love to travel and visit new places

Pine Knoll Lodge & Cabins

I Love To Travel And Experience New Cultures

There’s nothing like packing your bags and jetting off to a new destination, experiencing a new culture and all that comes with it. Travelling is one of my favourite things to do – it’s always exciting to explore new places and learn about different ways of life.

One of the best things about travelling is that it can be done in so many different ways. You can go on a beach holiday to a far-flung destination, or explore a new city on a city break. You can also go on safari to see amazing wildlife, or head to a different continent to experience a completely different culture. No matter what kind of traveller you are, there’s definitely a destination out there that’s perfect for you.

Travelling also provides the opportunity to learn about other cultures. When you’re immersed in a foreign country, you can learn so much about their customs, food, history and more. This can be a really enriching experience, and it’s a great way to get a better understanding of the world we live in.

Ultimately, travelling is a great way to experience new things and learn about different cultures. It’s always an exciting and rewarding experience, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone.

• 1 Why is it important to travel and experience different cultures?
• 2 What does it mean to experience new cultures?
• 3 Why do I love traveling so much?
• 4 What’s the best way to experience a new culture?
• 5 Why should I experience new cultures?
• 6 How do you travel and experience culture?
• 7 Why is it important to learn about new cultures?

Why is it important to travel and experience different cultures?

There are many reasons why it’s important to travel and experience different cultures. Here are a few:

1. To learn more about the world and the people in it.

2. To understand different ways of thinking and living.

3. To experience new things and explore new places.

4. To meet new friends and make new connections.

5. To learn about other cultures’ customs and traditions.

6. To develop a better understanding of other people and cultures.

7. To experience different foods, music, and art.

8. To gain new perspectives on life.

9. To become more open-minded and tolerant.

10. To appreciate the diversity of the world.

What does it mean to experience new cultures?

When people think of traveling, they often think of visiting new places and experiencing new cultures. But what does it actually mean to experience a new culture?

In a general sense, experiencing a new culture means engaging with the local people and their customs. This can involve anything from learning the language to trying the food. As travelers, it’s important to be respectful of the culture and to avoid offending the locals.

One of the best ways to experience a new culture is by traveling to a foreign country. There’s nothing quite like being surrounded by a completely different culture and trying to navigate your way through it. It can be a challenging, but ultimately rewarding experience.

If you’re not able to travel, you can still experience new cultures by interacting with people from different backgrounds. This could be by attending cultural events, joining social clubs, or simply talking to people from other parts of the world.

Ultimately, experiencing new cultures is all about opening yourself up to new experiences and learning as much as you can about other people and their way of life. It can be a challenging, but ultimately rewarding experience.

Why do I love traveling so much?

There are many reasons why people love to travel. Some people enjoy the excitement of visiting new places and experiencing different cultures. Others enjoy the challenge of organizing and planning a trip. And still others simply enjoy the relaxation and pleasure of traveling.

No matter what your reasons are, there are many benefits to traveling. Traveling can help you learn new things, make new friends, and see the world from a different perspective. It can also help you become more cultured, worldly, and educated.

Traveling can also be a great way to relax and escape the stresses of everyday life. It can be a fun way to explore new places and see the world’s beauty. And it can be a great way to learn about different cultures and customs.

If you are looking for a way to enrich your life and experience new things, traveling is a great option. Traveling can help you learn, grow, and have fun. So if you love to travel, go for it! There are many amazing places to explore.

What’s the best way to experience a new culture?

There is no one definitive answer to the question of how to best experience a new culture. However, there are a few general tips that can help make the process as enriching as possible.

One of the best ways to get a sense of a new culture is to engage with the local people as much as possible. This can be done by engaging in conversation, asking questions, and trying to learn about the local customs and traditions. It can also be helpful to try to learn the local language, or at least some key phrases. This will not only help you communicate with the locals, but it will also make you feel more immersed in the culture.

It’s also important to try to experience the local food and to get a sense of the local way of life. This can be done by visiting local markets, observing the locals as they go about their day-to-day lives, and by talking to local people about their lives. By doing this, you’ll get a better understanding of the culture and the people who live there.

Finally, it’s important to be open-minded and to be willing to experience new things. This includes trying new foods, engaging in new activities, and talking to people from different backgrounds. By doing this, you’ll not only learn more about the culture, but you’ll also get to know the people who live there and form new friendships.

Why should I experience new cultures?

People often ask themselves why they should experience new cultures. There are many reasons why it’s important to do this.

One of the most important reasons is that it allows you to learn about other people and their ways of life. By doing this, you can gain a better understanding of the world and the people who live in it. This is important because it can help to break down the barriers that exist between different cultures.

Another reason why it’s important to experience new cultures is that it can help to improve your understanding of different languages. When you visit a country where a different language is spoken, you have the opportunity to learn about the language and how to speak it. This can be a valuable skill that can help you in your personal and professional life.

Finally, experiencing new cultures can be a lot of fun. It allows you to explore new places and try new things. This can be a great way to expand your horizons and learn new things.

So, if you’re looking for a way to expand your horizons and learn more about the world, then experiencing new cultures is a great way to do it.

How do you travel and experience culture?

There are many different ways to travel and experience different cultures. One way is to travel to different countries and explore the different cultures there. Another way is to visit different parts of your own country and learn about the different cultures there. You can also experience culture by learning about different cultures and their customs. You can also learn about different cultures by listening to their music and watching their movies.

Why is it important to learn about new cultures?

There are many reasons why it is important for people to learn about other cultures. One reason is that it can help to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes that people may have about other groups of people. When people have a more nuanced understanding of other cultures, they are less likely to view people from those cultures in a negative light.

Another reason why it is important to learn about other cultures is that it can help to foster global understanding and peace. If more people understand the customs and traditions of other cultures, it can help to break down barriers between people and promote tolerance and understanding.

Finally, learning about other cultures can help to expand our horizons and give us a richer understanding of the world around us. When we learn about the customs and traditions of other cultures, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the world. This can help to make us more open-minded and tolerant people.

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Why do People Love Exploring And Visiting New Places

In today’s tech-engrossed world, social media is the ideal platform for travelers to promote world beauty to others, but travel is about so much more than grabbing that perfect Instagram photo.

Travel is all about fascination, inspiration, and rejuvenation. It ground you, educate and challenges you, and most importantly, humble you.

Traveling provides us with the best tales, the most treasured experiences, and innumerable valuable lessons that we might choose to pass on to others.

It educates us about ourselves and each other, broadens our perspectives, and forces us to refocus on what truly matters, much like a reset button.

We would like to share some exciting things that we love about travel.

Love For Different Cultures:

Travel introduces us to foreign cultures and historical customs, and it is through these genuine experiences that we learn to love and enjoy both our similarities and differences. Travel educates us about mankind and instills in us an awareness, understanding, and respect for many perspectives and ways of life.

Love For Learning New Things:

Travel is the finest method to learn about geography, history, culture, languages, and other subjects. Travel broadens and teaches us in ways that no textbook or travel guide can. Curious travelers not only learn about different landscapes, languages, and lifestyles; they also learn fascinating facts while observing wild animals in their natural habitat; they delve into a region’s history and taste the local flavors, and they learn about themselves (and each other) along the way.

Love For Adventures:

We can enjoy perfect anonymity in new and uncharted regions when we travel. It provides us complete freedom to live in the moment and to be anybody, travel anywhere, and do anything. Travel allows us to be more impulsive and seek out new experiences.

Love For Tranquility:

Travel helps us to get away from life’s everyday obligations, conflicts, and expectations and clear our minds. It urges us to recharge our energies and unplug completely (from phones, Wi-Fi, mail, computers, social networking sites, and so on) to reconnect (with ourselves, each other, and the natural environment).

Love For Exploration:

Travel forces us to leave our comfort zones and see, taste, and try new things. It continuously pushes us to adapt to and try out new living spaces, engage with new people, embrace new and significant experiences, and share them with friends and loved ones. Travel allows us to experience with an open heart and an open mind, whether we prefer excitement and nonstop activity or unabashed siestas and ultimate relaxation.

Love For Different Cuisines:

The best thing when traveling is to try different cuisines, relish the taste of new flavors, and appraise what different things the world has to offer you. Diet should not be something you keep in mind when traveling. Keep it at home! Bring a healthy appetite and an open mind to trying new flavors and sampling all of the local delights.

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10 Powerful Reasons Why People Love to Travel

If there is one thing most elderly people encourage young adults to do, it is to travel more and see the world. You don’t have to take expensive vacations or holidays to travel. Traveling is all about visiting someplace that you’ve never been before with an open schedule. When you do this, your mind becomes receptive and you get more opportunities that will improve the quality of your life .

Traveling is amazing in many ways. You’ll get the chance to do things you’ve never done before, meet new people, eat different kinds of food and experience different cultures . As great as traveling is, most of us think we should postpone until we buy our cars, get that promotion or win the lottery.

You should start traveling as soon as you can. You don’t have to be loaded to visit new place s. All you need is determination and willingness. Life is fragile. On your deathbed, you’ll definitely regret not allowing yourself to travel and see the world.

Benefits of traveling

There are many benefits associated with traveling that we are going to discuss. As you’ll see, traveling will add more spice to your life.

1. Finding your purpose

Traveling is another form of investing in yourself . As you travel, you are going to meet new people, experience different cultures and lifestyles and engage in new activities that are not common in your hometown.

When everything is new in your life, you’ll be open to new ways of seeing and living the world. And this will give you a new purpose in life. If you haven’t figured out what your purpose in life is, all you need to do is travel. You’ll be surprised by what you are going to discover .

2. You’ll realize that your home is your world

Most people define their homes as the place grew up. However, when you start traveling, you’ll realize that home is much more than just a town or city. It’s your world. Knowing that different places in the world are not just peoples’ homes but their world will improve your consciousness and make it easier to support people who are in need.

3. You’ll realize how little you know

You can spend several years in class studying planet earth and other galaxies. But you’ll never know your planet until you start traveling. Theory and practice are completely different from each other. When you travel, you’ll realize how little you know about the world and the people living in it.

Most of the things that we see on television and social media platforms are not the truth. We see what other people want us to see. But when you travel, you see things for what they really are. You’ll also realize how friendly strangers can be. Every person or culture you interact with will be a learning experience. The world is like a book . The more you travel, the more pages you read.

4. You’ll realize how similar people are

In our small worlds, we tend to magnify the differences that we have with other people. We look at other people differently from how we look at ourselves. But the truth is you are much more similar to the people around you than you think. We all have common basic needs.

Young people tend to dress in one way while the elderly dress following specific trends even if they are not fashionable today. People follow similar patterns. How you think of another person is the same way he or she thinks of you. Learning this basic truth will help you appreciate the people around you .

5. You’ll realize that it’s easy to make friends

Approaching and conversing with new people is one of the greatest fears people face today. This fear is growing and getting out of hand because people don’t travel a lot. They associate with the same old people every day.

When you start traveling, you won’t have an option but to associate with new people. You’ll have to ask for directions, purchase things and associate with other travelers. No one will judge you based on how you talk or look. Communicating in a real and raw way will inspire others to be authentic . To make new friends, all you need to do is be you. I guess this isn’t the most difficult thing you’ve ever done.

6. Life is a wonderful gift

As you travel, you’ll realize how precious your life is. Following the same old routine, every day leads to stress or worse, depression. When you start traveling, you’ll see that the world is filled with beautiful people and things. And you’ll be grateful for all the moments you’ve had in your life.

You don’t have to wait until something significant happens in your life to start traveling. If you wait, you’ll end up with regrets. As Mark Twain said , 20 years from now, you’ll be disappointed by the things you didn’t do more than the ones you did. Life has given you the energy, time and resources to see the world.

Reasons why people travel

As you’ve seen, there are a lot of benefits associated with traveling. Apart from these benefits, there are a lot of reasons why people leave their homes to travel around the world. The reasons why people travel are personal and varied .

1. To challenge themselves

If you’re feeling stuck in your daily routine and life has started becoming more mechanical than magical, you are probably craving for new experiences and challenges. Traveling is one of the best ways to test and push yourself out of your comfort zone . You’ll realize how resourceful you can be in a new environment. Overcoming challenges will not only boost your energy but also make you happy in the end.

2. To learn new things

Learning is one of the major motivators of traveling. Experiencing something unfamiliar will make you knowledgeable and improve your skills .

Seeing the world is much more than attending a geography class. Every new destination will have a unique learning experience . You’ll get to experience new cultures, learn new things and meet new people. And all this will add to your insights.

3. To understand yourself

Changing your daily routine by spicing things up will give you the chance to think and reflect on your life. As you travel, you’ll have all the time and space to let your mind wander. As you learn more about the world , you’ll end up learning more about yourself. Knowing yourself will greatly improve the quality of your life.

4. Building quality relationships

Traveling with other people will help you understand and bond with them. Deepening your friendships will greatly improve the quality of your life. Research shows that 80% of your happiness in life will be determined by the relationships you have in your life.

5. Having an adventure

Conquering a new territory is just exciting. Most people travel to have an adventure. We all crave for new experiences. And traveling offers exactly what we need. Tasting new food, hiking, and camping in the mountains or scuba diving will spice up your life. When you return home, you’ll be happy.

6. Relaxing

Working hard and pushing yourself is great. However, you need to exercise moderation. Taking a break to relax and recover your lost energies is essential if you want to improve your productivity and performance. Taking a break over the weekend to visit a hiking spot or lie on the beach will recharge your batteries. You’ll also get the chance to reflect and come up with ways to make things at work easier.

7. Celebrating

People travel for happy reasons. They could be celebrating a birthday, wedding anniversary, graduation, landing a new job or a promotion. While traveling during such moments will greatly improve your life, you don’t have to wait for such significant moments to travel. The door is always open.

8. Escaping

People travel to escape a bad breakup, demanding job or the loss of a loved one. Traveling is one of the best remedies for stress and unhappiness in life. You can also travel to get what you don’t have at home. This could be the scenery, weather and the freedom to do what you want. If you are a workaholic, you should consider traveling.

9. Appreciating life

When you are facing problems or stuck in a boring routine, you may start to lose sight of the most important thing in life. And that is you are alive. Everything is important to you because you are alive. Traveling helps you realize how lucky you are.

10. Appreciate your home

When we spend some time away in a foreign place that doesn’t have the same luxuries that are usually available to us like villages that don’t without electricity, we not only become more aware but also appreciative of the things we have at home.

Some parts of the world don’t have access to clean water and learning institutions. Traveling through such areas or living there for a few days will make you appreciate what you have at home and even support the people who live there to improve the quality of their lives .

If you’ve been thinking of the reasons why you should travel, you have more than enough right now. Don’t wait until something significant happens in your life to start traveling. The doors are always open. Plus, you don’t have to be loaded to start traveling. You have all you need to start your journey. By traveling, you are going to see new things, taste different kinds of foods, meet new people and experience new cultures. You’ll also break your normal routine which is starting to get boring. Life is precious. Travel as much as you can and enjoy yourself.

Cover image: Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash

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Dec 26, 2020 • 8 min read

The immersive Van Gogh Alive exhibition is one of the many incredible experiences of the year ahead © Grande Experiences

The arrival of a new year is always joyfully anticipated, but 2021 is even more keenly awaited than usual as we hope it'll be the year we put the COVID-19 pandemic behind us. Here are some of the places, attractions and new experiences that will enhance the worldwide travel scene in 2021, all waiting to be enjoyed when travel restrictions lift.

1. See Colorado and Utah from a glass-domed train

Train company Rocky Mountaineer has announced its plans to introduce a new Colorado to Utah route to its luxury train journeys in 2021. The "Rockies to the Red Rocks" route will be a two-day rail journey between Denver and Moab , with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs. Between Denver and Glenwood Springs, the trains will journey alongside the Colorado River and through a series of canyons with steep, rugged rock walls. Guests on the new multi-day, daytime route will enjoy onboard storytelling, regional cuisine and beautiful scenery in the trains' glass-dome coaches.

2. Dive to the wreckage of the Titanic

If you fancy visiting the wreck of the Titanic, a series of six dives has been organised to the historic passenger ship, which is located about 600km south of Newfoundland . The dives will begin at the end of May 2021 and will collect images, video, laser scans and sonar data to provide an objective baseline of the current condition of the wreck. They will give citizen scientists the opportunity to participate as active members of the team, known as "mission specialists," for which they will receive hands-on training and continued instruction.

3. Revel in this multi-sensory Vincent van Gogh exhibition

A multi-sensory Vincent Van Gogh exhibition is coming to the US for the first time at the Salvador Dalí Museum , Florida , the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields , and the Germania Club Building in Chicago . Through ceiling digital projection, close to 3000 moving images illuminate the colorful brushstrokes of Vincent van Gogh in larger-than-life scenes, giving visitors the opportunity to effectively step inside the Dutch artist's famous paintings. A musical soundscape will accompany the projections to add to the dream-like state of the exhibition, while aromas will be infused throughout the auditorium so that museum-goers can literally stop and smell the Sunflowers . 

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6. Check out this Paris art museum

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12. Take in a major Picasso exhibition

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Why I Love Travelling – a personal story about how travel changed my life

Aug 6, 2022 | Feature | 0 comments

If you’re still wondering why I love travelling so much, then read on for my personal story about how travel changed my life! It’s hard to imagine where it all began because I wasn’t raised to see the world. But once the floodlights switched on and I had a taste of travel, there was no coming back. Travelling has opened my eyes to new cultures and different ways of life and shown me an endless amount of natural beauty. It has changed me as a person for the better and given me experiences that I will never forget.

There are special memories in life, like when I met my wife for the first time, my kids were born, and we bought our first house and truly felt like adults. But for me, some of my most cherished memories are from my travels. I love the adventure and excitement that comes with planning a trip, not knowing what lies ahead but being confident that it will be amazing.

Hey, not that my wedding day over 16 years ago and the day my kids were born don’t top the list; of course, they do. However, there is something about getting away from every day and exploring our big beautiful world.

From the first time I stepped foot on a plane as a young adult, I was hooked. I loved everything about flying; the anticipation of takeoff, the views from above, and finally touching down at a new destination. The sense of freedom and adventure that comes with travel is unlike anything else. And I knew that I wanted more.

So, why do I love travelling? For me, it’s all about the experiences. Each new place I visit presents an opportunity to learn something new, see things from a different perspective and make memories that will last a lifetime. 

Whether watching the sunset over the Himalayas in Nepal, I was hiking the jungle in Borneo or enjoying a coffee in a Bali cafe. While travelling, I will always create memories that I will treasure forever.

The sunrise from Chisapani in Nepal.

Why do I love travelling, and how did it change my life? Let’s go back a bit before I even saw another country outside of Australia. By the end, you’ll understand why I love travelling and how I can’t stop.

Unless a virus takes control of the world, naturally.

I never travelled internationally growing up.

I don’t think I am alone in this because international travel is undoubtedly more convenient in modern times than in my youthful years in the 80s and 90.s. But my family never went on holidays overseas, except for domestic trips to Sydney from Melbourne. That was fine, Sydney was superb, and the memories were strong, especially the beachside area of Manly. Yet, international travel remained a mystery. 

However, going overseas was a pipedream growing up. It all changed when I got my first real job and joined the Australian Army.

My first overseas trip came about a deployment in the Army.

On my first overseas trip, I didn’t even have a passport. I didn’t need one getting deployed to another country with the Army, so that’s always a remarkable fact I like to mention from time to time. How is this for a little fun fact?

Anyway, my deployment was peacekeeping in East Timor, and I was there for just three months. It was a fantastic experience and one that changed my life in so many ways that I am forever grateful for.

However, it wasn’t a holiday. Besides being based in the hills of Bobonaro with fantastic views near the Indonesian Border, there wasn’t a lot of time to be a tourist.

Visiting South Korea is when travelling truly opened my eyes.

Okay, my first real trip overseas with an official passport happened in 2005 when I visited Seoul, South Korea, with my Korean girlfriend. Spoiler alert She became my wife, and we’ve been married 16-plus years now, so happy ending and all that.

But this is where I had what I like to call my ‘travel epiphany’. I hadn’t given travel much thought, but being in Korea and seeing the sights of Seoul, exploring the city region and seeing impressive palaces and temples and so forth was genuinely fantastic. I loved it; I was beginning to get the travel bug.

The Gyeongbokgung Palace must be on your list during your vacation in Seoul.

A travelling Halt as Marriage and Kids took over.

Unfortunately, a trip to South Korea would be the last trip abroad for eight years, that’s right, eight years! Because we got married, had kids and bought a house, the critical stuff required in adulthood. Which is excellent, I love being a husband and father, but the travel itch was still there. I often researched for trips, but timing and financings were not there.

But why do I love travelling? Especially when I barely touched the surface in the travel stratosphere.

It’s hard to explain why I love travelling so much because it is an indescribable feeling whether you travel a lot or not.

But as circumstances changed, kids grew older, and we had a bit more money, we finally started to travel again.

And I haven’t stopped since!

Travel restarted with a trip to Fiji.

Suppose I ever think about why I love travelling. In that case, the paradise islands of Fiji in the Pacific stand out because it was here on the beaches of Fiji that I realized that I wanted to travel more. That I needed to see more places and explore this big wide world we live in.

However, it was not only the stunning beachside resorts and cocktails that helped too; the locals were the kindest people I had ever met. They had this unique way of life and culture that I wanted to learn more about.

If a tiny island country could get me enthusiastic about the rest of the world, I was keen to see what other countries had in store.

I was visiting a boutique island in Fiji.

Then Asia came calling again, and I never looked back.

Fiji got the blood pumping for travel. Therefore it was time to travel more frequently. With Asia being the most affordable place to travel from Australia, it became my haven for a trip.

Over the years following Fiji and before the virus hit the world, which took travel to a halt, I visited terrific destinations.

I return trips to South Korea, expanding further than Seoul and seeing beautiful destinations in Muju, Busan and Jeju. I had several trips to Bali, Malaysia and Thailand. I’ll never forget my tenth wedding Anniversary in Koh Samui, Thailand, where it became the Island of Love.

I became well-travelled in Asia, but what stands out the most was two adventures of different kinds. Firstly, in 2017, was the volunteering experience I had in Vientiane, Laos, where I tried my hand at teaching English to school kids and monks.

The second unbelievable experience was hiking in Nepal, just outside Kathmandu, and seeing the unbelievable Himalayas with my two eyes. It was better than any picture I could see on social media or television.

The continent of Asia is spectacular for many reasons, and I’m excited to see what else is out there in this big wide world. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll conquer Europe or even Africa! And that’s why I love travelling, it changes you as a person, witnessing experiences of different cultures in different destinations.

Happy and smiling from a high vantage point in Koh Samui in Thailand.

My most memorable trips to this date

Hiking in Nepal, volunteering in Laos or having a wedding anniversary in Koh Samui all stands out, but what indeed is the most memorable trip. Well, I can tell you, it’s none of the above.

• Kyoto in Japan – Japan is incredible, and Kyoto is a beautiful city to get lost in for a few days. I saw the best tourist attractions, the Fushimi Inari-Taisha and the Kinkaku-Ji, to only name a few best places to visit in Kyoto. The temples, the food and the culture make this place very special to me.
• South Korea – Whether it’s Seoul, Busan, Jeju, or Gyeongju, there’s an excellent reason I’ve returned to Korea on numerous occasions . It’s a beautiful country with something new, whether the food, the nightlife, or just exploring a new neighbourhood.
• Nusa Lembongan in Indonesia – The beautiful island of Bali, Nusa Lembongan is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its turquoise waters, white sand beaches and coral reefs, it’s easy to spend a few days on the island and cherish life and what is around you.

Paradise awaits any traveller on arrival in Nusa Lembongan.

How my love for travel opened my world to travel writing

The love of travel inspired my blog, Fair Dinkum Traveller, which started in 2016. It’s a place where I share my personal travel stories, itineraries and tips to help others explore this big wide world we live in.

I have visited some unique places as a travel writer and influencer through writing. I’ve written about travel destinations, especially my immense love of Asia and my home country in Australia.

I’ve been very fortunate to have articles published in well-known travel publications, giving me more opportunities to quench my thirst for travel.

But why do I write about travel? I want to inspire others to get out there and explore this big wide world we live in. I want others to know that seeing the world is possible, whether you’re from a small town or city.

And that’s why I love travelling, because it changes you as a person, witnessing experiences of different cultures in different destinations.

How did you catch the travel bug? Please let me know in the comments below.

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52 Places to Go in 2023

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London  Copied to clipboard!

A buzzing city ready for a coronation, a brand-new airport link and a prehistoric colossus read more.

Tom Jamieson for The New York Times

Between an altered post-lockdown landscape, sensational changeovers at 10 Downing Street and the death of Queen Elizabeth II, there is no doubt that London is in transition. But the city continues to juxtapose old traditions and new possibilities, offering something for everyone who loves culture, history, art and nightlife.

For fans of the royal family, and maybe a few naysayers, the crowning of King Charles III , Britain’s first coronation in seven decades, will be the main event in May. There’s also the revamping of Battersea Power Station , an iconic former coal-fired power plant, into a shopping and leisure hub, and a new line on the Underground will directly connect Heathrow Airport to the central boroughs. A cast of a titanosaur, the largest creature ever to walk the planet, will make its European debut at the Natural History Museum , and late-night obsessives can head to newly opened dance clubs like the Beams . Big changes, yes, but a wealth of new choices, too.

— Isabella Kwai

Morioka  Copied to clipboard!

A walkable gem without the crowds, just a short bullet train ride from tokyo read more.

Andrew Faulk for The New York Times

Morioka, Japan

Until this past October, Japan maintained some of the most stringent travel restrictions of any major country. Now, travelers are beginning to stream back to popular destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

The city of Morioka, in Iwate Prefecture, however, is often passed over or outright ignored. Circumscribed by mountains, it lies a few hours north of Tokyo by Shinkansen, the Japanese high-speed rail lines. Morioka’s downtown is eminently walkable. The city is filled with Taisho-era buildings that mix Western and Eastern architectural aesthetics as well as modern hotels, a few old ryokan (traditional inns) and winding rivers. One draw is an ancient castle site turned into a park.

There’s also fantastic coffee, including one of Japan’s third-wave originators: Nagasawa Coffee, whose owner, Kazuhiro Nagasawa, is so committed to his beans that he uses a vintage German-made Probat roaster, which he personally imported and restored. Azumaya serves up all-you-can-eat wanko soba , which comes served in dozens of tiny bowls; Booknerd offers classic Japanese art books; and Johnny’s, a jazz cafe, has been open for over 40 years. An hour west by car: Lake Tazawa and dozens of world-class hot springs.

— Craig Mod

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park  Copied to clipboard!

The majesty and awe of towering buttes in a setting fit for hollywood read more.

Rachael Wright

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park,

Americans have been flocking to national parks, many of which were overrun with visitors during the peak of pandemic-related international border closures. Amid the bustle, peacefully taking in the majesty of nature can be a challenge.

Monument Valley offers a less crowded alternative. The site, known as Tse’Bii’Ndzisgaii in Navajo, has been a popular insignia for the American West ever since John Wayne rode in to film “Stagecoach” in 1939, and the grandeur of its cinematic sandstone buttes, towering above a copper-red desert vastness, elicits a feeling of reverence and awe.

The tribal park, which features a 17-mile driving loop, is open to visitors under the stewardship of the Navajo Nation. Its relatively basic infrastructure — in contrast to sites governed by the National Park Service — and its out-of-the-way location on the Arizona-Utah state line help create a more serene experience compared with other awe-inspiring U.S. destinations.

— Rachael Wright

Kilmartin Glen  Copied to clipboard!

A misty scottish stonehenge, with all of the mystery and far fewer visitors read more.

Andy Haslam for The New York Times

Kilmartin Glen, Scotland

The sun rises over Kilmartin Glen as it has for thousands of years, illuminating an ancient landscape of more than 800 archaeological monuments sprouting in the mist. This verdant valley on Scotland’s wild west coast is one of the most significant prehistoric sites in Britain, yet it’s largely off the visitor circuit; imagine Stonehenge without the crowds.

Wander among majestic stone circles, standing slabs that jut from the earth, burial cairns and rock carvings of concentric rings, expanding like ripples from a drop of water. And now the past is getting a refresh: The Kilmartin Museum is reopening with expanded exhibits and new experiences that delve into the region’s relics and flourishing natural life, including Moine Mhor (Great Moss), one of the few remaining raised bogs in Europe, above which looms the Iron Age hill fort of Dunadd.

For full immersion into the Scotland of yore, stay at the moody 16th-century Kilmartin Castle , which was recently transformed into a boutique hotel, with vaulted ceilings, copper tubs and a wild swimming pond.

— AnneLise Sorensen

Auckland  Copied to clipboard!

New Zealand

Pastries that rival France’s best, with a side of adventure tourism on the North Island Read more

Susan Wright for The New York Times

Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is usually considered the entry point for the rest of New Zealand’s natural attractions, but travelers just passing through can miss that it’s also the culinary capital (sorry, Wellington).

Restaurants that have been germinating while the country’s borders were closed are now ready to be sampled by all. Just 10 minutes on foot from the newly renovated downtown, for instance, takes you to Hugo’s Bistro , where a regular clientele, including many lawyers, dines on unfussy French-inspired food that takes advantage of New Zealand’s fertility: Saffron, wasabi and truffles, among other delicacies, are grown in the country. Cazador , a longtime staple of the residential neighborhood Mt. Eden, serves local game in its restaurant and house-cured meats in its delicatessen.

The city’s famous multiculturalism also plays a part: Omni , which opened in 2020 and whose head chef worked at Hong Kong’s Yardbird, makes high-end yakitori, and Little French Pastry ’s founders, originally from France, serve up mille-feuille rivaling Paris’s best.

Palm Springs  Copied to clipboard!

Spotting stars in the streets and counting galaxies in the sky read more.

Beth Coller for The New York Times

Palm Springs, California

Yes, this is the land of midcentury nostalgia, with its low-slung Modernist architecture and the recent return of the 26-foot-tall “ Forever Marilyn ” statue. But these days, there’s another headliner: the surrounding desert, and the dark skies above.

Astrotourism is on the rise, with a constellation of ways to explore the cosmos, including at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory , which offers tours and monthly “Swoon at the Moon” events. Unfurl a blanket on the desert floor and gaze up at the starry sky at Joshua Tree National Park . This designated International Dark Sky Park has one of the darkest skies in California, with stargazing treks and the annual Night Sky Festival .

The desert nature and history that flourish around Palm Springs are also shaping the city’s landscape, including the new Palm Springs Downtown Park , designed to reflect Indian Canyons , ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians; the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza and Museum , which, when it opens later this year, will be one of the largest Native American cultural centers on the West Coast; and new desert-inspired hotels like Azure Sky .

Kangaroo Island  Copied to clipboard!

A haven for koalas and other wild creatures, healing after devastating wildfires read more, kangaroo island, australia.

A short trip from Adelaide, South Australia’s capital, the nearly 1,700-square-mile Kangaroo Island is known for incredible wildlife, breathtaking ocean views and its status as an ecological haven — like a zoo without fences.

Three years ago, devastating fires consumed the island, wiping out wildlife and destroying a famous luxury hotel, the Southern Ocean Lodge . Efforts to rebuild are continuing, and the island is more compelling than ever to visit. New organizations that sprang up to help with the wildlife recovery offer visitors a chance to play a part in funding that regeneration.

At the Kangaroo Island Koala and Wildlife Rescue Centre , you can book a private tour to see the animal hospital facilities, or bottle-feed a joey (a baby kangaroo). At the long-established Seal Bay Conservation Park , you can watch one of Australia’s largest colonies of sea lions frolic on the beach. And in 2023 the Southern Ocean Lodge will reopen, grander and better than before.

— Besha Rodell

Vjosa River  Copied to clipboard!

Cycling through the canyons and valleys of one of europe’s last untamed waterways read more.

Shutterstock

Vjosa River, Albania

Protecting the Vjosa , one of Europe’s last undammed rivers, hasn’t been easy. After a decade of proposed projects that threatened to alter the waterway’s wild flow, its innumerable ecosystems and its valleys strewn with ancient communities, the Albanian government signed a commitment last June to create the Vjosa Wild River National Park .

Making good on that pledge, scheduled to become reality in 2023, will establish a global conservation model while preserving the country’s canyon-lined, 120-mile stretch of the 169-mile waterway, which runs from the Pindus Mountains in Greece to the Adriatic Sea, as well as including around 60 miles of tributaries.

For travelers — on trails like Albania’s new UNESCO Cycling Route (opening January 2023), which runs along the river and visits World Heritage sites like the city of Gjirokastra — safeguarding the Vjosa and its river system, with over 1,100 animal species, encourages responsible discovery of alpine settlements, where locals welcome adventurers for coffee, raki (local fruit brandy) and a chance to imbibe oft-overlooked Balkan culture.

— Alex Crevar

Accra  Copied to clipboard!

Feast first, dance later, in a hub of innovative west african cuisine read more.

Jessica Sarkodie for The New York Times

Accra, Ghana

Accra’s food scene typically consists of two schools: “chop bars” that serve traditional, cheap meals like fufu (made from pounded cassava, green plantains or yams) with tomato-based spicy soup, and pricier restaurants serving foreign fare.

Travelers to Accra, Ghana’s capital, can now see a new wave of chefs and entrepreneurs bridging this gap by emphasizing and innovating with local produce. At the Mix, a new restaurant and design hub, the West African staple gari (granulated cassava root) is dyed pink with beetroot and accompanies squid in a passion fruit sauce.

The sustainable food space in Accra is also one to watch; Ghana Food Movement , an educational group, hosts events throughout the year, including a signature Dine & Dance series in which underutilized indigenous ingredients like millet, eaten by Ghanaians almost exclusively as porridge, are made into stars over three courses. The meal is followed by a dance party, of course, in true Ghanaian fashion.

— Jessica Sarkodie

Tromso  Copied to clipboard!

A clear-skied hot spot where aurora seekers are likely to spy their dazzling prize read more.

Nerd Nomads Travel Blog

Tromso, Norway

After years of low solar activity, projections are looking up for travelers hoping to experience the aurora borealis, or northern lights. As the sun’s volatility increases, with more coronal mass ejections and solar flares, so, too, will the frequency and intensity of the aurora. Experts predict solar activity to peak in 2025, explained Trond S. Trondsen, an aurora expert at Keo Scientific , a designer of specialized optical instruments for space research in Calgary, Alberta. Already, he said, “the number of sunspots are climbing faster than predicted .”

One of the best places to see the northern lights, Tromso, Norway, is more than 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, and is relatively accessible, as far as reliable viewing locations go. Travelers can get there either by plane or by a combination of train and bus. Cruise ships and ferries are also a possibility.

Most important, the town’s surrounding landscape, near the sea but with mountains nearby, offers enough distinct weather zones to make it likely that there will be clear skies most nights — a must for seeing the lights when they do appear.

— Ingrid Williams

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park  Copied to clipboard!

Blinding white dunes and aquamarine pools in an otherworldly natural water park read more.

Scott Baker

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

Want to feel like you’ve traveled so far that you’re only vaguely tethered to Earth? Welcome to Lençóis Maranhenses , a horizon of rolling, blindingly white sand dunes rising into the sun and descending into otherworldly green and blue lagoons filled with rainwater.

Forget your cell signal or trappings of comfort: There are few if any structures, people or even trees around, and the park’s location near the Equator means it’s blazingly hot during the day. Yet almost all Brazilians will tell you they want to visit this remote area to experience the sensation of playing in a lunar water park.

Logroll down the dunes, splashing into the natural pools. Traverse the area on horseback, stopping at “oases” along the way. Or be mesmerized by its immensity via helicopter tour. It’s the antidote to that claustrophobic Covid-era feeling — a vast, borderless moonscape where you can roam wild and free.

— Shannon Sims

Bhutan  Copied to clipboard!

Cliff-top fortresses and rhododendron forests on a revived trekking trail read more.

Marcus Westberg

After two and a half years of pandemic isolation, Bhutan reopened in September with changes to its longstanding “high value, low volume” tourism policy. Visitors are no longer required to travel on package tours, but Bhutan’s mandatory “sustainable development fee” increased to $200 from $65 per day.

At the same time, the 250-mile Trans Bhutan Trail, a path used for centuries as a pilgrimage and communications route, reopened after a three-year restoration that mended suspension bridges, stone stairs and long-overgrown temples. The trail stretches east to west across nearly the entire country, passing through cities, villages, farmlands and wilderness. Depending on the route and time of year, trekkers might spy the snowcapped Himalayas, visit cliff-top fortresses, scale sacred mountain passes or pass through blooming rhododendron forests.

Official guides are required, and itineraries range from half a day to more than a month. Accommodations include guesthouses, home stays, luxury hotels and well-appointed campsites on each of the trail’s 28 sections. Proceeds from trips booked with Trans Bhutan Trail , the nonprofit that led the restoration, go toward trail maintenance, educational programs, guide training and other community causes.

— Sara Clemence

Kerala  Copied to clipboard!

Learn to climb a palm tree, visit a temple during an annual festival and get a sustainable taste of village life read more.

Poras Chaudhary for The New York Times

Kerala, India

We travel to immerse ourselves in other cultures, but some forms of community tourism put residents on display without offering benefits. Not so in Kerala — a southern Indian state celebrated for its beaches, backwater lagoons, cuisine and rich cultural traditions like the Vaikathashtami festival — where the government has adopted an award-winning approach that allows visitors to experience village life while supporting the communities that host them.

In Kumarakom, one of several “ responsible tourism destinations ” in the state, visitors can paddle through jungly canals, weave rope from coconut fiber and even learn to climb a palm tree. In Maravanthuruthu, visitors can follow a storytelling trail and enjoy village street art before taking in an evening performance of a traditional temple dance.

— Paige McClanahan

Greenville  Copied to clipboard!

South Carolina

Adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and on dinner plates downtown Read more

Tony Cenicola/The New York Times

Greenville, South Carolina

Set in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville has established itself on the culinary scene. The quaint city of about 70,000 has more than 200 restaurants — 85 percent of which are local, without a tie to a national chain — in its strollable downtown area alone. Visitors may come for the access to outdoor adventures, but they’ll most likely leave having been introduced to flavors from around the world.

Even as the renowned Soby’s celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022 and two food festivals — euphoria and Fall for Greenville — attract tens of thousands of people annually, restaurants continue to crop up around the city. The second location of Charleston’s acclaimed Lewis Barbecue opened to long lines in September. Mr. Crisp , with Greg McPhee as executive chef, highlights seafood, especially its crisp-yet-tender hand-battered fish and chips. Keipi celebrates Georgian khachapuri and the country’s ancient wines; Aryana delivers a taste of Afghanistan; and Califas has brought Mexican birria tacos to Greenville.

“The real heartbeat of Greenville is a creative and diverse food community that keeps reinventing itself,” said Sid Evans, the editor in chief of Southern Living. “The food here is adventurous, and the chefs have embraced the global influences shaping the modern South.”

— Ari Bendersky

Tucson  Copied to clipboard!

A rebounding center of art and adobe with centuries-old ties to mexico read more.

John Burcham for The New York Times

Tucson, Arizona

Barrio Viejo, an area of more than 150 acres in Tucson, is the largest barrio in the United States and exemplifies Tucson’s connection to Mexico, with centuries-old Sonoran adobe architecture.

This year, the neighborhood, which has one of the most diverse racial, cultural, religious and ethnic populations in the country, will receive National Historic Landmark designation . Revival projects include the restoration of the 300-seat Teatro Carmen , built in 1915 and later converted into the Black Elks Club , and female-owned boutique hotels, like the Citizen in the former home of the Tucson Citizen newspaper and the Downtown Clifton in a once-faded motel.

Take the Tucson Origins Tour by Borderlandia , which specializes in tours of the U.S.-Mexico border area, for a deep dive into history. Then explore the famed Etherton Gallery and Andrew Smith Gallery , both in new spaces. Don’t forget Barrio restaurants like the local coffee drinkers’ favorite EXO Roast , housed in an 1885 adobe home, and the Coronet , which moved to the neighborhood in 2019.

— Daniel Scheffler

Martinique  Copied to clipboard!

Creole culture, giant ferns and hummingbirds that don’t back down from a staring contest read more.

Martinique,

While travel was frozen in 2020, Martinique celebrated the induction of its traditional yole sailboat — a lightweight craft kept upright by crew members, who use their body weight as ballast by sitting on poles that extend over the sides of the hulls — on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. In the fall of 2021, the entire island was named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , recognizing the destination’s commitment to sustainable economic and social development.

Islanders are awaiting yet another decision from UNESCO, which they hope will name the nearly 4,600-foot volcano Mount Pelée and the Pitons du Carbet range to the World Heritage List. The region represents “the diversity of Martinique,” said Alex Dobat, who owns Natiyabel , a scuba diving and hiking outfitter (whose name means “nature is beautiful” in Creole), who described ferns the size of trees, wild begonias and hummingbirds “staring at you quietly.”

Tourism officials are counting on the UNESCO certifications to attract ecotourists to its peaks, rainforests, reefs and Creole culture.

— Elaine Glusac

The Namib Desert  Copied to clipboard!

Southern Africa

1,000-foot dunes and crashing waves along a nearly uninhabited coastline Read more

The Namib Desert, Southern Africa

Along the desolate coast of Namibia, 1,000-foot-tall sand dunes descend into the sea. During low tide, intrepid adventurers can drive along the beach, past towering yellow dunes on one side and the South Atlantic’s churning waters on the other. This is the Namib, the world’s oldest desert, and the perfect place for a long road trip . After almost three years of Covid-19 restrictions, it’s hard to imagine a place where you can feel more free.

“Namib” means “vast place” in Khoekhoegowab, a language spoken in many parts of Namibia. It’s astonishingly easy to get lost in this almost entirely uninhabited expanse of sand, where you might travel for days without seeing another human being.

In the Namib-Naukluft National Park, travelers can go back in time at the Deadvlei, where 600-year-old trees stand eerily lifeless, preserved by the dry air; challenge themselves to climb the 100-story Big Daddy Dune; observe desert-adapted wildlife like oryx and springbok; and even see mysterious fairy circles .

— Jen Guyton

The Alaska Railroad  Copied to clipboard!

470 miles of mountains, glaciers and grizzlies from the comfort of a glass dome read more.

Christopher Miller for The New York Times

The Alaska Railroad,

Since 1923, the Alaska Railroad — the last railroad in the United States to carry both people and freight — has connected millions of passengers and trade goods over 470 miles of track, from Seward to Fairbanks. This year is the centennial of its operation and a celebration is planned in Nenana, where President Warren G. Harding drove in the golden spike on July 15, 1923, completing the railroad.

Operational well before Alaska became a state, in 1959, the railroad is an environmentally friendly way for passengers to see wilderness, and even the aurora borealis, without sacrificing comfort: Glass-domed rail cars make viewing easy. It is also the only remaining flag-stop major railroad in the country. Passengers can wave a flag to embark or disembark, gaining access to more remote locations, including harder-to-reach areas of the Chugach National Forest, through a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service.

Sights along the way include Denali, North America’s tallest peak, and Kenai Fjords National Park. History buffs can view a special exhibit at the Anchorage Museum that runs from May to February 2024, chronicling the railroad’s history.

— Charu Suri

Fukuoka  Copied to clipboard!

Savoring an endangered street-food tradition on the often overlooked island of kyushu read more.

Fukuoka, Japan

Fukuoka, a subtropical city perched on the northern shore of Kyushu, is one of the few remaining places in Japan where you will see rows of yatai — open-air street-food stalls resembling boxes of neon light. Many sell traditional foods like ramen, yakitori and oden, but if you stroll along the riverfront on Nakasu, a small island that is Fukuoka’s red-light district, you’ll find some diversity with wine, coffee, and even French sausages and garlic toast.

Yatai were a common sight across Japan in the 1950s, but during the 1964 Summer Olympics, the authorities had them removed to project an image of economic recovery. In the present, Fukuoka is the only city left that’s fighting this bureaucracy. The government has acknowledged the cultural significance of yatai by increasing the safety and quality of the food and by offering more licenses in 2022. Even so, the number of yatai has fallen drastically to around 100 stalls today from more than 400 in the ’60s. Pull up a seat while you can and enjoy rubbing shoulders with strangers over supper again.

— Harvard Wang

Flores  Copied to clipboard!

An island paradise where crater lakes change color and nine-foot dragons roam read more.

Lauryn Ishak for The New York Times

Flores, Indonesia

The term “fairy-tale getaway” is overused, but what else do you call a far-off, unspoiled, Southeast Asian island with nine-foot Komodo dragons, active volcanoes, white-sand beaches, coral gardens, rushing waterfalls and color-shifting crater lakes reputed to house departed spirits?

Such are the allures of Flores, one of the roughly 17,500 islands of the Republic of Indonesia. An hour’s flight from Bali and far less visited, Flores may be seeing more visitors with the scheduled opening late this year of Kodi Bajo , a luxury resort in the fishing town of Labuan Bajo. Operated by the group behind the NIHI hotel on Sumba, a nearby Indonesian island, Kodi Bajo will offer sumptuous hillside accommodations and views of the nearby Komodo National Park archipelago — the only place in the world inhabited by the famous giant lizards.

— Seth Sherwood

Guadalajara  Copied to clipboard!

Celebrating queer culture’s diversity and l.g.b.t.q. athletes from around the globe read more.

Adrian Wilson for The New York Times

Guadalajara, Mexico

Travel has always been a way to experience diversity, and in 2023 you’ll find a variety of sexual expression and shifts in traditional gender roles in Jalisco’s capital. This fall, the city will co-host (with Hong Kong) the 11th annual Gay Games . Athletes from around the world — of varying ages, sexual orientations and levels of athletic experience — will participate in 20 sports.

The city is also home to the annual Prohibido festival , during which an abandoned theater is transformed into a celebration of sexual diversity through art installations, interactive experiences, live music and talks about polyamorous and nonbinary culture. In Guadalajara, too, women take on nontraditional performance roles. On most nights, you can hear one of almost a dozen female mariachi bands from the area at Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara or El Patio, a restaurant. There are also local performances by female cowboys, known as escaramuzas, who present their choreography on horseback.

The city is considered by some to be Mexico’s drag capital, with numerous performers and shows. Guadalajara has also developed “antiturista” maps, including one for L.G.B.T.Q. travelers, that provide a local’s perspective on places to see and stay.

— Maggie Jones

Tassili n’Ajjer  Copied to clipboard!

Rock art, sandstone pillars and a glimpse at a lost saharan history read more.

Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria

Often overshadowed by its neighbor, the tourism giant Morocco, Algeria — a stone’s throw from Mediterranean Europe and a mere three-hour flight from London — has recently relaxed its visa policies, allowing for much easier exploration of the country. While most visitors tend to stick to the coastal north, which contains some of the region’s best preserved Roman ruins, Africa’s largest country also contains its largest national park.

Virtually unknown to the outside world, Tassili n’Ajjer is eight times the size of Yellowstone. At the heart of the vast landscape of Saharan sand and stone lie the deep red dunes and pillars of Tadrart Rouge. Accessible only by a four-wheel-drive vehicle, this astonishingly striking national park is home to thousands of ancient works of rock art, stretching back to when the desert was a thriving savanna, as well as to a very much living nomadic Tuareg culture.

— Marcus Westberg

Kakheti  Copied to clipboard!

New flavors and ancient winemaking traditions in tiny hilltop towns and green valleys read more.

Irma Laghadze

Kakheti, Georgia

The mountainous nation of Georgia’s 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition is at the center of several new trends in the wine world, including skin-contact (a.k.a. orange ) wines, amphora fermentation and charismatic grape varieties like saperavi. As a result, Georgian wine exports to the United States recently topped one million bottles and are growing at almost 29 percent annually, as Wine Enthusiast recently reported .

For wine lovers, a tasting trip to estates like Vazisubani and Kardanakhi in Kakheti offers a chance to discover new wines in a landscape of tiny hilltop towns and verdant valleys framed by the Caucasus. Many wines are made in traditional pointed qvevri clay vessels that are buried in the earth.

To complement the experience, local chefs have started offering cooking classes where gastronomes can learn how to make the meaty dumplings known as khinkali and other dishes from what Saveur magazine called “Europe’s great unsung cuisine.”

— Evan Rail

Nîmes  Copied to clipboard!

A sunny mediterranean morsel whose charming streets are studded with roman monuments read more.

Joann Pai for The New York Times

Nîmes, France

Nîmes is that rarest of Gallic delicacies — a sunny southern French city with great charm and fascinating architecture and museums that hasn’t yet become thronged with tourists like Arles or Avignon.

The city has a growing word-of-mouth reputation for the excellence of its dining options, which include everything from Michelin two-star restaurants like the chef Pierre Gagnaire’s Duende at the recently renovated Hotel Imperator to exceptionally good lunchtime dining in Les Halles de Nîmes, a covered food market, where the Halles Auberge and La Pie Qui Couette offer first-come first-serve counter service at noon. The latest local buzz is about the chef Georgiana Viou, originally from Benin, who serves up her personal and very delicate Afro-Provençal cooking at Rouge , the restaurant of the elegant new 10-room Margaret-Hôtel Chouleur in a landmarked mansion in the heart of the Écusson, or Old City. Le Coin and Menna, two excellent cosmopolitan modern French bistros — a type of restaurant that’s new to Nîmes — are not far away.

Shed some calories after a meal by taking in the sights of the Rome of France, a sobriquet explained by the most spectacular collection of Roman monuments in Europe outside of Italy.

— Alexander Lobrano

Ha Giang  Copied to clipboard!

A two-wheeled thrill ride leads to mountainside settlements where hmong and tay culture lives read more.

Ha Giang, Vietnam

The several-day loop by motorbike through the Ha Giang highlands in northern Vietnam is not for the timid. Getting to the city of Ha Giang takes six hours by road from Hanoi, and the loop’s steep roads, serpentine passes and recurring switchbacks can make the journey both treacherous and exhilarating.

This remote tableau of soaring peaks and cavernous valleys inspires a deep connection to the landscape and its inhabitants. Veer off the main road onto the narrow ribbons of concrete streaking the mountainsides and into the Hmong and Tay settlements dotting the hillsides and hollows. To learn more about their cultures, you can hire a guide from QT Motorbikes and Tours .

Road improvement projects and new high-end accommodations have made the loop more accessible and inviting. Don’t miss a boat ride through the canyon on the emerald river at Ma Pi Leng Pass.

— Patrick Scott

Salalah  Copied to clipboard!

A historic frankincense-trading center where the desert erupts in waterfalls read more.

Salalah, Oman

With last year’s World Cup drawing attention to the built environment elsewhere in the Persian Gulf states, seaside Salalah, Oman, offers visitors a chance to see the region’s natural beauty. Depending on when you go, the area is either lush and green and blanketed in thick fog, or basking in sunlight and a warm breeze.

During the khareef (monsoon), the valleys and riverbeds are flooded with fresh water, and the mountains flow with waterfalls. The city is also home to Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Museum of the Frankincense Land , which provides a visual history of the ancient incense trade and the associated export routes to the rest of the world. (A nearby collection of sites, known as the Land of Frankincense , is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.) Another draw is the collection of historical ports spread along the coast.

The population of Salalah, one of Oman’s largest cities, is around 330,000, so it’s easy to find oneself alone in the crystal clear waters of the area’s many tranquil beaches, including Mugsail, Fazayah and Haffa.

— Noa Avishag Schnall

Cuba  Copied to clipboard!

An island of music and white-sand beaches ripe for rediscovery as the united states eases travel restrictions read more.

Robert Rausch for The New York Times

With its sea-sprayed, pastel facades, white-sand beaches and tobacco-rich valleys, Cuba sits tantalizingly close to the United States, though it often feels out of reach — especially in recent years, when the Trump administration reinstated strict rules for American citizens hoping to visit.

But a confluence of factors just made travel to the island nation a bit easier. Last spring, President Biden relaxed many of the restrictions imposed by his predecessor. And in November, American Airlines resumed flights beyond Havana, adding departures to the beach town Varadero and the interior city Santa Clara, a regional capital steeped in revolutionary history. More flights from other carriers are set to begin in the coming months.

Cuba’s people are as generous with their stories — of history, family, even politics and protest — as they are with their music, an omnipresent, joyful soundtrack thrumming through the island’s cities and towns. Less than two years after historic protests were met with harsh repression, and as the country rebuilds from Hurricane Ian, travel to Cuba and support of its people may never be more valuable.

— Lauren Prestileo

Odense  Copied to clipboard!

A mystical new museum and garden with all you need to write your own fairy tale read more.

Andreas Meichsner for The New York Times

Odense, Denmark

Designed by the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma & Associates, the new Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Odense, on the island of Funen, is more than a museum. It’s a mystical land, featuring labyrinthine gardens that double as a public park.

The museum explores Andersen’s literary interplay between real and imaginary: You can gaze up at the sky through a glass dome and feel like the Little Mermaid; roam sunken courtyards, illuminated by sunlight splintering through trees; and engage with exhibits by contemporary artists in cylindrical spaces wrapped in latticed timber that suggest the city’s traditional thatched-roof houses. The museum is as much about telling stories as it is about imagining your own: Creativity is encouraged at the magical Ville Vau children’s center, where children can paint, draw, write and play dress-up amid colorful scenes from Andersen’s fairy tales.

Time your visit with Odense’s summertime H.C. Andersen Festivals , and then find artistic inspiration, as Andersen did, by venturing across his home island of Funen, the “garden of Denmark,” with its storybook castles (the moated Egeskov is the stuff of dreams), heather-coated hillsides and misty coastline.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park  Copied to clipboard!

The shape-shifting sandstone heart of a continent and its indigenous heritage read more.

Matthew Abbott for The New York Times

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

At Uluru, time stretches, dissolves. Over 500 million years old, the 1,142-foot sandstone monolith in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a shape-shifter: aflame in pink, orange and violet through the day; its crevices gush with the rain, its surroundings erupt with wildflowers.

Now, Uluru is a symbol of urgency. In 2017, it was the site of the Uluru Statement From the Heart , which calls for an Indigenous “voice to Parliament” to be enshrined in Australia’s Constitution. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced there would be a national referendum on the issue in 2023.

Uluru is sacred to the Anangu people, who protect and manage the land, and for decades tourists climbed the rock against their wishes. Climbing was banned in 2019, and now visitors can take a 5.8-mile walk around Uluru’s base to experience its splendor. The ban was a rare victory for Indigenous rights and cultural respect, and evidence that even deep-rooted attitudes can change.

— Tacey Rychter

Boquete  Copied to clipboard!

A slope-side nirvana for coffee geeks, waterfall hikers and white-water rafters read more.

Paul Castillero

Boquete, Panama

Geisha, among the world’s most expensive coffee varietals, thrives on the slopes of the Barú Volcano, near Panama’s western border. In recent years, specialty coffee geeks the world over have gravitated here, encouraging coffee farms around the highland town of Boquete to act more like Bordeaux vineyards. New cupping rooms and bodega tours have been added at farms like Lamastus Family Estates , Chevas Coffee Estate and Finca Altieri , while coffee-themed hotels — including Finca Lérida and Panamonte — have updated their facilities.

In Boquete’s town center, which acts as a base for adventure activities like waterfall hikes and white-water rafting, the noted Panama City chef Mario Castrellón has opened a branch of the coffee roaster Café Unido , as well as a restaurant and bar with seasonal menus and Geisha-infused cocktails, in the new Selina hostel . The bold, 60-room property straddles a small river, with rooms ranging from beds in concrete cylinders to luxe suites.

— Nicholas Gill

Tarragona  Copied to clipboard!

An unsung artsy seaport rich in well-preserved roman ruins, and delicious tapas read more.

Tarragona, Spain

Long upstaged by the flash of Barcelona, this unsung waterfront city on the Costa Daurada is a culturally rich alternative, with thriving Catalan traditions, from the famous castells (human towers, formed by people standing on one another’s shoulders) to earthy Romesco sauce, often served with grilled fish and vegetables, and best enjoyed in El Serrallo, a maritime neighborhood.

But what elevates the Tarragona experience is the past: This is one of the oldest Roman settlements in the Iberian Peninsula. The impressively preserved Tarraco ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transform the city into an open-air museum, from the mighty Roman walls to the amphitheater framed by the Mediterranean.

Against this ancient backdrop, the city is in the midst of change: a revitalized port, new low-cost fast trains to the region and a growing contemporary arts scene. Perhaps the best way to savor it is to partake in a paseo: Stroll the Rambla Nova, grazing on tapas along the way, to the aptly named Balcó del Mediterrani observation point, where touching the iron railing is said to bring good luck.

Charleston  Copied to clipboard!

A powerful space will examine a city’s past and honor the african american legacy read more, charleston, south carolina.

Charleston’s brutal history of slavery can be overshadowed by a romanticized portrait of a city with charm, award-winning restaurants and plantation gardens. The planned opening of the $100 million International African American Museum this year will help comprehensively display the city’s complicated past.

The I.A.A.M. occupies the former Gadsden’s Wharf, where an estimated 30,000 African captives landed during the trans-Atlantic slave trade, more than at any other site. The sleek, single-story building floats atop 18 pillars clad in tabby, a kind of concrete made from oyster shells, and houses a genealogy center, a social justice action lab and 10 exhibit galleries that include stories of slavery and the Great Migration. A public outdoor space offers an African Ancestors Memorial Garden featuring indigenous plants like Lowcountry sweet grass and Canary Island palm trees.

This spring, the Charleston tourism board will debut a comprehensive guide to Black-owned businesses to elevate the overlooked successes of creative locals.

— Lauren Matison

Cayos Cochinos  Copied to clipboard!

Planting coral and counting sea turtles where there are no cars or roads read more.

Cayos Cochinos, Honduras

Off the northern coast of Honduras, the Cayos Cochinos archipelago, part of a marine preserve where commercial fishing is banned, encompasses about 300,000 acres, two main islands and 13 small cays, with a collective population of about 200 Indigenous Garifuna residents.

Before the pandemic, the nonprofit Cayos Cochinos Foundation, which manages the reserve, derived much of its funding to study and protect its biodiversity from the fees paid by day-trippers to snorkel there. Now, the nongovernmental organization is gently opening itself to tourism, allowing visitors to stay in basic cabins (from $45 a night) that previously hosted exclusively scientists.

Between scuba dives and hikes to see pink boa constrictors and black-chested spiny-tailed iguanas, travelers can volunteer to propagate new coral or count sea turtles. Travel to the islands, which are roadless and free of cars, also supports the Garifuna community, which offers guide services, restaurants and tastings of the local root-infused spirit, guifiti.

Burgundy Beer Trail  Copied to clipboard!

Paying homage to hops and yeast in a region where wine has long reigned read more.

Burgundy Beer Trail, France

Wine lovers have long revered the great vintages of Burgundy. Now, beer lovers have their eyes on the Burgundy region, following the arrival of head-turning new breweries like Ammonite , Vif , Independent House and 90 BPM , all within 90 minutes of one another, and all rated among the best in France by fans on sites like Untappd and RateBeer .

Winemaking influences these new brewers, some of which employ solera barrel systems (like those used to age and blend sherry and Madeira wines), natural yeast, small oak barrels and other tools and techniques most often used by vintners.

For years, France has been a laggard in the global craft beer revolution, running far behind neighboring countries like Spain and Italy. The emerging beer trail in Burgundy’s wine region shows how France might soon develop an enviable beer culture of its own.

Istanbul  Copied to clipboard!

Reviving a city’s historic architecture just in time for modern turkey’s centennial read more.

Maria Mavropoulou for The New York Times

This October, the Turkish Republic celebrates its 100th anniversary, and to mark the occasion, Istanbul’s local government has invested millions in giving historic structures new life.

Among them: Feshane, a factory that manufactured the iconic Turkish hats and one of Istanbul’s first steel buildings, will become one of its largest art centers; west of the old city, a comprehensive restoration of the stone-and-brick Mevlanakapi city walls with their 22 towers dating back to the fifth century, will transform them into a four-and-a-half-mile walking path; and the Botter Apartment, one of Istanbul’s earliest Art Nouveau buildings, whose bottom floor was originally a studio for the sultan’s private tailor, will be turned into a fashion design center.

There’s more. Art museums are planned for the former Yedikule gasworks and the Halic Shipyard, one of the world’s oldest still in operation. And most notably, the newly built Istanbul Modern museum, designed by the architect Renzo Piano, will open its doors along the Bosporus in Karakoy, showcasing the works of notable Turkish artists such as Fahrelnissa Zeid and Erol Akyavas.

— Nora Walsh

Taipei  Copied to clipboard!

Floating sky lanterns and soaring skyscrapers in a sprawling, thrumming capital read more.

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is a glorious assault on the senses, a capital with stunning natural beauty, low crime, and clear air despite its immense urban sprawl. From its neon-lit night markets to its Qing Dynasty temples, visitors can feel the quiet drum of independent pride, however fragile its future.

Beijing, which sees self-ruled Taiwan as an unruly child, continues to assert its desire to reunify with Taiwan and put the island firmly back under its control. But for now, a visit to this city offers a riot of culinary and cultural pleasures. In 2023, the island’s third-tallest skyscraper will open, and the Taiwan Lantern Festival , a beloved tradition in which thousands of glowing lanterns float skyward in tandem, will return to Taipei after more than two decades.

Taipei’s future is uncertain. But in 2023, it remains an ideal place to gape at the sheer power of human innovation.

— Debra Kamin

El Poblado  Copied to clipboard!

Medellín, Colombia

A chic shopping district, pulsing nightlife and rainbow-colored macaws Read more

Federico Rios for The New York Times

El Poblado, Medellín, Colombia

In the 1600s, Spanish settlers established El Poblado, “the village,” along the Medellín River. Eventually, the larger city of Medellín grew to the north, and El Poblado became a rural getaway for wealthy Colombians.

Today, it is once again a center of activity. The grid of two- or three-story homes has blossomed with shops and restaurants, interspersed with boutique hotels rising above the treetops. Nearby, gushing waterfalls and rainbow-colored macaws add to the lush tropical vibe.

An afternoon roaming the neighborhood, popping into Mon y Velarde for menswear or Makeno for artisanal home goods, followed by coffee at Pergamino or modern Colombian cuisine at Oci.Mde , is a worthy entry on any South American traveler’s bucket list. Stay out late enough to see the area transform into the pulsing heart of the city’s nightlife, with D.J.s on the rooftops and dance parties in the streets.

Lausanne  Copied to clipboard!

Switzerland

Spectacular views of Lake Geneva and an exploding architectural and artistic scene Read more

Clara Tuma for The New York Times

Lausanne, Switzerland

Already blessed with a sublime Lake Geneva location and dramatic mountain views, Lausanne, Switzerland’s fourth-largest city, has been adding architectural and artistic beauty to its repertoire as well.

Known as Plateform 10 , the city’s three-year-old arts district recently inaugurated a bold new building that resembles an artfully cracked block of white stone for a pair of museums. Photo Elysée is dedicated to exhibiting photography in all its forms, while MUDAC is a haven of five creative outlets: design, glasswork, ceramics, jewelry and graphic art. The two institutions join the new home of the city’s international art museum, the Musée Cantonal des Beaux-Arts , which moved into its ridged, rectangular building in 2019.

Methana  Copied to clipboard!

A hike, a stroll or a run into the bronze age followed by a soak in an ancient tub read more.

Methana, Greece

Athens’s nearest active volcano, Methana, sits on a peninsula of the same name some 30 miles southwest of the Greek capital. Though largely unknown to tourists, the area is slowly evolving, in part because of its increasing popularity as a hiking destination.

In recent years, groups of locals have managed to reopen and map old walking paths, some of which date back to the Mycenaean Era, creating hiking trails that attract visitors from around the world. (So far, more than 18 miles have been cleared and marked.) The Methana Volcano Challenge , first organized in 2021, offers a trail run across the peninsula’s sloping landscape.

Visitors to this volcanic peninsula can also enjoy several hot springs, the most interesting of which is an ancient (and recently renovated) tub known as the Pausanias Baths near the village of Agios Nikolaos.

— Demetrios Ioannou

Louisville  Copied to clipboard!

A rising l.g.b.t.q. scene with quilts, drag shows, the derby and, of course, bourbon read more, louisville, kentucky.

One of the oldest cities west of the Appalachian Mountains, and arguably among the most beautiful, Louisville somehow flies under the radar. This despite its graceful 19th-century park system , designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and its bourbon-fueled convivial spirit.

Today, its L.G.B.T.Q. scene is also thriving, with hot spots like Chill Bar and Play Dance Bar , which hosts regular drag nights featuring touring artists. (The city has also earned top marks from the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index for seven years running and is home to two new L.G.B.T.Q. community centers.) This spring brings Hotel Genevieve , from the Texas-based Bunkhouse Group, which offers Louisville-inspired touches like décor that pays homage to the city’s rich quilting heritage, an on-site market selling work from local artists and bourbon selections from neighboring Rabbit Hole Distillery .

Make plans for 2023, because the city might not stay below the radar much longer: 2024 will draw the masses for the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby.

— Paul L. Underwood

Manaus  Copied to clipboard!

River-to-table cuisine and ancestral recipes in the heart of the amazon read more.

Manaus, Brazil

Michelin-starred restaurants in São Paulo use Amazonian ingredients to appear exotic, but in Manaus, where you can sip steamy gourds of tacacá from a stand in front of the Teatro Amazonas or wander past plastic bottles of tucupi, the juice squeezed from grated cassava, in Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market, Amazonian ingredients are a fact of life.

At the Indigenous-owned Biatüwi , a restaurant that pays homage to ancestral recipes and cooking techniques, drinks are made from fermented purple yams, and chiles are used to purify river fish in piquant stews like quinhampira.

Then there’s the chef Felipe Schaedler, who has helped threatened Yanomami communities commercialize their native mushrooms and runs two restaurants of his own: Banzeiro and Moquém do Banzeiro . Steering away from traditional preparations, Mr. Schaedler reimagines ingredients like lemon-grass-flavored ants and tambaqui ribs in a modern format, as do the bistros Caxiri , set in a colonial building overlooking Largo de São Sebastião, a grand plaza, and Fitz Carraldo, in the boutique hotel Villa Amazonia .

Vilnius  Copied to clipboard!

A 700-year-old survivor ready to party like there’s no tomorrow read more.

Gordon Welters for The New York Times

Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuania’s cobblestoned capital has a long history of bootstrap survival. Occupied once by the Nazis and twice by the Soviets, Vilnius has a story that is complex and fascinating to explore. Its architectural riches span from Gothic to Renaissance to Baroque; grand churches rub shoulders with quaint timber homes on leafy streets.

In 2023, the resilient city celebrates its 700th birthday with a full year of revelry. A light festival , free music performances and the first Vilnius International Biennial are all on the calendar. Artificial intelligence will resurrect one of the city’s first operas from the 17th century, and an exhibition space will allow visitors to virtually explore Vilnius’s streets as they looked more than 200 years ago.

Ringing in its eighth century, Vilnius reminds travelers that, when viewed through the long lens of history, our own uncertain times are fleeting.

Macon  Copied to clipboard!

1,100-year-old native american mounds and deep rock ’n’ roll roots read more.

Macon, Georgia

The area around Macon has been home to multiple Native American tribes for 12,000 years. That history will be acknowledged this year, when Georgia is expected to get its first national park: The Ocmulgee Mounds, some of the most significant prehistoric Indigenous mounds in North America, date to the year 900, and are now a national historical park .

The national park will include the Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge , for a total of 50,000 acres, and offer a network of exquisite hiking trails and artifacts from American Indian culture. Management will be shared by the Muscogee Nation and the National Park Service.

Additionally, the city, whose musical roots run deep — Little Richard, the Allman Brothers and Otis Redding all got their start here — is celebrating its 200th anniversary with a new 10,000-seat amphitheater . Visitors can check out the Hotel Forty Five , a boutique hotel that opened downtown last year and that was named both for the angle of the street on which it sits and as a nod to musical history.

— Ondine Cohane

Madrid  Copied to clipboard!

Kicking off a worldwide tribute to picasso in a place that’s a masterpiece unto itself read more.

Emilio Parra Doiztua for The New York Times

If art is a universal language, as travel often reveals, Pablo Picasso’s antiwar “ Guernica ” may be one of its most potent symbols.

The Spanish and French governments recently announced the Picasso Celebration 1973-2023 in front of the famous painting at the Reina Sofia museum, kicking off a transnational commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the artist’s death. The worldwide tribute, from Madrid to Paris to New York City, includes some 50 exhibitions, many of which explore the artist through the lens of the present day. Madrid leads the way, with tributes throughout the year, including “Picasso. The Sacred and the Profane” at the Thyssen-Bornemisza ; “Picasso 1906. The Turning Point” at the Reina Sofia ; and an exhibition exploring Picasso and El Greco at the Prado .

During Picasso’s anniversary year, it’s worth noting that the city’s artistry isn’t just within its museums, but outside as well: Madrid’s cultural core is an urban masterpiece of art, nature and light, and in 2021, the entire area of the Paseo del Prado and verdant Parque del Buen Retiro, called “Landscape of Light,” was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Grand Junction  Copied to clipboard!

A bonanza of canyons, arches and cliffs, without the hordes of tourists read more.

Grand Junction, Colorado

On Colorado’s Western Slope, arid Grand Junction offers attractions similar to those of Moab, Utah, the gateway to Arches National Park, without the throngs.

The area around the Colorado alternative has the second-largest concentration of natural arches in the country in Rattlesnake Canyon, where some 35 sandstone spans are part of the roughly 123,700-acre McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area , reachable via off-road vehicle or a strenuous 14-mile round-trip trek. More convenient hiking trails in the Colorado National Monument — where geologic uplift and erosion formed monoliths of the same Entrada sandstone found at Arches — lie within about 10 minutes of town.

The 2021 opening of the Palisade Plunge adds a 32-mile descent — from the world’s largest flat-topped mountain, 10,000-foot Grand Mesa, down to the Colorado River — to the area’s biking challenges. All trails lead back to downtown Grand Junction, filled with shops, craft breweries, locavore restaurants and wine-tasting rooms from area vineyards.

La Guajira  Copied to clipboard!

An unspoiled land of orange-sand beaches and flamingo-lined lagoons read more.

La Guajira, Colombia

The remote and arid La Guajira peninsula, straddling Colombia’s border with Venezuela, remains largely unknown to international tourists — in spite of its dramatic salt flats, flamingo-lined lagoons and orange-sand beaches.

Terrorist activity made this area mostly off limits until 2016, but eco-minded hotels, including La Casa del Pavo Real and Hotel Waya Guajira , have spread along the peninsula, relying on increased flights to Riohacha, the regional capital, and nearby Santa Marta.

This region is the home of the Indigenous Wayúu people, who have expressed concerns that giant development projects may irreparably alter their ancestral lands. Tour operators visit Wayúu weavers known for their chinchorros, the colorful hammocks that take months to make, and their rustic kitchens, where cooks like Zaida Cotes showcase traditional cuisine based on salted fish, goat meat and purple corn.

Bergamo and Brescia  Copied to clipboard!

Open-air theater, art, music and a plateful of local delicacies in a cultural crossroads read more.

Andrea Wyner for The New York Times

Bergamo and Brescia, Italy

Milan may outshine Bergamo and Brescia , but in 2023 a spotlight will fall on these two Lombardy cities after they were jointly named the Italian Capital of Culture . More than 100 art projects, music and theater events (some open-air), nature walks and new bike routes are ​meant to map a way forward after the tragic headlines this northern region generated in 2020, when it was more ravaged by the coronavirus than anyplace else in Italy.

Bergamo is distinctive for its ancient, walled Città Alta (Upper Town) and modern Città Bassa (Lower Town), the two connected by ​narrow roads, a funicular and a footpath. Brescia, around 30 miles southeast , is a handsome crossroads of Roman, medieval and Renaissance sites .

Outstanding food is another draw — it’s Italy, after all — with menus in both areas featuring creamy, nutty polenta taragna and variously stuffed crescents of casoncelli swirled with butter and sage — little pasta miracles that prove how good life can still be.

— Julie Besonen

American Prairie  Copied to clipboard!

A vast, and growing, swath of nature where you can still feel tiny read more.

Janie Osborne

American Prairie, Montana

With its wide-open skies and boundless horizons, American Prairie is ideal for visitors seeking a respite from the fast pace of modern life. A vast nature preserve founded by a Montana nonprofit, A.P. has been accumulating grasslands since 2004. It currently consists of 455,840 acres — and the preserve continues to expand by acquiring private properties that connect to surrounding public lands. The goal: to create a contiguous, three-million-acre reserve and restore a disappearing ecosystem.

A.P. offers a broad range of activities, including leisurely walks, cross-country skiing and expert-level hiking, biking and paddling. Paved roads lead to Antelope Creek Campground, which features an interpretive trail and distant views of the Little Rockies. Buffalo Camp, accessible by gravel roads and situated among the reserve’s largest bison herd, is a little farther off the beaten path and provides a chance to see a buffalo jump, a cliff traditionally used by Indigenous peoples to harvest bison.

— Janie Osborne

Eastern Townships  Copied to clipboard!

A leisurely journey through the countryside with stops for wine, cheese and poutine read more.

Eastern Townships, Quebec

This is slow travel at its best: Pedal across the quiet Quebec countryside, refueling on local cheese, wine and, yes, poutine. Montreal and Quebec City are the stars of the region, but the bucolic, lake-laced terrain between them is often relegated to fleeting glimpses from the windows of a rental car.

The Eastern Townships — Canada’s New England, with French flair — deserves a visit all its own, and especially now, with the recent debut of the Véloroute Gourmande . The 150-mile cycle route traces the Route Verte and Trans Canada Trail across this charming region dotted with flower-festooned villages, and features more than 100 epicurean stops along the way, from farmers’ markets to maple groves to fromageries to vineyards.

Try the lush, sweet vin de glace (ice wine), made from ripe grapes that have frozen naturally on the vine, at Le Cep d’Argent , and the buttery Brise des Vignerons at the family-run Fromagerie des Cantons , one of the first in the area to develop cheese exclusively from Jersey cows, a nod to the region’s British influences.

New Haven  Copied to clipboard!

Connecticut

A home to tinkerers and rebels, and a treasure trove of contemporary art and architecture Read more

New haven, connecticut.

Connecticut’s third-largest city is a historic, mostly walkable and bikeable seaside town with distinctive neighborhoods, an encyclopedic collection of great American architecture, a thriving cultural life and one of the best food scenes in the country for a city of its size (134,000).

Founded in 1638, it’s a place where people have always tinkered with, mused about and challenged the status quo, which is why the New Haven Preservation Trust is now looking at saving the modernist buildings of the 1970s, which many see as disastrous examples of urban renewal. Discover one of the best of these brutalist concrete buildings by checking into the new Hotel Marcel , named for its architect, Marcel Breuer. Recently renovated, it’s become the first completely solar-powered, energy-neutral hotel in the United States.

Check out NXTHVN , a cutting-edge, community-focused arts center founded in 2019 in two abandoned factory buildings in the Dixwell neighborhood that has become the heart of a vibrant African American artists’ community. And then treat yourself to a great meal — maybe crispy artichokes with Parmesan aioli and pork belly with Tuscan cabbage and apple mostarda — at the recently opened Villa Lulu .

The Black Hills  Copied to clipboard!

South Dakota

Pine forests, powwows and a climb up to Crazy Horse’s giant granite face Read more

Benjamin Rasmussen

The Black Hills, South Dakota

The Lakota people trace their creation to the He Sapa, or Black Hills, a mountain range of dramatic peaks and pine forests in an area that is South Dakota’s chief tourism attraction.

Now, representatives of all nine tribes in the state — working as the South Dakota Native Tourism Alliance — are having a say in how to experience Native American sites with the publication of a new tribal nations’ visitors guide , including destination suggestions and tips on visitor etiquette. The assembly helped identify the Great 8 , eight sites and experiences — among them powwows, or dance celebrations — that are significant to Indigenous culture, with a concentration in the Black Hills. These include Bear Butte State Park where hiking trails may lead past prayer cloths tied to trees, 7,244-foot Black Elk Peak, the state’s highest, and the Crazy Horse Memorial .

The massive sculpture of the Lakota warrior turns 75 next summer, when the biannual Volksmarch will allow hikers to ascend the carving, still under construction, and stand beneath Crazy Horse’s more than 87-foot-tall granite face.

Sarajevo  Copied to clipboard!

Bosnia and Herzegovina

A living museum of resilience where empires and cultures have long intersected Read more

Todd Heisler/The New York Times

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo’s history lives in the present. There is the Latin Bridge, where a certain archduke was assassinated, catalyzing World War I. There are buildings still pockmarked by shells from the siege three decades ago. And there is the intricate interplay of empires, from the Ottoman to the Austro-Hungarian, that allows visitors to tour a mosque, a cathedral, an Orthodox church and a synagogue all within a few blocks.

These layers of history, of course, can detonate as easily as they can coexist. Bosnia’s multiethnic capital remains on edge. Look up to the hills, and there are the artillery positions built on the grounds of the 1984 Winter Olympics. But Sarajevo’s splendor comes from this intrusion of the past. It remains a living museum that hints at how a Ukraine or a Syria cannot only survive but perhaps one day flourish anew.

— Hannah Beech

Design and Production

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Danial Adkison, Stephen Hiltner, Suzanne MacNeille, Morrigan McCarthy, Fiona Murray, Nancy Ramsey, Tacey Rychter and Amy Virshup

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Phaedra Brown

Baden Copeland

Corrections

A photograph with an earlier version of this article misidentified the city shown in the image. The photograph depicted the province of Tarragona, Spain, not the city itself. The image has been replaced.

The article also misstated the size of the Barrio Viejo neighborhood of Tucson, Ariz. It is more than 150 acres, not 150 blocks.

A photograph with an earlier version of this article misidentified the location in the image. It is Keelung, Taiwan, not Taipei.

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Wednesday, 1 May 2024

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• Travel tips

Why I love to travel: 30+ powerful reasons to travel now

Since I have a travel blog, it’s clear that I love to travel. But you may ask: why do people love to travel? And I have to tell you that there are many powerful reasons to travel – and I’ll share them below!

I hope this article will show you the benefits of traveling more and will make you want to start planning your next trip and even give you some great travel destinations ideas.

Don’t forget about our series of free insider destinations guides for places across the globe, travel guides that include top tourist attractions, off the beaten path things to do, restaurants, hotels, and tips for each place.

You create special memories

My love for travel started when I was very young. My mom took me to the mountains as often as she could, as a toddler and as a child.

I have many wonderful memories from that period – sometimes only glimpses: a nun at a monastery giving me a special yogurt (I was lactose intolerant, which wasn’t a thing 38 years ago and there were NO alternatives for people with my condition… – however, in Cheia, a mountain resort in Romania, there was a monastery that had milk and yogurt made in-house that I could tolerate. Yes, odd, but I was thankful for that.)

I remember picking up wildflowers with my mom. I remember climbing mountains or visiting special resorts and, I have to admit, now I go back to those resorts with the love and affection – treasured travel destinations for me in Romania – Busteni, Sinaia.

Oh, travel for me is a trip down memory lane! I could go on and on!

One special tradition I created when my son was born, was to travel each year to a new place – doing something special.

Yes, he went to the seaside for the first time on his birthday. We went to a bear sanctuary last year. We went with a cable car in Sinaia the year before.

You get the picture.

Each year – at least as long as we’ll be able to – we’ll do this and I hope Eric will treasure these moments when he’ll grow

up (he’ll be 9 this year) as much as I treasure each memory I have from my trips with my mom and grandmother from back when I was a little girl.

Creating happy memories is something we all aspire to, and according to studies (read Meik Wiking, The art of making memories). So, where do you want to create your new happy memories?

If you need some inspiration, maybe choose some of the safest travel destinations https://www.earthsattractions.com/the-safest-cities-in-the-world-to-visit-right-now/ to visit right now for your next trips!

You discover new cultures

One of the top reasons why I love to travel is that I get to discover new cultures.

By discovering new lifestyles and different traditions, you’ll get to see the differences between your culture and the one of the countries you are visiting, but also to notice similarities.

You will also get the chance to see, see that it’s possible to do something in a different manner and to live in a different way.

Travel is Food for Thought. Literally.

That’s definitely a reason why so many people love to travel around the world.

You learn new languages or practice your foreign languages learned in school

I am blessed to come from a country where all the TV shows and music and everything is distributed in the native language. Movies have subtitles, but they are not dubbed.

That’s actually how I first learned English. I would watch TV series and movies and listen to music and try to understand the words, to associate the way word sounds with how it could be written in English, a language that’s very different than Romanian which is a phonetic language.

From TV I also learned some Spanish and Italian, and I studied German and French in school.

One of the top benefits of travelling for me is that I get to use the languages I learned in school or from TV, I get to expand my vocabulary re, language or at least some words in a new language.

It’s an amazing feeling to be able to get along with the locals in their mother tongue. and, and while it may be challenging for me because I don’t use French or German or Spanish or Italian every day, as opposed to English, it’s still great practice and it’s wonderful to be able to make use of what you learned in school.

I actually notice all the time I’m how happy the locals are when I interact with them in their mother tongue or when, if I don’t know the language, I’m at least making an effort to say the basic words in their language, even though the rest is in English.

One of the top reasons to travel is the fact that it will relax you. You forget, even if for a little while, of your everyday tasks and worries, and you are free.

You are out of your usual routine, you are trying new stuff, you are recharging your batteries. I guess that if we would ask the question “why people love to travel”, relaxation will be one of the top reasons to travel for many people.

Admiring the beauty of this world – waterfalls, beaches, oceans, mountains, flowers, wildlife

Our planet is stunning and there are numerous Earth’s attractions that will mesmerize everyone.

Whether you like impressive waterfalls, stunning beaches were just to admire the wonderful wildlife, whether you like the ocean, sand dunes, or mountains, you’ll definitely find many great travel destinations for you.

Admiring the beauty of this world is one of the reasons for travel! In fact, easily discover that there are so many places to visit across the globe, that it will be hard for you to choose where to go first and you’ll end up with a huge bucket list.

Enjoying local food

While I admit I’m not very adventurous when it comes to food in my own country when I travel I try to sample the best of the local food. I’m in like some dishes, I made this like others, but I would have tried them at least!

The further you go from home, the bigger the chances to discover fruits, vegetables, and food combinations that you don’t have at home, not even imported sometimes. So how can you resist the temptation of trying new foods?

So, for me, one of the reasons that I love to travel is that I get to discover the local cuisine of the place I am visiting.

Discovering local traditions

Many people visiting Romania on Christmas or Easter or on some other special local celebrations discover the unique way in which we are celebrating each holiday.

They are open to learning more about new cultures and their traditions, and so am I when I travel. I don’t always get to visit a new place when there is a special holiday or event taking place there, but if there is such a holiday, or fair or Carnival, I try to learn as much as possible about it and to enjoy it.

Visiting amazing tourist attractions

You can choose something that’s close to you – for instance, these are the most visited tourist attractions in Europe – or go anywhere you want to.

Whether you are looking for instagrammable places to visit in Asia or iconic landmarks in the USA, you have where to choose from!

So, create choose your next destination, create your travel itinerary , and start travelling.

I can only wish you to have happy and safe travels, no matter where you go!

Find out interesting curiosities

One of the books I recently read focused on curiosities from across the globe. I read it with my son, because it’s a book created for children, but I admit that I found out numerous things I didn’t know about people, traditions, wonderful initiatives across the globe.

Some of them were so unusual, that I actually decided to look them up to see if they are true or not. And they were true. All of them.

And then I realised that it’s not such a big surprise, or at least it shouldn’t be. In fact, I two discovered numerous curious things both when travelling domestically and when travelling internationally.

I have to see that sometimes the first thing that I’m called about the given place I visited, is such a curious fact I discovered there.

Meeting new people – and gaining new friends

I know that one of the reasons people love to travel is that they can meet new people and even make new friends.

I too love to interact with the locals when I’m travelling, because it’s a great opportunity to learn more about that place, it’s history and culture, off the beaten path things to do. Sometimes I keep in touch with these people even after leaving that particular place.

Visiting friends or relatives or people you’ve met online

Linked to the previous thing, another great reason to travel is that you can visit friends and relatives living in different cities or countries across the globe.

This way you’ll feel welcome and you know that you will have someone to guide you through the city and spend time with you, so you won’t be a complete stranger in that place.

Another great experience is to meet in real life some of the people you’ve been interacting with for a while now online. As a travel blogger, I made some friends online.  It is a privilege every single time I get to meet one of them in real life. if

Discover art and museums

I love to visit museums, and from technical to art or unusual museums, I visit them all.

In fact, museums lure many tourists in various cities across the globe. They are special, they offer a view into our past, and each and every museum, no matter how small or big, gives us an opportunity to evolve, intellectually speaking. When I saw the list of the most visited museums in the world , I couldn’t be happier to notice that I visited some of those.

Obviously, at home and on my travels, I went to many more museums that didn’t make this list, but that are just as good –  including Musee d’Orsay or Schonbrunn Palace , cool art museums in Bucharest, Romania , my hometown, or some museums in Vienna .

I was pleased to hear the conclusions of a recent study which showed that people interacting with art – museums, exhibits, concerts – live longer – so I instantly added a few Amsterdam museums to my list of places to visit very soon! 

Broaden your perspective

Travelling helps you see the big picture and this is one of the reasons why travel is good for your health and wellbeing. 

You can better understand the local conditions and circumstances, you can better understand why some people wish for something or not, and you get to understand that and you are very small in this world.

You begin to realise how different elements influence the evolution of the world today, and you start to go beyond news read on Facebook wear with some media outlets, and go deep within the locals minds and their concerns.

Also, as you travel, you get to see different perspectives, which, sometimes, are different than yours. And that’s a great reason to travel because you are broadening your perspective and you are getting a clearer picture of the world today.

Discovering that we are different, yet the same! – removing prejudices

Each person is unique, and each country and city has its particularities. We are indeed all unique, but, as you travel more, you come to realise that we are also pretty similar in many ways.

The grass is always greener on the other side we believe, but that’s not always the truth, you discover.

There is no perfection anywhere, and it’s up to you what you want to notice: the good or the bad, and what you decide to do with what you discover.

If you are always complaining about your country – and trust me I know many people who do that (read The Key to Happiness by Meik Wiking) – you may be discovered that they are people from other countries complaining about the same things.

Yes, it happened to me too to discover people from Nordic European countries complaining about the same issues we are having in Romania and considering that they have the worst of it.

One of the benefits of travelling is to remove prejudice. We may have some ideas about different countries or areas of the country,  different stereotypes.

Now these stereotypes may be true for some people in that area or country, but you’ll soon realise that it’s not something that can describe everyone there.

So there you have it: another great reason for around the world travel is that you get to discover how people really are, if the stereotypes are true or not, and you get to realise that we are all the same in some manners.

Doing something different – experience new things

I wouldn’t say that I’m the most adventurous person on Earth, but I tried to experience new things so when I travel.

True, there’s a safety line I wouldn’t cross, but sometimes I push my limits. And it’s great. I’m not risking my life, but I’m doing something different, and if the experience is good, then I have a new great memory and the story to tell.

Learn more about yourself

When you travel, you learn more about yourself and this is one of the unexpected travel benefits.

You see how you react in certain circumstances, what your beliefs are, and that’s great.

Travelling becomes a way to know yourself better, and that’s never a bad thing. On the contrary, that’s one of the top travelling benefits.

When you are travelling with your significant other, you learn more about you as a couple. you discover your dynamic, your preferences, beliefs, willingness to change and so on and so forth.

Travelling is a discovery journey: that of the world and of oneself.

Discovering your issues and fears and overcoming them

When you travel you may discover some issues you didn’t even know you had or fears.

And the best part? You may even overcome your fears or issues – one of the cool unexpected benefits of travelling.

I’m afraid of heights, for example, but I wanted to fly with an airplane. So I overcame my fear and I had an amazing trip to Paris and back. I was able to admire the sky and the mountains seen from above, and that, for me, was a huge win.

Get out of your comfort zone

One of the reasons people love to travel is that they can get out of their comfort zone, just as I did when I wanted to fly. Pushing yourself beyond your regular limits can be a good thing.

It can boost your confidence, it can show you that you can do more, and it can offer you through amazing experiences you would have otherwise missed.

Experience true happiness

Being free, doing what you want when you want, going where you want –  that’s true happiness. And travel brings this to you.

This is actually one of the top reasons why I love to travel.

Do something that seems unreal

Admiring an impressive waterfall may seem simple and common for some, but it is an amazing experience for me. But perhaps the most and the real experience I had was to see The Milky Way one night.

It looked just like in my encyclopedias as on TV or YouTube videos. Truly amazing!

Another thing that we like to do is to go, as often as possible, near a city and admire the meteorite shower taking place each summer.

One more great experience we share as a family and another reason to travel, even if it’s just a short distance from our house.

Learn to budget

One of the great things about travelling is that it helps you to be better with your finances.

As you plan your trip ahead, you need to budget everything: accommodation, transport, food, entry fees, souvenirs, etc. It helps you save money for your trips and to manage your budget while you are traveling. That’s something you really need on an everyday basis and one of the 30+ reasons why travel is important included in this article.

Learn to plan

As you can visit a specific city or area for a given amount of time, you learn to plan your trips better so that you can go everywhere you want to go and do everything you want to do.

These planning skills you are developing will help you on your job and on your personal life as well, so this is another benefit of travelling you have to consider.

Learn to be organized

As you learn to better manage your finances and to plan things, you’ll realise you are getting more and more organised.

This advantage of travelling will help you in your everyday activities and in your personal life, so go ahead and travel more!

Learn new skills (cooking classes or other types of classes)

Why you are travelling you can actually learn new things and skills. You may take a cooking class,  a pottery class, or a drumming lesson in Tokyo .

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn a new thing or skill, because they are truly beneficial for you and your health. You boost your brain and memory!

Boost your confidence

As you manage to sort everything out – the budget, planning your trips, packing your bag for a week in less than 30 minutes -,  as you get to be more open to interacting with new people, you’ll see a boost in your confidence.

You discover you can do it! In fact, this boost of your confidence is one of the top reasons why you should travel more because it will help you in every aspect of your life later.

Understand the need to protect the Earth

As you travel you’ll see that in order for everyone to be able to enjoy the beauty of our planet and the amazing natural wonders, which really need to keep the planet as is, to make it better, not worse.

You understand the more the people who are trying to gather garbage and the ones that try to limit the use of plastic.

More importantly, you realise that each action counts and that it’s important to recycle and to protect the Earth every single day,  for us, for our children and for the next generations to follow.

Spend time outdoors

There are studies showing that spending time outdoors is beneficial to our health, and travelling can help with that.

Depending on your skills and health, you can go hiking, taking long walks in the parks and beautiful botanical gardens, swimming, kayaking, going to the beach, skiing, etc.

While in your hometown you may not go outside as much as possible, and rather spend your time at the office, at home, at the mall, all when you travel you may be at least tempted to go more outdoors and that will be good for you and your health and spirit. This is one of the main reasons why travel is good for you!

Reduce the stress – feel carefree

There are studies that show travel can reduce the risk of a heart attack , and that it helps to manage stress and negative emotions .

Even taking just short vacations improves lowering your stress levels .

I admit, this is one of the top reasons why I love to travel and I feel rejuvenated, relaxed, and empowered after each trip or vacation I take!

Travel can reduce depression

Yes, travel can reduce depression and can impact, in a positive way, marital relationships, according to a study . You can easily see why travel is good for your health and your wellbeing!

So take as many trips or holidays as possible, as lowering the risk of depression is a great reason to travel more.

Learn to let go – Let things unfold

We are sometimes very cringy and stressed about what might happen, how things may unfold, what we want or what we think is good for us. We are on tight schedules and tight objectives.

When you travel more you actually learn to let go, to let things unfold.

And, as you do that, you will realise that you get more relaxed. you don’t need to control every single step and you are actually getting better results by letting go.

This may sound like a paradox –  and I have to say that it took me a while to understand it as well,  but as you learn to let go, you start to get the results you want because you are not cringing obsessing about anything, and you feel that you are worthy of what it is that you want to get.

Learn new skills and improve your career prospect

As mentioned a bit above, when you travel you’re learning new skills and they can help you in every aspect of your life.

As you get to discover more about how things work in a given country and culture, you may begin to see things in a new way and even do things in a different way, which may prove to be more efficient.

All the things you learn and the skills you are developing while you are travelling can improve your career prospects and give you an advantage when looking for a place to work.

And if you are trying to get a job in a multinational company, having interacted with people from different countries is definitely a huge asset for you.

Improve social and communication skills

As you travel more you often need to interact with the locals – to get directions to a specific place, to learn more about history or traditions, etc.

It may seem hard at first, especially if you are an introvert, but as you practice you’ll see that it gets easier and easier.

It becomes your second nature to speak with people from different countries and cultures, and did you get over the language barrier and fears, and doubting yourself, and you become better.

Yeah, improving your social and communication skills is one of the big reasons to travel!

Become more tolerant

It may surprise you to hear this, but as you travel more you become more aware of your own flaws.

And you get to accept that you are not perfect and that you can improve yourself.

As you do that, and as you become more aware of the differences between people and of the different ways to do something, and different lifestyles that are out of there, you get to become more tolerant –  and this is one of the huge benefits of travel.

As you can easily see, there are plenty of great reasons to travel. From the positive impact it has on your health, to the benefits to your career and your relationships, and to your personal development, travelling impacts every area of your life in a positive manner.

So travel more and be better.

Don’t think for an instant that you have to go overseas to travel. You can start locally, and go from there.

I hope the reasons to travel included in this article – and, as you probably might have noticed, I tried to group them to the best of my abilities –  will convince you to take as many trips as you can, shorter or longer, doesn’t matter as long as you travel.

For more information about quality and amazing backpacks for traveling check Tucker & Bloom .

More amazing articles for you:

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10 Reasons I Love Traveling (and Why You Will, Too)

• August 2, 2023
• 6 minute read

It’s no secret that most people desire to travel much more often than the normal 9-to-5 gives them time for. Traveling is a transformative experience that enriches our lives in countless ways. From discovering new cultures to pushing the limits of our comfort zones, the thrill and adventure of traveling offers an escape from the ordinary.

In this blog post, I’ll share ten compelling reasons why I love traveling, and I’m certain that these reasons will inspire you to embark on your own adventures.

Here are the top 10 reasons I love traveling!

Affiliate links are used in this post. for more about affiliate links, check out my disclaimer policy ..

1 || We get to experience new cultures

This is perhaps the most rewarding aspect of travel. Sadly, it’s lost on many people, especially nowadays, as social media is flooding with people just looking for a good photo or to be able to say they’ve been there. Don’t be that way! Actually immerse yourself in these new cultures and you will absolutely fall in love.

It also teaches you empathy and increases your overall social intelligence. Embracing different cultures broadens your perspectives in unimaginable ways and fosters a deeper sense of appreciation for the diversity our world has to offer. These encounters not only introduce you to new customs and traditions practiced around the world, but also creates lasting memories that will shape your understanding of the world and the people living in it.

• This one is a large reason why I loved my time at Oxford, England . Immersing myself in their way of life for 5 weeks really grew my appreciation for slow travel, whereas before, I was a 100% advocate for fast-paced travel.

2 || It takes us out of our comfort zones

We all have our familiar boundaries that we feel safe in, and once we reach adulthood, and get into a routine, we don’t often stray outside of them. However, living this way leads to remaining stagnant, to getting comfortable and not continuously trying to grow. Stepping outside the bounds of our familiarity is where our personal growth happens. Even if you don’t realize it, we all have more growing to do. It never, never stops!

Travel only enhances, and often speeds up, this growth! It challenges you to face the unknown and forces you to face uncertainty. Perhaps you travel to a country with a language barrier, or head to an adventure capital like New Zealand to bungee jump . Whatever you end up doing, it’s the act of embracing these challenges that ultimately fosters personal growth. This can result in increased resilience, adaptability, and confidence.

3 || Traveling hones planning and organization skills

This is definitely one of my favorite reasons I love traveling! Planning a trip requires meticulous organization and attention to detail. Sure, you could wing it by not creating an itinerary, doing little to no research, and leaving bookings for the day off, but that’s asking for chaos. While you might enjoy the trip, things will inevitably go wrong, and you’ll hit constant bumps along the way.

For me, I plan as much as I possibly can. My guides here on the ErickaRheanne blog (such as my guide to visiting Massachusetts ) are so in-depth to avoid any problems or complications. And so many trips have gone perfectly because of this intensive planning and attention to detail.

From crafting itineraries to booking accommodations, transportation, and activities, traveling sharpens these planning and organizational skills. The ability to research, budget, and prepare for a journey not only ensures the overall travel experience goes as seamlessly as possible but also proves invaluable in terms of our personal and professional lives.

• My continuously growing planning skills are evidenced through my extensive, comprehensive travel guides, such as this one on Alaska .

4 || It teaches us skills applicable in life and career

Building upon what I said earlier, traveling teaches us valuable life knowledge and skills that can help us greatly in other areas of our lives. Traveling teaches you how to improvise, communicate effectively, and adapt to a variety of different situations.

All of these skills are transferable and will continue to benefit you for the rest of your life. This also boosts your confidence and assurance in further ventures you might pursue.

5 || It boosts our happiness and gives us something to look forward to

Anticipation is an extremely powerful emotion. It can literally impact your mental health even in the worst of times. Travel fills our hearts with excitement and joy.

The mere thought of exploring new destinations, indulging in local food, and immersing ourselves in breathtaking landscapes can instantly lift our spirits and add happiness and worth to our lives.

Planning a trip also gives you something to look forward to and keeps your mind off of areas of your life that cause you stress, anger, or sadness. Travel can also be a selfish activity (in a good way!) that forces you to think about yourself and put your desires first even if you’re the type to put everyone else ahead of yourself.

6 || It frees us from the constraints of regular life and allows us to escape reality

Sometimes, the routine of daily life can get monotonous. Or, for some, daily life might not be anything like what they imagined for themselves. Traveling can liberate you from the demands of work and responsibilities by offering a reprieve via escapism.

As you immerse yourself in new surroundings, you’ll experience rejuvenating freedom and return to your daily life with more energy, or perhaps a new outlook.

7 || Traveling opens us up to new friendships and romantic connections

Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, or going solo, visiting new places can open you up to reconnections or new connections. Whether it’s a romantic encounter in a charming city or a meaningful friendship forged during a group tour, these connections can enrich your life in ways you never imagined.

8 || It helps us reflect and get in touch with our feelings and emotions

There’s something about travel that really gets us in touch with our innermost thoughts and emotions. Sometimes, we end up confronting and reflecting on things we didn’t even know were festering deep inside.

Traveling offers us a unique opportunity to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life and reconnect with ourselves in meaningful ways. This times allows us to reflect on ourselves and our life, then reassess how to approach our lives and direct our potential futures when we return.

9 || It lets us experience rare, inspiring moments of awe and adrenaline

One of my absolute favorite feelings from travel is the awe I feel at the truly amazing beauty of some destinations. The feeling is best when it’s completely unexpected.

This occurred when I hiked Arthur’s Seat while I was in Edinburgh, Scotland . I actually was not too thrilled about the idea leading up to it, because I figured it was “just another hill” and what could be so great about the view from up there that I couldn’t get in the United States? Boy, was I wrong! It ended up being my FAVORITE part of my 5 weeks of travel throughout in the United Kingdom .

Any kind of adventure that spikes my adrenaline is also a big reason to love travel. Whether you are standing on the glass of the Skywalk at Grand Canyon West, or bungee jumping in Queenstown, New Zealand, or whitewater rafting in Colorado, adventure awaits you everywhere.

All these experiences can leave you breathless with excitement and wonder, and what better feeling is there than that?

10 || Traveling aids us in personal transformations and allows us to live out our dreams

Ultimately, traveling has a transformative power unlike anything else. It can truly make you more open-minded, adventurous, and fulfilled. The memories you make while traveling will continue to shape who you become, and will give you the additional courage you need to chase after your dreams, and the life you desire.

It can also simply just give you a sense of purpose and renew your vigor for life.

And those are 10 reasons I love traveling and why I think you will, too!

Through travel, you can experience self-discovery while also creating unforgettable memories. These experiences can teach you invaluable skills that encourage growth in your personal and professional life while also increasing your mental health.

There’s so many other reasons I love traveling that I didn’t list here. And if you’re ready to bite the bullet and find your own reasons to love travel, I’ve got tons of information on planning your upcoming travels.

• Ericka Rheanne

Hi! I'm Rheanne, a travel addicted booklover from the midwestern US. So far, I've explored 49 U.S. states (only Hawaii left!), and a few other countries. One of my favorite parts about travel is the planning, but I know it's not for everyone! It can often be overwhelming and stressful. I aim to provide you with as much ready-to-use travel information and trip planning as possible to alleviate some of your worries!

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WHY DO YOU LOVE TO TRAVEL?

Worldwide thoughts and quotes on the benefits and beauty of travel.

Carolyn Canetti

I polled my friends and family from all over the world on why they love to travel. Here are their responses:

"I think the exposure to new places and new people can be really reviving personally and also eye opening to see how other people live. To see how life functions, whether human or natural life, in other places is really humbling. It's easy to have your status quo at home, but as soon as you're in a new place - all bets are off. You can do anything, and are so willing to try new stuff to push your own boundaries purely because you're in a new place."

"I love to travel because not only is it the ultimate adventure but it also exposes you to new types of people, different ways of living, and opens up your mind. I just like to walk around in beautiful places that resemble the shire from Lord of the Rings while exploring new culinary terrains."

-Matty G "Traveling reminds me that my life isn't the only one I could live and that in the grand scheme of things, I'm pretty unimportant to this world we live in. People get so caught up in their daily lives and forget that they can be somewhere or someone else tomorrow if they'd like. There are no limits in the grand scheme of things except the ones we create for ourselves. Traveling helps make sure I don't forget that ."

"Travel puts me out of my comfort zone and inherently breeds challenge . I'm a firm believer that challenge leads to curiosity, maturity and growth."

"I use travel as an escape from daily life. Having future trips already planned brings me joy and gives me something to look forward to. I've never regretted a single trip I've taken ."

"I love to travel for a few reasons. First, you automatically become a naturally curious being . You are a traveler, tourist, backpacker, etc and even the most basic thing on a trip becomes an adventure - like catching a bus between cities. Second, you are hyper aware of your surroundings and appreciate the beauty or intrigue of a new land and culture! Third, when I travel and then return home, I see home in a whole new light . For example when I studied abroad in Buenos Aires and came back to NOLA, I realized there was so much more exploring of my own city that I needed to do and I was excited and motivated to do that, whereas before I was stuck in my daily routine."

"I travel to eat all the foods ."

" I love figuring things out . I love seeing new people."

"When I think about travel, I mostly think about traveling solo. I love it because it displaces you. In a state displacement you experience wonder, discovery, awe, discomfort. If you go with an open mind, you discover things about yourself, about others and about the world you would have not learned otherwise. It opens you up, turns on new lights so you can see and experience the world in a new way- even when you go 'home'. We get so involved in our current environments and lives - the chance to step out and explore and experience elsewhere gives us perspective and often provides new lenses with which we can see and think about who we are , what are doing with our lives and what we care about. The whole experience is filled with all these beautiful and crazy colors and feelings."

"I like the discovery part of it... I like to explore new things, new places, new views, new people, new everything...T here are many ways to explore new things, but traveling is the most satisfactory as it is the most comprehensive way as it encompasses many elements from views to people to foods etc. I also like getting away from the routine, and the daily chores and daily work and daily life and have a kind of a break from reality if you want... On the other hand with all the new crazy security issues, travel is not so "free spirited" anymore, as now one has to keep in mind and be aware and even worry a bit when traveling, when in the past the idea of travel was to get away from worries."

"I like to travel so that I don't have to text anyone for a week."

" It's fun ."

"People. Whether it's hiking a scenic overlook with old friends, or eating flatbread on the side of the road with new friends, you forge a special bond when you're both out of your elements. Every moment is an adventure."

"I love to travel to experience things and places that are completely unknown or different to me."

"Traveling somewhere new is an opportunity to really engage in being lost. You have to pay close attention to figure out what's your place, and how to act, and how to be respectful. You start to question and reflect on your own assumptions and behavior. You have a chance to represent your home , which both makes you consider other people's perspectives and better articulate who it is you want to be putting forth into the world." ​-Ella

"I love to travel for so many reasons. There is nothing like getting off a plane/train/bus and seeing the beauty of a new place for the first time . Sometimes, the outer beauty is overwhelming and I have to stand still and let time stop to try to take it all in at once. Sometimes, the beauty is less about aesthetics and more about that first conversation with a local when I am pleasantly overwhelmed by their openness and rich culture. I love walking several miles each day in a new place and thinking about who has walked there before me. It can be startling to realize that I do not know a single person for miles and miles, but I think that's part of what keeps it exciting. I feel the most 'alive' when I am exploring ."

"I love to travel to get away from the chaos of life, when I come home I've gained more perspective ."

"The world is full of interesting people, beautiful landscapes, incredible food, amazing music, and different cultures, and life is more interesting when you make time to enjoy as much of it as you can! We are lucky enough to have the ability to access all of this relatively easily, it's our responsibility to travel as much as possible and learn from other cultures."

“Because everything unimportant falls away - all the little stresses of New York. And I can just be. And learn. And see. And really truly lose myself in all the new things in a new different place.”

"I like getting out of the every day routine of things - it helps me get perspective on ma lyfe. And I like seeing how other people live and meeting the Matt Goodmans of other countries ."

“I love to travel because there's so much I haven't seen and every time I go somewhere new I learn about people and places I never thought about before and that's pretty neat. You can only see so much in a photo you gotta go live it to experience .”

“I love that a totally new perspective makes me reconsider my priorities and allows me to kind of recenter myself. Also food is delicious and I'm a sucker for taking pictures of things I've never seen.”

“I love moving away from the tourist trail and exploring where the locals eat, drink, dance and live. I find it so much more meaningful to see and immerse myself in that side of a city. It's nice to get away from the Aussie accents, English speakers and cameras, and just wander around and explore, and imagine yourself living there . I love everything about traveling, particularly trying new cuisines. I despise even the thought of eating at a Western fast food restaurant, when you have so many incredible and new foods to try. Even the experiences that are frustrating or difficult at the time, end up being some of the most memorable, and some of the most hilarious stories to share and reminisce about.”

“I love to travel because it excites me and energizes me ! It takes me out of my comfort zone and exposes me to cultures, landscapes and people that I find so inspiring.”

“Mainly to meet, experience, and learn from different people, for those wild unimaginable moments that just fall into place and make you question if your dreaming , for that crazy sensation of not knowing what's next, and overall for self reflection and personal growth.”

“I'd say I love to travel because I don't want to wake up one day when I'm 80 years old and say to myself I wish I had done that .”

"I like the feeling of adventure, like anything could happen ."

“ My first trip to Kenya made me examine and question how I live and what is important . It made (and continues to make) me wonder who is ‘happier’. I see such discrepancies between my life and others, although I live in a nice apartment with all of the ‘things’ I can desire - my life might be lonelier without a small community support system. So which life is ‘better’? This existential question is made sharper to me by traveling to countries whose cultures, customs and socioeconomic levels are different from what I grew up with and still. I also enjoy learning about the history of other cultures, why heritage and values result in suspicion to refugees and foreigners. This is a wake-up to me that not everyone (not most people) embraces diversity in every way . Much as I like to travel, I love to come home though.”

"I love the smells, tastes, sounds, sights and feelings of a place - new or familiar. I think my memories are closely interwoven with the scent of an event or a period of time so being able to catalogue a place by smell helps me remember the feeling of being there. Also food. Hooray for all the food and recipes that have been passed through generations, families and communities . I also love the feeling that I am somewhere removed from my everyday experience. It is exciting and relieving all at the same time. I love that traveling is not just one thing. Traveling can be fun. It can be invigorating, enlightening, powerful, relaxing, overwhelming, emotional or even a struggle.."

"The anticipate of travel is always the first exciting thing for me. The sheer idea of going somewhere far away. It's part coping mechanism, part restlessness, and part soul seeking. I love witnessing the way different people and cultures move through the world - how they interact with each other, love each other, how they make art, how they define community, what they value, what they fight for, and what they believe in spiritually . With every new encounter, you experience a new part of yourself."

“I love to travel because it takes me out of my comfort zone and I am always learning something new about myself and about that place each day I'm there.”

"For me it's meeting new people and learning about their different way of life - culture, traditions, food. And seeing what makes each place so unique ! Love finding a spot with a view that I'll always remember about that specific trip."

"I love the anticipation of a trip. Looking ahead, saving, planning, researching, all make the trip a greater adventure. I love the sense involved in experiences a new place, especially the taste. Every trip is magical and I feel fortunate; free to have wings at this stage in life."

"I can't remember a time when I wasn't dreaming about exploring a far away place. Trying to answer why I love travel is like trying to ask myself why I eat ice cream. I just love it. There's something so magical about getting the chance to live in each new place, surrounded by a new culture of sights, food and people."

"I love to see how other cultures eat and dance! Food and music is the best way to interact with people if you can't speak each other's language, and getting involved is the best way to show your appreciation . I also love challenging my own ideas about other cultures. It's so refreshing (and educating) to experience another side to what we see on TV, in movies and online.”

"I like to travel to understand history and learn how others live across the world. And for the food obviously ."

“I love to travel because I love to learn and meet inspiring people. It's important to educate yourself about different cultures and its pretty sweet to learn new skills (even if you pay for something 'tourists' do). Submitting yourself to the unpredictability of travel gives you experiences, some good others bad, that ultimately contribute to your world knowledge - even if it's only becoming a bit more aware of what is around you . Oh, and its fun learning dirty words in different languages.”

“I love to travel because it takes me outside of my culture and privilege and reminds me of great inequities in our world. Travel inspires me to learn more, think more and to better serve our world community. ”

“I rewatched Midnight In Paris last night. So I ask, 'is the age we are living in a golden age?' Certainly if Trump is president then No. But how would we ever know? The path towards the answer is to travel. Traveling allows you to drink with Hemingway, walk the path of Jesus, and gush over Joni Mitchell. I travel so I can debate and discuss this necessary question."

"My favorite part of traveling is being exposed to food, people, places, and things I've never experienced. To get that feeling of the first time is exciting ."

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Should You Keep Going Back To The Same Places Or Take Trips Somewhere New?

by Gary Leff on April 8, 2023

He offers a greater explanation of each, but here are his options:

I don’t have a goal to ‘visit every country’ for its own sake, but spending time somewhere gives me context to better understand a destination. There might be more value in visiting Ukraine now, paying attention to where to go and how to do so safely, to come back better-informed than just doom scrolling Twitter on the topic.

I’m not strategic in saying I want to return to one place over and over versus returning to someplace I’ve been, preferring to discover what my future self wants to experience at the time I’m planning a trip. I don’t have a bucket list.

Instead I’m a bit more serendipitous – factoring ideas my wife has, things we might do that will interest our daughter, and great deals or award availability tip the scales. That can also mean going back to the same place over and over (my wife loves France, and though skipped 2021 we’ve gone every year otherwise for many many years) as well as returning to other favorites.

Sometimes the point is to do something we wouldn’t otherwise think of doing, for instance I’ve been to India many times but who often says they want to visit Chennai without family or friends there, business, or a conference of some sort? It was a part of the country we’d never been and that was good enough.

The number one element of my travel philosophy is that I travel enough not to worry about seeing and doing everything in a given place when I visit. If I want to, I can return, there’s no need for a ‘forced march’ through everything to see and do in a place. I don’t do slow travel per se but also don’t feel pressure to ‘get it all done’ on a single visit.

There are places I haven’t been back to, but that’s not because going back isn’t an option – if I want to see something I missed out on badly enough I will go back. And if I don’t – if it wasn’t worth the flight and time and prioritization – then I probably didn’t miss out on that much to begin with.

There are some places I don’t want to spend very much time in, but I do want to visit. That’s what stopovers are for! The archetypal example of this, I think, is Doha.

I’m glad that I’ve been but I wouldn’t want to spend a week or return over and over. The Museum of Islamic Art is worth seeing, not just for the items from everyday life in the 12th century but for the context of the building itself, I.M. Pei’s last design where he rejected every proposed location and had them build on a purpose-designed man-made island.

Sometimes it’s about change of weather, going someplace warm when it’s cold or going someplace cold for cold wwather activities. But when there’s no particular thing dictating your choice, how do you choose to the extent that the entire world is your choice set? Are you maximizing new experiences or familiar ones?

One thing that I found is that I was skewing more towards the familiar after spending over a year inside the U.S., and as more and more countries opened up. I felt like I needed to return to places I’d been – it had been longer than it might otherwise have been. I needed to visit family I hadn’t seen, revisit the familiar places I loved to eat and experience. If you haven’t been to a place in years it feels more new, and you already know you’ll love it! So I’m only now just returning to thinking about new experiences.

More From View from the Wing

About Gary Leff

Gary Leff is one of the foremost experts in the field of miles, points, and frequent business travel - a topic he has covered since 2002. Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »

More articles by Gary Leff »

I like to go to the familiar places and new places too. The repeat trips have something you missed from the last time. You enjoy it so much it’s fun to do it again. Food is a big part of trips for me. I like the comfort foods from home and I like to try new, local stuff too.

Most people don’t like change so they go somewhere once and unless they have a bad experience tend to go back to the same places. Personally I like visiting Europe so I go there mostly. There are other places I think would be very interesting but either due to distance or food preferences I doubt I will go.

Once you go somewhere and you learn how to use public transportation or rentals cars and get used to the food choices, etc. people prefer not to do that all over again since it can be stressful for people not on the road all the time.

I used to go prioritize new places… but having visited around 60 countries, a lot of my travel is going back to places that I know I love (I try to visit Bora Bora, Switzerland, Maui, and Colombia every year and then the other trips I take are often newer places). Still so much of the world I want to see, but the “new” places will be more off-the-beaten path for me and harder to visit while working remotely.

It’s a “What are you actually planning to do?” question. Because if you just want to go some place warm and comfortable to kick up your feet and have some nice food in a beautiful beach, it’s not a bad idea to just find a spot that works and keep going there. Going to different places to do the same thing just because is silly. If you JUST want a resort, going to the Maldives and Hawaii and Aruba and Cancun and a dozen other locations really only offers so much more to the “I want a resort” crowd.

If you want to see sights or experience cultures, cuisine, and do new things, then go new places.

I love seeing new places, but there’s a certain nostalgia going back to the same places and meeting the same shopkeeper or bartender year after year.

One such story involves the middle-eastern cafe on Upper Road near Agricultural Hall in the northern part of London, aka Angel Station on the Northern line.

I would have a nonprofit conference there every year, always on July 4th (yes ironic!), And I would always stop there to pick up exactly three cans of ‘real’ Diet Coke in the morning. He was always there, we always talked and by the third year he had a huge smile on his face when I walked in one year later. And that repeated for years.

Sadly, COVID 19 has stopped that conference, but I am looking forward to meeting my friend again soon.

@ Gary — Both new and old are great. Major hubs are easier, so we tend to visit those the most. We also get superior treatment at hotels we have visited many times, which makes us want to return to those places yet again. We’ve been to India once, and we have zero desire to return. The air is filfthy, so no thank you.

You raise some interesting questions, Gary. I suppose the answers are based entirely on one’s experience and philosophy of travel. I know people who are terrified to leave the U.S. and never have, some who made trips to Europe and got absolutely nothing out of it, and others who return to the same foreign resorts over and over again, never seeing a thing of the countries that they are in. On the other hand, I also know many people who want to, or have, traveled to many places and on a continuum from where they are reasonably comfortable (Europe, say) to moderate and then extreme conditions, occasionally returning to familiar places somewhere along this line.

Personally I’m towards the further group, after a “grand tour” of Europe as a teenager in the late ’60s. And then after college did the Hippie Trail overland from France to Nepal, and then I went on as much as possible by surface transportation across Australia and Latin America. That jaunt took me a year. And I still do as much travel as is reasonably possible, time and money permitting, usually with the intention of hitting new places. Because who knows if they will accessible again (Afghanistan was beautiful, but this isn’t a great time to return!). I got my wife doing this somewhat too, though she never let me forget that I dragged her to Albania, but she is willing to come back with me to Oman. On the other hand she was just fine when I hied off alone to China, Andorra, Haiti and Antarctica, among other places. So I’m up to 122 countries now.

Those of us who love to travel can’t really explain this to those who don’t, and it’s probably not worth trying. But sometimes…sometimes when a reluctant traveler comes along they suddenly discover that the experience is worth it. And my opinion is that everyone whose mind is opened by travel is one more person who not only will enjoy more of this world, but will be less likely to accept what they are told about it without asking deeper questions.

Both. Some places I can (and do) visit over and over, for example: Japan. It’s just so amazing. Some places I have no desire to visit again, for example: UAE, Qatar. Other places – many places – I have no desire to visit at all, for example: Iraq, Lybia, Russia, Congo (quite a few more). And after all of those – are the places that I’ve never been, and would love to see, but not putting any “pressure” on myself. If it works out – great, if it doesn’t – I’m not stressing over some FOMO.

Short trips

I always say there’s a difference between “traveling” and “vacation”. Typically, the former is somewhere you’ve never been and you have a laundry list of things to do and see. “Vacation” is normally somewhere you’ve already been, or more often an all-inclusive/cruise-type experience that is definitely meant more as relaxation than “traveling”.

@Jon I completely agree. There are some areas I’ve traveled to that just felt “right”; it was more the day to day life there than the sights to see. Nothing like returning a few years later to the same familiar shops and restaurants, seeing the same owners/staff and reminiscing

@ Dude26 — Totally agree re: Japan. Best country in the world to visit.

We definitely try to mix up the two. One of our favorite things is returning to a beloved place but we equally love the excitement of the new. After this recent forced travel hiatus our upcoming international travel reflects our philosophy: Guanacaste for the 5th time, our first African Safari and a train trip through one of the only places in Europe we haven’t ventured- Scotland.

We often think of our first trip to a place as a “scouting trip.” Like you we don’t feel pressed to see everything. If we love it we will be back.

Interesting article Gary. When I first started to travel internationally I used to believe that I always needed to visit a new country instead of returning to places I have been. That logic turned out to be a mistake and lasted until I started visiting places like Japan and China. China is soo large and varied that you can’t see it all in one trip and it worth going back to over and over again. Japan on the other hand is a smaller country but I find the culture very interesting and very deep.

I found myself returning to those countries over and over. However when I plan an overseas trip I try to incorporate not only new areas of a country I have visited before but also new countries. Funny enough on this trip I will have a stayover in Doha. Am I totally pumped to visit Qatar? Not really. I’ve done Dubai and been to Istanbul etc, so I have a bit of context of what to expect but I still think there is value in seeing it. I also still plan trips to countries I have never visited. When the war is over I wish to visit Ukraine. Israel/Egypt/Jordan is high on my list. South Africa and other parts of Africa. It is a whole continent that is unexplored for me that I have an interest in, so I will mix completely new country trips in with returning to places I have been. No need to deny yourself returning to places you really enjoy, although there is growth in pushing yourself to explore new places and to give them a chance. I really liked Vietnam and didn’t think I would. I felt kinda bleh about Japan after my first trip there but now it is one of my favorite places the more I have gotten to explore it. Gotta give places a chance.

…and the answer is… all of the above !

What is so bad about Chennai? That is my “go to” place in India.

After building up a collection of new places, I now value some previously visited places over new places. For example, I would rather visit Paris than Kinshasa even though I’ve never been there and have never seen the wide Congo River.

As far as Japan, that’s an interesting country. I used to view Japan as an enemy country but with fewer and fewer political allies and the war having ended more than 75 years ago, it is time to bury the hatchet.

@derek – Did you view (W) Germany as an enemy at the same time or for as long as you viewed Japan as an enemy?

Just curious…

I’d gotten into sort of a rut – rotating London, NYC, Tokyo, DC – which are cities with endless things to do. I am visiting South Korea next week – something a bit less familiar – a little more anxiety due to the unknown isn’t always bad.

I love these types of philosophical discussions, and this is a great one. Thank you, Gary! I also do both. I definitely have a couple of places that I’ve visited several times but make sure to do something new or visit a different area in the country or state when I go. This is a very interesting question and one that I’ve been thinking about a lot as I plan my travel this year and going forward.

I agree with Barb. It’s a very interesting discussion that we ourselves reflect on regularly. We’re returning to London in a few days, but that’s a place that most certainly is worthy of multiple visits.

On a recent visit to Italy, we checked out the heel of the boat, a region we’d never touched on multiple previous visits. We’ve visited more than 75 sovereign countries but have no interest in adding to that particular score. We just keep the number handy in case anyone wants to ask. Still, we just made it to Indonesia for the first time, thanks to a bargain business class fare, and enjoyed blissful days in Bali. We try to balance between new and return visits.

It’s great to read the perspectives of other active travelers.

That should of course read “heel of the boot.” I can’t even blame autocorrect for that one.

I was keeping a Google sheet list of my countries visited and somehow when I hit 102 I accidentally deleted it. I was proud of myself for breaking the century mark but at the same time I started to feel burdened by the continued feeling of always needing to rack up new countries (which gets harder and harder to do as you visit more and more.) After a while I decided not to redo the spreadsheet, so I could just continue to travel and go wherever I want without feeling it “doesn’t count” if it’s not a new country. I’m definitely not the guy who’s going to go back over and over to the same hotels and same cities even but it’s fairly ridiculous to think after you’ve spent a few days or a week in one country (usually mostly in the capital) you’ve “been there done that”. I’ve been trying to let myself go back and explore the countries I love more, like Malaysia, Italy, eastern Europe. It’s a bit liberating to get out of the country list contest mentality

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Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »

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10 reasons to love travel

What does travel mean to you here are just 10 of the many reasons i love to travel….

• Travel Specialist

In today’s tech-obsessed world, social media may well be the perfect platform to showcase the world’s beauty to armchair travellers across the globe, but travel is so much more than just getting that perfect Instagram shot. Travel should be meaningful. It should excite and inspire you, rejuvenate and ground you, educate and challenge you, and most of all, it should humble you.

Travel gives us our greatest stories, our most cherished memories and countless irreplaceable learnings that we can choose to pay forward to others. It teaches us about ourselves and each other, it broadens our horizons and, just like a reset button, it forces us to refocus on what really matters.

Here’s what travel means to me…

For me personally, travel is a way of life. I was born into a travel-obsessed family and had already lived on three different continents by the time I started school, so wanderlust (and an often ridiculed hybrid accent) was inevitable for me. My sister and I are incredibly fortunate to have parents that insisted that travel was the best classroom and, thankfully, our school holidays were spent exploring fascinating places, both near and far.

Upon graduating university (and turning 21), I was given the greatest gift: the gift of travel. Armed with a round-the-world plane ticket and a sense of adventure, I took off on a six-month solo backpacking trip through Europe, Southern Africa and Australia and, without a doubt, it changed the way I saw the world. So, as a self-confessed travel addict, here are the 10 reasons why I love to travel.

1. Travel to leave our world a better place

I have been fortunate to work and travel with &Beyond for more than 13 years now and what inspires me most is our company ethos and unwavering commitment to care for the land, wildlife and people. Travelling with &Beyond has given me the rare privilege to actively take part in so many unforgettable and truly meaningful experiences, such as: witnessing endangered rhino being safely translocated; observing an elephant cow being collared for research and monitoring purposes; helping to relocate a vulnerable nest laid by an enormous and highly endangered sea turtle; spending a night in a traditional Maasai manyatta (homestead); and so much more. &Beyond ’s authentic, experiential travel not only enables travellers to participate, engage and learn, but it also allows them to travel with purpose and to help leave our world a better place.

2. Travel to meet different cultures

Travel exposes us to different cultures and ancient traditions and through these authentic encounters, we learn to embrace and celebrate both our similarities and our differences. Travel teaches us about humanity and gives us an appreciation, understanding and respect for different points of view and ways of life.

3. Travel to learn

Not all classrooms have four walls and travel is the best way to immerse yourself in geography, history, culture, gastronomy, languages, biology … you name it. Travel enriches the mind and educates us far beyond any textbook or travel guide. Not only do curious travellers learn about different landscapes, languages and lifestyles; glean fascinating facts while observing wild animals in their natural habitat; delve into a region’s history and taste the local flavours; but they also learn about themselves (and each other) along the way.

4. Travel to escape reality

We all need to fall off the radar and escape reality every once in a while. Travel allows us to enjoy complete anonymity in new and unexplored territories. It gives us absolute freedom to live in the moment and it allows us to be anyone, to go anywhere and to do anything. The best part of my six-month trip around the world, way back when, was the freedom of being able to just wake up and pick a spot anywhere on the map and find a way to get there. Travel enables us to be spontaneous and seek new experiences.

5. Travel to relax

Our lives are time-starved and technology-driven and, let’s be honest, it’s not often that we actually take the necessary time to de-stress and truly switch off. Travel allows us to escape life’s daily demands, dramas and deadlines and enables us to clear our minds. It encourages us to recharge our batteries and to truly disconnect (from our phones, Wi-Fi, emails, laptops, social media, etc.) in order to reconnect (with ourselves, each other and the natural environment).

6. Travel to explore

Travel takes us out of our comfort zones and inspires us to see, taste and try new things. It constantly challenges us, not only to adapt to and explore new surroundings, but also to engage with different people, to embrace adventures as they come and to share new and meaningful experiences with friends and loved ones. Whether you seek adrenaline and non-stop activity, or unapologetic siestas and ultimate relaxation, travel gives us the opportunity to explore with an open heart and an open mind.

7. Travel for humility

Without a doubt, travel is a crash course in humility. As we cross borders, and oceans, we gain true perspective. We learn to recognise and be grateful for all of the things we take for granted in our own lives, and we also gain an appreciation and respect for how others live. Travel teaches us to be tolerant, flexible and open-minded, and most of all it makes us humble.

8. Travel to eat

One thing you’ll never find on a suggested packing list is a diet. Leave it at home! Just make sure you bring a healthy appetite and a willingness to taste new flavours and sample all of the local delicacies. Remember, mimosas are totally acceptable at breakfast and dessert is always a good idea. Indulge, go back for seconds and exercise when you get home.

9. Travel to be transformed

Don’t just travel for travel’s sake. Travel to seek adventure and feel alive. Take part in authentic experiences that will not only change the way you see the world, but that will also encourage self-reflection, environmental awareness and global action to help protect and conserve our planet.

10. Travel to live out your bucket list dreams

Every traveller’s bucket list is different. Whether you long to watch the sun set over the Taj Majal, snowshoe on the side of an active volcano, witness Africa’s Big Five and the Great Migration, or find your Zen on a yoga retreat in the Himalayas, if you can dream it, you can do it. Travel is the best medicine and long may it continue to take our breath away and turn us all into storytellers (and committed custodians of our precious planet).

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 14th October, 2021

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

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Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

16 best places to visit in Moscow...

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin's Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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The 38 most romantic places in Moscow

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1 St. Basil's Cathedral

3 Bolshoi Theatre

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• 11 Romantic Places In Russia That Will Add A Spark To Your Trip In 2024

23 Mar 2023

If you are thinking about a place to propose to your partner at and how to make her feel special, then Russia can fulfill your choices with a range of beautiful and, of course, romantic places. There are many romantic places in Russia . These places are filled with couples all the time, but you can find some quality time to spend with your partner here. You can reignite your long-lost romance with your significant other in these picturesque places. Doesn’t that sound dreamy? Read on to find out where you can strike a pose with your partner.

11 Most Romantic Places In Russia

Here in this post, we reveal some of the best things to do in Moscow to take your relationship one step further. Without further ado, here is the list of the most romantic places in Russia . Take a look at these beautiful destinations:

• Moscow City
• Patriarch Ponds
• Chara Sands
• Tavrichesky Orangery
• Valaam Archipelago
• Moscow River Cruise
• Lake Seliger
• Lagonaki Plateau

1. Moscow City

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The capital of the country, Moscow, is best for this purpose. It is one of the most most beautiful places in Russia . This capital holds one of the highest skyscrapers which are top in the list of top romantic places in Moscow. You can take your fiancé there, and while observing the city from that height, you can give her a surprise. You can make your occasion very special and memorable for whole life. On the board of the skyscraper, there are some words written in the Russian language which means only love is above so go and get to the top of that place.

Must Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

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2. Peterhof

If you want to propose her like a king, then Russian Versailles can give you this chance. It is situated very close to Petersburg. It is one of the best romantic places in Russia for young people. You will find a lot of tourists here. But fountains and the greenery of this place can make both of you feel amazing and leave your relationship as green as the place. The beauty of this place will leave a mark in your memories and couples are not able to forget this place and the memories created here.

Suggested Read: Saint Petersburg In June: A Comprehensive Guide To The Venice Of The North

3. Patriarch Ponds

The front view of this place, when viewed from a distance, looks very amazing, and that makes it one of the popular areas. There are some bars and restaurants in the neighborhood where you can celebrate and have some fun. The appearance of this place resembles Chelsea in London. There is a pond situated at the center which is a great attraction to this place.

Suggested Read: 8 Cities With Best Russia Nightlife; Say It Aloud, “Lights, Vodka, & Russians!”

It is situated at a distance of 250 km from Moscow, in the town which is known as Golden Ring Town. It’s also worthy to add in this list due to its architecture and amazing environment. There are many houses made of wood, and it can give you an amazing feel like the prince of ancient time, and you can even buy those costumes from various shops out there. You can enjoy this day to the fullest and make it a memorable one.

Suggested Read: Wildlife In Russia: Spot The Enchanting Fauna In The Largest Country Of The World!

5. Chara Sands

You may get surprised for a while, but we are going to tell you the exact truth. A place like Siberia has a desert. It is a small one. The destination is perfect in all the sense to propose your loved one in such a romantic landscape. You will see the beautiful sunsets, and even the atmosphere is so great that she wouldn’t be able to stop herself from kissing you. There are chances that she will drop some tears after seeing your surprise.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Russia To Witness The Beauty Of This Incredible Nation

6. Tavrichesky Orangery

This place is full of greenery. Lots of plants, trees, and flowers in this park attract numerous couples throughout the year. The stunning view can be a perfect one for your perfect day. The park has everything one can imagine like hills, sparkling lakes, and royal architecture. A visit here can rekindle your relationship and can bring a new warmth to it. The smell of oranges will only enhance the whole experience.

7. Dimitrov

The situation can be a bit challenging to ride into heart shaped hot air balloon with your loved one. If you think you want to do something new to your better one, then this is the place where you can express your feelings and make her understand the importance of her in your life, your future and also about your happiness. Also, the scenery and the privacy will provide for a perfect date spot for all the couples.

Suggested Read: 9 Fabulous Beaches In Russia That Let You Relish The Taste Of The Good Life!

8. Valaam Archipelago

Some people around the globe believe in leaving the world behind, and if you are one of those, then there is no better place than this. Here you will find the forests, azure waters, and awesome sunsets. People love to make proposals over here as it is a perfect place with nature all around you. This place is famous all over in Russia  for the peaceful yet beautiful surroundings.

9. Moscow River Cruise

Touring the Moscow River can be the best thing you ever did in your life for your partner, or maybe it can be one of the best for you as well. The cruise experience on the river of Moscow is better than most of the other cruise journeys. Here you can see the Russian richness and also the beauty of the view from the cruise. These moments of happiness can add more value when you will give her a surprise by going down on your knees and proposing her.

10. Lake Seliger

It is a place full of crackling fires and a beach. This is what the lake has for you to welcome you and your partner. You can enjoy your private happy moments, and when you get her attention, you can propose to her and tell her about your feelings, and both of you can gaze at the wonderful scenes. No matter what your relationship is suffering with, this place can demolish all those walls.

Suggested Read: 9 Hotels In Russia That Are A Perfect Blend Of Modern Culture And Old-World Charm!

11. Lagonaki Plateau

Even watching the photo of the beautiful place can change your mood just in a snap then imagine how much special it would be when you propose her in the plains of this Caucasian biosphere reserve. You have to pay 2 dollars for the ticket of this plain. These meadows, boxwood grows, and a view from the height can make the situation more likely to be in your favor.

Further Read: Russia Plans To Open A Luxury Hotel In Space Since Earth Is Too Mainstream!

These 11 most romantic places in Russia can be best for anyone, but more so for those who are looking to spend their honeymoon in a peaceful yet beautiful place. Can you think of any more romantic destinations that should have been in this list? Add them in the comments section below and share this with your globetrotter buddies. Don’t forget to book a holiday to Russia to experience what all these amazing places offer.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Romantic Places In Russia

What is the most beautiful city in Russia?

Moscow is touted to be the most beautiful city in Russia.

What is the most beautiful place in Russia?

St. Petersburg is considered as the most beautiful place in Russia.

Is Russia good for honeymoon?

Russia has everything you and your partner can ever desire to make for a perfect honeymoon getaway. In Russia, Moscow and St. Petersburg have remained as the most popular honeymoon destinations.

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• Romantic Getaways

50 Best Romantic Getaways for a Couples Trip

Whether you're celebrating your honeymoon or just looking to escape with your partner, these are the 50 most romantic getaways around the world.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel+Leisure

What's your idea of a perfect romantic getaway? For some couples, it's all about relaxing on a beach somewhere tropical and sunny, while others prefer a new adventure in an exciting, fast-paced destination. Whatever your travel style, we've got you covered with our list of romantic destinations in the United States and around the world.

From ski resorts in Colorado to the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands to the rolling hills of Tuscany, these are 50 of the most romantic getaways around the world.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Wander through the green rolling hills and sheep pastures, and take in the history in this beautiful country. Try taking a hike up to Arthur's Seat for sweeping views, check out Edinburgh's Old Town for quaint architecture and fun museums (such as the Writers' Museum), and wander down the Royal Mile to take in street performers. Be sure to stop at a whiskey distillery for a sip or two — try Highland Park or Old Pulteney — and consider staying at Gleneagles Hotel, which sits on a 850-acre estate and has its own train station.

British Virgin Islands

Have a relaxing, sunny beach vacation in the beautiful British Virgin Islands. Play in the water and lounge on the sand at some of the most beautiful beaches — visit Cane Garden Bay Beach or Smuggler's Cove Beach for fewer crowds and more privacy. Also try swimming and snorkeling in Spring Bay, sailing to Anegada Island. Check out Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, which sits on its own 230-acre private island at the east end of Tortola. It has 52 guest accommodations, plus two-, three-, four- and six-bedroom villas, a spa, restaurants, two private beaches, and a 55-slip marina.

Zihuatanejo, Mexico

This resort city on the Pacific coast of Acapulco has picturesque beaches — visit Playa La Ropa or Playa Blanca for great snorkeling. It also has a quaint town with windy roads lined with galleries and restaurants to explore — be sure to check out La Cucaracha Gallery, Suazo Art Gallery, or Artemayren Studio y Galería for local art and Rufos Grill, Restaurante Las Adelitas, or Restaurantes Mexicanos Any for local food. For the ultimate romantic trip, you can stay in La Casa Que Canta, which was featured in the movie "When a Man Loves a Woman." The grounds have terracotta villas sculpted into the hillside with secluded suites.

Palm Springs, California

For a trip that feels like you are really getting away without actually having to go too far, check out Palm Springs for its hiking, gondola rides, golf, and warm desert air. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway — the world's largest rotating tram car — to travel 2.5 miles up to the top of Chino Canyon, where you can wander around and explore. Relax together at Estrella Spa or Azure Spa Palm Springs, where you can get desert-inspired treatments.

Whidbey Island, Washington

This island in the Pacific Northwest is a quick trip from Seattle, and it offers stunningly beautiful views for the minimal effort involved in getting there. There are quaint hotels with modern amenities, such as the Inn at Langley, with hot tubs and views of the Saratoga Passage waterway. You can explore the shops in town or hike along the coastal bluffs, maybe catching a sight of gray whales if the season is right.

Idyllwild, California

This rustic mountain town is perfect for exploring with someone you love, or for a first trip together as a couple. Stay in a small wooded cabin and then spend your time exploring the shops in town, stocking up on homemade jams or leather hats. Try hiking the Ernie Maxwell trail for beautiful views, and if you are in town on a Saturday, head to the town square to meet the mayor (he's a golden retriever named Max). For dinner, sit on the patio in the mountain air at Gastrognome or Idyology.

Explore the wide-open plains and enjoy the breathtaking night skies in Montana. While on your trip, stay at a guest ranch where you can experience outdoor activities, such as Flathead Lake Lodge, a family-owned and operated guest ranch. Or stay at Snow Bear Chalets, which are ski-in/ski-out treehouses located slopeside at Whitefish Mountain Resort in Whitefish, Montana.

La Paz, Mexico

La Paz is a romantic and often-overlooked destination located on the Sea of Cortez, which is known as the world's richest body of water. French explorer Jacques Cousteau famously named it the "aquarium of the world." Today, you can try diving, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, and island hopping there. For romantic outdoor dining, try Las Tres Virgenes, Sorstis Restaurante, or Nim, or the more casual Il Rustico.

Experience the Reno side of the Lake Tahoe area for outdoorsy activities and intimate restaurants and hotels. Check out the Spa at Silver Legacy or the multitude of hot springs in the area for a relaxing day of romance. There's also the Riverwalk and Midtown District to explore. Opt to stay in the Sunnyside Restaurant and Lodge , which sits lakeside with its own private beach, or the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe , where the concierge service can arrange a day of adventure on the mountain, a round of golf, or sailing on Lake Tahoe.

Dana Point, California

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

This lesser-known beach town is perfect for couples, and it gets you away from the more crowded California beach spots. Do some people-watching or swimming at Salt Creek Beach or Doheny State Beach, or try walking along Bluff Top Trail. For seafood with a view, try dining at Chart House or Wind & Sea. If you are looking for a place to say, the town's resorts have ocean views and spa treatments. Consider whale watching or taking a cruise on the Dana Wharf Sunset Wine Cruise during your visit, too.

Sonoma Valley, California

What better way to celebrate an anniversary, honeymoon, or other special romantic occasion than with wine in this scenic part of California. There are more than 400 wineries to visit in this region. For wineries with beautiful views, check out Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves or Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery in Dry Creek Valley. Then dine at some of the country's most romantic restaurants, including LaSalette, Valette, or The Girl & The Fig. Take a wine tour through the valley, take a walk through some of the state's earliest vineyards, or bike along scenic roads with the person you love for an unforgettable trip.

Chassignolles, France

This village in the Livradois-Forez, France's largest national park, is secluded and rural — perfect for couples looking to get away from it all. You can check out the local farms and wander among the country lanes. Auberge de Chassignolles is the only accommodation in town, with nine rooms situated next to the village's 12th-century church.

St. James, Barbados

With platinum white beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking sunsets, Barbados is a perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Be sure to check out the Mount Gay Rum Distillery, and go swimming or snorkeling at Carlisle Bay or Brandon's Beach. While you are there, why not stay at The House, which is often voted one of the most romantic hotels in the Caribbean. Each of the 34 suites has ocean views, and the adults-only property has gardens, champagne breakfasts, and 24/7 service ambassadors.

Willemstad, Curaçao

Culture-loving couples will want to visit Willemstad, a vibrant and bustling city in the heart of Curaçao. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the capital of Curaçao and is famous for its colonial architecture and museums. Be sure to walk across the swinging Queen Emma Bridge, visit Serena's Art Factory to pick up ChiChi dolls, and shop along the old cobblestone streets.

Bend, Oregon

This city on the Deschutes River in Oregon has tons of hiking trails, water activities, and mountain views. While in town, try staying at Brasada Ranch, which has activities including horseback riding, skiing on Mt. Bachelor, and trips downtown to the local breweries. Dine at Ariana Restaurant, a restaurant built into a cozy bungalow, or The Blacksmith Restaurant, which was built into a former smithy.

Aspen, Colorado

Whether it's skiing down the slopes to a cozy mountainside lunch or hiking through fields of lupine and columbine to a high mountain lake for a picnic, there's something for everyone in Aspen. For a romantic stay, opt for a room at The Little Nell.

Chiloe, Chile

Visiting the little-known island of Chiloe is like taking a step back in time. The archipelago is made up of traditional small farms, fishermen, and craftsmen. For accommodations, try Tierra Chiloe (located on the Pullao Bay on the inland sea), which offers a number of interesting activities, including horseback riding, clam digging on the beach, sea kayaking from island to island, and hiking.

Door County, Wisconsin

Wisconsin might not sound like the most romantic place in the world, but this area has lots of secluded spots and fun activities that make it perfect for a couples trip. Check out Blacksmith Inn on the Shore, a bed and breakfast where all guest rooms have a fireplace, in-room whirlpool, and private balcony with views of Bailey's Harbor. You can use bikes, kayaks, sleds, and snowshoes to explore the area, including the nearby Sanctuary State Natural Area, which has 1,600 acres of boreal forest.

The Oregon Coast

The majestic Oregon beaches make for stunning scenery, and the quaint beach towns have tons of activities for couples to have fun together. Visit Cannon Beach for the iconic rock formations, check out the Tillamook Cheese Factory for a tour and free samples, and for accommodations, stay at Salishan Resort, which has 158 acres of forested land and beautiful views from all guest rooms.

The amazing jungles on this island will give you plenty to explore as a couple. You can sign up for a group trip or take tours on your own, and then relax at Playa Cativo Lodge in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest. Eight of the eco lodge's rooms have a private outdoor terrace and plunge pool, and guests can also enjoy a fresh-water outdoor swimming pool and complimentary snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and self-guided nature hikes.

Bequia, St. Vincent

Having your own private island is the epitome of a romantic getaway, and this tropical destination gets you very close. At just seven square miles, with about 5,000 residents, there are no traffic lights, no neon signs, no chain hotels or restaurants, no golf courses, and no gated communities. In order to get there, travelers must take a flight to Barbados (or St. Lucia), and then take an inter-island hopper flight from there. Once on the island, you can stay at Bequia Beach Hotel, a tucked-away, family-owned luxury resort.

Santorini, Greece

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

This magical island is known as the most romantic in Greece, with turquoise waters, whitewashed houses sitting on cliffs, and beautiful beaches. During your visit, you can stay at Grace Hotel Santorini, which sits 300 meters above the caldera. The 20 all-white accommodations feature Greek marble, custom fragrance, pillow menus, and a private plunge pool. While you're here, go for a hike the on the Fira trail for beautiful views, take in the sunset in Oia, and explore the black-sand beach.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is the perfect destination for couples in search of a beach vacation filled with unique activities. Check out snorkeling at Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach, view hidden parts of the island on a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, and tour local farms on the slopes of Haleakala like Ocean Organic Vodka , Surfing Goat Dairy , and the Alii Lavender Farm .

Explore the rugged coasts and quaint towns in Maine, a perfect place to visit for a summer trip. Hike through Acadia National Park for beautiful views, visit the Portland Head Light, or visit the Allagash Brewery for a tour and some samples. Stay at The Waldo Emerson Inn in Kennebunkport, one the most historic places to stay on the Southern Maine coast. Once a shipbuilder's manse, the original house was built in 1753 by Waldo Emerson, Ralph Waldo Emerson's great-uncle.

New Mexico is perfect for couples looking for natural beauty and cute towns. Check out Chaco Canyon, or wander the historic streets of Santa Fe, stopping to dine at Geronimo, a restaurant built into an old-fashioned adobe home. Also try Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, which has mineral hot springs and a mountain backdrop.

Fredericksburg, Texas

You may not think of Texas as a particularly romantic place, but you will after visiting this small town. Explore its more than 50 wineries and local chocolatiers, and book lodging at Gastehaus Schmidt's guesthouses, which have sweeping views and southern hospitality. Then book a wine tour and have a sunset picnic at the top of Enchanted Rock.

The Galápagos Islands

Visit the Galápagos Islands for a more adventurous take on a couples getaway. The main attraction here is the wildlife, so pack a pair of binoculars and prepare to explore a nearly undisturbed corner of the world, packed with birds, turtles, sea lions, and more.

San Francisco, California

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

This historic and beautiful city has so many options for food, places to stay, and activities that it can satisfy any couple. Walk along the Fisherman's Wharf, take a tour of notorious Alcatraz, and check out the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

St. Bart's

Book a room at Le Sereno St. Barth's, one of the only properties on the island with a private beach. While there, check out toes-in-the-sand dining at Plage. The signature beaches and crystal blue waters perfectly blend the sophistication of St. Tropez with the laissez-fare Caribbean lifestyle.

Arizona’s White Mountains

Take an adventure with your significant other in these beautiful mountains high above the desert. They stand at an elevation of 11,000 feet, and they're lesser known than Arizona's bigger parks. Climb to the Mogollon Rim 's 2,000-foot high lookout, check out the history of prehistoric inhabitants at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park , and camp overnight at Petrified Forest National Park , an International Dark Sky Association Dark Sky Park where couples can share a night under the stars.

Malibu, California

Experience gorgeous ocean views from high above on picturesque cliffs, and visit pretty beaches and great local restaurants in Malibu, California. Dine at Nobu Malibu, a beachfront spot that combines Japanese and Californian cuisines, or eat at Moonshadows, which has a tiki-themed patio and ocean views. Also stop by Malibu Yogurt and Ice Cream Cafe, which has some of the best peanut butter frozen yogurt you will ever taste. While in Malibu, try staying at Malibu Beach Inn, a five-star boutique hotel located on the sands of Carbon Beach.

Quebec, Canada

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Take a trip to what feels like a historic European city without the long flight and jet lag. Visitors can stroll through the narrow cobblestoned streets by foot or on a horse-drawn carriage to admire the city's famous French-colonial architecture and historic sites such as the Citadelle, the Petit-Champlain District, Place Royale, Parliament Building, and fortifications dating back to the 1600s. The Old City is also a hub for art and cuisine, with a selection of museums and fine dining restaurants. Also visit Ile d'Orleans just across the St. Lawrence River for a wine tasting and picnic lunch while overlooking the Montmorency Falls. Try staying at Auberge Saint-Antoine Hotel, where guests are treated to champagne, slippers, and a roaring fireplace.

Phuket, Thailand

This beach town in Thailand has delicious food, fun nightlife, and the beautiful turquoise ocean. For a romantic place to stay, book a room at Trisara , an exclusive beach resort nestled on a secluded cove along Phuket's less-developed northwestern coast. This hideaway is set in a protected nature preserve surrounded by a tropical forest, lush gardens, and jaw-dropping ocean views. Scattered among the foliage are 69 spacious ocean-facing villas and private residences, each complete with their own private pool and outdoor shower.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Belize is a tiny country, often overlooked because of its close proximity to Mexico and many Caribbean islands, but it is perfect for a romantic getaway. Caye Caulker is a small island that is easily accessible by taxi and then ferry from Belize City, where the main international airport is. Belize is home to the world's second-largest barrier reef, so be sure to go snorkeling to view the coral and marine life.

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, located off the coast of Southern California, is only reachable by boat, making it the perfect location for a low-key romantic trip. Enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Avalon, one of the tiny towns on the island, and check out the huge selection of activities, including scuba diving, kayaking, and hiking.

This Caribbean island is known for its iconic twin peaks (called the Pitons), and it has volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, luxury resorts, and fishing villages. There are so many things to do here, including hiking Tet Paul Nature Trail, exploring Mamiku Gardens, or taking a drive to the Soufriere Drive-in Volcano, where you can explore bubbling sulfur springs in the caldera of the dormant Qualibou volcano. While you're there, stay at Jade Mountain, set on a cliff with open-air guest rooms with private infinity pools, four-poster canopy beds, and 24/7 butler service.

Kenya’s Great Rift Valley

This region of Kenya has sweeping views, overlooking the Maasai Mara, and it offers magical safaris and other experiences. Places to explore include Lake Nakuru National Park, Hippo Point, or the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary. If you visit, stay at Angama Mara, an owner-run safari lodge on the Oloololo Escarpment, some 1,000-feet above the plains of the Maasai Mara.

Marrakesh, Morocco

This city in western Morocco is filled with history, mosques, palaces, and gardens. Take a romantic vacation and explore the medina, the walled medieval city with maze-like alleys filled with markets selling fabric, pottery, and jewelry. Book a room at El Fenn, close to the main square of Jemaa el-Fnaa. Its guest suites and rooms sit below a large roof terrace with sundecks, hanging gardens, shaded dining areas, a roof-top putting green, and a swimming pool.

Eilean Shona, Scotland

This private island, owned by Vanessa Branson, claims it's the inspiration for Neverland in "Peter Pan." While exploring the island's 2,000 acres of pristine moor, wild hills, secluded paths, and woodland, book a stay at Shepherd's Cottage, one of eight cottages available to rent. You can spend your time building camp fires, crabbing, swimming, painting, picnicking, kayaking, and walking the island's coastal and woodland paths.

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

Take your significant other on a trip to Norway in search of the northern lights, and explore the breathtaking scenery while you are there. Visit Senja's Lighthouse, which has 360-degree views of mountain, fjord, and sky. It is also close to Anderdalen National Park, where you can ski or snowshoe in the winter and hike in the summer.

This African country has endless wilderness to take in with your love, including the plains of Serengeti National Park. Take a safari for chances to see the country's famous animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. Then visit Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa's highest mountain.

"Virginia is for lovers" — and once you visit, you'll see why. This state has a number of historic museums, gardens, and parks to explore — visit Shenandoah National Park, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, or Maymont to take in the scenery. While checking out Virginia's local wine scene, stay at L'Auberge Provencale. The inn has warm hospitality, delicious food, and some of the rooms have private patios, aromatherapy steam showers, and fireplaces. Each room is individually decorated with French country antiques and original artwork, making it feel as though you've been transported to Provence.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is the perfect place for a romantic getaway — it's breathtakingly beautiful at every turn, with plenty of delicious food and wines to indulge in. Be sure to dine at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence or La Cantinetta Di Rignana in Chianti, both of which have Italian cuisine you'll be dreaming about for years to come. Stay at Castello di Ristonchi, a 1,000-year-old medieval castle, which sits high in the Tuscan hills overlooking quaint villages, vineyards, and olive groves. Couples can even book the former watchtower at the very top — you can open your window and look out on an Italian fairytale setting.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

This mountain town in northern Georgia has an artistic community, several brewpubs, and delicious restaurants. Be sure to check out Bear Claw Vineyard for its beautiful view or Mercier Orchards, the only apple orchard in Georgia that grows, presses, ferments, and bottles their own hard apple cider and farm wines. For beer, visit Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Blue Ridge Brewery, and Fannin Brewing Company.

Port Angeles, Washington

This beautiful seaside city overlooks the Strait of Juan de Fuca and boasts a great array of small luxury bed and breakfasts. Each inn has a unique style and personality, but all have views of the water, San Juan Islands, and beautiful gardens. Try Colette's, George Washington Inn, Eden By The Sea, or Sea Cliff Gardens, each of which have their own distinctive vibe. While in town, visit Olympic National Park for hiking or water sports.

Daufuskie Island, South Carolina

This tiny island is only accessible by boat, offering a perfectly secluded romantic getaway. Stay a few nights at the Haig Point Lighthouse, a real lighthouse that has a 40-foot tower, plus a fireplace and clawfoot bathtub, as well as a rocking chair-lined porch with views of the Calibogue Sound. Take a trip by bike or horseback on the beach with Daufuskie Trail Rides.

Savannah, Georgia

This beautiful southern city has something for every couple. Book a room at The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, and take a stroll along the river. Be sure to get some delicious southern food while you're in town, and after dinner, take a romantic walk through Forsyth Park and admire the stunning architecture of the nearby homes.

Nova Scotia, Canada

This stunning part of Canada has scenery that you and your significant other will never forget. Try staying at a bed and breakfast or local AirBnB to get a true feel for the area. Be sure to check out the art galleries in Peggy's Cove and go for a sunrise sail on Halifax Harbour. Visit Digby to see the dramatic tidal changes and wander on the beautiful beaches.

Sedona, Arizona

Relax at one of the many spas and soak in the calming spirit in this Arizona town. Book a stay at the new Wilde Resort & Spa to take advantage of the beautiful setting and full-service spa. This area is known for its incredible natural beauty, so get out and go for a hike to take in all the unique rock formations. Dine at restaurants like Cress on Oak Creek, Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante, or The Golden Goose American Grill, which has both a fine dining room and an outdoor patio.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Even if you don't like to tango, you should definitely visit this romantic city (with someone you'd like to tango with). Book a room at Palacio Duhau—Park Hyatt Buenos Aires, a former mansion transformed into a hotel. Shop among the antiques markets and wander the cobblestone streets, stopping to tango (or just watch) at Bar Sur.

18 Best Places to Visit in New Mexico, According to Locals

Come to see historic small towns, scenic hiking trails, the "Grand Canyon of New Mexico," and more.

For a true taste of the American Southwest, consider a trip to New Mexico. Spanning approximately 121,000 square miles, the state is famous for its rich Indigenous history, vast landscapes (from towering dunes to subterranean caves), amazing archaeological sites, national landmarks (cliff dwellings, well-preserved adobe buildings, and centuries-old churches, to name a few), and an incredible arts and culture scene. It’s no surprise, then, that New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment.

To narrow down the state’s best attractions, we reached out to local experts for their top recommendations. Without further ado, here are the best places to visit in New Mexico, from sprawling national parks to tiny towns and everything in between.

White Sands National Park

Spanning 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dune field, and it looks and feels like an entirely different planet . The wave-like, powder-white sand dunes resemble mounds of snow, and visitors can hike or sled down them any time of year. It’s also worth noting the park is home to a handful of white-hued animals — which have changed to a lighter color over time to adapt to the environment — including mice, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths. 

Couse-Sharp Historic Site

Angelisa Murray, CEO of guided tour operator Heritage Inspirations in Taos, describes the Couse-Sharp Historic Site as a “true gem” and “one of [her] favorite museums.” Here, you’ll find the former homes and art studios of Taos Society of Artists (TSA) founding members Joseph Sharp and E.I. Couse. “Our guests can see the actual moccasins and pottery that Couse painted in his paintings ... and journey back in time to get a real feel of Taos in the early 1900s,” says Murray.

“ Abiquiú is one of my favorite small towns to take our guests,” says Murray. The town, which was settled by the Spanish in the mid-18th century, looks and feels like it was plucked out of a classic Western, and visitors may even recognize it from fan-favorite flicks like Indiana Jones . However, it’s also famous for being the home of renowned American artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Don’t leave without visiting the O’Keeffe Home and Studio and Ghost Ranch (the artist’s summer home, about 20 minutes northwest). Murray also recommends popping into the state’s first general store, Bodes , which “offers an otherworldly experience for the intrepid traveler,” according to Murray.

Bandelier National Monument

Known for its magnificent mesas, canyons, and ancestral Pueblo dwellings, this national monument spans more than 33,000 acres of rugged landscape, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop Trail winds through various archaeological sites and is a popular hike. If you’re looking for more thrills, hop on one of the ladders along the route to climb into small human-carved alcoves. Alternatively, experienced hikers may opt to tackle the challenging Frijoles Canyon and Rim Trail (eight miles one way). Keep in mind those who wish to visit Frijoles Canyon and the Pueblo Loop Trail will be required to take a shuttle, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily (mid-June through mid-October).

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

For a first-hand look at Pueblo culture, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Spanning more than 80 acres, the center is owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. On-site offerings include a museum, exhibition galleries, murals from Pueblo artists, and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen , which serves freshly prepared Native American cuisine. Don’t leave without stocking up on some souvenirs, including Native American artwork and a wide selection of traditional and contemporary crafts, jewelry, pottery, rugs, and more. Pro tip: Check the events calendar for a schedule of the latest programming.

Santuario de Chimayo

Marama Nengel, chef concierge at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection , recommends taking an afternoon trip to Santuario de Chimayó , about 27 miles from Santa Fe. According to Nengel, thousands visit this picturesque adobe church — now a National Historic Landmark — each year. It’s best known for its holy dirt, which is believed to have healing properties. Per Nengel, no trip here is complete without a visit to the Centinela Traditional Arts gallery to see eight generations of Trujillo weavers. Finally, when hunger calls, tuck into some Southwestern fare at Rancho de Chimayó .

Puye Cliff Dwellings

Located in Los Alamos, this National Historic Landmark was once home to 1,500 Pueblo Indians. It’s no surprise, then, that the site boasts some stunning Pueblo architecture and well-preserved cliff and cave dwellings. The panoramic valley views are an incredible added bonus. It’s worth noting that guided tours are available Monday to Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Santa Fe Plaza

Santa Fe Plaza is both a beloved tourist attraction and a popular gathering place for locals. This National Historic Landmark, established by the Spanish in the early 17th century, is renowned for its Spanish Pueblo architecture. The bustling location hosts a slew of events throughout the year, including the Traditional Spanish Market in the summer months. Come holiday season, the square gets decked out in twinkling lights, making it even more magical. In recent years, the area surrounding the Plaza has evolved into a buzzy hot spot with dozens of eclectic restaurants, shops, museums, and hotels.

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (“The Ranch of the Swallows”) is a historic ranch-turned-living history museum near downtown Santa Fe, though its rural surroundings make it feel worlds away, What’s more, a visit to this 200-acre site, which is dotted with striking adobe buildings, feels like a step back in time to New Mexico in the 1800s. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ranch served as an official rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real, which stretched from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Note the site is closed for general admission between November and March.

Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

The 65-mile Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway — named for the precious stone the Pueblo mined here centuries earlier — links Santa Fe and Albuquerque. As such, it makes for an excellent day trip from either city. The historic route winds through old mining and ghost towns such as Madrid , Golden , and Los Cerrillos . Carve out some time to stop at Casa Grande Trading Post , Cowgirl Red , and Tinkertown Museum , as well as Sandia Peak Tramway to soak up the postcard-worthy views from up high.

Sangre de Cristo Mountains

According to Hans Loehr, adventure center architect at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer something for everyone, including scenic trails for hikers of all experience levels. Additionally, he tells Travel + Leisure , "Guests can enjoy exploring forests of aspen, ponderosa, and pinyon-juniper and meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, relaxing near alpine lakes, bagging some high mountain peaks, and pausing to take in breathtaking views from ridgetops and mountain summits.”

Rio Grande Gorge

Stretching nearly 50 miles, the magnificent, 800-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge is considered the Grand Canyon of New Mexico. Soak in sweeping views of the rugged landscape from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge , which, at 650 feet above the ground, is one of the country’s highest bridges. It’s also a popular spot for hiking.

Sontanna Sanchez, a concierge at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, recommends visiting Meow Wolf for a unique and immersive art experience. The kaleidoscopic “House of Eternal Return” features “more than 70 rooms, taking participants on a macrocosmic adventure only found in Santa Fe,” says Sanchez. All in all, the playful exhibit is sure to delight art lovers of all ages.

San Miguel Chapel

Located along the Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe’s Barrio de Analco Historic District , this Spanish colonial mission church is considered the oldest in the United States. While initially constructed in 1610, it has since been rebuilt twice (most recently in 1710). In terms of design, prepare to be dazzled by the adobe architecture; the interiors are equally spectacular with centuries-old wooden beams and the 750-plus-pound San Jose bell, which has its own fascinating history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southern part of the state. The enchanting attraction is home to nearly 120 caves. Travelers can easily spend the entire day exploring these captivating caverns, admiring the mystical stalagmites and stalactites, and spotting wildlife like bats and cougars. Don’t miss the Big Room, North America’s largest single cave chamber by volume. The 1.25-mile trail is a relatively easy 90-minute trek.

Old Town Albuquerque

With its narrow winding streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque oozes small-town charm. While lots has changed since its 1706 establishment, this dynamic destination has remained the city's heart. Despite its tiny 10-block radius, Old Town is packed with more than 150 independent restaurants and boutiques. It also hosts more than 40 events annually, including a car show, live music performances, and the world-famous Balloon Fiesta Week .

Taos Downtown Historic District

Despite its small size, Taos packs in plenty of charm and character. What’s more, this storied mountain town is renowned for its many galleries , scenic hiking trails, and, in the winter, world-class skiing. At the center of town is the Downtown Historic District , where you’ll find the 1796-era Taos Plaza. Here, locals and visitors alike gather to listen to live music and attend farmers markets and other events, including dozens of art-forward programming. An abundance of shops and galleries can also be found within easy walking distance. When it's time to refuel, head to one of the nearby cafes and restaurants . 

Taos Pueblo

About three miles northwest of Taos Plaza lies the Taos Pueblo , which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Pueblo has been inhabited for more than a millennium, and many of the adobe structures appear the same as when the Spanish first arrived in New Mexico in the 1500s. Hlauuma (north house) and Hlaukwima (south house) are the location's most famous buildings, and they’re considered the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the country.

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5 Places To Visit In India That Should Be On Your Bucket List

India, a land of vibrant culture, ancient history, and breathtaking scenery, beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. From the majestic marble monument of the Taj Mahal to the serene beauty of the Kerala backwaters, the country offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, adventurous escapades, or simply a taste of exotic flavors, India has something to enthrall you. Dive deeper and discover the top destinations to include on your unforgettable Indian itinerary.

For Indian food lovers, one ingredient, Curcumin, commonly found in Indian food, improves memory, mood, and attention, highlights one study . Curcumin is most commonly found in turmeric, a key spice in Indian cuisine. Yum! But first, it’s time to plan your trip. In our search for the best places to visit in India, we examined 11 expert websites and sought the most suggested places. We also considered where these locations ranked on their list. Of course, you may entirely disagree with this — and that’s fine! Let us know which one is your favorite place or the one that is on your bucket list. 

The List: Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

1. varanasi.

Topping travel blogger Hippie in Heels ‘ list of must-sees in India is Varanasi, a city unlike any other. Here, the sacred Ganges River flows , witnessing a unique and deeply personal cycle of life and death. Along its banks, burning ghats become the final resting place for many Hindus , their ashes carried away by the holy waters.

Touropia delves deeper into the city’s heart, the ghats – those wide steps leading down to the Ganges. They describe the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat , a bustling hub for pilgrims, and the Manikarnika Ghat , dedicated to cremation rituals. But Varanasi isn’t just about death. Here, life pulsates too. Yoga sessions unfold at the water’s edge, barbers offer traditional shaves, and skilled hands weave exquisite silk sarees. Touropia suggests a sunrise boat ride as the perfect way to experience the city’s awakening beauty.

Lonely Planet , however, prepares you for Varanasi’s raw honesty. This, they say, is a place where life and death intertwine . Breathe deeply, join the early morning yogis practicing by the river, and embrace the intensity of this unique destination. Myholidays strikes a more spiritual note, calling Varanasi a place to witness the “surreal beauty of God and nature” – particularly during the auspicious month of October.

Whether you seek cultural immersion, spiritual awakening, or simply a glimpse into a world vastly different from your own, Varanasi promises an unforgettable encounter.

The Taj Mahal needs no introduction. It’s the undisputed king of Agra, gracing nearly half of the reviews we analyzed and topping countless lists. As Tourmyindia puts it, this “monument depicting love and devotion” is a world-famous testament to Mughal architectural prowess. But Agra’s magic extends far beyond the ivory marble masterpiece.

For history buffs, Agra is a treasure trove. Planetware mentions the mesmerizing beauty of other Mughal monuments like Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb and Akbar’s Mausoleum , their intricate marblework as captivating as the Taj itself. Not to be missed is the Agra Fort , another UNESCO World Heritage Site that whispers tales of a bygone era.

Breathe Dream Go helpfully reminds us that the best time to experience Agra’s wonders is between September and March , when the weather is pleasant and sightseeing becomes a joy.

And don’t forget to indulge in some local shopping ! Be sure to snag some Agra Petha , a sweet treat made from ash gourd, as Travel Diary suggests. Remember to pack your camera – you’ll want to capture every unforgettable moment in this city where Mughal marvels meet modern charm.

Craving a slice of paradise? Though geographically small, Travelogy India assures us Goa packs a big punch for tourists. Picture yourself sinking your toes into golden sands , swaying palms framing immaculate sunrises and sunsets. As the day heats up, cool off in the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea , or for the thrill-seekers, try parasailing, windsurfing, or water-skiing . And when hunger pangs strike, Goa promises a feast for the senses – from delectable seafood to the vibrant flavors India is famous for.

But Goa’s charm extends beyond its beaches. My Adventures Across the World suggests it as the perfect escape from bustling cities and temple tours . Here, the Arabian Sea lulls you into relaxation, a welcome change from the usual itinerary. Goa’s unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures adds another layer of intrigue. As Planetware points out, this fusion is everywhere – from the majestic Baroque architecture and grand cathedrals to the fiery vindaloo curries infused with Portuguese spices.

Looking for a taste of Goa’s nightlife? Tourmyindia has you covered. Trendy bars, vibrant beach shacks, and pulsating clubs cater to every partygoer’s desire. And for those seeking a luxurious escape, South Goa offers a haven of upscale resorts . So, whether you crave sun-drenched relaxation, cultural exploration, or a night of dancing under the stars, Goa promises an unforgettable experience.

4. Leh Ladakh

Ever dreamt of exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Tibet? Lonely Planet suggests Ladakh, India’s very own “high-altitude moonscape,” as a pretty darn close substitute. Here, you’ll be greeted by towering Tibetan monasteries – don’t miss the architectural marvels of Hemis and Thikse. For the active traveler, Ladakh offers incredible homestay treks, letting you experience the region’s unique beauty at your own pace. And if you’re lucky, you might even witness a vibrant monastic masked dance festival , a kaleidoscope of color against the backdrop of the dramatic Himalayas. Lonely Planet sums it up perfectly: Ladakh offers experiences “closest independent travelers can come to actually setting foot in Tibet.”

Myholidays paints a similar picture, calling Ladakh a cultural cousin to Tibet and a land unlike any other in India. Here, the Siachen Glacier and the Great Himalayas pierce the sky, creating a landscape that beckons adventurers. Think scaling challenging peaks, navigating exciting jeep tours, conquering rushing rivers on white-water rafting adventures, or embarking on exhilarating high-altitude treks .

For wildlife enthusiasts, Global Grasshopper throws in a thrilling prospect: the chance to spot the elusive snow leopard . Ladakh’s mountains and valleys provide the perfect habitat for this rare cat, making your exploration all the more exciting. But even if the elusive leopard stays hidden, Ladakh’s jaw-dropping beauty is reason enough to visit.

Breathe Dream Go  suggests the best time to embark on your Ladakh adventure: the summer months, from June to September . This coincides with two of the region’s most beloved festivals – the Hemis Festival in July and the Ladakh Festival in September . So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be dazzled by the otherworldly beauty and cultural richness of Ladakh, India’s “Little Tibet.”

Udaipur isn’t just another destination on the map – it’s a place that steals hearts. Hippie in Heels , who clearly can’t get enough of this city, calls it India’s “romantic white city.” Picture yourself strolling along flower-lined streets, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of jasmine and marigold. As Planetware describes it, Udaipur truly “oozes romance.”

The crown jewel of the city is undeniably the City Palace Complex , a majestic structure that’s still home to the royal family. My Adventures Across the World warns of potential crowds, but the chance to witness a piece of living history is surely worth navigating some elbows.

But Udaipur’s magic extends far beyond its palaces. The city itself is built around a series of lakes, with Lake Pichola being the undisputed star. Take a boat tour on its glistening waters, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the City Palace Complex, particularly captivating at sunrise or sunset . Hippie in Heels even suggests staying in a lakehouse with palace views for a steal! Imagine waking up to that panorama every morning.

Finally, no trip to Udaipur is complete without a dip into the vibrant local markets . Here, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of colors, enticing aromas, and friendly faces – a glimpse into the heart and soul of this enchanting city. So, if you’re seeking a romantic escape , a brush with royalty, or simply a place of undeniable charm, Udaipur beckons you to explore its magic.

• Hippie in heels
• Lonely Planet
• Tourmyindia
• Breathe Dream Go
• Travel diary
• Travelogy India
• My adventures across the world 
• Global Grasshopper

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.

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Google unveils new updates to make trip planning easier for travelers

Google Maps is launching new updates that are intended to make finding travel inspiration and local recommendations in your destination easier. Users will start seeing these lists of suggestions popping up in Google Maps in more than 40 cities across the U.S. and Canada this week. These updates will also be rolled out globally on Android and iOS mobile platforms later this month.

With this trio of updates, users can discover curated lists of local recommendations from other users and esteemed websites, customize their own lists and access key insights, making vacation planning a breeze and ensuring a seamless on-the-go experience. To access the new features, simply search for a city in Google Maps and and swipe up to see curated lists of places from people who know the city inside and out. You’ll also see lists from such reputable sources as Lonely Planet, the New York Times and OpenTable.

And, when away from home, the question of where to eat is always top of mind. Now, whether you’re a traveler or just want to find a trendy spot in town, you can use new restaurant lists created by Google Maps. These lists will spotlight the eateries people are showing interest in or rating highly on Maps at the time. Google has sorted restaurants into three separate lists based on various criteria, creating indices for trending, top-rated, and hidden gem locations.

The Trending list is updated weekly to spotlight places that experienced a recent spike in popularity on Maps, making it ideal for discovering the latest hot spots.

The Top list showcases the places that the Maps community has consistently shown love for. Use this list to find a neighborhood’s longstanding favorites.

The Gems list is for places that are considered an area's best-kept secrets, highlighting great restaurants that still fly under the radar.

Creating Maps lists allows you to organize places you’d like to visit and places you’ve already been that you might wish to revisit. With the new lists format, users will also be able to more easily arrange their selections for easy reference, as they can now choose the order in which places appear. Simply move them up or down in whatever order you prefer to have them displayed. Users can also link in content from their social media streams, such as their own reviews of a certain venue.

Similarly, to give users a good sense of each place at a glance, Google’s AI pulls key insights to display from the Maps community. When you search a spot, you’ll see select photos and reviews that encapsulate what patrons love about it. The AI function can even help you identify the name of a particular dish and display helpful information based on a restaurant’s menu.

New design updates are also set to give Google Maps a fresh look, including a simplified home screen and new pin colors that make places on the map easier to find.

Trip-planning AI

Google has also just announced an update that’s coming to its Search Generative Experience (SGE), which will enable users to create travel itineraries and compile trip ideas using AI. This means that Google will be taking on other companies that are already applying the generative AI’s capabilities to help travelers plan their trips, such as Mindtrip and Layla.

To come up with its travel recommendations, Google’s AI engine relies upon information from sites across the internet, as well as photos, reviews and other specifics users have submitted about any given place. Conversationally, users can ask the AI something like “plan me a five-day trip to New York City that focuses on entertainment” and receive a sample itinerary that includes local restaurants, attractions and points of interest. Once you’ve constructed your ideal itinerary, you can export it to Gmail, or Google Docs or Maps.

This new capability is currently available only in the U.S. (in English) to those who are signed up for Google’s Search Labs program, which invites users to experiment with early-phase Google Search functions. The company has not stated if or when this function will become more widely available. According to TechCrunch, Google is not only testing out new realms for using generative AI, it’s also gathering data about consumers’ travel purchasing intent, which would support its wider ad business.