I have a long list of adventures and experiences I need to mark off, but let‘s talk about where. Where do I want to go?
Since I live in the UK, I’ll start with where I want to go in Europe. I have spent many family holidays in France and Spain so I feel I am able to check those off my list, however I would love to explore both Paris and Barcelona more to be able to appreciate the beauty from an adult perspective. Isn’t everyone wishing to be eating french pastries in a small patisserie looking up at the Eiffel Tower?
Croatia
The obvious attraction to Croatia is the idyllic scenery, crystal clear waters and the warm sandy beaches. Croatia is also rich with history and exceptional food, perfect for all ages to enjoy. The biggest draw for me is sailing the heavenly waters with Med Sailors. Med sailors are a company who offer skippered sailing holidays on yachts and catamarans for 20-35 year olds in Croatia, Greece, Montenegro and Turkey. Boats can hold between 8-12 people so you have the option to go solo, with a friend, or even book as a group!
Denmark
If you are environmentally conscious or simply just enjoy exercising in the fresh air, Denmark has a massive cycling infrastructure and it’s one of the best ways to experience the country. Bikes are easy to hire and the cities are easy to navigate considering more than 50% of the citizens of Copenhagen cycle to where they need to be. If you go you HAVE to see the Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse before it disappears as it currently being buried in sand and edging ever closer to the sea, it is estimated to fall into the sea by 2023 so you’d better hurry!
Finland
Ever since my dad went on a work trip to Finland when I was a kid, I’ve always wanted to go. He made it sound so beautiful and interesting. If you love being in the great outdoors, you’ll be thrilled to hear that Finland has 40 National parks where you can soak up the peace and quiet. If you’re travelling as a family, or just want to experience childhood nostalgia, go to lapland and meet Santa Claus and his reindeers.
Greece
Greece! Crystal clear waters, Mamma Mia and mouthwatering food. Why wouldn’t it be on my list? Like Croatia, a big draw for me is Med Sailors. Whatever you’re looking for, whether that would be organised beaches with bars and umbrellas or a remote, peaceful area away from tourists, Greece can offer it all. If history and myths fascinate you, or you just wish to visit some incredible, iconic landmarks, make a trip to the ruins scattered all across the country; the most well known being the Acropolis in Athens.
Hungary
Specifically Budapest, but I’m very open to exploring the whole country. Architecture has always fascinated me, and Budapest has some of the most beautiful buildings in Europe. And if that’s not up your street, the capital city has awesome nightlife, party in ruins’ pubs or simply dance the night away in one of the many night clubs the city has to offer.
Iceland
Fancy going somewhere and not get eaten alive by mosquitos? Thats right. Iceland has NO mosquitos!!! Did you know it is also on the border of two tectonic plates? If you’re wanting a unique experience, dive between the Eurasia and North American plates. And if that’s not for you, relax and pamper yourself at the famous Blue Lagoon or hike to the spectacular waterfalls and marvel at volcanoes.
Italy
Pizza. Pasta. Gelato. What more could you want?
If that’s not a big enough draw, maybe the the warm, sandy beaches, beautiful lakes, stunning architecture or the breathtaking scenery will have you adding Italy straight onto your bucket list. Italy is home to some of the most amazing lake-side and coastal Airbnbs in Europe, lots of which are super affordable!
Norway
Some days all I want to do is fall asleep in a glass igloo on Svalbard under the Northern Lights. Doesn’t that just sound amazing? There are also some amazing wildlife in Norway, Orcas, Polar Bears, Puffins and huge Kittiwake colonies. If you’re looking for an adventure, hike to stand on Kjeragbolten, go dog sledding or chase the northern lights on a snowmobile.
Poland
Poland is rich with culture and history, not all of which is positive, however it is so important to remember and educate it’s importance in shaping life today and ensuring history is not repeated. If you’re not so interested in the 14 UNESCO sites Poland has to offer, explore the breathtaking natural marvels like mountain ranges and forests. Foodies, pay attention, Poland has amazing food to offer. I had a friend in secondary school who was from Poland and her mum made AMAZING food (it’s making me hungry just thinking about it), her Pierogi was to die for!
Sweden
Meatballs anyone? Sweden is known for being one of happiest countries in the world, consistently appearing on the top 10 happiest countries list year after year. If you’re a first time traveller, going solo or not, Sweden is a good place to start. Although it may be quite expensive, it is one of the safest, the only things to look out for are the occasional pickpockets and taxi drivers overcharging tourists. Sweden also have many breathtaking national parks to explore, and if you head up north, you may even see the Northern Lights.
If you have any suggestions, please leave a comment and I’ll add them to my bucket list!
If you want more inspiration, keep an eye out as I’ll be posting individual (downloadable!!!) itineraries of where I’m planning to go in each country.