Travel destinations from A to Z
When I am not traveling, I am usually planning my next trip. It may be a place I have never been. Or it may be revisiting places I love, like these travel destinations from A to Z. I created this list to inspire future journeys. If you have an insatiable curiosity for new sights, cultures, food, history, and more, then follow along this alphabet of adventures.
It is challenging for me to write about just one destination for each letter, so I will feature one of my favorites, but also mention others. In some cases, there are links to articles I have written, with more detail. So, after journeys to some 55 countries and more than 600 cities . . .
Austria
“The hills are alive with the sound of music.” That sums up the diversity of Austria in one line. Would you rather listen to a classical concert in an historic opera house or trek through breathtaking alpine scenery? You can easily do both in the same day in this landlocked Central Europe nation, once a great empire. One of my favorite odd things to do is to visit the cemetery in Vienna where Beethoven, Strauss, Brahms, and others are buried in rather simple graves.
While we in in the “A’s”, for something completely different, try Alabama. Specifically, visit the space center in Huntsville for its technology achievements.
Beijing
I lived in this city, so I could write volumes, but I would sum it up by saying that nowhere else seems to blend the ancient and modern quite like Beijing. The dynamic performing arts center is down the street from the Forbidden City. The Olympic complex sits near a temple from the 1600s. Even the amazing food has its roots in ancient cooking techniques.
On the subject of “B’s”, it was difficult not to feature Barcelona or Bangkok here, two of my favorite cities in the world. Barcelona is still building Gaudi’s Familia Sagrada. Bangkok is truly the gateway to Southeast Asia. And one can’t forget to spend a few days in Budapest!
Cambodia
Despite a tragic 20th century, one would be remiss not to visit 900-year-old Angkor Wat, the enormous Buddhist temple complex in Siem Reap. Be sure to allow a few days to explore, learn, and observe what nature has reclaimed from man.
Chengdu is another “C”, known for spicy Sichuan food and pandas. Chengde is another interesting region of China I have written about.
Dana Point, California
Nearby Laguna Beach and Newport Beach get more attention, but Dana Point, with a beautiful harbor, is actually the official Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World. Add to that spectacular weather, beaches, golf courses, and luxury resorts. And what it doesn’t have, such as museums, are only an hour away in Los Angeles. Disneyland and Universal are nearby too. It’s easy to see why we make this Orange County coastal community the home we come back to after our travels.
Other “D’s” around the globe range from Denmark to Dubai.
Estonia
This fiercely independent little northern European nation is most often visited as part of Baltic cruise. It deserves more than a day trip. The capital, Tallinn, is both a well-preserved medieval city and home to one of the world’s most advanced digital societies. Outside the city, visit vast forestlands or more than 2,000 islands.
Florence
It took me years to finally visit Florence, the birthplace of Italian Renaissance, and it did not disappoint. Yes, one can suffer from museum overload, but with careful planning, the art and architecture are unrivalled. It is a surprisingly walkable city, where one follows the footsteps of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, and more. And, of course, it is the gateway to for a road trip through magnificent Tuscany.
I could have featured Finland here or maybe France, but Paris is coming below.
Germany
Germany is a microcosm of Europe, a mix of industry and nature, BMW factories and fairy-tale castles, cities and hamlets, sleek architecture and black forests. My favorite city is Munich, right in the center of Europe, and a compelling base for visiting the continent by train (or that BMW).
If you prefer French to German, just 7 hours from Munich is Geneva, the impressive Swiss city at the foot of an expansive lake and mountains.
Hong Kong
You may know that this city means “fragrant harbor” in Chinese. That is appropriate, as there are some 263 islands, with the major ones accessible by ferry. And it is the Cantonese cuisine that sets the city apart from the rest of Asia. With thousands of restaurants to choose from, it is little wonder that people here eat about 5 times a day. Take the world’s longest escalator to the Peak Tram and marvel at more than 8,000 skyscrapers. Then it’s time to eat again.
Three more Chinese regions beginning with “H” are Hangzhou, sitting on beautiful West Lake, Hainan, considered to be China’s Hawaii, and Huangshan, the avatar-like mountain gem. And then there is my happy place, America’s Hawaii. Which island to visit first?
Ireland
There is a reason Ireland is so green. It rains a lot! But that also makes this island of low mountain terrain so beautiful. Our stay is in Killarney, with its national park and amazing hiking and biking trails. And, of course, we down many a pint of Guinness while feasting on fish and chips.
Ilocos also starts with an “I”. This historic, cultural region proves that the Philippines are more than beaches. For Italy, we talk about Florence above, but don’t forget Venice, Verona, Milan, and Rome. And I finally made it to Brazil’s Iguazu Falls for a luxury stay at these spectacular waterfalls.
Japan
I eat sushi from the world’s largest seafood market, Tokyo’s Tsukiji, and follow kimono-clad girls through the immense Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto. It seems like everything is both big and unique in Japan. Greater Tokyo is the largest megacity in the world, but there are plenty of tranquil retreats for contemplation. Get “spirited away” at this fascinating destination.
Kenya
I always wanted to go on an African safari. When we did, we made some mistakes. But make no mistake, we would go again (just smarter this time). Two things we did right were to choose Kenya and to visit Nairobi before and after the safari.
Korea begins with a “K”, although technically I have only visited Seoul, South Korea. It also means one of my favorite places, Kauai. There are so many things to do there that are upscale on a budget.
Laos
I wrote an article entitled, “Time is now to visit Luang Prabang, Laos.” That is still true, because while Laos sits midway between bustling Bangkok and Hanoi, the country feels centuries apart. The pace is as slow as the weather is hot. Temples mix with shops and restaurants, and the Mekong river winds its way through the culture.
Latvia is another “L”. Riga, Latvia is just across the Baltic Sea from Stockholm, but very different, including having to declare independence from Russia twice. Las Vegas is a world unto itself, even if you don’t gamble. You can always visit the neon boneyard or the National Atomic Testing Museum. Speaking of museums, Los Angeles now has the fun Academy Museum.
Madrid
Picasso’s Guernica occupies an entire room in the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern Art. It takes your breath away. And this isn’t even the most famous museum in Madrid. That honor belongs to the world-famous Prado. This is a city steeped in history and culture, and yet vibrant today. Eat 12 grapes with us at midnight to welcome in the new year.
We are up to the letter “M”, which leads us to Mexico and the colonial city of San Miguel de Allende. I write about unique things to do in this art, cuisine, and accommodation mecca. You can also cruise to the cities of the Mexican Riviera. My favorite Hawaiian Island (not an easy choice) is Maui. Every tropical adventure is possible here, including some unusual ones I write about, even piloting your own plane over paradise.
New York City
What can you say about “The city that never sleeps?” How about “I love New York?” The self-proclaimed greatest city is a magnet for people all over the world to experience its energy, entertainment, cuisine, museums and more. Supposedly, all those people speak more than 800 languages, so you should feel right at home somewhere in New York.
Another “N”, New Mexico, is the U.S. polar opposite of NYC. Full of natural beauty, from desert to mountains, to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Oahu
Most people start their Hawaiian adventure on the island of Oahu. Some never leave. After all, it has famous Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, world-class North Shore surfing, and a big city named Honolulu. Pick a pineapple, put a slice in your Mai Tai, and settle in.
About as far away from tropical Hawaii as you can get and still be North America is Ottawa. The seventh coldest capital city in the world has Victorian architecture, as it should, since it was Queen Victoria who decided it should be Canada’s capital.
Paris
It is little wonder that “The City of Light” is most mentioned as world travelers’ favorite city. The experience is overwhelming, from 35,000 visible works of art in the Louvre to a choice of 45,000 restaurants. And yet, this walkable city seems intimate and romantic, as are the châteaux accessible on a day trip.
Speaking of intimate, the city of Prague can be navigated in a few days, allowing one day for Old Town and one day for the castle side of the Vltava River, connected by the Charles Bridge.
Quebec
If you live in North America and Paris is out of reach, try a journey to Quebec. French is mandatory, and Quebec City even looks and feels like a city in northern Europe. Yes, the winters are long and cold, with 140 days of snow on the ground, but the populace embraces the weather with skis and skates.
Russia
The world’s largest country also heads some lists as the world’s least friendly for tourists. But if your travel is carefully choreographed, there are many wonders to behold. Saint Peterburg’s Hermitage is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, founded by Catherine the Great in 1764. Prepare to be impressed by this prestigious complex.
The top honors for large and old belongs to Rome. Ancient Rome still infiltrates both the sights and very character of the city, including the Colosseum, built 20 centuries ago. The city even surrounds another country – the Vatican.
Sydney
Places that are distant from most of the civilized world have an opportunity to develop their own unique quality of life. One could attribute that to Australians and their vibrant metropolis, Sydney. The folks from “down under” speak English, but are far from England in every way imaginable.
Trying to select a destination beginning with “S” is probably the hardest task. Does one talk about countries, such as Sweden, Switzerland, and Spain? Or should I mention world-class cities, from Shanghai, which even has a Disneyland, to the San Francisco experience? Or how about a city that is also a country? That would be Singapore.
Thailand
Would you like to journey to a faraway land that has a world-class city, beautiful beaches, or jungles with elephants and local tribes? Thailand offers all three Southeast Asian experiences in a country that is much smaller than Texas. And it may be impossible to have a bad meal here.
United Kingdom
England is a country. Britain includes Wales. Great Britain includes Scotland. The UK includes Northern Ireland. Ireland is separate. London is the capital of both England and the United Kingdom. No matter what the name, London and the UK are great travel destinations as well as a gateway to the EU. Just get your visas right.
The letter “U” can also stand for Utah, a U.S. state with numerous natural landmarks, from salt flats to rock pillars to sandstone arches. Our favorite is Bryce Canyon.
Vietnam
From south to north, Vietnam has risen from the ashes of war to become a vibrant Southeast Asia tourist magnet. Hanoi is a bustling city of motorbikes. Step away from the traffic, and one steps back in time through Ninh Binh Province on the way to sailing picturesque Bai Tu Long Bay.
“V” also leads us to Vancouver, a beautiful city that is also the gateway for an Alaskan cruise.
Wyoming
While we are in the western United States, my favorite destination is Wyoming, home to the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Use Jackson Hole as a base to visit these natural, national treasures.
Nothing could be more American than Washington D.C. From the Smithsonian and other museums to the complex of capitol buildings and monuments, this is the place to learn about the “great American experiment in democracy.”
Xian
There is so much history in this birthplace of Chinese civilization it is difficult to know where to begin – from the excavated Terra Cotta Warriors to the stele tablets to the well-preserved city walls. Visit the Bell and Drum Towers for panoramic views of this ancient city.
Yangon
Myanmar has had a turbulent history. I wish I could say it was over, but there is still serious strife in this country, once known as Burma. Yet, the people are welcoming and the natural and man-made sights are fascinating. Yangon is home to the gold-plated Shwedagon pagoda, one of 4 million pagodas in the city. It is the starting point for travel to Bagan, Inle Lake, Mandalay, and other wonders of Myanmar.
The letter “Y” also reminds us of Yunnan, the southwestern Chinese province, with its spectacular Jade Dragon Snow Mountain near Lijiang. For similar beauty, Yosemite National Park sits in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.
Zermatt
Ah, the Swiss Alps. This is the secret place I have sought out to rejuvenate for more than 40 years. With up to 80 million visitors per year, maybe the secret’s out. That doesn’t stop us from hiking around Zermatt, the car-less playground at the base of the legendary Matterhorn. The views never get old and neither do we when we are in their presence.
“Z” also stands for Zen, an appropriate way to end this journey. Zen aims for enlightenment through direct experience, seeking both compassion and wisdom. I can’t think of a better, never-ending reason for travel.
Despite all my globe-trotting adventures, there are so many more journeys to take! Do you have any questions about these destinations? Feel free to comment at the bottom of this post.
Road trip snack recipes
Making your own baked goods for a road trip allows you to eat healthier and saves time and money not having to stop for treats along the way. We offer several road trip snack recipes that are delicious and travel well. Do you have a craving for cookies, scones, brownies and breads? Some of our favorite homemade recipes are ready for you to try.
Ginger molasses cookies
I think ginger molasses cookies must have come across the Atlantic on the Mayflower. They travel that well. Why? Molasses is a natural ingredient that doesn’t have to be refrigerated. Better yet, it is considered to be even healthier than honey, because it contains more antioxidants. Who knew a sweet cookie could be both durable and good for you?
This recipe was passed down from my grandmother. What I have changed over time is to reduce the amount of sugar, which seems to kick up the spice flavor. The secret ingredient is ground cloves. This is my only cookie that I make with shortening instead of butter, which really helps with the longevity. You can eat these on both ends of your journey without them getting stale.
- 1 ½ cups shortening
- 1 ½ cups dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup dark molasses
- 4 cups flour
- 4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
Preheat oven to 375F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a separate bowl mix flour, baking soda, and spices. Set aside. Cream together shortening and sugar until combined. Stir in eggs until mixed well. Stir in molasses. Mix in dry ingredients. Roll dough into balls the size of large walnuts (don’t flatten). Place on cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes only until light brown. Makes about 3 dozen.
Maple oat scones
Really good scones are like the marriage of a cookie and a muffin. These maple oat scones are better than an oatmeal cookie. Pure maple syrup gives them a natural sweetness that is subtle. Be sure to use old fashioned, not quick, oats.
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 1 ¼ cups uncooked oats
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup cold heavy cream
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg (cold)
Preheat oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, and pecans in large bowl. Scatter butter in small pieces over top, then cut in with pastry cutter. In small bowl whisk together cream, maple syrup, and egg. Pour cream mixture into flour mixture. Stir with fork into a wet dough. Drop dough onto floured cutting board, press to ½ inch thickness. Cut with round biscuit cutter. Place on sheet (2 batches). Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
Frango mint brownies
What is a Frango mint, you ask? This was the signature premium chocolate of the old Marshall Fields department store in Chicago, minted on the 13th floor of their State Street flagship location for 70 years. Now in the hands of another Chicago firm, Frango mints are sold by Macy’s. I find their taste and quality to be unique, and I have devised a way to incorporate them into rich chocolate brownies.
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz Baker’s unsweetened chocolate
- 12 Frango mints (dark or milk choc)
- 1 tbsp expresso ground coffee
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup chopped toasted pecans
Preheat oven to 350F. Melt butter, chocolate, mints, coffee slowly in pan, cool. Beat eggs and beat in sugar. Mix in chocolate mixture and vanilla. Mix in flour, baking powder, and nuts until combined. Bake for about 25 minutes; test with toothpick.
Peanut butter graham cookies
I found this recipe many years ago in a magazine. Graham crackers give classic peanut butter cookies a grainy texture that I like. And I can pretend I have added a source of grain to go with the protein of the peanut butter, making them seem almost healthy.
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 1 cup finely crushed graham crackers
- ½ tsp each baking soda and salt
- ½ cup unsalted soft butter
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg (unbeaten)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup peanut butter
- Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking soda, and salt in bowl. In another bowl cream butter and sugar. Stir in egg, honey, water, and vanilla. Stir in peanut butter. Mix in dry ingredients until combined. Add optional semi-sweet chocolate chips. Roll dough into balls the size of large walnuts. Place on cookie sheet and flatten halfway with fork in two directions. Bake for 10-12 minutes only until light brown.
Cranberry walnut scones
Scones travel well. They tend not to be crumbly, and they are more filling than cookies. These are best with fresh cranberries, but you can substitute frozen ones or even dried cranberries, apricots or raisins (plump dried fruit by soaking in Triple Sec). Experiment!
- 3 cups flour
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp each baking soda and salt
- ¾ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- ½ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- 2 tsp grated fresh orange peel (zest)
- 1 cup buttermilk or sour milk
Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in large bowl. Scatter butter in small pieces over top, then cut in with pastry cutter. Stir in cranberries, walnuts, and orange peel. Add buttermilk and stir with fork into a wet dough. Drop dough onto floured cutting board, press to ½ inch thickness. Cut with round biscuit cutter. Place on sheet (2 batches). Bake for about 14 minutes until golden brown.
Lemon pecan bread
Road trip snack recipes should include a loaf bread. While I make banana bread, pumpkin bread, cranberry bread, and others, my favorite is this lemon pecan bread. While I mix cookie and scone dough by hand, I use an electric mixer here to achieve the right texture. It is moist enough to last for days on the road.
- ¾ cup unsalted soft butter
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 ¼ cups flour
- ¼ tsp each baking soda and salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk or sour milk
- ¾ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1 tbsp grated fresh lemon peel (zest)
Preheat oven to 350F. In large bowl beat butter until smooth. Add sugar, beat until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time; beat well after each. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt and add to beaten mixture alternately with buttermilk; beat well after each. Stir in pecans and lemon peel. Spoon batter into loaf pan and bake for about 1 hour; test with toothpick.
Are you thirsty?
What drinks (besides bottled water) travel well? All of our baked goods go well with coffee. I take expresso beans, grind them, and make a strong black coffee. A thermos of that or 1837 TWG tea is the perfect hot complement. For a cool drink, try the fresh-squeezed orange juice from Whole Foods, skipping take the time and effort to make your own.
Classic hot chocolate
If you wish to fill that thermos with pure decadence, try my recipe for classic hot chocolate – infinitely better than what you can buy on the road.
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, and sugar in medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until steaming. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla. Pour into thermos. Serves two, but you might want to make more.
If you live in or near California, this Lake Arrowhead road trip is the perfect drive to try out some of these treats.
Do you make your own snack foods for the road? Feel free to comment at the bottom of this post.
What’s upscale?
Making homemade treats with the finest ingredients beats store-bought items anytime. Your friends and family will appreciate.
What’s budget?
Making your own snacks and treats is healthier, tastier, and less expensive.
Funny travel signs from around the world
Sometimes a sign is simply lost in translation, sometimes the graphics get out of hand. Translated signs can have bad spelling, with humorous consequences. Instructional signs can leave us baffled.
Here are some of my favorite funny signs from around the world. No country can seem to avoid presenting signs that make us scratch our heads or outright laugh.
Food is often the subject matter for crazy translation. This menu at a Beijing restaurant is at least reassuring?
“We serve meat that is crisp and not rotten!”
Well, if America has an ice cream sandwich, then Japan can take it to another level.
An ice cream burger is a real thing in Tokyo.
Speaking of ice cream, this sign at the Incheon airport in Korea wants you to try Turkey ice cream. At least someone caught the error and decided “Turkeysh” was a good fix.
Turkey ice cream with goat’s milk.
In the U.S. it is actually possible to buy bacon-flavored dental floss. I’ll pass. But in Asia, bacon floss has an entirely different meaning.
Bacon floss treats in Bangkok.
I think this elevator in China is going to be shut down more than temporarily. First, they have to get rid of the escalator.
“This elevator is temporarily shut down.”
Bumper stickers can be funny, but I’m sure this one didn’t intend to be.
Mama’s in the car. Good. Baby’s on the road?
Misspellings are pretty common in translations. This one still gets the point across.
Asia art for sale, both hosale and retel.
Here’s another misspelling, from a shop in Bangkok. Maybe they work really hard.
Clothes made here by toilers.
Make sure you go to the right place. In Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic, the Museum of Tortury is right next door to the police station.
Take your pick. Torture museum or police station.
Sometimes direction signs can leave us a little confused.
Still wondering how to get on this bus.
This sign in Chengdu, China just seems to be toying with visitors.
Apparently non-visitors can go straight ahead.
This directional sign in Beijing’s central business district is very specific. Go left if you want a hotel. Go right for plastic surgery.
This way for plastic surgery and a second hand.
Here is maybe the scariest sign I have ever seen in my travels. It seems to warn you to wear a gas mask and seat belt or risk falling down into a dangerous hole. The only problem was that this Beijing neighborhood sign was on the entrance to a public restroom!
Beware of what might happen in a public toilet!
Speaking of toilets in China, some of them are rated by the government. I visited this 4-star toilet. I don’t want to see the 1-star version.
This toilet gets 4 stars!
Warning signs are helpful, for sure. Sometimes they just state the obvious, such as this sign near Hana, Maui.
Attention. Invasive plants have taken over this sign.
I think there are more warning signs in the U.S. than any other country, probably because there are more lawyers than anywhere else.
You never know when you might get hit by a hang glider.
In the same area of San Francisco: if you manage to escape hang gliders, you still might fall over a cliff. Note: I actually saw a cliff rescue here at Fort Funston. Apparently, people don’t read.
People and dogs really do fall off these cliffs.
Maybe because people don’t read, China has gone to warning drivers through pictures and graphics. I’m still trying to figure out this road sign.
Do not let your car explode on this street.
Here is another sign written by the lawyers. In a tranquil park in suburban Orange County, California, apparently we are in danger of being eaten by lions, bitten by poisonous snakes and insects, or just swept away by Mother Nature.
Your safety cannot be guaranteed. Expect to die.
Park signs in China tend to be more instructional. People are used to being told specifically what not to do.
“…Don’t spit or relieve the bowls on the ground…”
A park in Hainan, China provides a little more latitude. You are only to kill hostile living things. Figure it out.
It’s up to you to decide what animal to kill in this park.
Riding a Chinese cable car has its own set of instructions, including who is prohibited from riding. Do you get to make the decision?
Not allowed on cable car: “Drunkard and people who are insane.”
This is the friendliest “keep off the grass” sign I have encountered in my travels.
The grass is smiling at you. Please detour.
Speaking of signs that tell you what not to do, this is my favorite.
Would it be easier to just say what we are allowed to do?
My neighboring town, artistic Laguna Beach, California, has several new age signs. They include “Breathe” and “Relax, UR OK.”
Continuing the theme of positivity . . .
Finally, we have this sign on a corner deep into a Beijing alley or hutong. I can’t read Chinese characters, and I can’t decipher the English translation either.
If you weren’t already lost, this ought to guarantee it.
Do you have any favorite signs? You can relate their stories at the bottom of this post.
200 travel bucket list ideas
Travel seems to hold a special place in the hearts and minds of most of us, whether it is the vacation to get away from work or the lifetime memory created by visiting a special place or having a unique experience. Stephen’s 200 travel bucket list ideas are a result of my own personal memory-makers from a lifetime of travel to 54 countries.
Most of these represent something I very much wanted to do and was able to “cross off the list.” And considering the places I haven’t visited, it is a never-ending list. It is meant to give you some ideas as you dream about journeys you might take. Nearly all of these represent experiences that can still be done in one form or another.
It is a long list with a lot of photos, so I have segmented the article into four parts, each one with links to the other three. It is my hope that something on the list inspires you to make your own travel memory.
Travel bucket list ideas # 1 – 50:
1. Visit the 5000-year-old monument, Stonehenge, on Summer Solstice, in Wiltshire, England
2. Hike through the “Avatar-like” landscape of the mountains of Huangshan, China
3. Discover the magnificent, turquoise tiered waterfalls of Kuang Si, Laos
4. Watch a cheetah stalk and devour its prey, on safari, at Samburu Reserve, Kenya
5. Navigate around the thunderous splash of a Humpback whale off Lahaina, Maui
6. Pay respects at the graves of Beethoven, Schubert, Strauss, and Brahms, in Vienna, Austria
7. Hug a furry, 30kg panda on your lap, one of just 2,000 pandas in the world, in Chengdu, China
8. Ride a train to the “top of Europe” at 11,000 feet (3,400m) at Jungfraujoch, Switzerland
9. Enjoy the brilliant autumn foliage colors along the Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
10. Hike to King Ludwig’s fairy tale Neuschwanstein Castle, in Bavaria, Germany
11. Ride an elephant through jungle and streams and give it a mud bath, Chiang Mai, Thailand
12. Take a cruise ship to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, Bahamian Islands
13. Visit the magnificent, still-unfinished La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
14. Watch the sunset and full moon rise simultaneously above the clouds, Haleakala, Maui
15. Take an overnight cruise on a small junk to a pearl farm in Bai Tu Long Bay, Vietnam
16. Explore the astonishing colorful rock formations at Secret Canyon, near Page, Arizona
17. Gaze down at the picturesque city from the castle in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
18. Explore numerous ancient temples throughout Angkor Wat, Cambodia
19. Encounter hundreds of elephant seals lumbering onto the beach near Cambria, California
20. Hike up and down the largely unrestored section of the Great Wall at Simitai, China
21. Ride in a helicopter over The Twelve Apostles rock formations, Victoria, Australia
22. Watch history come alive aside Vasa, a real 17th century warship, Stockholm, Sweden
23. Step back in time to explore the many mystical temples of Bagan, Myanmar
24. Surf on the sand at the steep Suba Paoay Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte, Philippines
25. Traverse the lakes of Killarney National Park from Ross Castle, County Kerry, Ireland
26. Explore the small, old villages of Tuscany from the base of Montepulciano, Italy
27. Interact with baby and adult orphaned elephants at Sheldrick Wildlife, Karen, Kenya
You can read my full post: Visit Nairobi before and after a safari
28. Be captivated by the work of Salvador Dali at his hometown museum, Figueres, Spain
29. Rent a long-tail boat to meander through the Thonburi canals, Bangkok, Thailand
30. Hike to the perfect viewing spot for Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, California
31. Tour the 2nd largest art museum in the world, the Hermitage, Saint Petersburg, Russia
32. Visit both the Silver and Golden Pavilions while temple-hopping in Kyoto, Japan
You can read my full post about How to see Kyoto in a weekend
33. Hike to the top of Diamond Head for a sunrise view over Honolulu, Oahu
34. Eat authentic paprika goulash and drink Palinka brandy in Budapest, Hungary
You can read my full post about How to see Budapest in two days
35. Practice the 6th century art of Chinese paper cutting in Chengde, China
You can read my full post: Chengde Mountain Resort is China’s secret
36. Watch ceremonial Aztec dancers perform in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
37. Spend a day in the tiny double landlocked kingdom of Liechtenstein
38. Discover the unearthed Terra Cotta Warriors of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, near Xi’an, China
39. Watch the Arc de Triomphe lighted in red, white and blue for Bastille Day, in Paris, France
40. Walk right next to flowing hot lava from Kilauea Volcano, on the Big Island, Hawaii
41. Attend Opening Ceremony at the Summer Olympic Games, 1984, Los Angeles, California
42. Walk completely around the inside of the 2,000-year-old Coliseum, Rome, Italy
You can read my full post: A Rome visit can be upscale on a budget
43. Walk through huge, intricate ice sculptures at the Winter Carnival, Québec, Canada
44. Experience the skeletal remains of military buildings, Corregidor Island, Philippines
45. Climb the lighthouse at the southernmost point of the archipelago, Landsort, Sweden
46. Pilot a Cirrus SR22 aircraft from Kahului, Maui, past sea cliffs, to the Island of Molokai
You can read my full post: You can pilot a plane on Maui
47. Hike among spectacular poppies and other wildflowers at Diamond View Lake, California
48. Stay as the only guests in the 16th century Chateau de Bourron, near Fontainebleau, France
49. Step back in time to explore the Canada de la Virgen Pyramid, Guanajuato, Mexico
You can read my full post about 5 unusual things to do in San Miguel de Allende
50. Cruise upscale to five Nordic countries in a week with Royal Caribbean, in the Baltic Sea
You can read my full post: 8 reasons to cruise upscale
Follow these famous travel experts
If you are like me, when you aren’t traveling you are in planning mode for your next trip. Researching a new journey can be fun too. That’s why I follow these famous travel experts – Patricia Schultz, Rick Steves, Pauline Frommer, Don George, and more. Explore the contributions of these and other gurus with me. I will explain where each provides value to the traveler and how to follow them.
I am a travel blogger, so shouldn’t I be recommending other bloggers? Well, yes, but there is still a real need for expert opinion that is vetted by editors, producers, publishers. And the people I talk about in this post have been in the business of travel for decades. Yes, they may have agendas, like selling more books or shows or tours, but they have earned the title “expert.” The world needs them.
Patricia Schultz
You have probably heard of the book, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. It is a veritable encyclopedia of places to visit around the world, typically devoting one page to whetting your appetite about a specific location. It took Patricia Schultz eight years to complete, the first edition published in 2003. It has been updated countless times since, including a slick “coffee table book” in 2018. In between, she completed the daunting task of another 1000 Places book just for the U.S. and Canada.
Patricia certainly has the credentials, having first started writing back in 1980. Her 1,000 Places books are an essential starting point for the traveler who wonders, “where should I go next?” I used them to select Huangshan, China over Sri Lanka for a spur-of-the-moment trip when we were living in Beijing. I started with her book to help determine what I might include in a trip to Jackson Hole and Grand Tetons, Wyoming. It’s no wonder her books have become #1 New York Times Bestsellers.
I first met the highly personable Ms. Schultz in Manila, and we have stayed in touch since. She has a following on social media in the millions. Follow her on Facebook/1000 places.
Pauline Frommer
If Patricia Schultz is your starting point for famous travel experts, then the reliable Frommer’s guides are stop #2. Created by the legendary Arthur Frommer, the business was eventually sold, then bought back by the family. Daughter Pauline Frommer is now Editorial Director and Publisher of frommers.com.
Arthur Frommer arguably started the travel guide business in 1957, when he published the book Europe on 5 Dollars a Day. No, it was not placed in the fiction section, but a lot has changed in more than a half century. Fortunately, Frommer’s guides have changed too. Their Day by Day series feature maps and self-guided tours in a size that fits in your pocket or handbag. My copies used to visitcs Prague and Honolulu & Hawaii are well-worn.
And their EasyGuide series, at 300+ pages, provide more detail. I used Alaskan Cruises and Ports of Call as a starting point for a future cruise there.
The always genuine Pauline Frommer is one of my favorite travel speakers. She updates speeches with her latest findings about best flight booking sites, travel insurance providers, under-appreciated destinations, etc. Follow on Twitter @Frommers or join Facebook/FrommersTravelGuides.
Rick Steves
What started as a passion for wandering through Europe has turned into a travel empire for Rick Steves, perhaps America’s most famous travel expert. I once showed him his guidebook I was carrying, that, per his own recommendation, I had already ripped to shreds. Gone was section I had taken with me for a day trip to Toledo, Spain. Gone were the tattered sections that featured his step-by-step tours of Madrid’s Prado Museum and Royal Palace.
Rick is America’s tour guide, through both his physical tours and virtual ones. His focus on Europe Through the Back Door for decades has been relentless. I asked him if he had ever considered writing about China as a growing tourist destination. His answer was, “Never;” his hands were full maintaining accurate information about the many countries of Europe. Probably best known for his 90-show PBS series, Rick Steves’ Europe, his blue and gold guidebooks also dominate library and bookstore shelves. His influence is so great that once he talks about an “offbeat” place it can often become overrun with tourists.
Rick is an interesting guy, an activist and vocal proponent of legalizing marijuana. Do bear in mind if you follow one of his walking tours you will stop at every museum and church. His style tilts toward history, art, and religion. Ricksteves.com is a wealth of information. You can also follow him on Twitter @RickSteves and Facebook/ricksteves.
Samantha Brown
Samantha is a well-known American television travel host, first on the Travel Channel and later producing her own PBS show, Places to Love. She projects a relatable, sort of “girl next door” image on screen. She seems the same in person. She once told me the process was “Dream . . . Plan . . . Book . . . Travel . . . Preserve.” That kind of sums up the experience for all of us.
Follow Samantha on Twitter @SamanthaBrown, Instagram #samanthabrowntravels, and Facebook/RealSamanthaBrown.
Peter Greenberg
The CBS News Travel Editor is also known as the Travel Detective. His brash New York persona is the antithesis of Samantha Brown. In speeches he is not above telling an audience member they are an idiot for collecting miles/points or stupid for listening to State Department travel warnings.
Among his books is the bestseller, Don’t Go There. Always outspoken and informative, the Emmy award-winning journalist has a track record of being right. A wonderful feature of his website, petergreenberg.com, is where he personally answers readers’ emails.
You can follow Peter on Twitter @PeterSGreenberg and Facebook/PeterGreenbergWorldwide.
Don George and other travel authors
Up to this point I have focused on people who can help you research, plan, and execute a trip. There is a different category of famous travel experts – those who write about the inspiration of travel. You won’t find hotel recommendations from Don George or airline comparisons from Pico Iyer. They are essayists, whose writing about what it feels like to be in a faraway land can both transfix and transform us. And we are lucky to have them.
I first met Don George when he taught ten of us would-be travel writers in a 3-day class in Bangkok. It was a chance to learn from the master. Don had just finished writing the book, The Way of Wanderlust, a collection of his stories from four decades of world travel. As the former global editor for both Lonely Planet and National Geographic Traveler, his credentials are above reproach. He literally wrote the book on travel: Lonely Planet’s Guide to Travel Writing.
Don is a marvelous storyteller and an even better, more generous person. His website is don-george.com. Follow him on Twitter @Don_George and Facebook/don.george.travels.
I would be remiss if I didn’t at least mention some other travel writers I have had the pleasure of meeting: the acclaimed Pico Iyer and the actor-turned-writer Andrew McCarthy. You can find some of Pico’s work on picoiyerjourneys.com and some interesting quotes on Twitter @PicoIyer.
Also check out andrewmccarthy.com/writing. You may know Andrew from numerous acting roles, such as St. Elmo’s Fire and Pretty in Pink, but now he is an accomplished author too.
And finally, the late Anthony Bourdain, who defies categorizing. His unique approach to the relationships between culture, food, and travel live on through his provocative books, such as Kitchen Confidential and his television series, No Reservations and Parts Unknown.
Did I miss some of your favorites? Please leave any comments at the bottom of this post.
Stephen’s 6 most popular articles
Sometimes you simply can’t travel. That’s a good time to plan a future trip. It can be inspiring to read about places you might want to visit. With that in mind, we feature Stephen’s 6 most popular articles. Join us in learning more about Hawaii, Mexico, Sweden, Kenya, and China.
I try to write posts for Journeys With Stephen that are evergreen, i.e. continually relevant over a long period of time. They are full of pictures (worth a thousand words) and, speaking of words, can generally be read in less than 10 minutes.
1. Which Hawaiian island for the first-time visitor?
Even though I first wrote this post back in 2016, it continues to be highly read. I suppose that is because there are always a lot of people who dream of visiting Hawaii and then finally need help making that dream a reality.
Do you want balmy, soft sand beaches and plenty of ocean activities? Do you want mountainous interiors with jungles and waterfalls? Do you want good food and drink to go with a genuine Hawaiian spirit? This article discusses the pros and cons of each of the major islands – The Big island, Kauai, Oahu, and Maui. It is a 9-minute read.
2. 10 unusual things to do in Maui
Like everyone else, you’ve maneuvered the twisting road to Hana, braved the cold for sunrise at Haleakala, taken a sunset catamaran cruise, enjoyed the more authentic Old Lahaina luau, snorkeled off a famous beach. Are you ready for something a little more offbeat?
This post explores ideas that range from vodka production and tattoos to blowholes and behind-the-scenes tours. And you can read it in about 9 minutes.
Bonus idea. I wrote a separate post about how you can pilot a plane on Maui. Check it out!
3. 5 unusual things to do in San Miguel de Allende
The colonial city of San Miguel de Allende, nestled in the mountains of central Mexico, has plenty to offer visitors. What should you do after seeing the Parroquia, the Jardin, and sampling some of the 300 restaurants and dozens of art galleries?
Plenty of travelers have made the journey to SMA, but not everyone gets a tour of the mask museum or a private cooking lesson or explores the funky Chapel of Jimmy Ray with its eclectic owners. You can almost taste the homemade guacamole by spending about 8 minutes with this post.
Bonus idea. If this inspires you to visit San Miguel de Allende, check out my post on the best places to stay.
4. Visit Nairobi before and after a safari
Maybe you are planning to take a safari in Kenya – a wise choice. Even smarter, spend several days to visit Nairobi both before and after your safari. The city has interesting attractions worthy of your time. It is the perfect antidote to those long, dusty drives trying to spot wild animals.
The Internet is chock full of articles to help you find a safari, but this post talks about how to bookend that experience so that you enjoy it more. From the amazing Elephant Orphanage to the Giraffe Centre to Karen Blixen Museum, you can learn a lot and unwind at the same time. You can read this post in about 6 minutes.
And if you haven’t finished planning that safari, you might be interested in 8 mistakes we made on our first safari.
5. History comes alive at Sweden’s Vasa Museum
Imagine being transported back in time nearly 400 years to stand aside a real Swedish warship, the only surviving vessel of its kind from the 17th century.
This post is about Sweden’s Vasa Museum in Stockholm, arguably the greatest maritime museum in the world; but also tells the amazing story from the perspective of a crew member on the Vasa’s fateful voyage.
“Acke didn’t want to be one of the 145 seamen aboard Sweden’s Vasa warship for its maiden voyage in 1628. The work was hard, wages were low, and living conditions were atrocious. And this voyage was to last just 1,300 meters before he would have to swim for his life.” You can finish this story here in just 6 minutes.
6. Welcome to China, where you can’t speak, read, or write
Language challenges are part of the adventure of travel and make for interesting tales to recount later. In this post I tell numerous stories of my trials and tribulations in a light-hearted 6 minutes of prose and pictures.
And if that article simply intrigues you more about China, I have several for you to read. They include the secret Chengde Mountain Resort, China’s Huangshan floating mountain, and even one on Shanghai Disneyland. Enjoy!
Any comments? Please leave them at the bottom of this post.