POSITANO, Italy — As I head back to the States today, my nine-day Italian adventure is coming to an end. I’ll share more about the trip, what I experienced and what I learned next week.
For now, let’s talk about where I want to go next.
I spend a lot of time thinking about money, building wealth and creating more freedom in my life. But what’s the point of that freedom if I don’t use some of it to see the world?
I’m relatively young, in excellent health and done putting off travel for some undefined point in the future. I want to explore new places, experience different cultures, try new foods and make memories along the way.
I’ve visited about 12 countries and territories. There’s a lot of world left to see, and I have little interest in revisiting places I’ve already been unless I’m taking Parker with me. Too many new places are calling for me to spend the time, effort and money going back.
So, with Italy behind me, I’m looking ahead.
Here are 12 destinations I’ve never visited but want to experience, plus one bonus destination. They’re in no particular order, and this isn’t a checklist with a deadline. It’s a list of places I want to make time for sooner rather than later.
Africa
Egypt: Some destinations feel like a vacation. Egypt feels like a pilgrimage. I want to stand in front of the pyramids, explore ancient temples and take in thousands of years of history that no textbook or documentary can fully bring to life. I might even ride a camel. This is one place where I wouldn’t mind letting my sightseeing eyes wander.
Ghana’s Black Star Square. | Photo by Ifeoluwa B. on Unsplash
Ghana: I’ve visited several African countries and even lived in Senegal for two years while I was in middle school. But Ghana has remained on my list of places I haven’t experienced. I want to explore its history, experience its culture and get a better feel for a country with so much to offer. After all these years, it’s time to make that trip happen.
Asia
Japan: I’ve heard nothing but good things about Japan, from its rich history and cutting-edge technology to its deep-rooted traditions and famously clean streets. The blend of old and new fascinates me. I want to experience the food, explore the cities and see what makes the culture tick. Japan feels like one of those destinations that belongs on any serious traveler’s list.
Thailand: People rave about how affordable Thailand can be, and I’m curious to see how experiencing that firsthand might change my perspective on money and what it means to have enough. I’m intrigued by the energy of the cities, the beauty of the beaches and the slower pace of the countryside. Two weeks might not cut it. I could easily see myself wanting more time to explore.
Europe
Finland: Finland regularly ranks among the world’s happiest countries, and I wouldn’t mind seeing what that looks like up close. The peaceful scenery, access to nature and slower pace of life are appealing on their own. But there’s more beneath the postcard views: a society that puts considerable emphasis on education, social support and the well-being of its people. It must be nice to actually live in a place that has made those things priorities.
Greece: Mediterranean food, spectacular coastal views and ancient history make Greece an easy addition to my list. I wouldn’t mind exploring the ruins, enjoying the local cuisine and spending time taking in its famous blue waters. I could get comfortable with a little island-hopping, too.
Netherlands: I’ve wanted to visit Amsterdam since I was younger. Then marijuana legalization spread across much of the United States, and that particular draw became a little less exclusive. But the Netherlands has plenty more to offer than its coffeeshops. The canals, architecture, museums and bike-friendly streets are all part of the appeal. I want to see Amsterdam for myself and explore beyond it, too. There’s more to the country than its most famous reputation.
Portugal: Portugal appeals to the part of me that appreciates beautiful scenery and good food. I want to explore Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, experience the coastal towns and sample the local cuisine. And given Portugal’s reputation for offering a relatively affordable European experience, I’m curious to see how far my money could go.
Spain: I want to experience the energy of Barcelona and Madrid, take my time enjoying a great meal and explore the country’s famous beaches. Like many of the other destinations on my bucket list, Spain offers many different types of experiences, and I’d love to get a taste of what makes each place different.
The Caribbean and South America
Aruba: A strong contender for my next birthday getaway. Beautiful beaches, warm November weather and a relatively easy trip from the States? That’s a compelling combination. I’m a sucker for the beach, and Aruba could be the perfect place to relax, recharge and enjoy peacefulness without an itinerary.
Brazil: Brazil has so much cultural energy that it makes me want to experience it firsthand. The music, food, natural beauty and sheer size of the country offer plenty to explore. I’d love to see the famous landmarks, but I also want to venture beyond the obvious and get a feel for the country’s diversity, its people and everyday life. Brazil is too big and varied to reduce to one city. I’d want enough time to experience more than just the hot spots.
Australia and my bonus destination
Australia: Traveling halfway around the world sounds pretty cool to me. Surviving the flight is another matter. But once I recover from being airborne for 20 hours, Australia has plenty to offer. I’d love to spend a few weeks exploring the country, exploring its landscapes and experiencing a place that feels about as far from my everyday routine as I can get.
Bonus: Bali, Indonesia: Bali has a reputation for tropical beauty, gorgeous beaches, distinctive culture and great food. I’ve heard it described as “Jamaica for Australians,” which only makes me more curious about the comparison. I’d like to experience the island for myself, explore beyond the beaches and see what makes it such a draw for travelers from around the world. If the scenery is as good as advertised, I might have a hard time convincing myself to leave.
Vancouver: I came. I saw. I couldn't believe my eyes.
VANCOUVER — Canadian customs agents didn’t know what to make of me.
