Let’s be real, we’re all dreaming of the day when it would be totally safe to travel around the world again. I mean, who doesn’t really? Feeling the sun on our skin, the wind on our face, and the sand between our toes have a revitalizing effect which all of us desperately need because of the heaped-up stress.
After most countries shut their borders in an attempt to contain the virus back in 2020, people just want things to go back to normal again. The good thing is the vaccine rollout seems pretty successful and some countries are showing magnificent progress.
Fellow hodophiles just want to get up and running to see the world and its countless wonders. We want to feel the rush or tranquility that travel destinations offer us. Some may even miss the thrill of doing their best to squeeze in quick beauty hacks because the heat and humidity are making their skin break out.
Anyhow, without further ado, from one hodophile to another, why don’t you check out my list of travel destinations to go to?
1. New York, New York
Being a city girl since birth won’t stop me from wanting to roam the streets of New York. Walking through the major commercial intersection of New York that is Time Square at night will surely leave me awestruck. The billboard lights and city lights just have that hidden fantastical world vibe that we might discover if we roam around the streets of New York at night.
2. Cusco, Peru
Ancient structures and lost civilizations spark a curiosity in me that I just can’t quell. Because of that, going to Machu Picchu to see the ethereal Inca ruins is one of the first places I wanted to go to ever since I was a child. It has been recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage Sights almost 40 years ago. Personally, it’s one of the most beautiful sights in the world so it’s no surprise that people are seeing it for what it is.
3. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Carnival and the samba are the first things that come to mind when it comes to Rio de Janeiro thanks to a Disney movie that showed us some of the most beautiful aspects of the location. The soaring mountains, crystal blue skies, the sparkling sea, and the welcoming ambiance of the locals make it an incredibly attractive place to visit. It’s definitely one of the most iconic places in the world and is worth the visit.
4. Rome, Italy
Pizza is not the best thing about Rome. Of course, it’s one of the things that lure tourists in due to their undying love for pizza, but you simply cannot replace the amazing feeling of getting to see ancient Roman structures such as the Pantheon and Colosseum. If you’re a huge Roman mythology geek like me, you’d feel exhilarated just by being near those structures too. You’d feel like what you’ve read about in myths have come to life right before your eyes just by walking the streets of Rome.
5. Paris, France
Ah, the city of love. Who hasn’t dreamed even at least once of stepping foot in this wonderful city with the love of their life? Kissing and taking a picture with the Eiffel Tower in the background has become an unspoken proof of visitation. But visiting Paris would not be complete without checking out the spectacular Louvre Museum – or at least a small portion of it. While you’re at it, you might as well visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris and marvel at the rose windows and French Gothic architecture.
6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is home to the most breathtaking architectural structures in the world – all thanks to the great talent of Architect Antoni Gaudí. You can spend a few days taking trips to each of Gaudí’s masterpieces and not get tired of it. After a long day of walking around, eating authentic seafood paella, croquetas, and pamtomaquet would re-energize you and make you wish you could stay there for good. Good food and good people are what you can expect from this place.
7. Bali, Indonesia
If you want to travel to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, try visiting Bali, Indonesia’s gorgeous beaches. There are also loads of temples to visit, the most popular of them being the Besakih Temple. But if you ask me, the Taman Ayun Temple is a sight to behold. Let tranquility flow in your veins once again when you visit this amazing calming place.
8. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
If you have the budget, visiting the Marina Bay Sands is the best thing you can do to have the most luxurious travel experience. You can visit an interactive museum, the incredible Gardens by the Bay, and even shop ‘til you drop. If you ever go hungry, there are countless restaurants to choose from in the area. But if you want to leave feeling light, then go to the must-visit vegan restaurants before boarding.
9. Phuket, Thailand
On the other hand, for budget travelers who want to see the world, one of the best starter travel destinations to go to is Phuket, Thailand. The white sand beaches paired with the twinkling waters is the best sight to see. When you’ve had your fill of the beach, you can go visit the Wat Chalong Temple and the Big Buddha. Just be mindful to pay respects and not be destructive in their cultural heritage sites.
10. Cape Town, South Africa
The perfect city to visit if you want to behold the beauty of the perfectly balanced city and nature, visit Cape Town in South Africa. No, you won’t be standing under the scorching heat of the sun. Instead, you’ll be met with the most amazing visage of where the city meets the sea and feel the fresh breeze on your skin. You can go hiking and diving as the area is lush with mountains and seas.
About the Author
Aussy Aportadera is pursuing the unhurried life in the beachside town of La Union, Philippines. After a career in communications and publishing for luxury lifestyle, food, and wine, she is now a yoga teacher and co-owner of a ceramics brand.
