You could go around the world and back again and still have countless places in the world to explore. But here are 7 travel wish list destinations you must see during your lifetime.
Cuba
In Cuba, it feels like you have stepped back in time. Its streets are filled with vibrant music, classic American cars, colonial architecture, and the friendliest people.
For decades, Americans were barred from traveling to Cuba, but now that has all changed (woo hoo!), and Americans can now experience all that Cuba has to offer under several approved travel categories.
There is much to experience from Old Havana to Cuban cigars. Make sure to bring enough cash, as credit card transactions are not a certainty, nor is Wi-Fi, so prepare to be unplugged.
Croatia
Though it feels like Italy’s cousin, Croatia is well-known for its beautiful coasts, architectural treasures, and natural wonders. Visit the amazing beach locales like Hvar, Split, and Zadar; historic walled cities such as Zagreb; and incredible natural parks like Plitvice Lakes National Park and the Game of Thrones sites of Dubrovnik.
In Croatia, the nightlife is also a major attraction!
Azores
The Azores Islands are one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, but not for long. This volcanic, rugged European archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa is an adventurer’s paradise.
When visiting you must hike the lake-filled calderas of Sao Miguel, explore lava tubes and caves, and bathe in sub-tropical geothermal hot springs!
Ireland
The Emerald Isle is full of lush greenery and pastoral landscapes that are seemingly cropped from a fairy tale. Stay in a castle, drink Guinness at an Irish pub, and visit amazing scenery such as the Cliffs of Moher.
And for the ultimate experience, you can ride the five-star Belmond Grand Hibernian luxury train across Ireland on a two, four, or six-night itinerary.
Cartagena
Cartagena just might be the hottest destination in South America, and I’m not talking about the weather. This coastal, colorful city offers arguably the best of music and gastronomy in Colombia.
Sample a variety of fresh native foods such as crispy plantains, ceviche, fritanga (fried food), arepas, and sancocho (stew); and dance the night away to a variety of musical styles from cumbia to salsa.
Indian Ocean
Craving a far-flung Indian-Ocean getaway? Well, anywhere in the Indian Ocean will suffice: Maldives, Seychelles, Andaman Islands, Zanzibar, Mauritius.
Pick an island, any island; they’re all spectacular. Head to the Andaman Islands, best known as one of the few places to spot swimming elephants.
The Maldives and Seychelles offer numerous secluded beaches and private islands, where you can feel like a castaway on a deserted island, while the culture and people of Zanzibar and Mauritius are just as beautiful and diverse as their terrain.
For the best weather, visit the region between November and April.
Related post: Ultimate Beach Bucket List
Australia
What’s trending up is travel down under, with a 12% boom in American tourism according to Tourism Research Australia. Australia offers modern cities, like Sydney and Melbourne, diverse ecosystems, and white-sand beaches on both the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
And you’ll find things here that you won’t find elsewhere, like kangaroos, koalas, and boomerangs, and places like the Outback and Great Barrier Reef.
You could easily spend all of your time on the country’s beaches and coasts, from the Great Ocean Road to the Whitsunday Islands to Cocos Keeling Island.
