couscous (a rice-like dish made with durum wheat semolina), rfissa (chicken and lentils with spices), harira (a soup) and skewered grilled meats.

How to get there: You won't find any nonstop flights from the United States to Marrakech (RAK), but you can connect in a variety of cities, including London (British Airways), Paris (AirFrance), Frankfurt and Munich (Lufthansa), Lisbon (TAP) or Madrid (Iberia).

Where to stay on points:

• Ksar Char-Bagh , Small Luxury Hotels of the World from 30,000 World of Hyatt points per night
• Le Meridien N'Fis , a Marriott Bonvoy Category 2 property from 12,500 Marriott points per night (standard dates)
• AnaYela, Marrakech , a member of Design Hotels and Marriott Bonvoy Category 4 property from 25,000 points per night (standard dates)
• Mr & Mrs Smith Dar One or Les Deux Tours from 20,000 IHG points per night
• Mr & Mrs Smith Dar Zemora from 42,500 IHG points per night
• Mr & Mrs Smith La Farnatchi from 67,500 IHG points per night
• Book with cash or Membership Rewards points the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts program (FHR) to stay at the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech , La Mamounia , Amenjena , Royal Mansour Marrakech or Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech

Related: A first-timer's travel guide to Morocco

French Polynesia

Oftentimes, a frequent flyer plans a trip to French Polynesia -- usually the Society Islands of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora -- thinking it will be a once-in-a-lifetime getaway. But the South Pacific is so beautiful and remote that many of us plan repeat trips . It's the type of place that helps repair the soul, and we may all need a bit of that after this pandemic is over.

It's a long-haul trip to Papeete, Tahiti, from anywhere in the United States, so plan to spend at least a week on the islands. Fly to Tahiti (PPT) and stay a day or two as a salve for your jetlag. Tahiti is also the embarkation port for cruises from Paul Gauguin Cruises, Windstar Cruises and other lines.

If you don't plan to go on a cruise, most travelers move on from Papeete to some of the other islands in the region. Bora Bora with its imposing Mount Otemanu as a backdrop, many motus and overwater bungalows is a popular destination -- especially with honeymooners. You'll need to take a flight from Papeete to get there.

Adventurous travelers tend to select Moorea for activities like the hike to Belvedere Lookout or the four-wheel-drive tour up Magic Mountain.

How to get there: Your gateway to all of French Polynesia is Papeete, Tahiti (PPT). You can fly there from Los Angeles on Air France or Air Tahiti Nui, from San Francisco on United or French Bee or from Honolulu on Hawaiian Airlines.

Learn how to find award flights to Tahiti and the best ways to use miles and points for a French Polynesian vacation .

• In Tahiti, use 50,000 IHG points per night for the InterContinental Hotels Resort Tahiti . On Bora Bora, you have two options: the InterContinental Hotels Le Moana Bora Bora (from 50,000 points per night) or the InterContinental Hotels Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa . (We couldn't find any availability at this property through January of 2023. Your mileage may vary.)
• If you have Hilton Honors points, you can use them at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa (starting at 80,000 points per night) or on Bora Bora at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui (starting at 89,000 points per night). The Hilton Tahiti Resort also opens in July 2021.
• There are two Marriott Bonvoy options on Bora Bora: Le Meridien Bora Bora (Category 7, from 60,000 points per night on standard dates) and the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort (Category 8, from 85,000 points per night on standard dates).
• Book with cash or Membership Rewards points through the Amex FHR program: St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, Conrad Bora Bora Nui or Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Similar to French Polynesia, the trek to the Maldives is time-consuming for North Americans. It can help to break up the trip with a stopover in Asia. Check out TPG's take on whether the Maldives or Bora Bora is better .

What's unique about the Maldives is that you're usually visiting an island resort on a specific atoll and not a country as a whole. Your vacation will be filled with quiet pool and beach time, snorkeling and diving, spa treatments and fine dining experiences. Seaplanes don't fly at night, so you really can't go anywhere else in the evenings.

The resorts of the Maldives are over-the-top luxurious and that is a draw in and of itself. You can pick from gorgeous overwater bungalows or beach villas -- many travelers split their reservations so they can stay a few days in each type of lodging.

While the Maldives is a haven for honeymooners , families with plenty of miles and points enjoy the trip since it's a place where you can really unplug and enjoy nature without any distractions.

How to get there: For all resorts, fly to the capital of Male (MLE) and then take a boat or seaplane transfer to your hotel. Many airlines fly to the Maldives, but the poshest are Emirates, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Etihad, Korean Air and Cathay Pacific. Here's TPG's complete guide for getting to the Maldives on points and miles .

Where to stay points:

• Ways to use your Marriott Bonvoy points abound in the Maldives. You can book The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort for 100,000 points per night, the W Maldives or JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa for 85,000 points per night, or The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort for 60,000 points per night, among others. The Category 8 Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will open in June and Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa (Category 5) opens in September.
• Hilton Honors fans have several excellent options in the Maldives too, including the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi (from 120,000 points per night), Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (from 95,000 points per night) or the SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection (from 85,000 points per night).
• A Park Villa is yours at the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa for 30,000 World of Hyatt points or 15,000 points plus $425 per night.
• At the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort , you can book an Overwater Pool Villa from 100,000 IHG points per night.
• Book with cash or Membership Rewards points through the Amex FHR program: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa , Cheval Blanc Randheli , One&Only Reethi Rah or Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort .

The Seychelles archipelago comprises more than 100 islands in the Indian Ocean -- about a thousand miles east of Mombasa, Kenya. It's another bucket list destination known for beautiful islands, lush forests, incredible underwater life and sunny weather.

Victoria, on Mahe Island, is the country's capital and home of the international airport (SEZ). The islands were only recently inhabited, around the 16th century, by European settlers -- mostly from Britain and France. The languages spoken here today include English, French and Seychellois Creole.

Some of the islands are known for having giant boulders on their beaches and it's a great destination for nature-lovers. There are a variety of nature reserves and activities ranging from hiking to horseback riding, diving and fishing. It's also the home to the Aldabra giant tortoise, which can live up to 120 years.

How to get there: Look for flights to Mahe (SEZ), the main island in the Seychelles archipelago. There are no nonstop flights from the U.S., so you'll need to connect somewhere, such as Istanbul (on Turkish Airlines), Frankfurt (on Lufthansa), Paris (on Air France), London (on British Airways), Dubai (on Emirates), Doha (on Qatar) or Abu Dhabi (on Etihad).

• Hilton Honors points open the door to stays at Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa (from 95,000 points per night), Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa (from 80,000 points) and the DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles - Allamanda Resort (from 70,000 points).
• If you're looking to spend Marriott Bonvoy points, there's only one option — and it's a fancy one: North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, Seychelles , which is a Category 8 property with special pricing. Per night redemptions are in excess of 350,000 points, so this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime trips.
• Book with cash or Membership Rewards points through Amex FHR for stays at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles , Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island or Raffles Seychelles .

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar: It just sounds exotic.

It's an island archipelago off Tanzania's mainland, and the main island of Unguja is usually just referred to as Zanzibar. This is where you'll find Stone Town, a fascinating historic center where you can learn more about its Islamic and Swahili roots. This is the place to get a sense of what the area is all about and it's also where you can do some serious shopping for unique works of art.

To the north, you'll find a range of beachfront hotels. Your hotel can help you plan tours such as a dolphin-watching cruise or a snorkel excursion to Mnemba Island. You can rent jet skis to explore on your own and a cooking class is a must-do experience.

How to get there: Look for flights to the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) right on the island. Or, you can take a high-speed ferry from Dar es Salaam on the mainland.

• You can stay at the Park Hyatt Zanzibar from 15,000 points per night in a standard room (or 7,500 points plus $210), 24,000 points for a standard suite and 30,000 points for a premium suite.
• Marriott comes to the table with the Protea Hotel Zanzibar Mbweni Ruins . It's a Category 3 property, so your Bonvoy points will take you far (just 17,500 points per night on standard dates).
• There are two Hilton options that start at 30,000 Hilton Honors points per night: the DoubleTree by Hilton Zanzibar - Stone Town and the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Zanzibar - Nungwi .

Destinations | EUROPE

32 epic dream destinations for 2022.

20 Dec 2021 | Destinations , Europe

The end of 2021 is upon us which gives you all the excuses and arguments you need to start planning your 2021 holidays to one of your next dream destinations. 

Did you know that January is the cheapest month to book a trip? Plane tickets are often the cheapest the first month of the year and car rental companies regularly offer shopping discounts up to 40%. As the moment to book is now, I will give you some inspiration for your travel bucket list of 2022!

If you are still looking for either a romantic city trip, an unforgettable road trip, a cultural expedition, an active hiking experience or simply looking for a relaxing getaway to the sun. These are the top 32 dream destinations to add to your travel bucket list in 2022, from popular travel spots to off-the-beaten-path destinations.

  ** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (AFRICA)

Go on safari in kenya.

Best time to visit: June to October, January to February

Highlights: Masai Mara & Lake Naivasha

Kenya is a magical place. I’ve visited the country twice so far, and I cannot wait to go back. One of the main things that put Kenya right at the top of any travel bucket list is the Masai Mara. 

Venture out on safari in the Masai Mara and encounter the elusive Big Five – seeing African elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros in person is a breathtaking once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

During the months of July and August, you’ve got the best chance of seeing wildebeest herds crossing the Mara River. If you’re an animal lover, make sure you also pay a visit to Lake Naivasha to take a dreamy boat trip among the hippos. Kenya is absolutely a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, as a family or as a couple.

There’s also much more to Kenya than the incredible wildlife. Gain fascinating insights into the lives of the wonderful Masai tribes, and enjoy the stunning view of Kilimanjaro from the comfort of your tented camp.

Read more about Kenya here .

GORILLA TREKKING IN UGANDA

Best time to visit: June to August and from December to February

Highlights: Gorilla trekking, wildlife, nature 

Uganda is known all over the world as being one of the best places on earth for gorilla trekking. It’s definitely one of those bucket list destinations that many people have visited at least once in their lifetime. 

The country has some fantastic wildlife attractions outside national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park (home to the tree-climbing lions), Murchison Falls National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, where you can go on gorilla trekking.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is one of the most biologically diverse areas in Africa, with half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas living here. A trek to find these gentle giants can be an arduous but rewarding experience, and one that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Uganda is also a great destination if you’re looking for an active holiday – go white-water rafting on the Nile, take a canoe safari or go volcano climbing.

Read about our 14 day Uganda road trip itinerary and get Uganda travel tips .

RELAX IN MARRAKESH

Best time to visit: Any time between the months of October and May

Highlights: Shopping in the souks, the Saadian tombs, and relaxing in an authentic hammam

No travel bucket list would be complete without a bustling Moroccan city. Marrakech is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for a combination of rich culture and relaxation. It’s an extremely lively city, and you’ll be warmly welcomed by its charming inhabitants. 

Get lost in the lively souks and buy some local spices, teas, and locally-made tagine pots, then unwind in an authentic hammam with a body scrub and body massage. 

Tip: Book a Riad with an outdoor swimming pool – you’ll definitely need somewhere to relax and catch some sun after a long day exploring! Marrakech is a dream destination for a romantic weekend away, but it’s energetic atmosphere is also great for a trip with children.

Read more about a suitable three-day route in Marrakech here.

BUZZING BILBAO

Highlights: Guggenheim Museum, Mount Artxanda

Although it’s not one of the typical Spanish tourist hotspots, Bilbao is a buzzing city. Once you begin strolling through the streets, you won’t want to stop exploring. Compared to other Spanish cities, Bilbao’s surroundings are lush and green – but accordingly, the climate is a bit chillier. 

Bilbao is only twenty minutes away from the coast, and it’s also near numerous ski areas – so whether you’re a water baby or a snow-lover, there’s something for everyone. The city is super versatile and wonderfully charming, with its colorful facades and architectural highlights.

Read more tips about Bilbao here.

SIP SOME WINE IN PORTO

Best time to visit : Anytime between the months of April and October

Highlights: Ribeira, Livraria Lello, Sé Do Porto Cathedral

Porto is a small, charming city and is perfect for a quick getaway. The city is world-famous for its delicious fortified wines (that have been made here ever since the 17th century!) – so it’s a must-visit for any wine-lover.

Almost every facade is decorated with beautiful tiles, and you can eat delicious food for really reasonable prices everywhere, especially in the old town. You’ll love losing yourself in Porto’s picturesque streets and beautiful squares, and you’ll feel completely comfortable there due to the warm hospitality of its inhabitants.

Read all about the perfect city trip to Porto here .

FLAMENCO DANCING IN SEVILLE

Best time to visit : All year-round, except during the hot summer months of June, July, and August 

Highlights: Plaza De España, Real Alcázar de Sevilla, Casa De Pilatos, Metropol Parasol

Seville is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain   you absolutely need to visit! Are you seeking a romantic getaway or looking for some time away with the kids? 

Seville is one of the most perfect dream destinations to enjoy a little break! With annual temperatures averaging around 25 degrees, a city trip in Seville is perfect all year round! Visit the most famous square in town, Plaza de Espagña, and enjoy some typical Flamenco dancing along the way. Casa de Pilatos is home to one of the largest tile collections in the world and definitely worth a visit as well!

Enjoy some delicious Spanish tapas on every corner of the street. Seville is a great spot to explore more of southern Spain with a plethora of day trip options. 

Read more about Seville here.

ENJOY A BEAUTIFUL AMALFI COAST ROAD TRIP

Highlights: Naples, Positano, Salerno, Amalfi, Sorrento

This coastal region is one of the most gorgeous and unique beach destinations in the world, the perfect dream destination for every occasion! Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno are the most visited places on the coast with the most beautiful beaches , and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. 

Explore Pompeii, the UNESCO world heritage site and archaeological park. If you prefer more of a city vibe with all things that Italy is known for – art, history, cathedrals, and shopping – head to Naples. Naples is also the largest city on the southern coast and is the perfect airport to land into to start your beautiful road trip!

Read more about Amalfi Coast here.

EXPLORE THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE ICELAND 

Best time to visit: March to May, September to November

Highlights : Geysers, waterfalls & glaciers

Iceland is not only one of the most beautiful places, but also one of the unique dream travel destinations. The landscape here is surreal and every turn on the Ring Road presents you with a new photo opportunity. 

Plus there are tons of waterfalls, active volcanoes, and glaciers where you can enjoy ice walk tours. Black sand beaches on the southern coast of Iceland with basalt formations is one the dream places for photography! 

So, when is the best time to visit Iceland? Well, this really depends on what you’re planning to do while you’re here. For example, if you want to see the northern lights then September and October are your best chances for clear skies. 

But if you’re mainly interested in seeing Icelandic culture and natural landmarks, then March to May and September to November are your best bet. 

32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (MIDDLE EAST)

Swimming in the dead sea in israël .

Highlights : Swimming in the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv 

Israël is one of our favorite trips we’ve ever taken as a couple – you can have a lot of fun during a short one-week stay. Visit the hip capital of Tel Aviv, where you can lie on the beach with a cocktail in hand all year long. 

If you’re interested in history, culture, and religion, Jerusalem should certainly not be left out of your schedule. Also ensure you make time to go swimming in the Dead Sea, as it’s such a unique experience and is sure to be one you’ll never forget. 

You can read more tips about Israël here .

32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (NORTH AMERICA)

Fall in love with miami.

Highlights: Wynwood, The Everglades, kayaking with manatees

Miami is a dream destination to enjoy beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets and some scenic hiking trails . If Miami is on your travel bucket list, make sure you embark on an adventure between alligators in The Everglades , and kayak among the beautiful manatees. 

Discover the hip Wynwood area, shoot some unique photos , and indulge in some retail therapy, then spend the evening enjoying the nightlife and variety of restaurants. To get the true American experience, you absolutely must attend a basketball game at The American Airlines Arena. 

Finally, if you have the time, definitely make a trip to The Keys and enjoy one of the most beautiful car rides you can imagine.

You can read more about Miami here.

EXPLORE LAS VEGAS

Best time to visit:  March to May and from September to November

Highlights: Famous hotels & casinos, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon West Rim & Red Rock Canyon

If you’re looking to enjoy the bright lights of Las Vegas, the best time to visit is during fall when temperatures are very pleasant. However, it can get pretty chilly in winter so if this isn’t your thing then stick with the spring or autumn months.

Las Vegas is known for its casinos, hotels, and themed resorts. You can also visit the Hoover Dam or go on a tour at the Grand Canyon South Rim.  

Read about our dream wedding in Las Vegas here .

GO ON A HIKE IN THE GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Best time to visit: May to September, February to March (avoid summer)

Highlights: The geologically rich landscape, Mather Point & Yavapai Point

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth and it’s not hard to see why. This vast, geologically rich landscape is a sight to behold and definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list.

There are numerous ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon – by foot, car, or raft. If you’re feeling fit, I recommend going on a hike along with one of the rim trails. Yavapai Point is closest to the South Rim of Grand Canyon Village and it offers a spectacular panoramic view of this world wonder.

VISIT NEW YORK CITY

Best time to visit: Between April to early June, or around September to early November

Highlights : Statue of Liberty, Manhattan, Times Square, Empire State Building, hiking trails nearby

New York City is the world’s most-visited city. There are so many amazing things to love about NYC from visiting Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, to taking in the panoramic view from The Empire State Building. 

But this is one city where it’s not all about “the sights” – I think New York City should be high up on anyone’s travel bucket list because it has so much to offer. The best food you can ever eat, plenty of culture and entertainment, great shopping… the list goes on.

The best time to visit New York City is during the summer months when the weather is warm and pleasant. Of course, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds. But I think it’s worth it to experience everything that this amazing city has to offer.

Discover the most beautiful state in the USA here

SEE LAKE LOUISE IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Best time to visit: June to August and December to March

Highlights: Lake Louise, Columbia Icefields & Banff town

Lake Louise is probably one of the most photographed areas in Canada. It’s also a great place for skiing during winter. Although it can get pretty cold here, winters are still so much fun as it gets fewer crowds than summer months. 

Lake Louise is located inside the Banff National Park, which is one of Canada’s oldest national parks and it’s located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. This area is popular for skiing, hiking, camping, and fishing. You can also explore the Columbia Icefields, which is the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains.

Visiting Banff National Park in winter also gives you an opportunity to chase northern lights in places like the Vermillion Lakes, close to the townsite. 

32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (South America)

Make an unforgettable journey through peru.

Highlights: Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado, Arequipa, Ballestas Islands

Peru is a travel bucket list item that you simply have to tick off. Traveling around this beautiful country takes you from icy mountain peaks to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Machu Picchu. 

The variety of this must-visit destination is breathtaking – you go from dry desert plains one day to green jungle settings the next. 

On your way, you will be accompanied by parrots, butterflies, macaws, sloths, porcupines, crocodiles, tarantulas, snakes, anacondas, and jaguars. In short, it’s certainly a trip that you will remember for the rest of your life.

You can read more about Peru here .

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Super mooi 👍 proficiat👌👌👌 Knap !!!

Zo lief! Dank je!

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A Little Letter… To All the Young Dreamers: Travel Young, Travel Far

Last updated on January 8, 2023 by Shannon

Dear Young Dreamer,

The end of the school year is here and freedom whispers on the air. Your attention wanders in these final days of lectures, homework, and classroom chatter. Trust me—I understand why. Although the world thrust upon me “adult status” many years ago, I remember the keen yearning of adolescence. A yearning to my spend days hunting through the yard, chasing my brothers, and feeling the sugary slide of Gatorade washing away the summer heat. Or in truth, in my high school years I yearned to sleep until noon and have my parents just leave me to myself. And though you no doubt appreciate summer’s freedom, your emails tell me that you’re looking ahead to what comes next.

Your thoughts are jumbled right now with the woes and stresses of your these difficult years. The world expects a lot of you: school, homework, jobs, college planning, extracurriculars … the list goes on and on. Although you’re on the cusp of adulthood, you’re not there yet. Which means you war with the twin duties assigned to you: honor your childhood yet plan your future. You dream of being a writer or an engineer, of being a nurse, lawyer, architect, social media maven. You haven’t told me what you want to be “when you grow up,” but know this: for most people, our jobs are not a single thing, but an evolving process. Asking you to name it now is unfair—instead pursue something you’re good at that also lights you up inside. That’s where the magic happens. Happiness lies at that intersection. Instead of an unmitigated: Follow Your Dreams. I say dream big put stay practical, for that’s how to achieve the biggest dreams.

It’s the practical part that most people miss. You wrote that you wanted to “just get through this.” Even the most idyllic childhood has its obstacles, and yours was far from idyllic. But a setback—or even 20—won’t prevent you from reaching your dreams if you stay rooted in the practical, in the actions you can take to bring yourself closer to your dreams. Study hard. Save aggressively . Chart a course ahead and then actually stick to it. As rough as life can be, hold onto dreams that light you up inside. Your dream of world travel—hold tight to it and set it as the benchmark for your decisions. You wrote that travel is your way out, it’s your way forward. It was for me, too. It was a goal I believed would finally signal that I had made it through to the other side of my troubled background . I made it there. You can, too.

At no other point in your life will society give you permission to dream like you can now. You don’t need that permission, of course. The very notion of someone else codifying your life based on their life is false. I urge you, fight against those who ask you to conform. But temper it with grace and acceptance, for you are still young, still subject to the will and best interests of those who love you. There is good and rightness in that.

Young Dreamer, you wrote to me with the conundrum of your travel dreams. You hear the siren call of travel, and you wonder how you, a teen, can make your dream a reality. You take classes and learn information that holds no interest most days—facts and figures you can’t fathom that you’ll ever need. It’s true and you’re right—you don’t need most of it. But you do need the ability to process those facts, to analyze the world around you, synthesize information, and above all, to think for yourself. These exact skills you’ve learned in school will help you overcome obstacles that stand between you and your dreams.

When other adults ask for travel advice, I tell them just to do it: decide you can travel and find the way to make it happen. I tell them, “traveling now will change the direction of your life.” Because longterm travel does just that. Travel changes the course of your life  and can jumpstart your quest to discover the life you were meant live. The questions answered by life on the road can be found elsewhere, but not as quickly, not as deeply. Travel is a boot camp for life that is hard to replicate with other life experiences.

But you present me with a conundrum of my own because I cannot orchestrate your future, and neither can you, in many ways. Your parents’ decisions and economic status dictate if you holiday in Europe, join student exchange program, or work full-time.

Given that your parents and fate’s capricious whims have shaped your life until now, I understand your struggle. How do we make your travel dreams stay alive, how do we get you closer to making this dream a reality? Because, more than anything, I want you to maintain the flaming beauty of your dream of travel the world. I want you to hold tight to this belief that you can travel young. It’s a dream some tout as wishful thinking, deeply unpractical, or some may even level the ultimate insult: they tell you you’re naïve, that you’ll grow out of it.

It is my deepest wish that you never do.

You will grow and change so quickly in these coming years. You will fall in love with people, with new ideas , and—if you’re lucky—with a line of work that brings you joy . Travel is a beautiful dream but not an exclusive one. It’s a dream that can last a lifetime for there are ever more corners of the world to see, foods to taste, and people to meet. So although I could have prefaced this letter with the acknowledgement that dreams shift and change—for that is the absolute truth—it is my hope that together we can light a spark for travel that carries you through the coming years. A plan for travel that acts like a silent ship running alongside your life as you take your first solo steps into the world. It will be there waiting for you, always inviting you to step on board when you have the time. It’s there waiting for you, asking you to make life, career, and financial decisions that keep your travel ship on course, running parallel to whatever life you build.

And now you’re wondering if I’m crazy and carried away. I slip into “ramble mode” according to my niece; she’s been subjected to these whims of thought often enough.

No matter. The truest lesson I can share with you is that traveling young will change you. The desire to travel goes deeper than a flippant answer to the question “What do you want to do when you grow up?” Travel is not an answer to any question, but rather a path you take to arrive at an answer that is more honest and true to who you are and what you are meant to do.

You’re in an in-between land caught between a child and adult; it’s a lovely and strange place. It’s a time when you have freedom to figure out who you are. But can I be frank? On the verge of turning 30 this year, I remain answerless. Actually, every time I’m sure I have the answer, it changes … which is, perhaps, the lesson. I wish someone had told me that who you are evolves with each new experience and each tragedy you face, with every obstacles you overcome and every moment of pure joy.

Let’s shift back to right now Young Dreamer, because your quandary has you discouraged. You believe travel is unattainable.

I once thought that, too. I once thought long-term travel was reserved for the rich, for the clever, for the people who had something I lacked. I lived in a place of seeking permission. I looked at my peers—my best friends and those in my classes—and assumed that their biggest dreams were my ceiling. If none of them dreamed of traveling then it was surely out of reach.

Pushing through the naysayers is the hardest task ahead of you. Look beyond the society’s rules and permissions based on your color, class, gender, or age. Realize that if you dream it—if you hold something in your heart and want it enough to move mountains, then there is validity and goodness in your dream.

The limitations and many the reasons you can’t travel right this instant frustrates you. I get it. But one day soon your circumstances will change and it will be up to you alone to assess your life. You alone mus t believe that long-term travel is possible for someone like you. Grasp tightly to the belief that you will take a gap year abroad, or leave on a mission trip for a year. Defend fiercely your goal to study abroad during college or find an international job.

Now may not be your time to travel. Accept that without losing hope. So many factors play into this part of your life—parents, money, family politics, national politics, education—the list is long. By maintaining hope and faith that you will travel, options you never dreamed possible will appear. When you believe, that’s when we can explore the world from the perspective that someone in exactly your situation—be you poor or rich, troubled or not—can travel someday. All you need to know is that it is possible, and from there we’ll find the opportunities to make it happen.

When you accept a decision as fact , you begin to see opportunities that you never noticed. Joseph Campbell says,

Follow your bliss. If you do follow your bliss, you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while waiting for you, and the life you ought to be living is the one you are living. When you can see that, you begin to meet people who are in the field of your bliss, and they open the doors to you. I say, follow your bliss and don’t be afraid, and doors will open where you didn’t know they were going to be. If you follow your bliss, doors will open for you that wouldn’t have opened for anyone else.

And in that spirit Young Dreamer, with a summer of freedom ahead of you, I leave you with practical ideas that may take you closer to your dreams. Some won’t be right for you. You might hate a couple of them. And you definitely need to discuss a couple with your parents. But look for one that sparks an idea of how to keep that travel ship floating alongside your life. Which idea nudges you closer to bringing travel into your life.

• Find an international pen pal : When I was growing up this involved actually mailing letters via the post, but now with email and Facebook (and still old-fashioned letters too) you can develop a friendship that spans borders. This sounds antiquated in a way, but a German friend of mine exchanged letters for years with an American girl and they became such good friends that by their high school and college years they spent the summers at each others houses. There are tons of sites that help connect pen-pals but Students of the World  is good, safe place to start (and be a safe internet user when chatting with others, always check first with your parent).
• Arrange a student exchange : The premise here is that you spend a few weeks up to an entire school year living abroad with a family that has agreed to house and feed you and send you to school. A French student attended our high school for a semester and it was very cool to meet her and get to know her (and she got to really practice her English!). AFS USA and Youth for Understanding are both very credible and both offer scholarships of some sort too.
• Start a business : This one seems like the odd man out, but really if you can’t travel now you could take the initiative to start your own business—the people who come into your life as you delve into that world of becoming an entrepreneur could very well be the people who help you create the opportunities to travel later on. Plus, it can be good fun, a good use of your time, and at the very least you’ll learn tons. :)
• Fundraise for a good cause : If you know of something happening overseas that you care about, why not find a creative way to fundraise for the cause and then donate that money to an organization helping to solve that issue? This not only brings you right into contact with the places you want to visit, but you are helping your friends learn and care too.
• Read a lot of good books : The best stories will take you out of your situation and right into the lives of other people from all over the world. Reading will give you some of the nuances of a culture and will make you even more ready to meet and interact with the locals once you arrive in your dream destination. This page lists out tons of book suggestions for each country, or ask your English teacher for a recommendation for a country you’d like to visit, I bet she’d be thrilled to help you find a good book.
• Take a mission trip with your church : If you’re part of a church or religious group it’s very common for these groups to place an emphasis on service, and in many cases when you join a program you spend some really fun weeks and months raising the money for your trip.
• Join a travel writing program : Consider honing other skills that bring you into the world of travel, a good course takes you through some of the skills and ideas you’ll need on the road if you hope to share your trip with others.
• Learn : More than anything, if the rest of these aren’t a good fit, keep finding things that make you light up inside and learn more about those, even if it’s not your assigned homework. Earlier this year I shared a big list of free courses you could use to learn the languages of the places you want to visit, or even take classes about astronomy, photography, programming, or really anything you love. Listen to international music, practice cooking recipes you hunt down online … take the initiative to creatively bring elements of travel into your life.

Young Dreamer, I so appreciate hearing from you. I love knowing that you can’t imagine your future without travel. More than college and work, my one-year round the world trip changed the course of my life . I am humbled that you reached out, that you cared enough to email a kindred soul—never lose that pluck for it’s more valuable a trait than you yet know.

Travel young, travel far. Never stop dreaming.

38 thoughts on “A Little Letter… To All the Young Dreamers: Travel Young, Travel Far”

Exactly! Most of the time, we just have to take a moment for ourselves, listen and boom! we realize that we have the answer all along :) And it is such a refreshing feeling whenever that happens.. It’s like something’s saying, “See? I told you. You got this! All you have to do is believe and take a step forward.”

“Travel is not an answer to any question, but rather the path you will take to arrive at an answer that is more honest and true to who you are and what you are meant to do.”

This line got stuck in my brain. It is actually true.. Most of the time we need time to go somewhere, just be with nature for us to realize who we really are and decide on our own about what’s the next step to take :) Also, travelling reminds me how beautiful life is and that once you set out to find the answer, you’ll sure to find it because God is everywhere waiting for us to hear Him out.

Love the post Ms. Shannon :)

I so glad the post resonated, thank you for sharing your own thoughts. There is something about the internal quiet when you’re traveling that helps you tap into the answers and messages out there waiting for us. :)

Need more adults like you in my life. Being an 18 year old who can only think about travel with the most conventional “get a job get a mortgage settle down” family is exhausting and demoralising !!! This helped so much thank you !! Just what I needed xxx

I am so glad that it resonated Olivia. It can be tough to shape the life you want. I wish you the best of luck as you work on bringing travel into your life these coming years. This pose I wrote might strike a chord too: https://alittleadrift.com/2015/11/seven-year-reflections/ — It’s about how to drown out the noise and make the hard choices that reflect your goals, not the goals of others.

Six months! So soon, and how wonderful. Congrats on getting everything enough to leave (and yay for long term travel and staying out there in the road!). I appreciate you sharing tips and offering to allow readers to contact you. Best of luck, safe travels, and let me know if there is anything I can do to help. :)

Thanks so much for mentioning our teen travel blogging mentorship program – it is changing lives!

I, too, was entrusted to travel at an early age by my parents – a fact which i am grateful for every single day. but no matter how old you are when you start traveling, having a sense of curiosity about the world is the best tool in your toolkit!

LOVE these resources!

You are very welcome, I know you have been working in this space with youth and travel and really have a wonderful program from the writers at heart who dream of travel. :)

This post, no this whole blog is incredible. I can’t wait to start travelling and your blog gave me most of the inspiration. It was maybe last year when my mum came home from work (she works at a college) with a gap year brochure that I began thinking about it. I looked at so many (Fiji certainly caught my eye) but then i thought why go to just one country for a few weeks, why not go around the world. More recently I’ve been looking at different pre-organised RTW trips to start with before I do some solo travelling and they do look interesting. I’ve only been out of Western Europe a few times, I live in England and have taken holidays to Spain, France, Italy and Holland, the furthest I’ve been is Lanzarote in the Canary Islands and Lapland in Finland when I was a small child. Although I’ve been to a few countries, I don’t feel satisfied enough to continue life in the way society wants. I’ve always been dependent on my mum and it’s my younger sister who everyone thinks will just get up and travel, but I don’t want to do what everyone expects me to do. I want to see the world and experience different things. One thing definitely on my bucket list is to spend some time with monks as I’ve always been interested in their way of life, can you suggest anything? I’d also like to spend some time in Egypt and Morroco if you know anywhere thats good. Sorry I’ve dwindled on a bit, I just want to say thanks for inspiring me.

Hi Abby, thanks so much for sharing your experience here, it sounds like you’re on the cusp of some big travel! I love that your mum gave you the gap year brochure — it is great that you have someone supportive and there encouraging you to take a trip overseas. The tour idea might be a good way to get you started on your trip, but I think once you’re on the road you’ll gain enough confidence to tackle some regions solo. Have you thought of perhaps using a company like G Adventures http://www.gadventures.com/ to land in a region and travel for a few weeks or months, then set of on your own after that? Thailand is a great spot to learn from the monasteries there, or Nepal if you have some months to give for teaching. Southeast Asia is the spot I love to recommend for beginners on their own because it’s really safe and there’s a decent tourist infrastructure in the region. Plus the food is delicious and the culture is wonderful! I would love to talk more if you’re keen, just shoot me an email and we can delve into some of the specifics.

This trip sounds wonderful and I am so happy you are deciding to act now on your dream to travel and take a less conventional path. I look forward to chatting more. I have a few posts coming up in the next month about finding work abroad post-graduation, and some options you have beyond just travel too! :)

Only just read this, Shannon. It’s beautiful.

Aw shucks, thanks lady.

Shannon – thank you so much for this. I teared up reading it because it was such a beautiful piece of writing & spot on in every way!

I’m on the cusp of graduation & my life is pretty planned out but my heart is tugging me in a different direction – I know in my heart someday I’ll get to fulfill this yearning to travel more fully (instead of dichotomising my “real life” and my “travel life”)

Just… thank you for taking the time (: Gives me so much hope to know there are adults like you who are so committed to keeping alive youthful dreams (instead of telling us we’re naive / idealistic) :D Rock on, Shannon – I’ve been a longtime fan!

HI Sarah, I am so glad that this piece resonated with you. Graduation is a really tough time and I know a lot of adults forget what it felt like to transition like that, to be asked to put on the mantel of adult — sadly by that many adults actually mean “now give up your dreams and make money).

Good luck and please don’t hesitate to let me know if there is something I can do to help, or merely just lend an ear :)

I feel like you were talking directly to me with this post. I feel so lost in my life right now and the only thing that I know that I REALLY want to do with my life is travel. But according to everyone else, that’s not a viable life option. I know that people are wrong and I can make it work but I keep using my age as an excuse to hold me back. In all reality, I am terrified of traveling right now because it seems like everyone who goes out and sees all these amazing things are at least “twenty-something” and I haven’t even hit 19 yet.

Hmm, a lot of the bloggers tend toward the mid-twenties, but there are definitely people your age out there traveling Sky, take heart! I met a lot of 18-22 year olds in Australia and Southeast Asia when I was there. I think the biggest thing stopping many people is money, but if you have or can save up, or finagle it hit the road and you will be amazed by the diverse ages, lifestyles, cultures, and people also traveling round the world :)

I just read this and although you may go not read my response – I think you should definitely go do it! I’m 19 and I’m leaving in less than six months to the UK to travel. I haven’t told anyone I don’t really intend on coming back just yet but it’s so exciting! Save up a lot and remember you can find work sometimes or even use couchsurfing.org and volunteer at places that offer free accommodation! If you read this and want to talk more, email me at [email protected] . This is my first trip and I’m terrified but so excited! I definitely understand how you feel.

Thank you for this Shannon! I’ve had this dream for a long time and after I read The 4-Hour Workweek by Mr. Ferris, I started thinking that I might be able to do it. Since then, I have googled a lot and have found all of you awesome and inspirering travel bloggers! It has really changed my mind about traveling.

My boyfriend and I have been working towards becoming location independant. It’s now finally working out, and we’ll set out on an amazing trip later this month! Wow. And I have you and other travel bloggers to thank… So, thank you! Writing these sort of things are really changing people’s lives! :)

I am so excited for you Celia — congrats on deciding to act on that dream to travel so soon. I really appreciate you sharing your story here and let me know if there is anything I can do to help you plan. Safe travels and have a wonderful trip! :)

As someone who is in that in between age this post was absolutely wonderful and meant the world to me. It’s beautifully written and speaks volumes to me. Few people in my life understand my desire and need to travel. Few people understand that one day I WILL get out there are make the fantasy in my head a reality. They either think I am naive or just don’t know what I want yet. Your post is such a blessing and I am so glad to have read it. It makes the waiting so much better :-) Plus, I started using the website Students of the World. I have found some people I really enjoy emailing. Thanks for the magnificent post and recommendation. :)

Thanks so much for reading this Sonika, and for sharing your own struggles and experiences. I know it can seem difficult to see through to when you are able to make your own decisions, but I hope you keep the dream alive — especially through the Students of the World, that looks like a really fun way to connect! If you ever need a friendly ear just send me an email and we can chat more. :)

In the end, JUST DO IT! =) great post.

Thanks Gabriel, that’s the core of it for sure — find a way and DO IT! Thanks for stopping in and reading :)

I love that you mentioned Youth for Understanding. I was an exchange student to the US with them 12 years ago and I benefit from it to this day.

Oh I am so glad you had a positive experience with them Mariella, I tried to do a lot of research into the good ones since I never did an exchange. Do you still keep in touch with your host family? :)

Great advice! Best to start early. As someone who waited until I was 50 to become a full time traveler my only regret is that I didn’t start earlier!

Great post!

Makes me (again) reflect on how grateful I am for my parents, and how I was raised.

Thanks for bringing this awareness back to the forefront of my mind!

As with you, I am grateful my dad took the time to support my dreams — I didn’t travel internationally as a kid, but he supported the dream to do so. And I thank him for that regularly :)

I sent this to all my friends and cousins who just graduated from high school this week. Thank you so much for writing this… I wish I would have had this at 18.

Aw shucks thanks for sharing, one of the things I’d love to start doing more of is talking to people of that age/stage in life — it’s so important that they know they can (and should!) go travel. :)

“The hardest task you have ahead of you is to push through the naysayers, to look beyond the rules and permissions society places upon because of your color, class, gender, or age and to realize that if you dream it—if you hold something in your heart that you want to do, then there is validity and goodness in that choice.”

This applies in all facets of life. The naysayers keeping putting you down, and most people inevitably give in and start to listen to them. The trick is having the persistence and determination to ignore them.

It is so true of the other facets Drew, I agree. I think Mark Twain encapsulated that sentiment pretty well “Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” It can be hard to learn to trust your own path and instincts and keep pushing — that’s where the good stuff in life is waiting :)

I’m SO grateful that my parents trusted me to travel at a young age: a summer spent with family friends in France when I was 16, a summer studying in Paris when I was 18 really set the tone for my love of France, and eventually, travel. My mom spent her junior year of high school as a Rotary Club exchange student in the north of France and her junior year of college in Montpellier (where she hitchhiked to Spain and wandered through Paris)–and I’m so grateful that my first-generation American grandparents in a small town in Pennsylvania supported that in the 1970s, a time before jetsetting was as easy or cheap or common as it is today. They’ve created a legacy of young travel in our family–and while I’ve surely taken it beyond their wildest dreams, I’m so glad that they did.

That awareness from your parents is so rare for many — you were definitely luck Christine to have them know the value and support you so early on. Your mom sounds like a great lady too! Whenever I meet the travelers who hitchhiked and backpacked in the 60s and 70s I feel these little pangs of jealously that there were elements to the journey — the true immersion and adventure — that we don’t quite have any longer. :)

This is such an important post, Shannon. As much as I hope students go out and pursue their dreams, I think adults have a responsibility to help encourage students to do these things. For example, in the U.S., American high school students rarely study abroad, but that doesn’t mean they can’t or shouldn’t. Also, I’d encourage adults in the U.S. to volunteer to become host parents for foreign exchange students. There is a shortage every year, and it’s an important experience for students to have.

I had no idea that there were not enough host parents in the US — that hadn’t occurred to me. I think it’s really about spreading the word that it’s something that can be done to some extent, because I know to a lot of people it wouldn’t occur to sign up to the program. But I think if I have kids and a house, it would be a great way to still have them exposed to new ideas and cultures without actually leaving — an entirely different type of reverse travel for the people hosting I think. It is chatting these past couple years with you that kept it at the top of my mind as an option, even, so it’s great that you blog and share that experience and awareness.

Thanks so much Michelle, I realized that so few people are talking about what to do before you’re the master of your own destiny as an adult :)

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Travel Goals: How to Envision and Achieve Your Travel Dreams

Have you ever noticed how two people can visit the same place with similar hopes and dreams have dramatically different experiences?

One person will return home with life-changing memories of adventure and reflection, whereas another will return home disappointed, feeling as though they'd failed to accomplish what they set out to achieve.

Why is this?

While nothing is guaranteed on the road, travelers who consistently have exceptional experiences share a common trait: they set travel goals. 

Setting travel goals to improve your next trip might seem counterintuitive to some. After all , isn't the objective of travel to get away from the to-do lists and schedules of daily life?

Yes, and no. Although travel is a great opportunity to escape from our day-to-day routines, it's not an alternative universe within which the general rules of life don't apply.

Just as they do at home, when traveling goals provide you with short-term motivation and long-term vision. They help you to better organize your time and energy so that you get the most out of your trips.

Goals ensure that you’re life on the road follows your own personal values. And by setting and completing goals, you take the steps necessary to fulfill your purpose, or Why, for traveling.

Without goals, it’s easy to get lost. With no clear direction on what to do next or which way to go, we can become overwhelmed with the number of novel possibilities travel presents us with on a daily basis.

Having good travel goals is like having someone guide you along your journey, ensuring you take the proper next step every time.

Fortunately, as you will see, creating—and accomplishing—major, life-changing travel goals isn’t just for the hyper-motivated or über-persistent. There are a number of straight-forward steps that anyone eager to learn and grow can follow to design and fulfill their travel dreams.

How To Create Amazingly-Effective Travel Goals

OK, so you’re convinced that setting goals is useful. But how do you go about doing this? How do you create good travel goals?

The best, most-effective travel goals are SMART goals. No, I don’t mean that they are members off MENSA (what’s with the acronyms today?).

Rather, great travel goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Based. Let’s explain that a bit more.

CC BY-SA 4.0 , Dungdm93 .

Great travel goals are clear and specific, which helps to remain focused and motivated.

To make your goals more specific, try and answer the six ‘W’ questions:

-What do I want to accomplish?

-When do I want to accomplish this goal?

-Where do I need to go?

-Who should be involved?

-Which resources or limits are there?

-Why do I want to accomplish this goal?

Great travel goals are also measurable, allowing you to easily track your progress and know when you’ve succeeded.

Being able to clearly see both how far you’ve come and what you need to do to finish helps you to stay motivated and creates excitement around the thought of accomplishing your goal.

When setting measurable goals, ask questions like:

-How will I know when I've succeeded?

A good measurable travel goal for someone shy would be to have a 5+ minute conversation with a local 3x over the course of one, week-long trip. A less-effective goal would be to "meet new people" or "open up".

Great travel goals should also be attainable. You should be able to see a realistic path you can take to success. You should feel challenged and your abilities should be stretched, but everything should remain possible.   If your goals is so difficult that it starts to feel unattainable, then you’re more likely to just give up.

Achievable goals answer questions like:

-Given my current situation (financial, mental/physical health, time constraints) how realistic is this goal?

-How can I accomplish this goal?

Great travel goals need to be relevant. They need to matter to you, aligning with your greater purpose in travel or life.

Having a deep sense of purpose behind your goals ensures that you’ll never run out of motivation, even when the going gets tough and helps to keep things in perspective. If you goal isn’t relevant to you, you will lack the fortitude necessary to handle adversity when it undoubtedly appears.

Relevant travel goals answer ‘yes’ to these questions:

-Is this something that matters to me?

-Do I really want to accomplish this?

-Will completing this goal improve the world in some way?

-Am I improving my life by succeeding?

-Is this the right time or place for me to try and achieve this goal?

Great travel goals have a target date. They have a deadline for completion that you can stick to. This helps ensure that one temporary, short-term goal—which is supposed to be a single step on the way towards aiding greater goals or your purpose—doesn’t become a massive time-suck or permanent hinderance.

Time-based travel goals can usually answer these questions:

-What can be done today to help accomplish this?

-What can I do six weeks from now?

-What can I do six months from now?

A good time-bound travel goal for someone afraid of flying would be to take one flight without the aid of anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, or alcohol in the next 3 months.

In addition, the best travel goals are performance, not outcome, based. This means that the goal is to complete the process rather than to achieve a specific end result.

As all great performers know, the only thing you ever have full control over is your effort. There’s no guarantee that a well-struck golf ball won’t end up in the water in a tournament or that a perfectly-sung ballad won’t be eclipsed by another song during a talent show.

You can’t force the weather to be nice, a museum to be open, or a local to be friendly, but you can wake up in the morning ready to take that hike, prepare yourself to see some art, or have the courage to start a conversation at the nearby cafe.

You can't control whether or not the ticket office is open while traveling through Italy—it rarely seems to be—but you can make sure you're at the train station on time.

While there are no guarantees, consistently putting in the effort—following a process that you know can work—leads to the best long-term results.

How To Figure Out What Goals to Set

If you’ve read what we wrote on travel with purpose , you know how important it is to find your Why for travel. Purpose gives focus to your planning, inspires action on the road, and provides strength in difficult moments—both before and during trips.

Once you’ve identified your purpose for travel— here’s a refresher on how to do that —you’ve already done much of the work necessary to set great travel goals. You have a clear idea of which direction you want to take. Now you just have to map out the specific steps you will take to get there.

Once you know what your final destination is, it becomes much easier to determine what path you want to take to get there.

Sometimes the route you need to take will be obvious, and goal-setting will be simple. Other times the path might not be as clear. If that’s the case, ask yourself the following questions, with your Why in mind:

-Image that you’ve had a successful trip filled with purpose. What would that trip entail? Can you work backwards from the end to the start?

-What’s the smallest possible first step you could take towards achieving your Why?

-Has anyone else traveled with a similar purpose? What did their journey look like?

-What’s the most important problem you could tackle on day one of your trip?

-What’s one thing that would get you to jump out of bed?

-What do you want your obituary to say?

-What would you never regret trying even if you failed?

-What could you do to ensure that you’re living a satisfying life?

Choosing between paths is often part of the fun of travel planning and goal setting.

Not every goal for your trip has to—or even should—be purpose-driven. Adding a few for-fun, less-serious goals helps to lighten the mood and provides additional motivation along the way.

Examples of some fun goals could be visiting all the Trappist breweries in Belgium, learning 5 words in Portuguese each day during a month-long trip to Brazil, and trying 20 different flavors of Kit Kat while in Japan.

Just a few of the hundreds of flavored Kit Kats available in Japan.

Deciding How Many Travel Goals to Have

When trying to determine how many goals you should set for a trip, there are a number of factors to consider.

How long will you be gone? How much time will you be able to devote to accomplishing your goals? Will you have other obligations or responsibilities on your trip? Does reading over your list of potential goals make you feel overwhelmed?

It can be helpful to think of travel goals as items in your mental backpack. Pack too few and you'll be ill-prepared. Pack too many and you'll be overly burdened.

In general, it is better to pick a smaller number of meaningful goals rather than a large number of goals that you’re less enthusiastic about. Your time and energy on the road is limited, and there is only so much you can concentrate on.

Changing Your Travel Goals

Having fewer goals allows you to create new goals when you’re traveling based on what you see and do. As you travel, you will undoubtedly realize new things about yourself and your prioritizes might change. Perhaps you came to South America to learn Brazilian Capoeira only to learn that you’d rather practice Argentine Tango.

Argentinian Tango dancers. CC BY 2.5 , Carlos Luque .

Your goals don’t have to be inflexible. Sometimes unexpected things happen when you’re traveling. Allow yourself the latitude to jump into the adventure that is unexpected possibilities. Don’t let your original goal of visiting the top 5 Sachertorte coffee houses in Vienna keep you from accepting an invite from new friends to spend the weekend at a music festival in Bratislava. The best part of travel is the unexpected and the unplanned, and objectives should never get in the way of a good story.

Expectations Versus Hopes

To help make this easier, make sure your goals are not expectations. Expectations are absolute and unmovable. When we expect something, we move an accomplishment from being something to be celebrated to being something mundane. After all, we expected it to happen so why be happy? And if they don’t happen, then we get upset.

In contrast, if you view your goals as hopes—things you want to have happen but also recognize that they might not—then you are free to change or abandon goals when necessary. The quality of your travel experiences are not contingent upon how many of the goals you set out at the beginning are accomplished blindly.

Don't underestimate the benefits of having the freedom to explore with hope.

How to Achieve Your Travel Goals

There are a number of things you can do to help you to accomplish your travel goals.

1.) Make sure your travel goals are SMART

As mentioned above, if your goals are not specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, or time-bound, your chances of success will be greatly diminished.

2.) Review your travel goals regularly

Review your goals every day when you wake up. One way to do this is to create a travel journal within which you actually one big goal for the day and three ways in which you are going to make it happen.

Also remind yourself everyday of your overall purpose for traveling. Write this down on a piece of paper and bring it with you during the day.

3.) Prioritize your travel goals

At the beginning of your trip, sequence your goals based on priority. Know what is most important to get done first and what you most want to accomplish. Not only does this set you off on the right foot, but it makes it more likely that you will have done the things you most want to do in case something happens that cuts your trip short or otherwise changes your plans.

4.) Keep track of your progress

Before you go to bed each night take a moment to write down your successes. Note what steps you took to achieve your goals and how much progress you’ve made since yesterday.

Somedays you’ll take great leaps, whereas others days it may feel like you’ve only advanced a little. Don’t worry about this. Remain consistent in the process and the results will eventually show.

5.) Celebrate your success

Be sure to enjoy the moment when you accomplish your goals. Fully embrace the feelings you get and let them soak into you. Hold onto that feeling as long as you can. Think about the hard work and dedication it took to get to where you are.

Take a photo to memorialize your accomplishment and let other people know on social media what you’ve done. Don’t worry about coming across as boastful—in general, people want other people to succeed, and if your joy is genuine your friends and family will be supportive. And who knows, you may even inspire someone else to take on their own challenges.

The joy one gains from a hard-earned achievement is addictive, and you’ll naturally want more of it. Ensuring that you take the time to properly celebrate your successes is critical when building the work-reward loop that drives future performance.

6.) Reflect

Throughout the goal-achievement process, remain reflective. Ask yourself how things are going? Are your goals too easy and you’re not feeling challenged? What are you learning about yourself? Use this information to adjust your future plans and goals.

Things to Avoid: What Prevents You From Achieving Your Travel Goals

Don't let your next trip be filled with regret and disappointment due to unmet travel goals.

There are a number of reasons people don’t achieve their travel goals. Some of the biggest road blocks include:

1.) Impatience

You want results right away and get frustrated and quit when you don’t see the results immediately.

2.) Perfectionism

You want everything to be done perfectly the first time and if that’s not the case you get upset and quit.

3.) Failure

You are unable to deal with failure on a first, second, or tenth try. Those who stick with it are those that achieve. 

Even the best fail sometimes.

4.) Focusing on the end results

When you shift your attention from the process to final outcome, you’re more likely to make mistakes, not give it your full effort, and overlook crucial steps. Also, the process is often quite fun—especially in traveling. Imagine not enjoying the hike up a mountain side because you’re focused exclusively on what it will feel like when you get to the top.

5.) Excuses

Sometimes excuses are what prevent us from achieving our goals.Your mind likes to stay in a comfort zone and so it will say and do whatever it can to prevent you from moving out of that. Do you hear yourself saying some of the following? If you do, stop for a moment and think. 

-I’m not good enough.

-It’s not the right time.

-I’m too old/young.

-I don’t have the money.

-People will laugh at me.

-What if I fail?

6.) Overly-large steps

If you bite off more than you can chew in one chunk it can be demoralizing and daunting. This is common. Instead of committing to visiting all the countries in the world when you first start out traveling, perhaps start by visiting one.

Every great journey starts with a single step.

7.) Procrastination

Now is the best time to act. It’s easy to say that you’ll travel one day or achieve XYZ in the future when you feel right. Don’t wait until you feel ready, or when the time is right. If you do that, you risk that time never coming. If you can’t complete the whole goal right now, create a mini-goal that you can finish that when done will help you to achieve your larger goal. Any progress is good progress!

8.) Distractions

People, at home, social pressure. These can all distract you from your goals. Remember why you’re trying to achieve your goals, and this can help you keep on track.

9.) Lack of consistency

Are you not doing the same things every day to help achieve your goals? Do you work hard one day and then slack off another?

Show up everyday with effort and you’ll be rewarded. The more consistent you are, the easier it is to achieve goals as they become habits. Get in the habit of talking to locals when you wake up each morning and you’ll find it second nature after a while.

Keep showing up and you'll eventually catch a ride.

10.) Expectations

More on this next week!

As you've learned, if you're interested in consistently having exceptional travel experiences, you should to set goals. The best travel goals are SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Based—and are often steps towards fulfilling a greater purpose or Why. Such goals provide travelers with the motivation, vision, and resiliency. By following a few straight-forward steps, anyone can design, develop, and—ultimately—live their travel dreams.

Eager to take the next step towards achieving your travel goals? D ownload my FREE guide   The Traveler’s Mindset: How to Mentally Prepare for Journeys of Adventure and Growth !

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Where to Stay in Singapore: Top Neighborhoods for Every Traveler’s Dream Stay

Singapore is a vibrant, multi-cultural hub that offers an array of exciting places to stay, each with its own unique attractions and amenities. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget accommodation, family-friendly neighborhoods, or nightlife hotspots, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best areas to stay in Singapore for your perfect trip.

Marina Bay is synonymous with luxury and breathtaking views. This area is perfect for those looking to stay in the heart of Singapore’s glitz and glamour. With iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Merlion Park, you will never run out of things to see and do.

Top accommodations in Marina Bay:

• Marina Bay Sands
• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
• Pan Pacific Singapore

Orchard Road

Orchard Road is Singapore’s go-to destination for shopping enthusiasts. This bustling area is lined with high-end shopping malls, boutique stores, and entertainment options. It’s a shopper’s paradise offering a wide range of accommodations from budget-friendly hotels to luxury stays.

Top accommodations in Orchard Road:

• The Singapore EDITION
• Grand Hyatt Singapore
• Orchard Hotel Singapore

For a stay immersed in rich culture and history, look no further than Chinatown. Packed with heritage shophouses, vibrant street markets, and delicious food stalls, Chinatown offers a unique blend of the old and new. Ideal for those who want to explore cultural attractions and enjoy authentic local cuisine.

Top accommodations in Chinatown:

• The Scarlet Singapore
• PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering

Little India

Little India is a vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful streets, bustling markets, and aromatic food stalls. This area is rich in traditional Indian culture and offers a range of budget accommodations, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an affordable yet cultural stay.

Top accommodations in Little India:

• Wanderlust Hotel
• Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon
• The Great Madras Hotel

Clarke Quay

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Clarke Quay is perfect for those looking to indulge in Singapore’s party scene. This picturesque riverfront area is filled with trendy bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. With plenty of accommodation options, Clarke Quay is an excellent choice for young travelers and night owls.

Top accommodations in Clarke Quay:

• Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay
• Paradox Singapore Merchant Court at Clarke Quay
• Park Regis Singapore

Sentosa Island

If you’re aiming for a resort-style vacation, Sentosa Island is the place to be. This island is home to several luxury resorts, family-friendly attractions, and beautiful beaches. Whether you’re after a relaxing spa day or a thrilling adventure at Universal Studios, Sentosa has it all.

Top accommodations in Sentosa Island:

• Resorts World Sentosa – Hotel Michael
• Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa
• Amara Sanctuary Resort

Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam seamlessly blends Malay, Arab, and Indonesian cultures, making it one of Singapore’s most charming neighborhoods. This hip area is known for its stylish boutiques, trendy cafes, and the stunning Sultan Mosque. It’s ideal for travelers interested in arts, culture, and fashion.

Top accommodations in Kampong Glam:

• Village Hotel Bugis

With a plethora of neighborhoods catering to diverse needs and budgets, finding the best area to stay in Singapore has never been easier. From luxurious accommodations at Marina Bay to budget-friendly stays in Little India, there’s a perfect spot for every traveler in this vibrant city.

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3 Days in Saint Petersburg Russia: My Perfect 3-Day Saint Petersburg Itinerary

Saint Petersburg is one of Russia’s largest and most exciting cities, offering visitors thousands of things to do, including museums, palaces, beautiful parks, historical sites, and world-class theatre. Discover all the sights and delights the cultural capital of Russia has to offer with my 3-day Saint Petersburg itinerary.

With all these options, planning a trip to Saint Petersburg can be a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. I’ve put together a recommended 3-day Saint Petersburg itinerary that will help you see the city’s highlights if you have at least 3 days in Saint Petersburg.

Saint Petersburg is a budget-friendly destination that promises historical immersion and exquisite architecture at half the price of that in Western Europe.

My suggested 3-day itinerary has you visiting all the city’s most famous attractions (e.g., the atmospheric Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, the Winter Palace, the Hermitage Museum) as well as some of the city’s lesser-known attractions. In addition to the 3-day itinerary, I also provide tips on how to get around Saint Petersburg and tips on where to eat and stay during your 3 days in Saint Petersburg.

If you’re headed to Russia’s capital city, take a look at my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow .

3 Days in Saint Petersburg Itinerary | The Perfect 72 Hours in Saint Petersburg

Saint petersburg, russia in 3 days – day 1.

Start with an early morning walk along Nevsky Avenue from Vosstaniya Square to the Admiralty Building. The first point of interest is the Hero-City obelisk next to the Moskovsky railway station commemorating the victory of Soviet people over the Nazis. The lovely views will put you in a good mood for the rest of the day. Stop for a nice cappuccino at one of the bars near Gostiny Dvor, a Russian alternative to the French Passage. Enjoy the sight of the old Anichkov Bridge, the oldest bridge over the Fontanka River.

Then make your way to the neoclassical St. Isaac’s Cathedral. It’s a good idea to climb to its colonnade’s observation platform. It means that you get a panoramic view of the St.Petersburg and the refreshing breeze in the summertime.

In St. Isaac’s Cathedral you can admire the interior that boasts more than 300 paintings, mosaics, sculptures, various kinds of precious stones and gilding. The walls of the Cathedral are faced with fine Italian and Russian varieties of marble and other stones: malachite, lapis lazuli, porphyry. St. Isaac’s Cathedral, for example, is otherwise known as the “Museum of stones”.

What Motivates People to Travel

Just a stone’s throw away from St. Isaac’s Cathedral you’ll find the Winter Palace and the Hermitage Museum. These are the most famous attractions in St. Petersburg and you simply can’t miss them. Spend some time taking awesome pictures of the Palace Square, then continue your walking tour of St Petersburg toward the Spit of Vasilevsky Island.

Here you’ll find red Rostral Columns decorated with bronze anchors and four pairs of bronze ship prows. Ah, don’t miss out on visiting the KunstKamera, arguably the weirdest museum in the world.

End your first day in Saint Petersburg exploring the Peter and Paul Fortress. The mighty that never served its purpose to protect the city sits on a narrow strip of land at the mouth of the Neva river. Hare’s island is home to a plethora of various buildings, museums, and exhibitions both permanent and temporary. Although, these do not always reflect the specific history of the fortress itself.

Be sure to make your way down to the Neva River. Here you can have a take a leisurely stroll along the mighty granite walls and mingle with locals.

Saint Petersburg, Russia in 3 days – Day 2

First things first. You can’t visit Saint Petersburg without seeing the real Dutch and Flemish Painting in the Hermitage Museum. It’s worth the trip but book ahead, and allow yourself at least two hours. A good place for a coffee and a pastry is Hermitage Cafe in the General Staff building. Pop over to the Field of Mars to have a look at ordinary people spending their leisure time and the first eternal flame in the country.

If you are a history buff, visit the Museum of the Defense and Siege of Leningrad. a former monastery filled with atmospheric early Renaissance frescoes painted by Fra’ Angelico. The permanent exhibition features the history of the city during the 900-day Blockade, which lasted from 8 September 1941 to 17 January 1944. It goes without saying that this is a very sobering, and unique place to visit for thought-provoking entertainment.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Russia

Then walk along Moika Embankment towards Chizhyk Pyzhik sculpture (pine siskin), and from there take a stroll through the Michael Garden (Mikhaylovskiy Sad) to reach the Church of the Savior on Blood. Admire the ornate cupolas of the Cathedral, otherwise known as ‘Spas Na Krovi‘. It was built on the very spot that Alexander II had been assassinated on March 1, 1881. You can also admire the Cathedral’s interior from inside – walls and ceilings are completely covered in intricate mosaics and paintings.

Nevsky Avenue and adjoining Griboyedov Canal are full of lovely little shops to browse in. At the intersection of Griboyedov Canal and Nevsky Avenue, you’ll find several cozy restaurants offering a wide array of dining options.

In the afternoon, head along to the Alexander Garden to see the Monuments and the Bronze Horseman; a monument to Peter the Great) next to the Admiralty building. From there take a subway ride (Admiralteyskaya station) and go see the impressive Narva Triumphal Arch. Definitely one of the most underrated attractions in St Petersburg.

This remarkable roman arch is made of bricks and covered with copper sheets for the facades. There are four columns on the front side, two on each side of the arch, chariot on the top and the two statues of ancient Russian warriors. The square around the arch is a lively spot in a summer evening too.

Saint Petersburg 3-day itinerary – Day 3

While St Petersburg is a perfectly walkable city, the main streets can get quite crowded in high-season. However, there is always an escape to one of the royal suburbs.

Spend the third day of your 3 days in St. Petersburg taking day trips to Peterhof and/or Pushkin.

Peterhof has many intricate fountains, the highlight being the Samson Fountain with the lion. The sculpture celebrates the Russian victories, especially the victory over Sweden, whose coat-of-arms contains the figure of a lion. Peterhof Park and gardens are a vast area behind the palace where you can spend a few hours to escape the crowds.

Should you choose, I recommend heading to Peterhof in summer. The former royal residence of Peterhof sits some 30 minutes by hydrofoil from the Hermitage Embankment. Peterhof consists of a series of palaces, gardens and the Grand Cascade that makes the city an extremely popular destination in summer. If you are here during the summer, check out the palace’s many fountains. Remember, the fountains are only operational from May to September and aren’t functioning during winter. Peterhof is most quickly accessible via minibus from a St. Petersburg suburb, but most easily accessible via direct train from Baltiysky railway station.

Alternatively, sightseers and culture seekers can visit Pushkin – home to a Catherine Palace and the famous Amber Room. I actually visited both Pushkin and Peterhof and it’s nearly impossible to choose between these two amazing places. Keep in mind, during the public holidays both cities can be quite packed with locals. So you may want to visit the Catherine Palace in autumn or winter when it’s much less crowded.

Where to Stay in Saint Petersburg

You’ll be spoiled for choice among Saint Petersburg accommodation options. The city offers everything from luxurious hotels with their own rooftop bars to more affordable budget hotels that put you within 25 minutes of Moskovskaya railway station. No matter what your budget, you’ll be able to find the perfect St Petersburg hostel within easy reach of downtown. Check Railway Capsules . If you’re looking for someplace a bit nicer, I can personally recommend the WYNWOOD Hotel .

The Bottom Line

You did it! You made it to the end of my itinerary for 3 days in Saint Petersburg, Russia! Hopefully, you’ve discovered some of the best attractions in Saint Petersburg and have maybe even learned about some unique things to do in Saint Petersburg too!

I also hope that you now feel comfortable enough to plan the perfect weekend itinerary in Saint Petersburg. So if you’re ready to begin planning your trip to Saint Petersburg, Russia, then pin this now and read it again later!

How many of these attractions would be on your Saint Petersburg itinerary? If you’ve visited Saint Petersburg, what were your favorite spots in Saint Petersburg? If you have any questions about the itinerary or visiting Saint Petersburg, just ask them in the comments below and as always I’m happy to help!

PIN IT FOR LATER!

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I’ve always wanted to travel to Russia. This looks amazing! Your photos are beautiful.

MindTheTravel

Thank you, Sarah! I agree this country should be visited at least once in a lifetime!

Thank you for sharing. I never dreamt about going to St. Petersburg. May change my mind after reading your blog post and seeing your pictures though 😀

Thank you for sharing.We would be in Sankt Petersburg in July 2020,for sure we would use the Guide.Thanks again.

Once this covid crisis is over, I can’t wait to get there — am looking forward to the suggested itinerary!

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Inside A Ma Maniére Beach: A New Luxury, Black-Owned Beachfront Property Near Charleston

A Ma Maniére Beach Resort in Folly Beach, South Carolina is luxury living for the culture and the beachfront stay (and home) of my dreams.

Simone Cherí • Sep 13, 2024

Staring out at the morning waves of the Atlantic as the sun made its glistening entrance, I realized A Ma Maniére Beach Resort was the home of my dreams. Lying there, gazing at Basquiat’s artwork above the spacious king bed, I thought of the Black families who once called the Carolina coastlines home. I realized how special this  Black-owned property  was and how it would create memories for others as unforgettable as the sensations I was experiencing at that moment.

With real-life examples of the fight for waterfront property, like that of the Reels family in the 2023 documentary  Silver Dollar Road , there aren’t enough words to underscore the significance of  Black beach ownership , especially in the Carolinas. But thanks to serial entrepreneur James Whitner, the culture now has a new space to bask in the convergence of culture, luxury, and community.

A Ma Maniére Beach combines a secluded beachfront stay with accommodations that exude luxury and Black culture. In this exclusive preview, discover where coastal elegance meets cultural storytelling for a beach getaway that’s as special as it is serene.

The Brand Behind The Beachfront Stay

Founded in Atlanta in 2014, A Ma Maniére began as a single location selling luxury men’s apparel, footwear, and accessories. It has since grown into a family of brands — A Ma Maniére, Social Status, and APB — leveraging its high-end aesthetic to land exclusive collaboration deals with Jordan and Nike. While each brand has a distinct voice, the common mission to “uplift, inspire, and push culture forward” unites them.

“The Whitaker Group started as a dream rooted in my experiences growing up in Pittsburgh,” visionary founder James Whitner shared with Travel Noire. “I saw the power of culture, community, and connection early on, and I knew I wanted to create something that spoke to those values. It all began with a single boutique, but even then it was about more than just transactions — it was about telling stories, elevating our culture, and giving our people a space to feel seen and heard.”

Redefining Immersive Luxury Lifestyle Experiences

After finding success in the  luxury fashion  world, Whitner set his sights on expanding the lifestyle brand. With a presence in Washington, D.C. and Houston, and plans to enter Harlem (NYC) and London (UK), A Ma Maniére’s parent company, The Whitaker Group (TWG), was ready to make its next big move beyond retail. In 2018, TWG opened A Ma Maniére Living, an innovative hotel concept in D.C. that redefines the way guests shop and stay in the nation’s capital.

On expanding, Whitner said, “We’ve expanded our footprint beyond retail into hospitality, luxury, and lifestyle experiences because we believe in creating spaces where our community can thrive in every aspect of life. That also means infiltrating spaces where they don’t expect us, like luxury. Redefining luxury on our terms — making sure our stories are told authentically and with respect — is what we’ve been working towards.”

Now, TWG is preparing for the debut of its newest property — A Ma Maniére Beach. This standout offers a stellar luxury coastal living experience unlike any stateside stay you’ve experienced before.

Beachfront Luxury Meets Black Culture’s Legacy In Folly Beach

A Ma Maniére Beach is a three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom home located on the northern end of South Carolina’s Folly Beach Island. Whitner identified the area’s exclusivity, laid-back charm, and complicated history as motivators behind expanding into the area.

“It’s a place where we could blend the coastal lifestyle with our commitment to storytelling and creating spaces that feel exclusive yet deeply connected to the community,” he explained.

Upon arrival, one of the brand’s 12 core values — “obsess the details” — is evident in the home’s design. The striking three-story structure stands out from its neighbors, with a matte-black exterior towering over nearby properties. Inside, the home impresses with unobstructed ocean views, an open-floor concept, and high ceilings that capture the airy elegance of beach living. Modern touches, like technology-controlled lighting and window treatments, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an in-home elevator, enhance the luxurious feel of the property.

Decor Details With A Story To Tell

The decor at A Ma Maniére Beach blends the natural beauty of Folly Beach with cultural elements that celebrate Black excellence and history. Colorful artworks and accent pieces contrast with earth-tone furnishings in each light-filled room. According to Whitner, the art selection was essential. After all, it’s not every day you can experience masterpieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Pat Phillips, Julian Gaines, and other renowned artists in such an intimate setting.

“[The] mix of well-known and celebrated contemporary artists encourages guests to dig deeper, to find the stories and connections within each piece,” said Whitner.

Thought-provoking pieces adorn various spaces, such as a rare collection of JET Magazine covers in one of the guest bedrooms. More than just visual elements, A Ma Maniére Beach’s aesthetic is designed to remind guests of “the strength of our culture and how far we’ve come” in a space “where history and future possibilities meet.”

“Every detail tells a story, honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future, all within a luxurious, tranquil setting,” Whitner reflected.

How To Book A Stay At A Ma Maniére Beach

Located just 30 minutes from  downtown Charleston , this short-term stay won’t be found on any booking platforms. A Ma Maniére Beach is part of a growing network of properties that the brand is positioning as a membership community. Similar to SoHo House, Whitner envisions a nationwide portfolio of exclusive locations and events offering members unparalleled access to culturally enriching, luxurious experiences.

Though not available as a traditional rental,  A Ma Maniére  Beach aims to continue creating unique, elevated spaces for its community of innovators and creatives. During my weekend stay, I couldn’t help but imagine the future memories of Black joy this space will hold. While I may not live there (yet), I can rest easy knowing that a little slice of heaven awaits in  Lowcountry South Carolina .

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Savoring The Tuscany Of Portugal: 3 New Ways To Stay In The Alentejo

Between Lisbon and the Algarve, the largest and least populated region of Portugal is a place of vast landscapes, some of the country’s best wineries and lots of pork—and more and more great hotels.

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Quinta do Paral

Stretching across rolling hills, olive groves, sun-soaked vineyards and whitewashed villages, the Alentejo is one of the most beguiling parts of Portugal. Extending south and east from Lisbon, the region is the country’s largest and its least populous. It’s also home to many of the country’s loveliest farmhouse hotels , oenophile tourism projects and wellness retreats, with more opening and expanding every year. From a wine resort that proudly flaunts its luxury bona fides to a nature retreat that refuses to take itself too seriously, here’s where to check in now.

For Over-The-Top Luxury: Quinta Do Paral

The olive oil that’s produced on the estate and served at the new Quinta do Paral wine hotel is bottled in glass vessels that resemble the bottles for Chanel No. 5 perfume. The owners want you to make no mistake: What they’re offering is a luxury product.

The property, which began welcoming guests a few months ago, was accepted into Leading Hotels of the World even before it opened. That’s a reflection of the lavishness of the amenities—including the only private plane (a Pilatus PC 12, for those keeping score) affiliated with a hotel in Portugal—and the architecture.

A suite with a mirror cube at Quinta do Paral

The renovation of the original, 19th-century manor house and the addition of a new block of rooms were overseen by the splashy Portuguese firm Saraiva & Associados, who kept regional details such as donkey brick walls and wrought-iron railings and added modern touches like giant travertine bathtubs and glass partitions in the bathrooms. The most interesting of the 22 rooms have mirrored cubes in the center, with the bathroom tucked inside. Colorful, large-scale artworks by painter David Reis Pinto add visual interest.

Along with the olive oil, the estate produces top-notch wine, including some from old vines, with a focus on environmental stewardship and respect for Alentejo tradition. (It’s near Vidigueira, a particular center of winemaking culture.) One of the two dining venues, the Wine Restaurant—conceptualized in collaboration with regional chef José Júlio Vintém—emphasizes pairings, while the other restaurant, beside the swimming pool, is more casual.

For Intriguing Gastronomy: Casa Do Gadanha And Mercearia Gadanha

Quail legs at Mercearia Gadanha

Chef Michele Marques put the marble city of Estremoz on the food lover’s map when she opened the restaurant at Mercearia Gadanha about a decade ago. Her menu presents refined and creative takes on the Alentejo’s famously rich cuisine, such as lamb croquettes, quail legs fried in olive oil, slow-stewed pork checks and thick fried hake fillets with the garlicky, egg-yolk-y bread stew called açorda. It’s nothing especially fancy, but the quality and care are high enough that the place is listed in the Michelin guide.

Two years ago, Marques and her fellow-chef husband, Ruben Trindade Santos, opened a small country-house hotel on a nearby square in the center of the city. The building for Casa do Gadanha, which dates partly from the 17th century and partly from the 19th, was abandoned when they found it, and their renovation turned it into 12 minimalist guest rooms with a rooftop pool on top and Trindade’s own restaurant below. Although the accommodations are simple, they’re comfortable, and the owners have partnered with other local entrepreneurs to offer activities like e-bike tours of Estremoz, its marble quarries and some of its 22 wineries.

The rooftop terrace at Casa do Gadanha

As for the restaurant, which is also recognized by Michelin, Trindade admits that local old-timers didn’t know what to make of its breezy design, ever-changing small plates and international influences. The chef worked in starred kitchens like Feitoria in Lisbon and Ocean in the Algarve before embarking on an eating and cooking tour of South America, where he worked with top chefs in Chile. Here, his inventive plates include the likes of tzatziki stracciatella, melon and Iberian pork ham; Azorean amberjack with carrot and orange aguachile; and eggplant with honey, labneh and chimichurri.

For Slow Living In Style: Quinta Camarena

The lounge and common areas at Quinta Camarena

Just 15 minutes from the wild beaches of the Alentejo’s rugged Vicentina Coast, the intimate, sustainability-conscious Quinta Camarena offers the best of both worlds: The sea and its surf breaks are nearby, but so is the rural town of Cercal do Alentejo. In either case, the refined take on countryside living is the brainchild of Los Angeles–born photographer Cam Camarena and his Portuguese wife, Vera, who traded in their New York busyness for a life of raising chickens and welcoming guests to their laid-back nature retreat.

The project began with just a handful of simple rooms in a restored farmhouse, but last summer they expanded with seven new duplex rooms built into a hillside, among the oaks and pines. These mix the rustic—weathered wood floors—with the urban, such as polished industrial-cement walls, and include details from local artisans such as handmade blankets, antique mirrors and glass lamps made from wine jugs. There’s also well-curated photography, no surprise considering the owners’ background.

A new hillside room Quinta Camarena

The place has a dual focus on wellness and wine—and a series of Not so Serious yoga and fitness retreats that combine them—and special packages (plus fast internet and workspaces) for long stays. Much of the food comes from onsite gardens, and a local culinary team prepares healthful meals that are simple and delicious. They’ll organize visits to nearby winemakers, organic farms and other producers, as well as tastings in the main house.

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The 12 Best Hotels in Florence for Living La Dolce Vita

For when those travel plans finally make it out of the group chat.

Call it Florence , call it Firenze, call it the home base of bistecca alla fiorentina. Either way, the capital city of Tuscany is one of those places you can’t miss seeing before leaving this good, fine Earth. Let’s say you already booked your tickets to Amerigo Vespucci Airport (though, tbh, we recommend buying a cheaper flight to a nearby city and taking the train in), have rewatched A Room with a View , and planned out all your outfits to a tee. The last component, though—accommodations, duh!—is proving difficult.

Picking a hotel in Florence, after all, requires handling a lot of moving parts and making a lot of executive decisions. As far as location goes, do you want to be in the center of it all—mere feet (sorry, meters) away from the Uffizi Galleries and all their resplendent glory—or else savor the outskirts of the city, rolling hills and all? When choosing the type of hotel, do you go with something ultramodern or one steeped in tradition? With a Michelin -starred restaurant inside or simply a trendy, subterranean bar for all your nightcap needs?

If you’re stressed out already, do what the Italians would do (hint: They would not get stressed). Here, we’ve rounded up 12 hotel choices in Florence that will save you some worries and satisfy even the pickiest of world travelers . Christine Andraus—founder of Partenza Travel and certified travel adviser at the luxury travel consortium Virtuoso —sums it up best. "Some people are very dedicated to the Four Seasons, some want to be super central, and then some want to be able to go somewhere where they know your drink order and the drink is waiting for you at a table when you get back from touring all day." With the picks below, you're covered. Cue the spritz- and gelato-powered adventures!

Villa San Michele, a Belmond Hotel

If you’re allergic to tourists, stay far away from the Piazza del Duomo and instead book accommodations in this villa—located in the hilly town of Fiesole, about a half-hour bus commute from Florence’s proper city center. Chances are, though, if you’re staying in a place with a facade designed by the School of Michelangelo and 42 well-appointed rooms and suites with perks like plunge pools, you won’t be taking the bus around.

Hotel Calimala

Hotel Calimala, located on a trendy shopping street in Florence, turns the city’s reputation—of being slightly behind the times—on its head. Calimala is simply cool : all tricolor terrazzo floors and exposed brick walls and bold wall prints that would make David gasp. "The stay is more catered towards your millennial traveler, or maybe honeymooners, due to the smaller rooms," Andraus says. "Yet, they have a little bit of kick to them." Unconvinced? There’s also a lush floral patio and two fine dining options on-site. Bring on the piles and piles of antipasti.

Hotel Brunelleschi

A lot of Florentine hotels claim to be located “in the heart of the city,” but can they boast about being housed in a circular, sixth-century Byzantine tower and an adjoining medieval church? Hotel Brunelleschi can—balancing its central coordinates with a feeling of intimacy and exclusivity. If you’re lucky enough to snag the Pool Suite, whose terrace is pictured here, you can wake up, soak in your very own chromotherapy-equipped Jacuzzi, and proceed to have a breakfast overlooking the hotel namesake’s iconic dome.

Grand Hotel Cavour

Step inside Grand Hotel Cavour’s dramatic lobby and be instantly transported to the city’s golden age—circa the time when Dante first met (and fell deeply in love with) his muse, Beatrice. The room interiors here are nothing if not romantic: all Deco paintings and crown molding and charming Juliet balconies. For those seeking a whiff of modernity, the hotel’s underground Secret Bar, with its Pop Art and ambient lighting, should do the trick.

Il Salviatino

Il Salviatino is part of an exclusive club, specifically, the Small Luxury Hotels of the World club, which honors the crème de la crème of boutique properties the world over. For a truly memorable trip, check out this 16th-century Italian mansion’s heated outdoor pool (with a view towards the Tuscan hillside) and take advantage of the hot-air balloon ride offering. Hold on tight!

Hotel Torre Guelfa

Operating inside the 14th-century Palazzo Acciaiuoli, Hotel Torre Guelfa is peppered with indoor greenery, jewel-toned furniture, and four-poster beds fit for royalty. Its main event? A terrace on top of a 72-step tower, offering glorious views of the Duomo. All that is to say: This is a hotel you should sleep in, not sleep on.

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

Hearing the brand name Four Seasons leads one to make certain assumptions as related to bedding thread count, Michelin-starred restaurants on premises, pristine landscaping, and rooms that would make Louis XIV jealous. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze checks all those boxes. You’ll fall in love with all of its bells and whistles—in-room Baroque frescoes and the statue-bedecked private garden included.

Hotel Savoy

The Savoy is a happy—even enviable!—marriage between Florentine heritage and contemporary groove, thanks to its 1893 inauguration and recent renovation. "The inside has some funk to it but also that old Italian charm. They've done a nice hybrid of the two," Andraus tells us. "One would think it could be loud, especially on the weekends, because you're in the Piazza della Repubblica, but they've worked out a double-, even triple-pane, situation where you almost can't hear anything." Cheers to your upcoming days of tranquility, surrounded by corniced ceilings and statues worthy of being in the Galleria dell’Accademia.

Ottantotto Firenze

Florence pro tip: Cross the Arno river and stay in the trendier, less populated Oltrarno neighborhood with its fair share of delightful hotel options. This boutique property has only seven rooms, whose suffused lights, wall niches, patterned wallpapers, and antique materials all contribute to an unforgettable stay. There’s also a stone-paved courtyard and free breakfast. In short? Ottantotto is calling out your name. Answer.

Portrait Firenze

Portrait Firenze’s most distinguishing feature just might be its location (right on the Arno, with direct visuals of the bustling Ponte Vecchio bridge). Yet, we’d be remiss not to mention the hotel’s other outstanding qualities—including its sophisticated interiors by local interior designer and architect Michele Bönan; hiccup-free, white-glove service; and access to the sister property’s White Iris Beauty Spa.

Hotel La Gemma

There’s something truly special about staying in a family-run hotel like this one located mere steps away from the hot spot that is Piazza della Repubblica. With 39 rooms crafted by leading Italian designers, eye-candy interiors are definitely on the menu at La Gemma—alongside the monkfish and pigeon served at its buzzy restaurant Luca’s.

25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino

Florence is the hometown of the man who penned The Inferno, so it’s really no wonder that this hotel is such devilish fun. You can literally choose to stay in either a heaven- or hell-themed room, some of which come with private gardens and outdoor showers. We’re in love with everything about the 25hours Hotel, but there are two extra-special places reserved in our heart for its Cinema Paradiso—offering Sunday screenings amid vintage armchairs—and Finnish sauna.

Stacia Datskovska, Assistant Digital Editor at ELLE DECOR, covers design, decor, and architecture—with an eye towards trends and culture at large. She has previously written for USA Today, the Boston Globe, Teen Vogue, Apartment Therapy, and more.

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