I’ve always been obsessed with maps and learning more about the world. I’m still proud of the fact that I was the only second grader in my class to get 100% on the US maps test. After college Henri and I started planning an internal trip each year. First we went to Mexico, which I had visited before but Henri had explored more of Europe since he’s French. That trip was followed by Cuba, France, Italy, Thailand, Greece, and France again. Before COVID hit we had a fully planned trip to Peru for June. Obviously, that was all completely canceled.
So here I am sitting at home daydreaming about the day I can pack my bags and get on a plane. Probably, like a lot of you out there. I thought I’d share the photos I’ve bookmarked on Instagram with all of you and hopefully inspire you to look into more places since we have more time nowadays.
I also think Instagram is a great place to be inspired to see new places you’ve never even heard of. That’s how we made it to Cinque Terre, Italy and Naxos and Paros in Greece. With everything that’s happening in the world I think it’s nice to take a break from the heavy news and remind ourselves it’s a great big beautiful world out there with the potential to walk the footsteps of different people with different cultures. So let’s get lost in these photos shall we?
Peru
When I started writing this, I was supposed to be in Peru. I’m disappointed, but glad I have my health. I can’t wait to see Machu Picchu one day or meet llamas at Rainbow Mountain, or see the coast of Lima or the ancient town of Arequipa. But, until then daydreaming on Instagram will have to do.
Maldives
I don’t know that I will ever be able to afford one of these huts over the water with two stories, a private pool AND a water slide, but a gal can dream!
Igazu Falls
Originally, we were going to try to combine this in our Peru trip but figured we’d be short on time and we can make another trip to South America in the future.
Tahiti
Just look at that water! This looks like the epitome of relaxation and paradise in my mind. We almost booked tickets when everything in the travel industry started to get really cheap with the pandemic but then realized the flights would probably be canceled so we’ll save it for later.
Japan
Osaka, Tokyo, Kyoto! Japan has so much to offer. I have a good friend from college who is Japanese and lived there. She already helped me map things out when we thought we were going to combine Japan and Thailand, but again time (and money) stopped us.
Spain
The plan is to go to Europe every other year to visit Henri’s grandparents in France and visit another country in the same trip. Next time, I would love to go to Spain! I’m Cuban, and some of my ancestry comes from Spain. I also think sipping sangria and walking though the cities sounds amazing.
Africa
I would love to see an African safari, South Africa, the colors of Morocco, Victoria Falls, and more!
Alaska
I’ve always wanted to go on an Alaskan Cruise and I’ve heard it’s the best way to see Alaska. I know cruises are off limits right now but this is a wish list, COVID-free. I’d love to go on a Disney Cruise again, I went as a kid and have great memories. I think this would be a fun family trip later in life.
Canada
I grew up as a typical American not thinking much about Canada, but thanks to Instagram and a lot of subscriptions to travel magazines I discovered that Canada offers beautiful nature, and kayaking on Lake Louise in Alberta is on the top of my list.
Germany
I’m not going to lie, I want to see Neuschwanstein Castle because it looks beautiful and also inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Disneyland. I am Disney-obsessed. I KNOW!
Switzerland (again)
Henri is going to hate me for saying this but I really want to see the real Matterhorn. Not the one at Disneyland, but the real Swiss mountain that inspired the beloved Disneyland attraction. I’ve actually been to Lake Geneva for like an hour. On my first trip to Europe with my aunt and uncle we drove from Nice, France to Lake Como, Italy to Lake Geneva all in one day.
Iceland
Two words: Northern Lights! I’ve only heard positive reviews of Iceland. That it’s beautiful, inexpensive, and feels really safe.
New Orleans
How have I not been to “the big easy” yet? I’m not sure because my mom has also always wanted to go. I love jazz music and would love to see the southern architecture. I have a feeling that once it’s safe, we’ll travel domestically until it is clear to travel internationally.
Yosemite National Park
Again, how have I never seen Yosemite? I’ve lived in California almost all my life! I love hiking and being out in nature so we’ll make it out soon enough.
Havasupi
This part of Arizona looks stunning. What’s stopping me is I’ve looked into it and it seems that you have to take a helicopter before hiking and I am not getting in a helicopter. So these photos will have to do.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone looks fasinating! If you’ve been and have tips please leave them in the comments below.
Lake Tahoe
Honestly, I didn’t know what Lake Tahoe had to offer but this looks beautiful!
I would be happy to go anywhere in the world right now. There’s so many places I want to see that I probably forgot to include on this list too.
Its crazy how as Americans we rarely visit Canada! I grew up 3 hours from Canada and have never been! (Such a shame!). All of these places sounds amazing! The only one of these I have experience with is New Orleans. I would def recommend staying in the Garden District. The French Quarter is fun for a visit, but it is pretty dirty (think Fremont Street in Vegas). But is still fun to just experience the vibe :). And the food in Louisiana is to DIE FOR!!
Thanks for reading Katie! And for the suggestions, I hope we can travel soon! Hope you’re doing well 🙂