When traveling the world this year, I was on a mission to dip my toes into as many countries as possible. Life is too short, and I didn’t want to miss an opportunity to explore a new culture, country, or city. That being said, it is impossible to truly appreciate everything a city has to offer when you are visiting for such a short period of time. If I could visit every single country and city again at some point in my life, I would. However, I usually prefer to visit a new destination when given the option. I plan to travel for the rest of my life. It is a passion of mine. If given the chance, these are the cities I would hands down, most definitely, without a doubt, visit again.
London, England
Are we tired of hearing about how much I love London? Probably. But… there is good reason for it folks. London has so much to offer. Like, so much. I spent six months of 2016 living in London. Leading up to my departure, I felt as though I had only just scratched the surface of possibilities in this city. History, sight seeing, theatre, traditional pubs, markets. You name it, London has it. Comparable to New York City, London offers the energy of a cosmopolitan city with millions of people and constant stimulation. Additionally, you can find yourself exploring a quiet cobble stone street on your way to a local coffee shop, and feel transported back in time. Read about my Top 10 things to do in London here.
The Greek Islands
Greece, in general, remains my favorite travel destination of all time. But it was truly the Greek Islands that captured my heart. There is something so romantic about Greece. You cannot take a bad picture on any of the thousands of Greek Islands. Greece is the friend you love to hate because of her ‘naturally stunning’ appearance and matching personality. She has it all.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin surprised me. I became Berlin’s biggest fan, very early on. To me, Berlin is all about the history. I have a more personal connection to the city, as it is where my Dad was stationed during the Cold War. On my trip to Berlin I was completely in awe as I explored every corner of the city. The Berlin Wall represented so much heartache and pain, and can be found in remnants all over the city. For example, walking into your local Starbucks, you may pass by part of the original wall just stationary in the middle of millennials holding Pumpkin Spice Lattes and Venti Iced Teas. The combination of present and past in Berlin made an everlasting impression on me.
Paris, France
Oh, Paris. The city of love. Or heartache. Pick your poison I suppose. Paris was a safe haven for me in a time of absolute chaos. I returned to Paris this year after visiting for a week previously. I understand why people fall in love with this city. It is gorgeous, sophisticated, and classy. It holds the life of so many strangers that come from all over the world. My curiosity for Paris only continued to grow the more time I spent eating croissants, sipping coffee, and picnicking under the Eiffel Tower {which was obviously something that occurred more than once}. You just have to go. And allow Paris to consume you in every aspect. You won’t regret it.
New York, USA
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of, right? I sure think so. I have always wanted to revisit New York. I spent a short amount of time in New York when I was in High School and returned to live in the Hamptons for four months one Summer during University. I cannot get enough of New York. I not only want to revisit, but relocate to the Big Apple at some point. The energy that city produces in unreal. It truly never sleeps. Every stereotype you hear about New York is absolutely true. You feel as though you are in the center of the World when standing in Times Square {though who wants to be surrounded by that many tourists at any one point?}. Watching the sunset, on a rooftop in Brooklyn, looking over the skyline, remains one of my most prominent memories.
Cinque Terre, Italy
The five beautiful villages on the water! Take me back, please! I had a wonderful time in Cinque Terre this past September. I stayed in Riomaggiore for five nights in a beautiful private hostel, though I would classify it as more of a hotel {without the room service}. Of all five villages, Riomaggiore remained my absolute favorite. Each evening was spent watching the sunset on the rocks, looking back at the village, with an entire mascarpone pizza, and a bottle of wine. Ask me about my perfect day this year and it would have to be one spent on this visit to Cinque Terre. I will most certainly be back!
Queenstown, New Zealand
I like to consider New Zealand as the country that started it all. It was the first country I traveled to alone. And the first country I fell in love with myself and my capabilities. New Zealand taught me more about life than any educator could. I don’t remember a time that I was happier than when I was in New Zealand. I have returned to New Zealand many times and will continue to do so for as long as I can. In particular, I must return to Queenstown, the small city on the lake in the South Island. Queenstown provides you with a plethora of activities, suitable for a visit at any time of the year. I specifically would like to return in Winter so I can take advantage of the snow that is ever so popular down there. If you get the opportunity, GO TO NEW ZEALAND!
Vienna, Austria
The last city on the list is Vienna, Austria. I’m going to be completely honest. I solely want to return to Vienna because it is absolutely beautiful. I just want to spend weeks here photographing everything I see. I was not overwhelmingly impressed with the culture, and only spent a few days in the city, but I could seriously walk for hours looking at the architecture around me. I hope to revisit Vienna again and fully embrace the city.
And that’s it! What cities would you visit again if given the chance?