Traveling around the world
Visiting countries all over the world offers a unique and rich cultural experience, with diverse landscapes, wildlife, vibrant cities, and friendly people. Each country has its unique attractions, culture, festivals, and vibe. Many of us like to visit a variety of different places to soak it all in. But there are some places that keep drawing us back in. Here is a look at some of my repeat countries and they must do things while there!
My experience
I have been a traveler for some time now and in general I try my best to pick completely new countries to check out. However there are several countries I have been to more than once. So why do I keep going back? I think some of the reasons to keep going back to a place include the size of the country and how much time you have to spend and whether you want to visit for different reasons (festivals, different friends travel, different seasons, and more). These countries stand out and have to be special enough to keep me coming back for more. I hope this list inspires to you visit if you haven’t or maybe revisit again!
My List
Italy
Having visited Italy four times now, I can tell you there is so much to see and do in this country. I have visited Rome, Florence, Venice, Pisa, Sorrento, Pompeii, Milan, Bologna and Lake Como. All of these places are amazing. Also the culture, food and tourism infrastructure is incredible. Italians are super welcoming and I will definitely be coming back.
Mexico
Mexico is at the southern border of the USA so it is fairly easy to get to and has so much to offer. I have visited Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico City, Cozumel and San Miguel de Allende and that just scratches the surface of what Mexico has to offer. It is affordable, magnificently beautiful and has incredible culture and food.
Canada
Canada is at the northern border of the USA and also fairly easy for Americans to visit. I have visited Niagara Falls several times as well as Montreal, Quebec City, Calgary, Canmore, Banff and Jasper National Park. I would love to drive across Canada and Vancouver is very high on my list of places to visit. I also would love to go to Churchill to see the polar bears! Canada will always have a special place on my countries list as it was my first country I went to. It was also where Thomas and I got married!
Germany
Germany is such an incredible country! I have visited several times. A true experience is going to Oktoberfest in Munich. I have also visited Berlin, Frankfort, and the Rhine Valley where Riesling wine is made. It is a wonderful place for medieval castles, picturesque villages, and hearty food and drink. I will be back for the infamous Christmas Markets for sure!
Spain
Spain was one of my first big international trips while I was in high school. At that time I visited the iconic Madrid and Barcelona. Twenty years later, I headed back not only to Barcelona and Madrid but also Córdoba, Granada, Seville, Segovia, and Avila. The food and culture is absolutely incredible. There is no doubt in my mind, I will be back. Spain will always hold a piece of my heart!
South Africa
Having been to South Africa twice, I can tell you this should be on your bucket list. I love Cape Town, Stellenbosch, driving the Garden Route, shark diving experience, Johannesburg and going on game drives in Kruger and Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Cape Town has the iconic Table Mountain and you can take some short day trips to Stellenbosch wine country, Cape of Good Hope, Boulder’s Beach, or if adventurous consider a trip to do some shark cage diving. It is a stunningly beautiful country and you will love it!
Portugal
Portugal is such an amazing country in Europe. It is stunningly beautiful and offers so much. Also there are islands that are part of Portugal such as the Azores and Madeira. The Azores was like Europe’s Hawaii, it was so beautiful. On mainland Portugal, so far, I’ve only visited Lisbon. One of my best travel buddies lives in Portugal so I know I will be back soon! Can’t wait to explore it some more!
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a favorite for American travelers. It has beautiful beaches, jungles, volcanos and fantastic wildlife. Some of my favorite places in Costa Rica are Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Tamarindo. It is a true gem in Central America. It is very beautiful and very easy and friendly for tourism. You can splurge or do it on the cheap.
France
France is the most visited country in the world and for good reason. I have only scratched the surface on places to visit in France so I know of course I will be back. Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world and worthy of a visit or two or more! The beaches in the south like Nice and Cannes are also wonderful. On my list includes Marseilles, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Provence and more!
Bermuda
Bermuda is a picturesque island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. I had the pleasure of being able to visit twice since I had a friend who lived there for a bit. I did a solo trip to visit as well as a girls trip. It’s a tropical escape to crystal clear waters, pink sand beaches and quaint British colonial charm. It is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway!
Iceland
Iceland is known for its natural beauty and geothermal activity. It is packed with geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, beaches, wildlife and more. I have visited Iceland twice. Once in the summer where you get to experience midnight sun and warm weather and once in winter where you can ice cave and potentially see the northern lights! It is like visiting two completely different places based on the time of year you go. If you can do both!
Uganda
I have had the privilege of doing some volunteer work here. Though the volunteering brought me here, I have been stunned by the friendliness of people and all this country has to offer. Some incredible places to visit include Lake Bunyonyi, Mburo National Park, Jinja, Ssese Islands and more. I still want to see Murchison Falls, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Queen Elizabeth Park. Looks like I’ll have to go back!
Argentina
Argentina is a must for those who seek breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine and rich culture. Some of the most beautiful nature from Iguazu Falls to Patagonia. You will be inspired. Buenos Aires is bursting with culture and liveliness. I also had the most delicious steak I will probably ever have here! No doubt I will be back!
Travel musts
It is always great to go to new places but it is great to visit the same places again or the same countries again but different places. There are so many other places I want to visit for a second time. Where have you been multiple times that I should add to my list?
