It has certainly been a trying year. As leisure travel sputtered to a halt because of the pandemic, I had more time to dream about places that I want to visit next – and this feeling of wanderlust provided a much-needed mental escape from the recent chaos and calamity. I last wrote a “Travel Bucket List” post in 2017 (when I was still in middle school!), so here is a new and improved version.
1. Athens, Greece & Santorini, Greece
Greece is still one of the places that I want to visit most. I would love to use what I learned in my European History and Art History classes as I tour the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Temple of Athena Nike in Athens, and the sparkling blue water and whitewashed buildings of Santorini look spectacular. Mediterranean food is one of my favorite cuisines as well – I truly think that I would love Greece!
2. Reykjavik, Iceland
One of my biggest items on my bucket list is to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in-person in Iceland. The rest of Iceland is also gorgeous, with geothermal hot springs, waterfalls, mountains, and glaciers. I have never been to a Nordic country, and I would love to experience a new region of the world.
3. Auckland, New Zealand
New Zealand’s politics and ability to defeat COVID-19 are definitely appealing, as is its picturesque natural landscapes. I want to visit Waitomo Caves and the Waitākere Ranges and explore the bustling city-center of Auckland.
4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Whenever I see pictures of Dubai, the skyline is the first thing that I notice. It’s nothing short of magnificent, and I really hope that I can see it in person one day! While I generally gravitate towards places with beautiful nature, the incredible architecture of Dubai is what I would love to see.
5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam is known for its canal system, bike-friendly roads, tulip fields, and artistic culture. I want to visit the Van Gogh Museum and see famous Rembrandt works at Rijksmuseum (who knew that AP Art History would give me the travel bug?!), bike on the cobbled paths, and take in the sites of the city.
6. London and New York City at Christmas
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit both London and New York City, but I specifically would love to go back to both cities during the holiday season. The glittering Christmas lights and festive events in each place are alluring, as is the “hustle and bustle” feeling of being in a big city during the most wonderful time of the year.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
The historic capital city of the Czech Republic is home to the Charles Bridge (one of the world’s oldest bridges), Old Town Square (with a 600-year-old astronomical clock), and Prague Castle. Many of its cultural attractions survived the 20th-century wars, and the architecture looks stunning in photos.
8. Vienna, Austria
Another Central European city, Vienna is home to the Schönbrunn Palace and other incredible Baroque buildings. I would love to wander through the capital, taking in the sites that shaped Mozart, Beethoven, and Freud.
Thank you so much for reading, and I hope that you have a wonderful end of the year. 2020 has been a difficult, tumultuous year, but here’s to a safe, happy, and healthy 2021 filled with good memories, increased social awareness, and a return to “normal” life.
