The Oxford English dictionary defines wanderlust as a strong desire to travel. For me (and I’m assuming many who also love to travel) it is a strong, unrelenting and all-consuming desire to see the world and have new experiences. Wanderlust is more than a desire. It is a deep-rooted yearning to sample all the cultures and adventures the world has to offer. If you have a serious case of wanderlust, here are a few destinations I have my heart set on visiting in the near future.
International Destinations
Croatia
Dubrovnik-August 2022
I’ve been dreaming of Croatia for some time. Croatia is less traveled compared to its Western European neighbors yet it boasts beautiful walled cities, a craggy shoreline and mouth-watering food and wine. Cities like Dubrovnik and Split are epicenters of art, history and cuisine. These bustling cities also offer easy access to the country’s outdoor opportunities. Plitvice Lakes National Park offers visitors miles of boardwalk to meander through splendid waterfalls. Another attractive feature of Croatia is its proximity to destinations like Mostar, Lake Bled and the Bay of Kotor. This narrow country, poised on the banks of the Adriatic Sea, is dripping with travel opportunities.
2022 Update: We spent two weeks in the Balkans in the summer of 2022. It was incredible. Check out our posts of Dubrovnik, Split and side trip locations in Mostar, Montenegro and Lake Bled, Slovenia.
Portugal
photo credit: www.azoresgetaways.com
Speaking of dramatic coastlines, Portugal’s are top-notch. The sunny and sea-swept cities of Portugal are known for their beachy vibes, seafood and distinct culture. Portugal is affordable, safe and kid-friendly. My boys would love the country’s abundance of castles and palaces. My must-see cities in Portugal are Lisbon and Porto as well as fishing villages in the Algarve Region. Plus, I can’t forget to sample a glass of vinho in the Douro Valley.
Domestic Destinations
Nashville, TN
If you’re not anxious to venture outside of the United States anytime soon, Nashville, TN tops my list of wanderlust domestic destinations. Music City is known for its honky-tonks but you don’t have to be a country music fan to enjoy Nashville. Budding artists from all music genres folk to Nashville, looking to break into the industry. The city also has a vibrant food scene. I plan to eat my way through the city with stops at Biscuit Love Gulch, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Donut and Dog. Top historical sites on my must-see list include the Belmont Mansion, Ryman Auditorium, Parthenon, Belle Meade Plantation and the Country Music Hall of Fame. This destination may be one we leave our kids with grandparents for.
2022 UPDATE: We went to Nashville in October 2021. It was a blast. So much great live music, food and a few good museums as well. Come see how we spent our days in Music City.
Sedona, AZ
Sedona-March 2021
Also atop my list of domestic places to visit soon; Sedona, AZ. Images of those majestic red rocks make me want to book a flight. Hikesedona.com‘s website states there are more than 120 hiking trails near or around the city. I’ve got my eye on hikes to Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Chapel of the Cross and Seven Sacred Pools. My boys are excited to see how fast the natural waterslides are at Slide Rock State Park. Sedona is also known for its fabulous resorts and spas which offer great views and luxurious amenities.
2021 UPDATE: So we didn’t make it to Slide Rock State Park as our Arizona trip was in early March. However, we did do some great hiking. Trip highlights were Seven Sacred Pools, Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge.
National Parks
Big Bend National Park
Santa Elena Canyon-March 2023
I always have an eye out for outdoor adventure destinations. I recently discovered Big Bend National Park and have been dying to go ever since. Our family is big fans of visiting National Parks. We’ve been to Yellowstone and Teton, Glacier, Badlands and most recently Death Valley National Parks. I’m anxious to explore the Chisos Mountains along the Lost Mine or Window Trail. Once tuckered out from hiking, I’m looking forward to a soak in the natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.
2023 UPDATE: We drive across the country to spend a few nights in Big Bend National Park. Hiking the Window, Balanced Rock and Santa Elena Canyon Trails plus making a side trip to Mexico. On this trip we were also able to make pit stops in San Antonio and Oklahoma City.
Dry Tortugas National Park
photo credit: visitflorida.com
Despite being 70 miles from Key West, FL and only accessible via ferry or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park has risen to the top of my list of parks to visit. The park may be challenging to get to but it will be worth it. Fort Jefferson sounds very interesting and the island is said to have some of the best snorkeling. Snorkeling is an activity our boys have yet to try and doing so at a National Park sounds like the perfect place to introduce them.
These are just a few of the fabulous places on my wanderlust list. Each offers a unique opportunity for adventure. What places, sites or cities are on your wanderlust list?
Happy Adventuring, Rochelle