If you’re anything like me, you have a never ending list of countries you want to visit and sites you want to see. I personally love traveling because it always gives a new perspective, introducing me to new experiences and cultures. While it’s too late now to book a flight for spring break, here’s a list of places that might inspire you to start planning for next spring break:
Apennines, Italy
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Most people associate Italy with either food or fashion, and for good reason. After all, who doesn’t love pasta and pizza and hasn’t heard of luxury Italian fashion brands such as Prada and Versace? However, in the middle of Italy is a mountain range called the Apennines, which is home to gorgeous mountain slopes and a huge range of wildlife, such as semi-wild horses, red deer, and golden eagles. Only an hour away from Rome, the Apennines is much quieter and off the beaten path, but no less cultural. Especially for those who love nature, I would definitely encourage you to add the Apennines to your to-travel list.
Aix-en-Provence, France
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As someone who has been to Paris, the proclaimed “City of Light” is beautiful and all, but also overrated in my opinion. A lesser-known part of France is the southern region, which is home to the city of Aix-en-Provence. Although it’s considered a city, Aix-en-Provence maintains the intimacy of a small town with its cozy cafes, artisan bakeries and local farmers markets. If you love art, Aix-en-Provence is also where the post-impressionist artist Paul Cezanne was born, so the city has many museums honoring his art and legacy.
Keelung City, Taiwan
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Besides traveling I also absolutely love food, which brings us to our next destination: Keelung City, Taiwan. The country is famous for its night markets, which are street markets that are more laid-back and focused on food than day markets, which focus more on business. You could either try something new at these markets, like “stinky tofu”, or stick with something familiar but comforting, like dumplings. Keelung City also has many museums and scenic parks for walking around after filling your stomach with delicious food.
Cusco, Peru
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For history-buffs, Cusco is the perfect place to start planning your next trip for. Located in the famed Andes Mountains, the city used to be the capital of the Incan Empire, which was both economically and scientifically ahead of its time. The city was also known for being a center for mathematics, astronomy, and calendar systems. From Cusco, you could also take the train to the world-famous citadel Machu Picchu. Steeped in history and culture, Cusco is a place that you definitely don’t want to leave off your bucket list.
New Orleans, Louisiana
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Finally, especially since spring break is right around Mardi Gras, New Orleans is the ultimate party city for those seeking thrills and adventure. From jazz and nightlife on Bourbon Street, to historic mansions and antiques on Magazine Street, to street performers and artists on the French Quarter, it’s impossible to be bored in NOLA. It is easy to think outside of the country when making travel plans, but some of the world’s gems are located right here in the United States.
A quote from one of my favorite books, “On The Road” by Jack Kerouac, goes as follows: “Live, travel, adventure, bless, and don’t be sorry.” As someone who loves traveling and exploring the world, I constantly have a list of places I wish I could be, each of them with their own charms and unique landmarks. Whether you love food, the wilderness, culture or thriving nightlife, definitely take the time to check one of these places out whenever you’re hit with the travel bug.