I absolutely love traveling. When I’m not traveling, I’m planning my travels. And when I’m not planning my travels, I’m daydreaming about traveling. It’s an addiction. A wanderlust. A need to see the world and experience different places, people, and cultures. Read here about some of my favorite travel destinations I’ve been to so far!

 

1. Hawaii

For a year, I lived among swaying palm trees, majestic mountains draped in green velvet blankets, turquoise waters, white sands, ancient lava rock, and cool trade winds. I will always appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the islands. Nothing beats this little green jewel with its’ rich culture, natural beauty, aloha spirit, and slow-paced island time. Hawaii has to be one of my all time favorite travel destinations. Read about my experience living on Oahu here and our getaway to Kauai here!

 

2. Italy

Italy is so special to me. There is so much character to take in everywhere you go. From the wonders of ancient Rome, to the old winding streets of Florence, to the rolling vineyards of Chianti… Fragrances of wine, pasta, cheese, fresh bread, pizza, hand-made leather, and so much more fill your senses as you wander the streets. 

3. Paris

Paris holds the key to my heart. The city of love. The city of lights. The bread and cheese alone are enough to make me pack my bags and move there. Possibly the most picturesque city I’ve ever been to, Paris has a way of drawing you in. The art, the history, the architecture, the language, the romance… it’s simply impossible to not fall in love.

 

4. Japan

Kyoto, Japan… City of a Thousand Shrines. The temples and shrines that sprinkle the land are truly incredible. These ancient buildings with their intricate architecture and stunning designs are masterpieces of art. Every single one differs greatly from the next. Some were bright and colorful, located at the end of bustling streets filled with tourists and shops. Some were shrouded in blankets of moss, hidden high in the mountains, bringing a mysterious peacefulness to the air. Our time exploring Japan was fascinating, and of course fueled by delicious noodles, hot tea, and sweet desserts. Read all about our travels to Kyoto here!

 

5. Ireland

Although it’s been years, I have very fond and very strong memories of Ireland. Memories and miles of the greenest green I’ve ever laid eyes on. Memories of colorful seaside towns called Cork. Bustling streets full of shoppers in Galway. The majestic Cliffs of Moher. The fascinating landscape of the Giant’s Causeway. And libraries full of stained glass and ancient books in Dublin. My heart longs to return to this beautiful country. 

(Photo Credit: Maura Losch)

6. Germany

Germany is so incredible. Packed with charm, beauty, history, and delicious food, it is certainly one place that needs multiple trips. The architecture alone is simply fascinating with its quaint villages and majestic castles, you’d think you had woken up inside of a fairytale. This one has to make the list of top travel destinations!

(Photo Credit: Thomas Wolf)

 

7. London

I simply adore the classic history and culture of England. There’s so much to see in London alone, not to mention the surrounding countryside. From the gorgeous cathedrals and castles, to the charming pubs and restaurants stocked with tea and fish and chips, to the history of rock n’ roll, to the beautifully manicured parks, you could never get bored in this incredible city. 

 

8. Colorado

Colorado… where do I even begin? In my opinion, Colorado is the most beautiful state in the contiguous US, and it will forever own a piece of my heart. You are in constant awe everywhere you look, and there are endless possibilities when it comes to things to do: you could ski down powdery slopes, stand on the top of Pike’s Peak, walk across the nation’s highest suspension bridge, visit the Garden of the Gods, go shopping in Boulder, go whitewater rafting, hike or camp among towering pine trees, tranquil creeks, and majestic mountains, or simply relax in a hot tub surrounding by snow flurries and take in the beautiful views. The air is clean and crisp, and you simply feel at peace there, in awe of God’s wonderful creation. 

(Photo Credit: dmtilley)

 

9. Key West, FL

Key West is one of the most unique towns I’ve ever experienced. With its rich history dating back to the early 1800’s, you can feel the Cuban influence everywhere you look. Go take a dip in turquoise waters clearer than your swimming pool. Have a delicious tropical cocktail at one of the island’s many bars, then a taste of fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Wonder up and down Duval street, rent a scooter or a jet ski, have a Cuban coffee, or go on a sunset sailing cruise. 

 

10. New York

Manhattan, is so fascinating to me with its hustle and bustle, its melting pot of cultures and people, all on different missions in life, and it’s endless opportunities for entertainment – shopping, food, drinks, Broadway shows, iconic buildings, and so much more. But as much as I love Manhattan, it was my most recent visit that really solidified my love for New York. A short train ride up the Hudson Valley is an old, quaint little town called Cold Spring and a nearby hike called Breakneck Ridge. The views are more spectacular than I ever could have imagined, and the little town that greets you at the bottom of the hike couldn’t be more different from the city. 

 

11. Park City, UT

I had to have a bonus number 11, because I couldn’t leave Park City, Utah off the list of my favorite travel destinations. Park City is probably my favorite city in the US… It’s a small little ski town hidden high up in the mountains outside of Salt Lake. Its Main Street is full of local ski shops, restaurants, bars, coffeeshops, and souvenir shops. The ski lodges you’ll stay in are warm and inviting, but the mountains that surround you call you outside. If you’re a lover of mountains and sweet little ski towns, this is one you can’t miss.