- After visiting over 20 countries in the past three years, a few destinations have stolen my heart.
- I'd love to return to Iceland and Banff, Canada, in the winter months.
- In my opinion, Fiji is the epitome of paradise, and was one of the most peaceful places I've been.
Over the past three years, I've had the incredible privilege of traveling to over 20 countries. I've been everywhere from the Arctic Circle to the South Pacific, Europe, and around North America.
Although every trip has had its highlights, a few destinations stand out as truly exceptional places I'd return to without hesitation. These spots captured my heart with their natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and opportunities for exploration and adventure.
If you're seeking inspiration for your next big trip, keep these five unforgettable destinations on your radar.
Udaipur, India, is as luxurious as it is stunning.
India's luxury hospitality industry, spicy delicacies, and bustling streets make it an unforgettable destination. Udaipur, specifically, offers all of this with the surprising addition of beautiful lakeside views.
I stayed at The Leela Palace Udaipur, one of the few hotels on the shore of Lake Pichola. Watching the sunset over the water from my balcony each night was enough to convince me to go back, but Udaipur also offers a mix of history, shopping, and art.
While visiting, I toured the City Palace Museum, escaped the heat at the Saheliyon ki Bari Botanical Gardens, and browsed local businesses and art museums for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
As a whole, I really enjoyed visiting Iceland.
Witnessing the northern lights isn't the only thing that makes Iceland worth visiting. However, it was a magical moment that made me want to return.
I visited during the summer when there was ample daylight to soak in the scenery. The volcanic, rocky landscapes were truly otherworldly.
While touring the island, I visited the Sky Lagoon geothermal spa, admired Kirkjufell Mountain, crossed the Bridge Between Continents, and explored natural wonders like Kleifarvatn Lake.
Now, I'm itching to go back during winter to hike through ice caves and see the northern lights more clearly.
Fiji is the epitome of paradise.
As soon as I stepped onto this gorgeous, palm-tree-sprinkled land and into the humid yet breezy air, I felt all my worries dissipate.
The salty, azure waters were perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling, and the white sands and jungle offered ample opportunity for both relaxation and outdoor adventure. Fiji felt far away from everyday life in the best way.
I also loved enjoying Fijian food at a traditional Lovo, which involves cooking meat, fish, and vegetables in a freshly dug "underground oven" made with coals.
Fiji consists of over 300 islands, but I stayed at a private island resort called Wakaya. With jungle landscapes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking sea views, I've never felt so at peace in a destination.
Banff, Canada, is a playground for outdoor adventurers.
In my opinion, there's no better place in North America for outdoor adventurers than Banff, Canada.
Summer in Banff is a playground for hiking, biking, kayaking, and taking in the awe-inspiring mountain landscapes.
I loved my experience in Banff so much that I have another trip booked for this year. This time, I'll be visiting in the winter, which offers a different kind of wonderland.
Banff is a premier ski destination, but outdoor delights abound, with activities like ice skating across frozen lakes, ice climbing along frozen waterfalls, snowshoeing, and, of course, plenty of opportunities for aprés-ski.
Kauai, Hawaii, is truly magical.
From rainforests and vast canyons to scenic beaches, Kauai, Hawaii, offers endless beauty.
During my trip, which was my first big solo adventure, I drove to the top of Waimea Canyon, visited the Kauai Coffee Estate, chatted with friendly locals, and took in the incredible beach and mountain views.
I only scratched the surface of things to do and see, and left the island craving so much more of what it had to offer.
