I’ve officially reached a quarter of a century! Does that make me old? It’s all relative, I guess…
I didn’t doubt that I’d make it to 25, but 10 years ago I never would’ve dreamed of visiting over 25 countries by this age. My initial goal was 20 countries by age 30, but I’ve had the great fortune to be able to surpass that goal.
Okay, so far I’ve always returned. Traveling also makes you appreciate the ease and comforts of home!
Essentially, this post is to share a few of my favorite spots (so far) in the world, definitely worth a stop if you can fit them into your itinerary. I’ve linked some of them to my former travel blog, if you’d like to read about or see more of each place.
Italy
This was the first foreign country I visited, and the one I’ve returned to the most. I love the scenery, the culture, the history, and of course, the food! All of Italy is gorgeous, but I have to say Cinque Terre, Sorrento, Venice, and Assisi are my favorite photo spots. Although a bit more crowded and touristy, Rome is a must, simply to grasp the greatness that was the former Roman empire. A little walled city called Montagnana and another lesser-known city called Perugia are also definitely worth a stop, if you’d like to escape the tourist crowds. And the pizza in Naples is to die for. You really can’t go wrong in this country! Just hop on a train and see where it takes you.
New Zealand
Dønna, Norway
I was lucky enough to be hosted by some not-so-distant relatives in Norway, and to share the experience with my mom. A place has a lot more meaning when you have local guides, especially when they’re guiding you around (literally) the land of your ancestors. I’d love to return and cruise around some more fjords!
Edinburgh, Scotland
So far, Edinburgh is one of my favorite European cities. I spent many weekends here during my semester abroad in Scotland, and I love the blend of old and new, and, of course, the Harry Potter connection! I’d recommend a walking tour of the city, to get an overview of the history and legends surrounding the people of Edinburgh. A hike up to the Parthenon (not quite as impressive as the one in Athens) provides a great view of the city and Arthur’s Seat, a dormant volcano which you can also hike up.
Despite tales of miserable weather, I think it only rained one of the weekends I visited. If you do stop by, be sure to try haggis, which really isn’t as gross as it sounds.
The Highlands, Scotland
This was part of a Highlands tour I took with a group of fellow study-abroad students at Stirling. It was a great intro to parts of the country that I didn’t have the chance to see on my own. There are a lot of castles, of course, but you didn’t expect there to be white-sand beaches and crystal-blue waters, did you?
If you’re on your way to the Highlands, Stirling is worth a day or two as well. I was always astounded by the fact that I crossed a bridge that was older than America on my way to class every day.
Istanbul, Turkey
Newgrange, Ireland
This is a place fairly unheard of by people visiting Ireland, even though it’s very close to Dublin. The prehistoric mounds are older than the pyramids, and you can walk inside one of them to wonder at the engineering skill of our ancestors. Of course, Dublin is worth a few days of your time! The traditional live music in this city can’t be beat.
Cayos Cochinos, Honduras
The Parthenon and Acropolis, Athens
Another tourist spot that really is worth a visit. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a twilight dinner in Athens, directly under the famous ruins. The Greek islands are also fantastic if you have some extra time. We enjoyed dipping our toes in the sand of Crete, while gazing at the not-so-distant snowcapped mountains in the center of the island.
Swiss Alps
Backpacking the Haute Route was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done, but it was worth it just for the photos! I’d recommend Switzerland if you enjoy hiking, because there is no shortage of trails here. It was the most expensive part of our Eurotrip, however, so budget wisely.
Vienna, Austria
Gardens, palaces, and currywurst… Can’t beat that! The city is very affordable, and easy to get around. Salzburg is pretty, and I really enjoyed Klagenfurt in southern Austria as well. The dolomites are pretty, and an interesting blend of German and Italian influence.
Havasupai, Arizona
I have to say, despite traveling a decent amount, there’s still a lot to see in my own backyard. This was the prettiest place I’ve been so far in the US, but I’ve got a lot of road trips with The Traveling Geiger in my future! Hopefully we’ll be checking off some Western national parks this summer, with cameras in hand.
Thanks so much to my past and future travel buddies, especially Ally, Alison, Margaret, and Jake. Let the adventures continue!
Do what you love, love what you do, and love who you do it with!
G Who Travels 
I want to go to all of these places so bad! Especially New Zealand, it looks so captivating.
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