Pick your paradise

COVID has kept a majority of people locked away between four walls with little opportunity for travel. Bored senseless in quarantine, many long to engage once again with the outside world. While trapped at home, I daydreamed about beautiful destinations all across the globe. 

Last summer, I had the opportunity to visit Europe for two weeks and it was eye opening for me to experience life outside of the United States. Travelling through France, Monaco, Vatican City and Italy brought a new appreciation for vibrant, unique cultures. Getting to experience even such a tiny snippet of life in foreign countries expanded my world view. 

When my trip last summer sparked my desire to travel significantly, I compiled a list with hundreds of cities. My top four dream destinations are highlighted below:

Santorini, Greece: The trademark whitewashed walls and blue domes of this Greek gem provide a distinct visual appeal to many travelers. Santorini is known for its iconic sunsets and the stunning architecture bathed in a glow makes for a pretty picture. Visitors can relax on black sand beaches and swim in crystal-clear water, or hike to the remains of the lost city of Atlantis. This city, an ideal destination for anyone who loves beach relaxation paired with rich history, also boasts some of the most unique architecture in Europe.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: This is the ideal city for anyone who has an appreciation for beauty and likes to live a little on the wild side. Mischief runs rampant in this “city of sin” and visitors definitely receive the full European party experience. While it may be considered the sin city of Europe, Amsterdam does have a calmer side. This city boasts a depth of history, gorgeous canals, colorful buildings and an abundance of spring tulips. This balance of fun and an aesthetically appealing culture draws visitors year after year. 

Bali, Indonesia: Posts from social media influencers raving about Bali constantly cover my Instagram feed. Stunning blue water, hidden waterfalls and mysterious jungles make this Indonesian island a sought-after paradise. Visitors stay in exclusive resorts and private villas, with most accommodations providing killer views that instantly make the lengthy flight worthwhile. If tropical sanctuaries with secluded beaches and natural beauty beckon, Bali should be number one on the list. 

Reykjavik, Iceland: Differing from the previous three suggestions, a trip to Reykjavik  focuses almost exclusively on natural beauty. Visitors aren’t drawn to this destination for quaint towns, tropical weather or bustling nightlife, but rather for the raw natural beauty of Iceland. One of Reykjavik’s major attractions is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal mineral hot spring that glows a stunning blue color. Many travelers embark on hiking tours of southern Iceland, visiting glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls. The Northern Lights enthrall visitors as much as the pure, unrivaled beauty of picturesque Iceland.