In a world of endless Instagram #travelinspo, I’m here to help you narrow down your choices for your next international travel destination. While I recommend all of these destinations regardless of the order listed here (you never know until you go), here’s a recap of the spots I visited in 2018.
5. Dublin, Ireland
By the luck of the Irish, I was fortunate enough to visit Dublin on a rare sunny, nearly 70-degree weekend. Dublin left me a little underwhelmed compared to other European cities, but it’s a great starting point to explore other, more scenic areas of the country. My tour guide (AKA my sister temporarily living in Ireland) took us on a train about an hour outside of Dublin to visit some of the more picturesque coastal towns.
Unfortunately, the more famous, breathtaking views are over three hours away on the other side of the country. So, if you’re planning a trip that includes Ireland, make sure you have enough time to see the views ~Irish~ I could have seen.
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
You know that scene in Shrek 2 when they first arrive in Far Far Away? That’s how I felt hopping off the double-decker bus in Edinburgh for the first time. The city surrounds a literal medieval castle – dragon not included. It’s a super walkable historic city that’ll make you feel like you’ve wandered onto a movie set. Although I still don’t know how pronounce it (Eden-burg? Eden-burrow?), it easily made the list for my favorite European cities and is a totally underrated destination.
However, whatever you do, don’t get on the Edinburgh ghost bus tour. You’ve been warned.
3. Sydney, Australia
This should absolutely be higher on my list, but I visited in early September (the tail end of Australian winter). As pictured above, Bondi Beach and Bondi Icebergs were definitely what dreams are made of, but at only around 50 degrees it was a little harder to enjoy. I also found out P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney doesn’t actually exist, so that was a bit of a bummer.
Really though, visiting Australia was a lifelong dream and was 100% worth the 32 hours I spent in the air to be on the ground for 27. Also, if you happen to make it out to Oz, please stop at Lush on Bondi and order a chicken schnitzel. I’m debating on hopping on a plane for another 17 hours just to enjoy it again.
2. Costa Rica (multiple cities)
Costa Rica was the closest experience I’ll ever have to a “luxury” vacation. And not because everything was luxurious (like your rental car breaking down and stranding you in the rainforest for 4 hours), but because the most beautiful resorts were so affordable. I had a view of the Arenal Volcano (pictured above) right from my bed. But really, the views are incredible from literally EVERYWHERE.
Also, speaking of incredible… THE FOOD. Costa Rica will never leave you short of a breathtaking view and a delicious plate. I can’t think of a better combination.
1. Banff, Canada
When you think of international travel destinations, Canada probably isn’t the first place to pop into your mind. But Banff is literally in America’s backyard and you don’t have to fly across an ocean to get there. If you’re looking for a beautiful spot but don’t want to spend 8+ hours on a flight (there’s only so much vacation time in a year) – look no further.
I’m honestly still not sure how Banff was real life, but I’m so glad it is. Not only is the actual town of Banff completely adorable, but the surrounding wilderness is so pristine you might as well be in a Nature Valley commercial. I’d argue the #1 reason to visit is to see the crystal blue water of Lake Louise, although if you visit in the winter you can go dog sledding, which also sounds like a top contender.
Runner-up:
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel was only a short stop on my spring break cruise, so I can’t fairly judge this one. Although the beach resort I spent a few hours at was gorgeous, Cozumel is not really an area you can safely do much exploring on your own outside of a resort (from my understanding). However, I’ve heard Cozumel has incredible coral reefs, so if you have a diving certification this may be exactly your kind of place.
In the hopefully near future, I’ll share what to do and what not to do (I’m looking at you Edinburgh ghost bus tour) in these destinations. But in the meantime, feel free to reach out if you’re planning a trip soon and want to know more. Happy exploring!
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