30 countries to visit before 30

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30 countries before 30: how you can conquer the 30 before 30 challenge.

December 6, 2015 by Joslyn 22 Comments

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel 30 countries? How about 30 countries before 30? That is something I wasn’t able to do, as now I am a bit over 30 and since I started a family young it wasn’t in the cards for me. But, don’t let that stop you. Also, just because Chantel did 30 countries under 30 doesn’t mean this is only for those under the age of 30.

Go for the gusto, travel at any age, and check out Chantel’s journey below. Chantel is going to share with you how she traveled 30 countries before 30 and how you can too. Get your step-by-step guide to conquering 30 countries by 30 challenge.

Disclosure – This post contains affiliate links .

30 Countries Before 30 – How You Can Conquer the 30 Before 30 Challenge

At the age of 29, I challenged myself to visit 30 countries before I turned 30. And I freaking did it (finishing one week before my birthday). So, I’m sharing the story of how I conquered 30 before 30 and how you can too – if you plan ahead and prioritize your goals.

Don’t worry if you are already older than 30 – that’s just an arbitrary number. Your goal can be whatever you want it to be! Whether it’s visiting all 50 US states or every town in your region.

This is my challenge to you – create a goal, target date, budget, and plan using the resources below.

Setting the Goal – 30 Countries Before 30

At the age of 29, I decided to do something extraordinary. I wanted to mark the end of a decade and start a new chapter with an achievement worth celebrating. Then while flipping through a magazine, I saw an article about the 30 countries by 30 challenge and became instantly obsessed!

I knew it would be particularly tough as I had less than a year and my current country count was only 16. Nevertheless, I decided to go after my travel dreams! To prepare for the challenge, I began researching the “rules” and choosing my 30 before 30 countries.

Rules – 30 Countries Before 30

There are no official rules for achieving 30 before 30. It should be pretty straightforward anyway, right? Just visit 30 countries before you reach your 30th birthday. But there are two points here that should be clarified when you are setting your goals, “what counts as visiting a country” and “what counts as a country”.

Country counting is a pretty highly debated topic, some people say that you need to spend a certain amount of time in that country before it can be counted. While others consider a layover in the airport being sufficient. My personal rule is that I spent a day there (outside of the airport). Although I would love to spend more time in every place I visit, it is not always possible.

The second point is a little trickier and even authoritative sources will give a different answer. For example, the United Nations recognizes 240 countries and territories, however, the United States only recognizes 196 . For the sake of consistency and simplicity, I decided to use the list of countries in the Been app.

There is are no real 30 countries before 30 rules. And at the end of the day, your quest to is your own and you can make your own rules.

Planning to travel to 30 countries by 30

I put a plan in place to achieve my goal of visiting 30 countries before the deadline of 4 August (my 30th birthday!). The first step was cutting back on my expenses and putting money aside for travel.

I already planned to apply for a Canadian working holiday visa and move to Vancouver at the end of the year. So, I started the visa process in February. I decided that I would finish my current job in April, then take a few months in between to travel before moving to Vancouver in September (after my 30th birthday). Obviously, not everyone can or should quit their job in order to travel. Also, not all nationalities are eligible to apply for working holiday visa programs.

If it is possible, I would recommend living and working abroad. Some countries will even let you work whilst on a student visa. Not only is the experience culturally enriching, but it can also give you access to a totally different region of the world that is far away from your home country.

Strategically Choosing 30 Countries

When choosing what countries to visit for the 30 countries by 30 challenge, I decided to backpack to Southeast Asia , Europe , and Central America. If you also want to travel through Europe, it’s usually more economical to stick to the east. Fortunately, I was able to save money by staying with friends and using Couchsurfing .

By focusing on one region, you can cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. It could also be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly because reducing the number of international flights. However, if you have less time than money (or just can’t leave your job for too long) then search for nearby destinations that are still relatively affordable. I took quick trips to New Zealand and Bali (from Brisbane, QLD, Australia), as well as Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and the Caribbean (from Dallas, TX, U.S.A.).

30 Countries in 5 Trips

In the end, I managed to visit my 30th country just four days before my 30th birthday! The majority of the 30 countries I visited were within four months and on five separate trips.

• 32-day camping tour of Europe (June – July 2009)
• 1-month backpacking around South East Asia (January 2015)
• 1-week Caribbean cruise (May 2015)
• 5-week solo backpacking around Europe (June – July 2015)
• 1-week solo backpacking in Central America (July 2015).

List of 30 Countries Before 30

Here is the list of my 30 before 30 countries, including the cities I stopped in. Some of these destinations I have visited on more than one occasion, however, I have included only the most recent or relevant visits.

June to July 2009 – Group tour of Europe

1. France:  Paris, St Emilion, Arles, and Nice.

3. Austria: Vienna.

4. Liechtenstein

5. Switzerland:  Jungfraujoch Mountain and Lucerne.

6. Netherlands:  Amsterdam.

7. Indonesia:  One week vacation with friends in May 2010 to Bali and Gili Trawangan.

8. United States of America: Lived in New York City, NY from September 2011 to September 2012, Wilmington, DE from October to December 2013, and Dallas, TX from May to September 2015.

9. Brazil: Lived in Sao Paulo from September 2012 to March 2013.

January 2015 – Backpacking South East Asia

10. Thailand:   Bangkok , Chang Mai , and Krabi.

11. Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur .

12. Cambodia:  Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville.

13. Laos: Vientiane .

14. Singapore: Singapore.

15. New Zealand:  Four-day road trip to Auckland, Rotorua, and Waitomo in March 2015.

May 2015 – Cruise of the Caribbean

16.  Jamaica:  Montego Bay.

17. Cayman Islands: Grand Cayman. Visit Cayman Islands .

18. Mexico:  Cozumel.

June to July 2015 – Backpacking in Europe

19. Scotland:  Edinburgh and Glen Coe.

20. England:  London, Salisbury, and Bath.

21. Belgium:  Antwerp.

22. Germany:  Cologne, Hamburg, and Berlin.

23. Poland:  Warsaw.

24. Czech Republic:  Prague.

25. Hungary:  Budapest.

26. Slovenia: Ljubljana.

27. Italy:  Udine and Venice .

28: Spain: Madrid.

July 2015 – Backpacking in Central America

29. Nicaragua: July 2015 – Granada and Managua.

30. Costa Rica: July 2015 – Liberia.

30 before 30 challenge

Now it’s over to you! I challenge you to come up with a goal and set a deadline to reach it. The number isn’t important, whether it’s 50 US States before 50, or taking your first solo trip by the end of the year.

Not everyone will have the same resources or dreams. But by using these resources, you can create a goal, target date, budget, and plan that will help you conquer your chosen challenge!

Originally published in 2016, updated in February 2018.

What are your travel goals? Tell us about it below!

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About Joslyn

Female Travel Blogger Sharing Travel Tips, Work and Travel Tips, Budget Travel Tips and general daily life from a travel chicks point of view!

Reader Interactions

December 6, 2015 at 2:58 pm

Amazing post! Question-how did you manage to live in the states??? I have been dreaming of that forever! So bloody jealous!

Chantell Collins says

December 6, 2015 at 5:48 pm

Hi Toni, thanks for the comments :). The first time I lived in the USA was on a J1 working visa, sponsored by Grow USA. That was back in 2011 and at that time you need to be currently studying or a recent graduate.

December 6, 2015 at 8:58 pm

Great post! Very inspirational I’m 29 in January…perhaps I should trya a 30 before 30 list too! I’m currently at 22 countries, and I’m leaving New Zealand in a month to travel back to the UK through Asia…It’s definitely do-able, so watch this space! 🙂

December 6, 2015 at 9:51 pm

Hi Gemma, awesome! It is definitely doable in that amount of time and SE Asia is a great place to travel as it so cheap and easy to get from one country to another. Go for it! 🙂

nannymookay says

December 9, 2015 at 1:40 am

Beautiful written Chan ,,,,Living yr dream ,,,Lots of love xxxx

December 9, 2015 at 2:22 am

Thanks Nanny! That’s so nice of you to say. Love you too xxx

Rosiescapes says

December 9, 2015 at 12:32 pm

cool article. mine is 50 by age 50.

December 9, 2015 at 12:49 pm

Great goal! Definitely let us know how you go 🙂

annastraveltribute says

January 1, 2016 at 11:46 am

Wow! That’s a dream! 🙂

January 1, 2016 at 11:47 am

Thanks Anna! It’s definitely achievable for anyone 🙂

Pam @ Skinny chick travelling says

January 9, 2016 at 9:01 am

Can’t believe you were so close and didn’t come to Croatia 😛

January 9, 2016 at 9:45 am

I know! I was actually planning to but I ran out of time. We will most likely be based in Europe from September, so will have plenty opportunities to explore the beautiful Croatia!

Anita H. E. says

January 18, 2016 at 5:13 am

Guess I’ll have to try for 50 countries before 50 🙂 That leaves me a few years to complete as I’ve just turned 39 and so far I’ve visited 21 countries but I’ve barely travelled the last decade due to different cirumstances. I hope to travel a lot more the comming decade!

January 18, 2016 at 9:26 am

Hi Anita! It is totally possible – you should definitely go for it :). You could either go one huge trip, a few big ones or many smaller ones but it’s definitely doable if you break it down and plan it out. So exciting! Let us know how you get on 🙂

Shayan Naveed says

June 28, 2016 at 10:13 am

Wow, that is amazing! Almost 15 countries in just 1 year! I’m 31 and I haven’t even hit double digits yet!!! Biggest mistake not covering more when I was younger or going on trips with parents (like US and countries in Europe).

I guess I’ll have to aim for 40 by 40. I’m at 9, 10 soon.

But it’s not easy for me…for many reasons: being Pakistani and having a full time job (I could never quit a job even if I could)

June 30, 2016 at 12:03 am

Hi Shayan, thanks for the comment! I know that everyone’s situation is different and it doesn’t necessarily have to a specific number by a specific birthday (e.g. 30 before 30). There are many, many people who traveled to more countries than I did before they were 30. And that’s okay, we are all on different paths. I didn’t start traveling until I was 23 and since then have been lucky that I was able to take the time off work and move internationally. Not everyone will have the same opportunities. I think that the most important thing is having a goal that means something to you. A goal that is attainable but still challenging. Like visiting certain places by a certain date or exploring a particular area e.g. visit Paris in the next two years (or whatever it is that you are dreaming of!). 🙂

Mike Clegg from TravelAndDestinations says

January 11, 2018 at 5:38 pm

Congratulations on visiting 30 countries before 30! That’s awesome! It definitely helps when you visit Europe and Asia as it’s quite cheap and easy to travel between countries and knock of a good handful in one go! Good luck with the next 30 ?

January 12, 2018 at 5:49 pm

Thanks Mike! That’s so nice. Actually I think I am up to about 56 now at 32 and most of the recent ones were from spending a year based in Europe and traveling around. Europe is great because it has so many countries, cultures, and languages all close together and is easy to travel around.

Rachel says

September 1, 2021 at 8:40 pm

This is so cool! I’m turning 33 this month, and I will finally hit my 30th country next month. My goal before 30 was to go to every continent. I hit 6 of the 7 (not Antartica because I refuse to go in debt over traveling) by the time I was 29 which was extremely cool. Keep on traveling!

Sheila Thomas says

September 2, 2021 at 8:12 am

Happy Birthday 🙂 I turn 50 on Sept 9th, and haven’t done all these countries. I am Sheila, I imported all these amazing posts about world travel from a site I took over from a woman named Chantell. She was living her best life for sure. Glad you like it. I know a gal who’s husband took her to Antartica.. and for a 2 week trip I think they spent over $10k – That would be lots of smaller trips for me. hahaha

[…] someone who has traveled frequently for the past six years and to over 60 countries, I am always looking for ways to save money. Thanks to these travel hacks, I rarely ever pay the […]

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30 Before 30: Visiting 30 Countries before Hitting the Big 3-0

last Updated: December 14, 2020

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Do you have a travel dream of visiting 30 countries in 30 years? A 30 by 30 bucket list if you will? I just achieved that status! Come check out the countries I went in my first 30 years!

Phew! Goal achieved! 30 countries in 30 years!

Can’t believe I can actually say that! Nor did I think I’d ever make it to 30 countries. In my life.

I wasn’t always as travel obsessed as I am now. Sure, I highly enjoyed the occasional family vacation (usually to a warm place like the Caribbean..), but it wasn’t until my mid-20’s did my love for travel actually become an obsession.

Like, I can’t NOT travel now. I just can’t. It’s part of my normal life.

Every break I have from work (and I’m lucky to work in a school and have a decent amount of holiday time), you can find me in a different country (or that’s how I’d like it to be). Short three-day weekend? Road trip, here we go! Week off for Spring Break? Hello Asia! THREE months off for summer? Backpacking around Europe it is! No one to come with me? Oh well, I’ll go alone!

While I’d like to say I don’t pick new travel experiences in order to cross more destinations off my (never-ending) list , I’d be lying.  There, I said it.  Nothing like being brutally honest on the internet, right? 

Especially since it was my aim to achieve/visit 30 countries by the time I turned the dreaded 30. Although, I’ve heard 30 is the new 20, right? (Just amuse me and say yes…).

With that being said, I did it! I’ve visited 30 countries in 30 years!   And I’ve still got my entire 30th year to add to that! Hoping to add in Japan , more of Croatia , more of Canada , another European country or two, and someplace epic next winter by the time I turn 31.  And then maaaaaybe it’ll be time to start thinking about real life… ha.

[EDIT: As you know, I turned 30; it’s not so bad. And I jumped out of a plane to celebrate – more on that another time. ]  😛

I visited some of these countries a while ago (some even 20 years ago), so it makes sense that I don’t remember much from some. You’re getting the main highlights from me. Photos help, but there’s only so much they can do. Must be the start of old age…

Reality Check/Disclaimer: I actually started this behemoth of a blog post years ago, back when I had just turned the ripe old age of 29 (which I then thought was a ridiculously crazy-old age). Fast forward three years, and I finally forced myself to finish the post (boy were the pictures, um, shall we say, interesting to look at). I also dug up a lot of old stuff that brought back a ton of old memories, some of which I’d like to just completely erase from my brain, let alone post in public on the internet (Ohhh my early 20s, SMH).

I’m leaving all my original words from when I started this piece, and just adding text when a section was not yet completed. To say this post took me forever and a day to write is no understatement. I’m now well into my thirties (approaching 33, ack!), but I’ve decided to obviously only list the 30 countries I visited before turning the dreaded 3-0. See all the places I’ve been to since then , upping the country count to ~45!

Also, when I made this list, I expected a few (like the Virgin Islands, St Martin, and the Cayman Islands) to be countries. Now that I’m older and wiser, I learned that they are actually NOT separate countries, but territories of different nations.

I guess this post should technically be titled “28 countries by age 30”, but there’s absolutely no ring to that, so we’ll keep the original uninformed title and blame it on my young, undeveloped mind. 

My 30 Countries in 30 Years >> COMPLETED:

I’ve sorted this list in chronological order for some good fun…

1. Canada [1990’s + multiple times after that]

>> Toronto | St. Johns | Halifax | Niagara Falls

Makes sense that Canada was my first international trip, as it’s kinda right there! I honestly don’t remember my official first time hopping the border as I was too young.

My first real Canadian memory was when my family and I took a Canadian Cruise back in 2008.  We visited St. Johns and Halifax, and I remember my sister and I obsessing over moose and the fact that we had to wear sweatshirts in May (isn’t it funny what our young brains choose to remember?).

During my college years, Canada was a much more frequent occurrence since I studied at SUNY Buffalo, a hop, skip, and jump away from Niagara on the Lake.  Friends and I visited frequently to see the falls, drink legally, and gamble our little teenage hearts out.

Ah, the college years – I’ll never forget the time we filled a bathtub with ice to keep our numerous liquor bottles cold. I’ve also been to Toronto once or twice (I honestly can’t remember) to visit some family friends in the area, but am not entirely sure what we ended up doing. There’s still SO much of Canada I want to see, and I’m hoping 2017 includes much more of my sister country up north ( Banff / Vancouver /Quebec/ Montreal to name a few…).

[ 2019 EDIT : 2017 was apparently the year of Canadian exploration for me! I checked off all those places on my Canada Bucket List list above, and added on Whistler as well! And in 2019? More time in my neighbor up north! I froze my freezing butt off in Banff , and then returned to the region for a road trip in Banff and Jasper !]

2. Barbados [late 90’s or early 2000’s // 2011] 

Besides visiting Barbados on a day trip via cruise in 2011, I also took a family vacation to the island when I was much younger with my parents and younger sister. Those banana boat memories will never be forgotten, and I’d kill for a chance to see those photos now!  *Must ask mom next time I’m in NYC.*

Thankfully on our next visit, I was old enough to sample the Rum Cake and appreciate the island for more than its beaches. We visited the capital city of Bridgetown, plenty of lookout points, and the oldest church on the island. Yeah, I think I’d go back to Barbados one day…

3. US Virgin Islands [early 2000s // 2011 // 2016]

>> St. Thomas | St. John

I consider myself extremely lucky that I grew up with parents who not only loved to cruise around the Caribbean, but let my sister and I tag along. Because of this, I’ve been to the Caribbean more times than I can count (thanks mom and dad!), and therefore my love of the (ever-so-beautiful turquoise Caribbean Sea) water is never-ending. 

I learned how to snorkel in these clear blue waters, and it’s since become one of my favorite activities whenever visiting a destination with sea life. We traveled to St. Thomas quite a few times together, and most recently, St. John, which I highly recommended as a day trip from St. Thomas whether you’re visiting via cruise ship or not.  Unremarkably beautiful. Don’t miss Magen’s Bay, a walk around the harbor, Sapphire Beach, and Charlotte Amalie.

4. Belize [2003, 2013]

>> Belize City | San Pedro

My first official visit to Belize was a doozy and one I hardly remember via cruise ship, hence being a young teen and therefore only interested in pool hopping on the boat and the unlimited ice cream on board.  Our group had signed up for a tubing tour in Belize, and besides the bus breaking down, all I can remember was lots of brown muddy water, causing me to think Belize lacked the bright blue sandy beaches we were promised.

Thankfully, I was able to rediscover this little gem 10 years later after spontaneously booking a Christmas/New Year’s Eve trip to San Pedro with some colleagues/girlfriends. 

We treated ourselves to massages on the beach, drove around in golf carts (the primary mode of transport on the little island), drank too many coconuts and 2-for-1 specials at local beach bars, went cave tubing in the pouring rain (which just added to the level of excitement), watched chickens compete in the chicken drop (a local favorite), scrambled up Mayan ruins, and snorkeled in Belize’s vast, turquoise reefs.

5. Cayman Islands [2005]

Ohhh… the stingrays!  We visited Grand Cayman as another destination on a cruise, and took an excursion out to Stingray City.  And yes, it’s exactly as it sounds – tons of slimy stingrays swimming all around you! Since then, I’ve swam with stingrays in Belize and Tahiti as well, but back then, this was a pretty epic experience for me! Still need to dig up a photo or two from that trip!

6. England [2008 // 2016]

>> London

My first time across the pond to Europe really ignited my love for travel, when I visited my high-school best friend once she had completed her study-abroad program.  We managed 4 countries and 6 cities during a short 2-week span, and while it felt extremely rushed, I’m grateful she did all the planning.

Let’s just say my geography wasn’t the greatest was absolutely despicable back then. As in, I didn’t know if London was a city or a country… yes, embarrassing but true.

We managed a bunch of the main tourist sites throughout London, but considering how fast-paced it all was, I can’t tell you what we did or saw. 

I briefly visited London again this past year, but only managed to make it out of my hostel for a quick bite at a typical London pub (and I didn’t even like fish and chips at the time, silly me). I think a return trip to England (and London in particular) is in the cards for the near future.

[ 2019 EDIT : I recently re-visited London on a quick solo jaunt to the city this past summer, and kinda sorta already wanna go back….]

7. Italy  [2008 // 2016]

>> Rome (x2) | Amalfi Coast | Venice (x2) | Taormina, Sicily | Florence | Pisa | Lake Como | Verona | Paratico

Ah, Italy. One of my favorites. I’m grateful that I’ve gotten to see quite a bit of this country, with Rome being the first (and only) city I visited in 2008.  And that’s when my love affair with bucatini began. I remember it raining a whole bunch, but we made the best of it and wandered around with our umbrellas. Plus, we were in Italy !

This past summer, my whirlwind of a Europe trip (2 months solo ), took me back to my beloved Rome with my husband (more pizza, fresh pasta, and gelato, please!), and a quite a few more cities/areas, including Venice (twice), Naples and the Amalfi Coast , Taormina (in Sicily), Florence, Pisa, Lake Como, Verona, and the cutest little town called Paratico. 

I’d gush about each one, but I’m guessing you didn’t expect a novel. Oh, how I’d love to be back in Italy, like tomorrow.

8. France [2008]

>> Paris | Cannes | Nice

It rained again during my (first and only – so far!) trip to Paris (can a sense a theme of my first Euro-trip back in 2008?). We did however, make it to a bunch of the city sights, and tried hard to not let the rain deter us from visiting (and loving!) this famous city. 

The Eiffel at night is just spectacular you guys, no matter what the weather. We actually walked up the Eiffel Tower (it was cheaper than taking the elevator), and then walked up the Notre Dame the very next day. Hey, stairs = extra macarons and croissants, am I right?

We were lucky enough to be visiting at the exact time of the 2008 Cannes Film Festival, so we found ourselves in the midst of movie premiers, paparazzi, and the “Kung Fu Panda” red carpet event.  I still have yet to see the movie though… whoops! Old Cannes was something for the books, and getting lost on those cobblestone streets lugging our bags to our hostel is a memory I’ll unfortunately never forget.

[ 2019 EDIT : I spent a glorious few days re-visiting Paris in the summer of 2019, where I learned how to make macarons from a local chef, spent a ridiculous amount of hours listening to live music at the Trocadero, and ate enough chocolate croissants to feed a small army.]

9. Switzerland  [2008 // 2016]

>> Geneva | Jungfrau | Lucerne | Interlaken | Wilderswil

The first time I ventured into Switzerland [Geneva] was simply for that high-school best friend to say that, yes, she had been to Switzerland (not that I was complaining the least bit).  And yes, we made it, but it rained for our entire visit! It downright poured – we were drenched our entire 48 hours in the country.

Being poor college students, we had no money so attempted to do very-expensive-Geneva on a tight tight shoestring budget: staying at the cheapest hostel we could find, using our student cards for discounts at the Red Cross Museum, and walking around Lake Geneva in the pouring rain (hey, it was a free activity), with our one main splurge being huge vats of Gruyère cheese fondue.  Boy, was that the best decision we made all weekend.

My second trip into Switzerland was much more enjoyable, as the skies were sunny and I actually had some money to blow.  I spent a day riding the cogwheel train to the “Top of Europe”, Jungfrau, which utterly blew me away (literally and figuratively, it was pretty windy at times)! 

On the way up, we passed dozens of waterfalls, super charming little towns, and spectacular scenery. The views atop the mountain were unsurpassable, as was playing in the snow in the middle of June. 

Other days were spent admiring the beautiful Lucerne, heading into Interlaken for a rainy dinner date with some special people (then running back to the hotel in the pouring rain), and staying in the absolute cutest town nearby called Wilderswil. Hows that for a name?

10. Vatican City [2008 // 2016]

Confession time: before I went to Rome I hadn’t even realized that the Vatican was technically another country.  It’s square footage is so tiny, yet so utterly encompassing all at the same time. While I didn’t have a run-in with the Pope, the buildings were truly fascinating as was the Sistine Chapel, of course.

Shh – I may or may not have snuck a few pictures in forbidden photo-taking spots… both times. Don’t tell my mom.

11. Dominican Republic [2010]

>> Punta Cana

The DR was the first international trip my then-boyfriend-now-husband took together.  We stayed at an all-inclusive in Punta Cana and didn’t leave the resort, so while not getting the most cultural experience, we enjoyed the beach and the mamajuana (super strong!). 

A few of the excursions seemed super appealing (like that one to “Starfish Island”), but the trip was a stretch financially back then, so we couldn’t spend additional money on extra optionals.  Next time! We did go parasailing above the beach though!

12. St. Kitts [2011 // 2016]

Another country “checked off” via cruise ship (multiple times), and although I’ve only spent a brief amount of time here, I feel like I’ve seen the best of the best of this tiny little island.  Being so small at only 65 square miles in total, I feel like the few days spent will suffice for now.

We explored Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, historic Romney Manor (once owned by ancestors of Thomas Jefferson!), and were greeted with the most magnificent view from Frigate Bay. Oh, and lots of more-than-marvelous family beach time, of course!

13. St. Lucia [2011]

Of all the Caribbean islands I’ve seen (and if you haven’t noticed I’ve been lucky to visit a whole bunch – again, thanks mom!), I think St. Lucia is the one that intrigues me the most. 

Not only was the trip full of lush, green mountains (dubbed The Pitons), hidden white-sanded beaches only accessible by boat, and the most gracious hospitality, but we were able to pick our own bananas, taste traditional local foods (banana ketchup, anyone?), and marvel at the most amazing viewpoints.  And plus, parts of St. Lucia were featured in Pirates of the Caribbean, so hello… best island out there. Period.

Those pitons are calling my name again and I’d LOVE to go back and bring my husband this time around.  We actually haven’t been back to the Caribbean -together- since our trip to the Dominican Republic in 2010!

14. St. Martin [2011]

Being the 7th island-nation on this list, it’s apparent the Caribbean has a soft spot in my heart. While we didn’t do anything too specific to St. Martin, I do remember a shit-ton of beach time, drinking a few Caribs, admiring the bay, and visiting an outdoor craft market. What a colorful place!

15. Israel [2011] – Birthright!

>> Jerusalem | Tel Aviv | Negev Desert | Dead Sea | Masada

My whirlwind of a trip to Israel was just that – new locations every single day , new foods to be tried at every meal, and new spaces and faces everywhere I turned. And I have Birthright Israel to thank for such an inspiring experience.

Birthright’s an organization who sends Jewish young adults to Israel on a complimentary mini-tour of the country (in order to learn about our Jewish upbringing and life in Israel there today – as well as eat ALL the food). 

A few of the experiences my group was able to partake in: swimming in the Dead Sea, riding camels in the Negev Desert (where I unfortunately fell off a donkey …), going rafting in the Jordan River, partaking in an eating frenzy in the traditional markets , experiencing the booming nightlife in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, sleeping in a Bedouin tent and interacting with the locals, and spending ample time with soldiers our own ages in the Israeli Army.  We also hiked up and down Mount Masada and watched the most beautiful sunrise at the top.

The Middle East is just so fascinating (unbeknownst to most), full of color and life and (delicious) FOOD — I’ve got to get myself back there and properly explore.

16. Greece [2012 Honeymoon // 2016]

>> Santorini | Mykonos | Crete | Athens | Hydra | Poros | Aegina | Delphi | Meteora

Ah, Greece.  I’d go back every single year if I could.  My first trip to the country was on a 2-week romantic island-hopping honeymoon to Santorini , Mykonos , and Crete, where we went sailing, hiked an active volcano, spent time at red-sanded, black-sanded, and white-sanded beaches, went scuba diving for the first time, explored the tiny cobblestone streets, and marveled at the blue-domed churches of quintessential Oia. 

We also took an ATV around one of the islands (which almost didn’t make it up a steep hill), had a frantic few hours trying to fill up our rental car in Crete after hours, and missed our original flight to Athens, therefore missing our one day in the city entirely.

Greece was a special spot on my Europe itinerary this past summer, as I visited quite a few new places, including Delphi , Meteora , and 3 new Greek Islands – Hydra, Poros, and Aegina .  My husband came to meet me in Athens where we explored for a few days (where, unlike most, I loved everything about it), before setting off to our beloved Santorini again for a quick visit.

17. French Polynesia [2014]

>> Tahiti | Moorea | Bora Bora

Confession time: I have a napkin on my fridge with a few destinations in mind that I’d like to tick off before life really settles down.  And while Bora Bora is most definitely on that list, I had originally thought we’d save it for our 5-year-anniversary (which just passed this past June #timedoesflymyfriends).

Little did I know all of my husbands airline miles and hotel points would come in handy so quickly, as we were jetting off to Tahiti and Bora Bora for our soon-after wedding anniversary (second honeymoon, anyone?!).  All my Bora Bora money saving tips riiiight over here.

We visited Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora , and the islands got even more spectacular as the trip went on. By far the clearest, most turquoise water I’ll ever lay eyes on, and yes, we stayed in an over water bungalow each and every night, thanks to hotel points of course. 

By day, we explored the beaches, went swimming with reef sharks, kayaked, snorkeled, rice ATVs up mountains and pineapple fields, and let ourselves be lazy. Come night, we marveled at the sunsets and got freaked out by the sharks and other creatures which swam right beneath our little bungalow. Yes, true story.

18. Guatemala [2015]

>> Antigua | Lake Atitlan | Chichicastenango | Guatemala City | Pacaya

Guatemala took me by surprise . Before heading south to this Central American country, I honestly had zero expectations. All I had previously heard was that Guatemala was as unsafe as they come and downright dirty – no place for a 20 something female to be headed.

Well, my friends, Guatemala turned out to be an absolute highlight of my year, as I quickly fell in love with this highly underrated country with the tourism board (perks of being a travel blogger). We hiked up an active volcano (and roasted marshmallows from its intense heat), explored the super colorful yet charming city of Antigua , played with local kids on black sand beaches, went sail fishing for fish larger than me (I caught one!), and ate more delicious food than I can remember. Did someone say horchata? 

I think I want to come for a few months and brush up on my Spanish while taking a language immersion class- something to add to the bucket list!

19. Mexico [2015]

>> Cabo San Lucas | Playa del Carmen | Tulum | Chichen Itza | Cozumel

Despite Mexico being pretty darn close to the US, I hadn’t made it to my neighbor down south until a few years ago, when I was 28.

For years (and I mean years!), my husband had this obsession of re-doing Vegas for his 30th birthday. He absolutely loved the weird, off-beat city on our first visit (don’t know why, Vegas doesn’t appeal to me so much), so when he claimed he’d rather go to Cabo to celebrate his 30th, I was all over that.

We lounged pool side for days with unlimited cocktails in hand, loving life at our adults-only all-inclusive. Snorkeling, sunsetting, and lots of (FREE!) sushi was how we spent the long weekend in Cabo .

Guess we didn’t get Meh-hi-ko out of our system because we were back in another part of the country for winter break that same year. We based ourselves in the bustling Playa del Carmen, and took day trips to Tulum, Chitzen Itza, and Cozumel. We swam in cenotes, went down the lazy river at Xcaret, and ate more tacos than humanly possible. Yea, we had a good time I’d say (despite the rain on our one and only beach day!).

[ 2019 EDIT : Since turning 30, I spent a glorious few weeks eating my brains out in Mexico City , exploring the colorful streets of San Miguel de Allende , and day-tripping to Hierve al Agua in Oaxaca . I’m longing to go back to brush up on my Spanish and dive right back into life in CDMX . I think a return trip to Mexico is in store for 2020, perhaps for my birthday?!]

20. + 21. Aruba [2016] & Curacao [2016] 

I told you my family loves cruising! Aruba and Curacao (yes, 2 separate countries) were other spots on our latest family vacation (along with the  already visited ports of St. Kitts and St. Thomas).

All the islands are kinda becoming a blur to me now (despite visiting less than 5 years ago), but I remember strolling around Oranjestad, getting in some beach time at Eagle Beach, dining at the Bread Basket (ok, Foursquare told me that), and pretending to be a guest at the fancy schmancy Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Spa. 

On Curacao, we visited a liqueur distillery (helloooo free samples of blue Curaçao), soaked up the baby blue waters of Mambo beach, and explored the Rif Fort. A fair share of gawking at all the colorful buildings in the port of course happened as well. Oh, and the sister and I got matching sunglasses that broke nearly a week later. 

Those crystal clear turquoise waters and colorful umbrellas of the southern Caribbean keep calling my family’s name. Maybe I can convince my parents to do a redo soon?

[ 2019 EDIT : It’s still the closest I’ve been to South America. Should probably knock Colombia or another country down there off my list sometime soon…]

22. Montenegro [2016]

>> Kotor | Perast

Ohhhh, Montenegro . An absolute surprise of 2016. Out of all 30 countries visited by turning 30, this one was probably the least expected. Because I had never heard of it before :p

Sure, we only had one short day in this tiny town hidden by towering limestone cliffs, but we sure packed a lot in! To start off our morning, we hauled our bums up the 1,000+ stone steps to the top of the Kotor Fortress. Well worth it for those unparalleled views of Kotor Bay.

By the time we climbed back down, we had worked up an appetite, so a hearty lunch of bruschetta and mussels was in order and downright delicious.  Plus, a gelato never hurt anyone; we had definitely earned it! So many cute kitties (as well as winding streets and squares) in the Old Town where we ate!

The afternoon was spent lazing on a boat headed to Perast and Our Lady of the Peace, two highly recommended (and downright beautiful) spots right off the coastline. I think we’ll be back to Kotor, and Montenegro in general, in the future.

 A few days would have been ideal, but there’s always a next time!

23. Spain [2016]

>> Barcelona

We (husband and I) first visited Barcelona on the tail-end of a Mediterranean cruise (the one that went to Santorini, Kotor, Taormina (Sicily), Athens, and the Amalfi Coast).

I remember staring at too much Gaudi architecture, eating too many tapas, and walking up too many hills to catch a panoramic view of the city from the Bunkers del Carmel (well worth it though). We indulged our gluttonous selves in a few too many churros con chocolate (which we found at the airport as a last resort, haha), skipped the line at La Sagrada Familia ( still not completed), and drank all the fresh fruit juice and tasty empanadas at Mercado de la Boqueria.

And to be completely honest? I just didn’t “get” Barcelona the first time around. I thankfully revisited roughly a year later with my sister, and discovered my intense love for the city then.

[ 2019 EDIT : During my 30th year, I also visited Valencia, Sevilla, and Granada, but do I count that in this list of places I’ve been before 30? I’m really not sure. But hey, they were all wonderful and I’d love to visit again in the future.]

24. Slovenia [2016]

>> Lake Bled | Ljubljana | Postojna Caves

Lake Bled was a dream. An absolute dream. We roamed around the lake (stopping every .3 seconds for photos), took lots of photos of the friendly swans, befriended local fisherman, and took a row boat to the island in the middle of the lake for even more overwhelming views.

I also stopped in Ljubljana for a quick day, and remember checking out the castle, walking everywhere, and remarking on how clean the city really was. We chased dragons at the Dragon Bridge, walked along the river, and hid from the rain. Taking the funicular railway to Ljubljana Castle was definitely a highlight, despite the intense cloud cover impacting the views a bit (and blowing my hair in 23534634 directions- the photos are 500% hilarious).

Hmmmm, Postojna Caves. I honestly don’t remember too much about it, besides taking a long-ish underground train ride into the caves and wandering around the stalagmites and other features of the fascinating subterranean paradise. And then the lights went off (yes, intentionally). It was as dark as possible – I’m talking like, I couldn’t even see my fingers. Talk about a spooky experience in Slovenia. 

25. Croatia [2016]

>> Pag Island | Zadar

Sunny, sunny Croatia. My time was spent with lazy days strolling around town, hitting up the beaches, mesmerizing at the moonlike landscape, searching for Pag cheese, and learning about lace (the little island’s specialty).  Oh, and getting kinda crazy at night at Zrce Beach.

Anyone looking for an epic, festival-ish experience, put Zrce Beach on your bucket list. It’s absolutely wild in all the right ways – we face painted/stickered our faces, partied under the strobe lights, danced alongside the sweaty Croatians on the pebbly beach, and didn’t make it home until after 4am. Yeah, I used to be a good time (haha).

We took a quick little day trip to Zadar (after literally running to make the only possible bus), and climbed the bell tower for tantalizing views over the city, listened to the natural music of the sea organ, and wandered the old town. 

[2019 EDIT: Ohhh Croatia, how I miss you dearly, despite your cold showers and disgusting heat, humidity, and summer crowds. In 2018, I found myself back for a good 10 days of solo travel to explore much more of the country – Split, Plitvice Lakes, Krka National Park, Hvar, Dubrovnik , Elaphite Islands, and more.]

26. Germany [2016]

>> Munich | Berlin | Romantic Road | Rothenburg ob der Tauber | Neuschwanstein Castle | Dresden | Andechs

Germany was the kick-off country and final goodbye to my  European Summer “backpacking” trip when I was 29. While the whole 10-week trip was quite a blur (learned the hard way that cramming too much in too little time is not always the best idea), I do have a few specific memories of Germany.

In Munich, there were schnitzels consumed (as well as sausages, giant pretzels, and German Burger King, of course), walks around the Karlsplatz and Marienplatz (which are just oh so fun to say), and gawking at the Nymphenburg Palace (also fun to say) and its surrounding gardens.

I found Berlin to be so incredibly hip and trendy (maybe too trendy for my basic butt), effortlessly cool, and oh so bad for the waistline. Besides for a day of rain, I fell in love with this chic city – getting history lessons about all things war at the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall, the Holocost Memorial, and the Topography of Terror.

We wandered around Alexanderplatz, ate too much Amorino (those flower-shaped ice creams with limitless flavors) and currywurst/bratwurst. Oh, there was a little Primark action going on as well, because, ya know, Europe.

The Romantic Road, and the picturesque village Rothenburg ob der Tauber in particular, charmed my socks off with it’s medieval old town. My time consisted of walking around the walled town, getting bombarded with Christmas everything (even in July!), and stuffing my face with fried balls of pie crust called schneeballen. It’s quite literally a fairytale dream town (quite the theme during my time in Germany).

Schloss Neuschwanstein (I quickly learned schloss is castle in German) was a place I had been wanting to get to for a while, and seeing this fairytale come to life was absolutely incredible. Besides one of our group members getting in trouble for taking photos inside (a big, big no-no) and one of the main viewpoints being closed, it was still worth it to see the inspiration for so many Disney classics.

It’s safe to say I’ll be re-visiting Bavaria on future trips to Europe.

27. Austria [2016]

>> Innsbruck | Salzburg | Austrian Alps

Austria will always hold a special place in my heart, as it’s where I met the most wonderful people. First up was Innsbruck, where I spent hours and hours just walking the little city (day and night), missing the funicular back down, sharing some ice creams, and picking out my new dream house in the middle of town (first choice was the one with the Golden Roof).

It was also there on the bus in Austria watching The Sound of Music that I realized that sweet, sweet song my mom sang to my sister and I growing up was actually not made up – but from that movie! Talk about chills! I had no idea. 

Although I was super pumped up for paragliding, the whole experience was rather underwhelming (I’m allll about honesty over here). I thought running/jumping off the side of a mountain sounded kinda insane (…and it still does), but that was the only adrenaline rush I got during the whole activity.

Sure the views below were outstanding, as was floating in mid-air with just a harness, parachute, and 200 pound man attached to me. (Guess that’s why I decided on skydiving as my next adrenaline-pumping activity).

And on those meadows in the alps with hardly anyone there (once we descended from the air of course)… we may or may not have taken our tops off. Sorry mom – it was just us girls! Afterwards, we literally ran through the meadows and sang our little Austrian hearts out. 

Later on in the trip I took a lovely day trip to Salzburg and the Lakes District, admiring all the impeccably designed gardens in the Mirabellgarten, climbing up some streets for views of the city, and checking out all the pastel-colored architecture. Of course there was a torrential downpour just as soon as we started the boat tour on Wolfgangsee Lake (just my luck), but the mountains were still some of the best I’ve seen.

I have family roots in Austria (and Poland – adding that to the list right now) and would love to see where I come from – guess that means a return trip is in order!

28. Liechtenstein [2016]

>> Vaduz

Liechtenstein, one of the smallest countries in the world (and one I still cannot spell)! Coming from Austria and on the way to Switzerland, we stopped for lunch in Liechtenstein, a country I knew very little about (considering I had just heard its name a day or two prior).

But after seeing it’s alpine landscapes and tiny villages from the bus window, I knew it’d be a place I fell for. Vaduz, the capital city we visited, excited me more than I realized. Unfortunately, we didn’t have much time here.

But I couldn’t complain about breakfast in Austria, lunch in Liechtenstein, and dinner in Switzerland: 3 meals in three different countries in just one day – something not many people can say they did, I reckon.

29. Czech Republic [2016]

>> Prague

Despite the rainy days (it always seems to rain when I’m in Europe…), we made the best use of our time by crossing the historic Charles Bridge numerous times, walking down Golden Lane (although missed out on all the houses because we didn’t feel like paying up), meandering around Josefov (the Jewish quarter), checking out the graffiti on the Lennon Wall, watching the Astronomical Clock (which is still operating today!) in Old Town Square, and exploring Prague Castle.

My time in Prague wouldn’t have been complete without a night out to Karlovy Lazne, one of the largest nightclubs in Europe spread over 5 floors (with different music on each one and crowded beyond belief), as well as some scrumptious bites of trdelnik.

I definitely want to re-visit Prague in better weather.

30. Netherlands [2016]

  >> Amsterdam

We walked around the museum-plex, taking pictures at the iAmsterdam sign among 1,000s of other tourists, ate too many piping hot chocolate-covered stroopwafels, sampled too much cheese, took a stroll in Vondelpark, dodged about a million bikers, and watched a stunning sunset via canal cruise. We unfortunately didn’t buy Anne Frank tickets ahead of time, so I missed out on visiting her house (something I definitely want to do in the future).

Although no coffee shops were involved, we did venture into a few sex shops, and there was that one night at a live sex show in the Red Light District. Let’s just say watching people have sex a few feet away on stage isn’t something I can pretend didn’t happen to my eyes.

And yes, in true Jess fashion, I was too scared to go on a bike tour with my new-found friends, so just ate a bunch of things instead.

31. USA [born and raised]

And since we’re technically counting countries here, I can’t leave out the country I was born and raised, the good ‘ol US of A.  I’ve been lucky to live right by two of the most desired cities in the entire country (NYC and SF ), and aim to make the most of that!

While I absolutely love visiting other countries and learning about the culture, eating their food, and marveling in all the scenic hot spots, there’s nothing like getting to know your own country better.  I’ve made it a personal goal to explore this vast space we call the good ol’ US of A. Full post on that coming up soon eventually – be on the lookout for 30+ USA hot spots I’ve visited sometime before I turn 40 (ha!)

[2019 Update: Yeahhhh, this post will probably never happen, despite already having 2500+ words written on it. I’m the queen of half-started, never-completed blog posts. Whoops.]

Since turning 30, I’ve also visited Japan , explored WAY more of Canada and Mexico, lots more of Spain, experienced culture shock in Morocco , Portugal, Indonesia , took an epic road trip in Norway , spent a few days in St. Petersburg (Russia), sneaked in a quick visit to Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Helsinki, and traveled around Croatia , Bosnia , Thailand , and Taiwan . 

I also managed to make it to Hong Kong , Singapore , Iceland , and Panama . Oh, and Hawaii and few times. 😉 I’ve certainly got lots to write about!

Is it one of your goals to visit 30 countries in 30 years?  If so, where have you been so far and how many more countries do you need to check off?

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July 15, 2020 at 5:26 am

Even if it was one of my goals I can't do this anymore. lol. I'm 35 now, too late. I'm seating at 38 countries, maybe 39. Hopefully will do 40 before 40, lol.

July 16, 2020 at 2:26 pm

40 by 40 sounds like a great goal for you! And you're so, so close!

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30 After 30: The Thirty Best Travel Destinations for 30+ Travelers

A few months ago I set out to write a “30 Before 30” “bucket list” travel guide.  Thirty things that every traveler should do before they turn thirty.  I quickly realized that was a ridiculous idea, as it would take a pretty broad stretch of the imagination to identify thirty different things that would appeal to any and every twenty-something traveler.  Plus, assuming that eighteen is the age of majority in your region, that really only gives you twelve years of independent adulthood to work your way through thirty different travel challenges.  Who’s got time for that?

I knew I had to shift my thinking.  I started to wonder why we focus so much on the years between eighteen and thirty, when it’s actually the years after that when we’re more likely to have the ability, time, money, knowledge, skills and confidence to embark on life-changing travel adventures.  Screw “thirty before thirty” (in the nicest way possible, of course)… I wanted to make a “thirty after thirty” list of the destinations around the world that are truly worth waiting for .  

I reached out to more than twenty-five other “seasoned” travel writers and asked them to share their favorite destinations for travelers in their thirties, forties, fifties and beyond.  From opulent luxury getaways to once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters to complete cultural immersion, they found travel destinations that definitely won’t disappoint even the most experienced travelers.  And the great news is that with the average American citizen living to be seventy-eight years old (and with lifespans even longer in many other countries!) you’ve got plenty of time to visit all thirty of these destinations… no need to pack them all into a single decade just to cross them off an arbitrary bucket list!

(Still convinced that you need a “thirty before thirty” travel guide?  Well, I scaled that post down to “ten before thirty”, focusing on essential travel themes rather than super-specific experiences.  Read it here. )

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Europe

Often, traveling around Europe is associated with travelers in their late teens or early twenties, with big backpacks and an Interrail pass.  And yes, that image does accurately describe how I spent the summers in the mid-2000s!  However, I’m thirty-five years old now, and I have a completely different approach to travel in Europe.  I’m more willing to pay for little luxuries, to travel slowly and to go off the beaten path to have authentic travel experiences.  If you’re a little more mature (or even just a little older, not necessarily more mature!) consider adding these European gems to your “30 After 30” travel plans.

#1 – Costa Brava, Spain

While Spain’s big-city Barcelona gets a lot of tourist attention, the region north of the Catalan capital, the Costa Brava, deserves accolades as well. Full of relaxing beaches, a craggy coastline, and quaint villages, the “brave coast” is ideal for travelers who want to relax and explore destinations of authentic Catalan culture. The Costa Brava doesn’t disappoint for those over 30 – when your appreciation for culture, history, and nature deepens more and more!

The Costa Brava is the beloved region of international artist Salvador Dalí. He was born in the small town of Figueres, which houses the eccentric and incredible Salvador Dalí Museum-Theater. If you’re looking for scenery, the picturesque town Cadaqués is a whitewashed former fishing village with quiet coves and a rocky coast. Other than being a favorite vacation spot for Dalí, Cadaqués was also a special destination for other artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró. For Game of Thrones fans, the small town of Girona is an underrated Spanish town that boasts a gorgeous Gothic cathedral, Roman remains, and medieval buildings. On the Costa Brava’s interior, you can find scenic natural areas like the rocky Cap de Creus National Park, the Montseny mountain range, and ancient volcanoes in Garrotxa.

Justine Ancheta, 41, from Latitude 41

Carly’s Tip – If you’re passing through Barcelona on your trip to the Costa Brava, stay in one of my five favorite neighborhoods in the city!

#2 – Bologna, Italy

Many first-time travelers to Italy hit the big three: Rome, Florence, and Venice. But, once travelers start to plan repeat travels to Italy, they start to look for more sophisticated destinations. One of these top destinations to visit has to be Bologna, in Emilia Romagna.

Bologna, and some of the nearby cities like Modena and Parma, are home to slow food and fast cars. That means it’s a destination for people who want a little more than cheap street-side pizza. One of the main reasons to visit is to taste all of the famous Bologna foods . This includes mortadella, lasagna, and tagliatelle ragu.  As well, you can taste some of the top Emilia Romagna food products that are known around the world, including prosciutto, Parmigiano Reggiano, and traditional balsamic vinegar.  It’s also possible to go truffle hunting just outside of the city, in the Bologna Hills. In fact, only thirty minutes from Bologna is Savigno, the City of Truffles, where it is possible to go truffle hunting in the surrounding hills.

Amber, 43, from With Husband in Tow

Carly’s Tip: I also recommend Turin, Piemonte , for an authentic Italian experience!

#3 – Budapest, Hungary

I visited Budapest last summer and it was unexpectedly amazing! I often compared it to Paris and decided quickly that if given the opportunity, I’d return in a heartbeat.

There are so many things to do in Budapest that five days were barely enough to truly get a feel for this incredible historic city. A visit to Budapest’s Jewish Quarter is, for me, a must do. I’m not Jewish but to explore this area, especially with a local guide, is truly incredible. Visit the Kazinczy Synagogue and the Dohany Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe. Make sure to take time to explore the ruin pubs in the Jewish Quarter as well. While party locations at night, Szimpla Kert is so unique that its definitely worth exploring during the day. The building housed Jewish families during the war and now, you can even enjoy a Sunday brunch offered by local farmers and producers.

Another amazing area to explore in Budapest is Castle Hill, especially the area around Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion on the Pest side of Budapest. Matthias Church is stunning inside and the view over Parliament from the tower is one of the best views in Budapest. Just outside, you’ll find Fisherman’s Bastion with its peaked points similar to a fairy tale castle.

Finally, if you’re looking for an evening activity, you have to take a night time cruise on the Danube. The lights of Budapest at night are incredible. Parliament is truly one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve experienced and to see it glow against the water at night is a lifetime experience. Budapest is truly one of the world’s most incredible cities.

Joanne, 50, from Sunsets and Roller Coasters

#4 – The Azores, Portugal

The Azores is one of the best places for travelers of any age, but it is especially a fantastic destination for those of us over 30. I first went around a year and a half ago, have been planning several trips back since and can’t wait to embark on my next one!

The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands remotely located in the middle of the Atlantic in between Portugal and the United States. The main island, Sao Miguel , is home to the largest Azorean city, Ponta Delgada, and several of the islands’ natural wonders. The east side of the island is where Furnas is located; Furnas is a geothermal Disneyland where the local delicacy (Cozido das Furnas) is created and cooked underground in the Earth’s heat. On the island’s west side, you will find crater lakes and some of the most spectacular views the island has to offer, such as Miradouro da Boca do Inferno which overlooks the town of Sete Cidades and stunning, green crater lakes.

The other eight islands are completely unique in their own rights- from volcanic peaks to being saturated with waterfalls… the Azores are one of the best places to visit for those of us over 30. Getting to Azores is fairly easy from continental Europe and is becoming increasingly easier for those located in Canada and the US. The islands are gaining fame these days for their landscape and scenery and it is not long before they are a top contender for the most desirable place in the world to visit.

 Megan Starr, 35, from MeganStarr.com

#5 – Berlin, Germany

The first time I went to Berlin I got sucked so deeply into the city’s non-stop nightlife scene that I hardly saw any of the German capital.  It was my second trip, when I was thirty-four years old, that really helped me get to know the city, its culture and its people… and it was on that trip that I truly fell in love with Berlin.

Traveling to Berlin in my thirties meant that I didn’t have the energy (or the desire, for that matter) to go out partying from midnight to 9:00 am.  I mean, those are prime sleeping hours!  Instead, I trusted my body’s biological rhythms.  I woke up fairly early every morning for a hearty German breakfast (my favorite was the complimentary breakfast served at Casa Camper Berlin ) and then set out to explore the city by public transportation and by foot.  In the afternoon I might stop by a bar along the riverfront for an ice-cold glass of radler, and in the evening I sampled amazing German vegetarian food (okay, and just a teeny-bit of nightlife) before retiring to bed before 1:00 am every night.  I felt energized, balanced, happy and healthy every day, which is a lot more than I can say for my previous, hangover-filled visit to Berlin!

Carly, 35, from Fearless Female Travels

#6 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Think of Amsterdam and you think of young drunk and/or stoned travellers ignoring the city’s famous canals and culture in favour of coffee shops and bars. While there is no age limit for coffee shops or bars, and I know visitors of all ages like the city’s relaxed marijuana laws, Amsterdam has so much to enjoy for a traveller in their 30s or older.

It goes without saying that Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and so just wandering around is enough of a treat for travellers of all ages, but older (and more sober!) visitors may like to find hidden gems such as the Begijnhof Square in the middle of the city, which has Amsterdam’s oldest wooden house and a church featuring some Piet Mondrian artwork, or De Papegaai Church on the city’s busiest shopping street Kalverstraat.

It’s also worth mentioning the fact that Amsterdam has countless things to do , including more museums per capita than any other city, festivals for all occasions at all times of the year, and a highly underrated foodie scene, including 16 Michelin-starred restaurants. And if you do still want to enjoy Amsterdam’s coffee shop scene and the famous Red Light District, then you can do so in a surprisingly informative way by visiting the Cannabis Museum or by going on a tour of the Red Light District given by a former sex worker.

Frankie Thompson, 37, from As the Bird Flies

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Asia

Asia is one of the most popular continents for budget travelers, which makes it especially popular with young, inexperienced travelers on a shoestring.  Over the years, though, I’ve learned that there’s so much more to Asia than the cheap beers and budget hotels of Southeast Asia, and it’s a continent that I’ve grown to appreciate so much more in my thirties.  In fact, in six weeks I’ll be departing for a trip that crosses of more than ten of the thirty travel destinations I’ve always wanted to visit most.  This trip will take me from Taiwan to Bali to Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul to Bishkek to Tashkent to Delhi… and beyond!  Follow my trip on Facebook , or keep reading below for more Asia travel inspiration from distinctly different destinations.

#7 – Iran

Travelling to Iran is always a very cultural experience. I’ve been visiting this Middle Eastern country since I was 32 and I always can’t wait to go back. There is a great variety of experiences to be chased in Iran, from delving into the history of their Achaemenid Empire in Persepolis, near Shiraz, to discovering the mesmerising architecture of the Safavid era in Isfahan to exploring the Zoroastrian culture in the ancient city of Yazd.

In Iran, alcohol is illegal and so are night and disco clubs. Sure, you can find booze and underground parties if you really can’t stay away from it for a couple of weeks, but being illegal, it’s very risky. This doesn’t mean that there are no coffee shops in the Iranian cities. I loved the ones in Tehran’s Enghelab Street, those in Isfahan’s Armenian quarter Jolfa and the ones around the main Naqsh-e Jahan Square, where you can enjoy different delicious teas, drinks and cakes in an atmosphere that blends modern and traditional décor.

There are many tourists in Iran, including many young people, and most visitors respect the laws of the country. This makes Iran makes a more tranquil over-30 travel destination, but it definitely doesn’t make it less exciting. Each season has its festivals and regions to visit, each city its history and landmarks, and each market its stories. Iran requires a more savvy way of travelling, but it’s a country of perpetual discovery and for sure it’s never boring.

Angela, 40, from Chasing the Unexpected

#8 – Arunachal Pradesh, India

Travelling in the remote region of Arunachal Pradesh is easily one of our travel highlights in recent years. India’s Seven Sisters, a somewhat tribal region made up of seven states, is one of India’s least explored places, and Arunachal Pradesh is probably the most difficult of the country’s northeastern states to travel in.

Travelling on the abysmal roads in Arunachal Pradesh is tough, and not for the faint-hearted. The region tends to be expensive when compared to other places in India, and the process of obtaining the necessary permits can be rather off-putting. Nevertheless, Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful and diverse regions we have been to, with its wild mountainous interior, friendly locals and unusual tribal traditions.

A good understanding of the region’s tribal culture is essential when travelling in Arunachal Pradesh, especially if you intend to spend a fair amount of time there. Although not obligatory, guides may be necessary in some of the areas, particularly if you would like to experience and understand some of the tribal rituals such as those of the Apatani tribe in the Ziro Valley.

The majestic beauty of Arunachal Pradesh is mind-blowing and this, together with its rich cultural heritage, makes the little-explored Northeast Indian state one of our favourite over-thirty travel destinations!

Michelle, 41, from Cheeky Passports

#9 – Jordan

You don’t travel in your thirties for the same reasons that you travel in your 20’s. The “life of da party” is (for most) over and you can afford to travel to more expensive destinations. One of the first high-budget trips I took when I turned thirty was Jordan.

I had dreamed of going to Jordan ever since I watched Indiana Jones, but I knew it was not that easy to backpack. When planning my travels I realized that just the visa and the entrance to the most popular site in Jordan (Petra) would cost me more than 150 dollars! On top of that, there aren’t many ways to go from one place to the next because there are very few public buses. The best way to travel around is to either book a tour, rent a car or hire a private guide and driver like we did. When it comes accommodations, you won’t find my hostels or budget hotels like in many other countries. Jordan is a fabulous country, but you’d better have a good income to be able to afford it!

Amandine, 32, from Les Berlinettes

#10 – Lebanon

A great place for travelers over thirty, and also a very underrated travel destination, is Lebanon. Officially called Lebanese Republic, the country is located at the crossroads of the Arabian hinterland and the Mediterranean Basin. Yes, it is bordered by Syria to the north and east and by Israel to the south. But that actually doesn’t mean much, as long as you don’t go border hopping.

Lebanon may not be a typical holiday destination, although it a lot to offer. You can even visit the snow-covered mountains in the morning and then and chill at the beaches of the Mediterranean sea in the afternoon. Be ready for the most beautiful sunsets, visit the incredible historical sites such as Baalbek and the whole Beqaa Valley, enjoy evenings in bars and hidden clubs, and eat your way through the traditional restaurants of lively Beirut. Where other destinations offer just what twenty-somethings are looking for, Lebanon is on the rise to be the perfect thirty-something-travel destination.

Clemens Sehi, 35, from Travellers Archive

#11 – Maldives

We think one of the best places for more seasoned travelers would be the islands of Maldives. Maldives is made up of 1200 islands, but only around 200 are inhabited. There are two types of islands: local islands, and resort islands. The resort islands are perfect for a relaxing luxury getaway.

Overwater bungalows are the most sought after accommodations on these islands, and for good reason. You can enjoy your days in your overwater bungalow, swim in your own private infinity pool on the deck, and head out to snorkel in your own part of the sea. There are several islands that have some great all-inclusive resorts, where you can have the run of the entire island and everything taken care of for you. One of our favorite resorts was Robinson Club Noonu . This resort owns the entire island, so it was more of a small resort type feel, where we could go wherever we wanted by foot around the island.

If you’re looking for a luxurious vacation in your thirties and beyond, Maldives is worth checking out!

Sara, 31, from Our Kind of Crazy

#12 – Malaysian Borneo

Malaysian Borneo is a versatile destination for nature lovers, scuba divers and snorkelers, and foodies alike. If you love wild jungle beaches, rainforests and wildlife, river cruises, colonial cities, and adventurous activities, look no further. Borneo is a perfect choice for older travelers who are looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, fun in the sun, and soft adventures, since it’s more mature than many other Asian islands and definitely not a party destination.

Even a two-week itinerary in Borneo can include all of the above: You can see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, unwind on paradise islands where you can swim with turtles and sharks, eat your way through a couple of colonial cities, hike in the rainforest and even summit Mt Kinabalu. If you’re more into relaxing in five-star, all-inclusive resorts, Borneo still keeps you satisfied and offers varied day tours to wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, world-famous caves, and marine reserves.

Niina Lehikoinen, 38, from Bizarre Globe Hopper

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in North America

Hailing from North America myself, I have seen embarrassingly little of my home continent, choosing instead to travel to the opposite corners of the world.  I’ve been to Madrid, Spain, more times than I’ve been been to the next city over from my hometown (and it’s literally only twenty miles down the road!).  So, I had to turn to my travel blogger friends for more details about the best destinations for thirty-something travelers in North America, and they helped me generate this list of spectacularly sophisticated “30 After 30” trip ideas, with a heavy emphasis on sun-seeking getaways and cultural hotspots.  Count me in!

#13 – Havana, Cuba

I first visited Havana when I was 40. I had traveled all over Latin America but for some reason I found Cuba to be very intimidating. I learned it was nothing like I feared and so much more than I expected. But I do think it’s a great country to visit after you turn 30 and have had several years on independent travel under your belt.

There is an incredible culture of art, dance and music in Cuba. And there are amazing restaurants and cafes that serve local Cuban coffee . But you need to also deal with many of the frustrations of a country that suffers from food shortages and a US embargo. Many times you’ll enter a restaurant and half the items on the menu aren’t available. And perhaps it can be frustrating when not everyone speaks English. And wifi in Cuba is an on-going issue so you’re phone likely doesn’t work and you won’t be able to be on the internet all day. And…

Fortunately, with age and more experience traveling, you begin to embrace unique qualities in a country – like the Cubans’ incredible passion for music and dance. And you realize that you don’t need to be online all day, or have cable television in your room or fast food options. Havana is an incredible city of contradictions. Well-educated, modern citizens in a destination many people incorrectly think is frozen in time. Fortunately, with age you realize Cuba isn’t just about classic cars, cigars and mojitos but about the culture that continues to evolve despite all of its challenges. And that’s why over-thirty travellers love Cuba.

Ayngelina, 41, from Bacon is Magic

#14 – Valladolid, Mexico

Valladolid Mexico is often perceived to be a small, boring city on the Yucatan Peninsula, but that is not at all true. This city is exactly the place you are looking for when you are in your thirties (or beyond!) and tired of the hustle and bustle of Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

Valladolid is one of the most upcoming travel destinations in Mexico because of its super laid-back vibe. This is not a party place at all!  Valladolid is where you simply get lost in the streets and admire the historical buildings and search for hidden courtyards with local boutique shops. Lovely coffee shops, delicious vegetarian restaurants, and smoothie bars are opening everywhere around town and yoga workshops can be found across the city. On top of that, some of the best Yucatan cenotes can be found here as well. Renting a car and explore the cenotes around Valladolid is one of the best things to do in Yucatan (along with sleeping in one of the many historical haciendas).  I promise that Valladolid is one of those places that you will start liking more and more the longer you stay!

TravelTomTom, 41

#15 – San Pancho, Mexico

In my twenties, I often traveled to Sayulita, Mexico for a long weekend getaway of surfing, suntanning and boutique shopping.  In my thirties, though, I prefer to head five miles down Mexico’s Nayarit Coast to San Pancho , a much smaller, less-hectic fishing village that has barely been touched by tourism.

San Pancho is ideal for travelers in their thirties, forties and fifties who are looking for an authentic Mexican beach experience, minus the crowds, plus just enough comforts to make you want to come back again and again.  I always check in at Hotel Cielo Rojo , a locally-owned boutique hotel with breathtaking decor and homey touches like complimentary in-room tequila (yes, you heard me right!).  After borrowing a beach chair and umbrella from the hotel, I head two blocks down the road to the beach, which is a stunning strip of golden sand with more than enough space to spread out.  I could spend all day at the beach, reading a book under my umbrella and occasionally dipping my toes in the refreshing water, but I always succumb to the temptation of San Pancho’s surprising vegan and vegetarian cuisine culture, stopping by one of many local restaurants serving healthy brunches and seasonal organic dinner.  Everything is easy in San Pancho, making it ideal for older travelers looking for a break from a high-stress job (or mid-life crisis!).

#16 – Antigua, Guatemala

Visiting the colonial city of Antigua, Guatemala when you’re over thirty is a rewarding experience. The UNESCO World Heritage site was once one of the great cities of the Spanish Empire and the grandeur of its schools, monasteries, churches and government buildings can best be experienced by staying in the atmospheric colonial buildings that have converted into boutique hotels. Unlike when I was younger and my budget only allowed me to stay in a grim hotel on the outskirts of the historic zone, now that I’m older and have a bit more disposable income I’ve been able to stay in some unforgettable accommodations. A little more flexibility in your budget is especially valuable during Guatemala’s festivals and celebrations, such as Holy Week, when rooms are scarce and prices high.

One of the most beautiful boutique hotels I’ve enjoyed is Hotel La Catedral, an authentic Spanish Colonial home dating to the 1700s which was originally built as part of the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, a sprawling palace with stone pillars facing Antigua’s leafy Main Plaza. It’s just steps to the impressive Cathedral of San Jose and staying so close means being able to see the Holy Week processions as they proceed down the cobblestone streets in front of the hotel. I was able to spend leisurely afternoons on the rooftop terrace featuring panoramic views of Volcan de Agua, and in the evenings it was possible to see neon red lava spilling from the cone of still-active Volcan de Fuego.

As an older traveller I’m also interested in many more of the cultural activities offered in Antigua than I was in the past. Cooking classes, market tours and architectural walking tours are all activities that appeal to me now but weren’t of interest to me in my younger years. It’s the most rewarding time to travel and Antigua is filled with riches.

Michele Peterson, age top-secret, from A Taste for Travel  

#17 – Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, British Columbia is a great destination for travelers over 30, and as a native Vancouverite, I’ve enjoyed many aspects of Vancouver as a mature woman.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll find that Vancouver is chock-full of great restaurants at all price points, and it has particularly good Asian food. Fine dining restaurants are also in good supply, particularly in downtown Vancouver. Cocktail bars in Vancouver are excellent and attract people of all ages, with bartenders vying for best mixologist honours.

Vancouver is also a great destination for athletic pursuits of all kinds. Winter sports like downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed within thirty minutes of the city center at local mountains, with world-class skiing at Whistler just an hour and a half away. Summer fun at beautiful local beaches, sailing, and amazing hiking is all within arms-reach too. No matter what you enjoy doing in the outdoors, you’ll love doing it in Vancouver.

If culture is your jam, you’ll find some of the best examples of First Nations art at many Vancouver galleries. The music scene in Vancouver is lively and the nightlife abundant. Live theatre in Vancouver is especially good and there is a great variety of professional theatre companies. Come to Vancouver – it’s a great destination!

Lesley, 55, from Freedom56travel

#19 – Nashville, United States

One of our favorite destinations is Nashville, Tennessee. This capital of the south makes a great weekend getaway for people in their 30s… and there’s good reason!

The flavors and sounds of the south come alive in Nashville. This is Music City USA after all. Nashville is more than the country music, and there’s so much more to the city than the Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame. The clubs in Nashville feature a wide range of musical styles including rock, blues, folk, and even punk. But, unlike in college towns and other big cities, you won’t feel out of place going out for a night on the town if you’re in your thirties (or even older!). Nashville welcomes one and all.

The city is also a culinary powerhouse. Yes, you’ll find southern BBQ, but you’ll also find so much more. Nashville’s food scene can handle the most refined palate. And there’s a ton of breweries and distilleries in the area to quench your thirst. For us, when it comes to weekend getaways, Nashville is at the top of our list.

Lance and Laura Longwell, 42, from Travel Addicts

#20 – New York City, United States

One of the favorite destinations we have visited on our thirty’s is New York City in the United States. This place just has it all: awesome parks (like Central Park) to walk and relax, great restaurants of all kinds of food, awesome museums, outdoor activities, skyscrapers with 360º views of the town and so much more. You can find nightlife for all tastes and for us one of the best night activities were going up to the rooftops of hotels and restaurants to enjoy a glass of wine with the view of the city that never sleeps. The good thing is that in this city there are activities for everyone, no matter what your interests are or if you are traveling alone, with friends or with your loved one. This is what makes us fall more deeply in love with the place, we never felt like strangers in any place because there are many other over thirty’s like us visiting the places we wanted to see. You can’t get tired of New York and there is no way of seeing it all in just one trip, so everyone leaves wanting to get back as soon as possible.

Alejandra Werner, 30, from Universo Viajero

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in South America

South America is another continent where I’ve only dipped my toes into the amazingly diverse travel opportunities.  I blame it on the seasons, as I can usually only travel during the South American winter.  (I can hear your eyes rolling from here.)  After reading about these amazing ecotourism and adventure travel opportunities in South America, though, I am pretty sure that I’ll be adding stops across this continent onto my 30 After 30 “to visit” list!

#21 – Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Paradise island Fernando de Noronha , 340 km off the Brazilian coast, is one of the world’s most exclusive islands, a national park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To preserve the delicate ecosystem, the number of tourists is limited to a maximum of 500 per day and visitors must pay a daily environmental tax fee. That makes Fernando de Noronha a costly destination, accessible to people having rather deep pockets… such as 30+ travelers!

Forget parties and nightlife. Fernando de Noronha is suited to mature travelers in search of peacefulness and unspoiled nature. I had the privilege of spending a few days on the island when I was in my forties, after having saved money for months to afford a trip I had long dreamed of. With stunning golden beaches, black volcanic rocks emerging from crystal-clear turquoise water, and breathtaking views from atop the steep cliffs, Fernando de Noronha felt like paradise. Even today, it remains one of the most beautiful places I ever visited.

Simon Falvo, 55, from Wild About Travel

#22 – Patagonia, Argentina

Patagonia is an incredible destination. This huge region of South America sprawls across two countries (Argentina and Chile) and is perfect for people who enjoy nature, adventure and mountain hiking and who are experienced enough travelers to carefully plan their trips, for with such huge distances nothing comes easy in this part of the world. Though bars and pubs in Patagonia get crowded with people who enjoy a beer after a strenuous hike, this isn’t the kind of place where you can expect late night partying. It is all about trying to eat an earthy meal, going to bed early and waking up even earlier to get on the trails, to admire sunrise and to walk as much as possible. Patagonia is thus perfect for people who have grown out of the party-scene, who just want to be in the nature to be mesmerized by the incredible mountain, river and lake views; and who appreciate the force of the elements.

Claudia Tavani, 43, from My Adventures Across the World

#23 – Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island is situated off the coast of Chile and to get there its a five-and-a-half-hour flight from Santiago, Chile. The island is, of course, known for its mysterious and iconic moai statues. Having seen them, it’s no wonder they are one of the worlds greatest phenomenons!

Easter Island is reasonably small, and you can drive around it in a day, but to explore all the moai heads, you’ll need a few days. There are a couple of sights that should definitely not be missed. Watching the sunrise over Ahu Tongariki is stunning, and the heads at the quarry site Rano Raraku are incredible. It’s impossible to comprehend how the stone was chiselled by hand to make these sculptures not to mention moving them around the island without any machinery. Much of the Island is protected and as such its been awarded a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

In addition to the Moai, there is a wealth of cultural history to explore as well as extinct volcanoes, lava tunnels and caves. You can hike to some of the most secluded parts, which few tourists do. The island’s highest point, Terevaka, was deserted when I was there, and it was a moving experience to sit and reflect on a life well-lived. The three-hour hike to the eastern rim of Rano Kau crater is also worth it, as I got some fantastic photos, and there was not another person in sight.

Fiona, 41, from Passport and Piano

#24 – Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are a great destination for travellers that are over thirty because frankly, travellers under thirty probably can’t afford to do it justice!

As most are aware, the Galapagos Islands boast stunning wildlife that you won’t see anywhere else on earth, both on the surface as well as underwater. Unique birdlife, tortoises, and iguanas are a marvel to see on land and the Galapagos waters support a huge variety of sea life including sharks, whales, sea lions, and numerous endemic species of fish.

To make the most of your time visiting the Galapagos Islands you’ll end up spending much of your time doing tours or scuba diving, both of which can easily cost hundreds of dollars per day and would be a budget buster for the twenty-something traveller. There are some free sites to visit on land or snorkel at, but honestly they do not compare to the best tours where you can get up close to the unique wildlife endemic to the Galapagos Islands. Whether you’re following a land based itinerary or visiting on a cruise ship, the Galapagos islands will be remembered as a trip of a lifetime… but save it for your thirties, forties or fifties, when you can truly enjoy it!

Philip, 31, from Zen Travellers

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Africa

Africa is a top choice for older and/or more experienced travelers for a number of reasons, the least of which is that having a decade or two of independent travel experience in your pocket helps you feel confident when you face the (very expected) unexpected along the way.  If you’re in your thirties, forties or fifties (or older, though Google tells me that would put you in the 0.1% of all my readers!), why not channel your wisdom, patience and expertise into an African getaway?

#25 – Kenya

Most travelers interested in African safaris have Kenya near the top of their bucket list. And for good reason: Kenya’s wildlife ranks among the densest in the world (tenth, to be exact). The country is home to countless animals , including Africa’s famed Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo), more than 400 other mammals species and around 1,100 bird species.

Of course taking an African safari isn’t cheap, especially when it’s as luxurious as the one I took my family on last year to celebrate my 50th birthday. The three weeks we spent exploring Nairobi National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Conservancy, Meru National Park, and the conservancies of the Maasai Mara led to an abundance of incredible experiences. From a behind-the-scenes tour to meet the baby elephants of the Sheldrick Wildlife Orphanage to walking with the last two Northern white rhinos on the planet at Ol Pejeta, our time with Gamewatchers Safaris and Cheli & Peacock Safaris was full of memories we’ll never forget. It also made us more conscious than ever of the fragility of life on this planet, and more determined than ever to do our part to protect these beautiful creatures.

Bret Love, 50, from Green Global Travel

#26 – Uganda

I travelled a lot in Africa in my 30s, including climbing Kilimanjaro and visiting South Africa and Namibia, but the country that stole my heart is Uganda.

Uganda may not be an obvious big-hitter like Kenya or Tanzania in terms of wildlife, and it’s not as exotic-sounding as Mozambique or Ethiopia, but don’t let that fool you. Uganda has it all: national parks teeming with lions, elephants and zebras; tangled forests hiding chimpanzees and the elusive mountain gorillas; rolling landscapes so green it’ll hurt your eyes; the frothing rapids of the River Nile and the calm waters of Lake Victoria; and some of the most friendly and welcoming people I’ve met anywhere in 22 years of travelling and 65 countries.

Travelling in Uganda can be done cheaply – but some of the country’s best experiences do come at a price. The number one draw – trekking to see the endangered mountain gorillas – costs a hefty $600 per person, but that’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience it’d be a shame to have to miss. Getting around by public transport requires a lot of time and patience – but if you can afford to, a private car and driver turns a chore into a pleasure. And if you have a bit more disposable income then staying in one of Uganda’s many luxury lodges is one of life’s greatest pleasures. All good reasons to visit when you can afford to splash out and make the most of this stunning country.

Bella, 40, from Passport & Pixels

#27 – Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a great travel destination for travelers older than thirty given its history, culture, cuisine and many family-friendly activities. While Cape Town can be visited by younger travelers, travelers over thirty will have a deeper understanding and appreciation of its history and its changes in recent decades. Many travelers may have even lived through historical moments of Cape Town years back, seeing those events on the evening news and reading about them in the papers.

There are many museums in Cape Town (such as Robben Island and District 6 Museum) that may be greatly appreciated by older travelers. In addition to its history, Cape Town is known for its wine and cuisine. Travelers over thirty may be more interested in fine dining and have more means to try different restaurants and wineries. Some of the best restaurants in Africa are located in Cape Town and they are definitely worth a visit. Cape Town is also great for family friendly activities such as the cable car to Table Mountain, a visit to Cape of Good Hope, seeing the penguins, etc. These activities appeal to travelers over thirty… especially those with kids.

Cape Town is best enjoyed by those that want a slower pace of travel and full appreciation of its history and cuisine.

Serena, 33, from Serena’s Lenses

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Oceania

One of the most exotic regions on the planet, Oceania delivers in stunning landscapes (I mean, just look at French Polynesia!), breathtaking eco-adventures and yes, even a few cosmopolitan capitals!  Simply by nature of its distance from North America and Europe, Oceania can be a time-consuming and/or expensive getaway for many people, making it ideal for older travelers who have the freedom to move at a more comfortable pace.

#28 – French Polynesia

Of all the places I travelled to in my 30s, French Polynesia stands out. More than just Bora Bora, this archipelagic nation is comprised of sub-archipelagos – from the dreamy sand atolls of the Tuamotus, to the volcanic islands of the Marquesas, and the cultural heartland of the Society Islands, just to name three!

French Polynesia seemed to draw the more mature tourist, and it’s not difficult to see why. Even with an independent travel style, the remote location and inter-island travel would favour travellers with more means at their disposal. Yachts anchor in the lagoons of the major islands, as Tahiti had always been welcoming of seafarers. Advanced divers fly off to Rangiroa for its epic tidal channel dives. Surfers come for the break waves of Teahupo’o. Seekers of black pearl roam the Society Islands for the perfect specimen.

There is a carefree, earthy vibe to French Polynesia. Its iridescent nature makes you almost forget that it has depth too, in its Polynesian and colonial history. It is the kind of destination that is most rewarding for the seasoned traveller who carry with them Mutiny on the Bounty references, Gauguin, life, and joie de vivre. Breadfruit and vanilla, secluded stays on private motus. There is also an egalitarian, civilised amity between traveller and host here. French Polynesia is not easy to reach, but once there, so easy to stay for the idyllic days in paradise lagoons.

Teja, 39, from Teja on the Horizon

#29 – Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia is a cool, all-round destination for all travelers and it is especially interesting for 30+ travel enthusiasts. This vibrant city has the right combination of urban delights and perfectly close nature getaways.

Right in the center of the city, you get to enjoy visiting the world-famous Opera House, chill out at Darling Harbour, enjoy a cool flick at the world’s largest IMAX (currently undergoing refurbishment, will open again late 2020) and fine-dining, all at the same spot.

There is so much to do in Sydney. For your nature fix, visit the gorgeous white sand beach at Bondi, cruise on Paramatta river, or picnic at the beautiful and vast Royal Botanical Gardens. Take a ferry to Watson’s Bay and visit Gap Bluff National Park here, or enjoy a delicious snack at Doyle’s on the Beach restaurant. If you still have the energy, take a trip to the Royal National Park at Bundeena and get lost in the majestic beauty at this spot where tall sandstone cliffs hug the ocean under deep blue sky and great wildlife around.

Priyadarshini Rajendran, 33, from Glorious Sunrise

30 After 30 – Yes, Even on Antarctica!

Again, I’m not one for bucket lists, but if you’re always dreamed of exploring every continent on the planet, then you’ll want to head to Antarctica… and in this era of a rapidly changing climate, you’ll probably want to book your Antarctic excursion sooner rather than later.

#30 – Antarctica

Antarctica is on many travelers’ bucket list; however, it is quite expensive to visit. It takes an enormous amount of money to reach the continent. But if you can save the money, it is worth splurging for this expedition if you have the means to do so.

While researching for our trip, we discovered that the price range varies vastly. The low range for Antarctica travel is around $8,000-$10,000 for a ten-day cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina. That’s a lot of money to spend for ten days, considering that for same amount of money, you could traveling South East Asia for about a year! For the average traveler, this Antarctica adventure could take years to save for. And for most, it will only come after you start making “real money” in mid-career. When you get there and when you hop onto the ship, you will probably see travelers who are in their mid-forties and older. There likely won’t be many travelers younger than thirty on board.

Some of the highlights of our Antarctica adventure included running the Antarctica Marathon and cruising the Drake Passage. But the biggest draw is always the wildlife. You’ll experience close encounters with whales, seals, albatross, and more. And if you stand or sit still enough, you may get lucky when a curious penguin stops by to check you out!

Halef and Michael, 40, from The Round the World Guys

Looking for more worldwide travel inspo?  I’ve collaborated with other bloggers on several other posts that will send you straight to Google Flights!

Check out my roundup of The Most Beautiful Places in Europe , or pour some Baileys in your morning coffee and get comfortable with The 50 Best Day Drinking Destinations Around the World .

Did we miss any destinations that are perfect for over-thirty travelers?  If so, let me know in the comments!

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Travel Bucket List: 30 Places to Visit Before You Turn 30 By Emily Mertens

From renowned capitals to hushed hidden gems, it’s about time you take a look at our ultimate bucket list travel adventures . Whether you’re planning an extravagant solo-trip or wanting to jet-hop with your best friend, make sure these destinations are ticked off if they haven’t been already. Here’s our top 30 places to visit before you turn 30:

1/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Paris, France

Paris is an absolute must destination to experience before you turn 30. Ditch the crowded attractions (the Eiffel Tower looks much better from a distance anyway) and instead head to the array of trendy coffee shops littered around the capital to truly feel like a local. An obvious yet popular choice – it’s safe to say most people have the City of Love on their bucket list.

Fly from London: In 1 hour 15 minutes.  

2/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Rome, Italy

Let your inner-Lizzie McGuire loose (but don’t get your hopes up – you probably won’t get whisked away on a motorbike by a handsome stranger like in the film) and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain’s ice-cold waters. The Colosseum, Spanish steps and range of museums are just a few reasons as to why Rome has made it onto our top places to visit before you turn 30 list. Discover 5 of the best things you need to eat in Rome right here.

Fly from London: In 2 hours 30 minutes.

3/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Venice, Italy

With its singing gondoliers, famed cuisine and winding cobbled streets, Venice is another must-visit destination in Europe. Avoid the crowds and visit during May when the warmer weather is just starting to make an appearance. Make the most of the lack of transport and spend hours getting lost between churches and chapels – we’re almost certain you’ll stumble across many camouflaged gems.

Fly from London: In just over 2 hours.  

4/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: New York , USA

The Big Apple, The City That Never Sleeps, The City of Dreams. Famed for its towering skyline and engaging atmosphere, immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of this unique city. Take a jog along Central Park like Rachel and Phoebe from Friends, visit the must-see landmark that is the Statue of Liberty, and, of course, enjoy the huge variety of foods on offer. Discover the best things to do in New York on the official site here.

Fly from London: In just over 8 hours.

5/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Prague, Czech Republic

A small capital, Prague acts as the perfect weekend-break destination. Although a popular choice for stag dos, Prague can also host an intimate escape with a loved one – take a picturesque evening cruise and watch as the gleaming lights engulf the city. From architectural castles to the historic Charles Bridge, Prague is a city break that must be done.

Fly from London: In 2 hours.

6/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Budapest, Hungary

Number six on our places to visit before you turn 30 list is Budapest, a capital steeped in decades of history. Visitors may feel as if they have travelled back in time with its impressive monuments and historical landmarks. Relax in the Széchenyi thermal baths and cross the Danube bridge that connects Buda and Pest.

7/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Florence , Italy

A quintessentially beautiful city, Florence has captured the hearts of many art-enthusiasts with masterpieces dotted all around the Tuscan capital. A must visit before your thirties, make sure to have the Uffizi Gallery, the Gucci Garden, and Giotto’s Bell Tower on your to-do list. Oh, and don’t forget about all of the pasta you can eat. Discover how to spend the perfect 48-hours in Florence in this guide.

Fly from London: In just over two hours.

8/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Copenhagen, Denmark

With calming canals, packed harbours and brightly-coloured buildings (very reminiscent of CBeebies show Balamory), Copenhagen is a unique escape in Europe, making it number eight on our places to visit before you turn 30 list. Visit the Amalienborg, a stunning building housing the Danish royal family spanning four prestigious palaces. Head to the Tivoli Gardens for a thrilling range of amusements, concerts and picture-worthy gardens.

Fly from London: In just under two hours.  

9/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Lisbon, Portugal

Known for its rich culture and world-class cuisine, Lisbon is a hotspot for foodies and those who enjoy a party. With a range of cool, chic bars scattered across the city, mix in with the locals to get a true feel for this capital. For Instagrammable brunches, go to Nicolau Lisbona and burger-fanatics can indulge in succulent Black Angus beef at Ground Burger – an absolute must.

Fly from London: In 2 hours 40 minutes.  

10/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Berlin, Germany

A capital smothered in history and dictated into our history books at school, Berlin is a must for those who wish to know more. From Jewish memorials to a Berlin Wall memorial, take yourself out of the books and into the reality of where it all took place. For those unaffiliated with the history, instead enjoy the array of lush-green parks Berlin has on offer with an intimate picnic or take a look at the Bathing lakes for picture-worthy views.

Fly from London: In under two hours.

11/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Sydney, Australia

Sun, sand and sea, Sydney has all the s’s us Brits adore. Catch a memorable performance at the artistic Sydney Opera House, take a stroll along the scenic Harbour Bridge, or get your tan on at Bondi Beach – make sure to get a snap on the beach’s Instagrammable ‘Iceberg Pool’.  

Fly from London: In under 22 hours plus 1 stop over

12/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Bali , Indonesia

A tropical paradise, Bali is a millennial favourite boasting pristine beaches, historic temples, colossal mountains and much more. Adrenaline junkies will thrive at the climb up Mount Batur’s active volcano, whereas animal-lovers can immerse themselves in the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Every turn is as stunning as the next, with crystal-clear seas, outdoor tubs with boho vibes and hidden waterfalls. If we had to give just one tip it would be bring a camera.

Fly from London: In 15 hours and 30 minutes.

13/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Tokyo, Japan

Whether it’s to gaze at the beauty of cherry blossom season or to simply experience the most populated city in the world, Tokyo is steeped in culture. For luscious landscapes, head to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden spanned over 144-acres of beautifully maintained greenery. Ginza Six is a must for shopaholics – the new complex boasts intricate design as well as 241 shops to wonder into. Also, set to host the Rugby World Cup 2019 and Olympics 2022, sports-fans should book their tickets quicker than ever.  

Fly from London: In under 12 hours.

14/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Dublin, Ireland

With one of the friendliest atmospheres in Europe, Dublin has made it onto our top places to visit before you turn 30 list – and for good reason. From energetic and traditional Irish music performed live across Temple Bar, to incredible burgers at Bunsen, Dublin acts as the perfect weekend escape. For a tour like no other, set sail on the Viking Splash Tour and get ready to ARRGH your way through the cities’ landmarks.

Fly from London: In 1 hour and 20 minutes.

15/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Barcelona , Spain

The Spanish capital combines a beach retreat with a sight-seeing spectacle. From the La Sagrada Familia to the colourful mosaics at Park Guell, there are many reasons why Barcelona should be on your bucket list.

Fly from London: In just over 2 hours.

16/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland’s coastal capital is the home to many gems. Take a dip in the wondrous geothermal Blue Lagoon, stay at The Retreat Hotel and enjoy your very own, private, slice of the blue spa. Always keep your eyes peeled, as the astonishing natural auroras that light up the sky could happen at any moment with good weather conditions.

Fly from London: In just over 3 hours.

17/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Auckland, New Zealand

Swamped in pure natural beauty, New Zealand makes it onto our list purely for the mesmerising views it offers. In awe of its’ range of beautiful islands, make sure to visit Waiheke for its hidden beaches, Great Barrier for its scenic views and Rotora for the nature reserves.

Fly from London: In under 24 hours, including 1 stop over.  

18/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Ibiza , Spain

A stylish island filled with trendy bars, luxurious beach clubs and Instagrammable hotels. But, Ibiza is more than just a party destination. Make a visit to the natural cave, Cova de Can Marca, or take a short trip to Es Verda, a picturesque uninhabited limestone island.  And boasting more than many captivating beachfronts, such as San Antonio, Cala Salda and Cala d’Hort, getting a tan won’t be a problem. Discover the “other” side of Ibiza in this 48-hour guide.

Fly from London: In under 2 hours and 30 minutes.

19/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Dubrovnik, Croatia

You may recognise Dubrovnik as the setting of Kings Landing for HBO’s thrilling Game of Thrones series, or you may even remember The Old Town as part of the filming location for Star Wars: The Last Jedi. For those not visiting for its’ film history, instead enjoy monuments and clocktowers, or simply soak up the sun on a beach looking out towards the panoramic sea views.

Fly from London: In 2 hours and 45 minutes.

20/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Las Vegas , USA

Some get married, some lose thousands of dollars, some call it the Disneyland for adults. Las Vegas is a city like no other, a playground if you will. From the Fountains of Bellagio, the captivating Grand Canyon, Gordon Ramsey’s infamous Hell’s Kitchen set, array of themed hotels and extravagant shows, as well as exactly 104 casinos, a trip to Las Vegas will be an unforgettable one to say the least.

Fly from London: In under 11 hours.

21/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Koh Samui, Thailand

Statues, temples and markets decorate this popular island, as well as its fine share of luxurious resorts and spas, deep rainforests and palm-fringed beaches. Find yourself a hidden away waterfall, visit the famous Big Buddha and board a boat across the Ang Thong Marine Park for some seriously-serene views.  

Fly from London: In over 15 hours and 30 minutes, as well as 1 stop over.

22/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Santorini, Greece

Wake up to the striking sunrise across Santorini, a paradise for romantics. With a crisp white and blue-hue palette, this stylish Island will leave your Instagram feed looking bright and modern. From open air cinemas to hot springs, there’s much more to this Greek island than just pretty buildings.

Fly from London: In just under 4 hours.

23/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Malta

A small country plonked in-between Sicily and the North African coast, Malta is known for its beautiful lagoons and historic landmarks. To truly take in all of its charm, pick from the Comino lagoon, Azure Window or Blue Lagoon to part-take in snorkelling and scuba diving. For more sight-seeing, jump on a cruise to explore nearby caves, or for more in-land activities, visit the 16 th -century St. John’s Cathedral.   

Fly from London: In 3 hours and 20 minutes.  

24/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Having large amounts of tourists flock to the city over the last couple of years, it’s no surprise that Amsterdam has made its way onto our 30 places to visit before you turn 30 list. From the whimsical canals, architecturally alluring buildings and the famed Red-Light District, Amsterdam is the perfect place to go to with partners or friends alike.

Fly from London: In 1 hour.  

25/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Newquay, Cornwall

Newquay, the perfect coastal escape for those wanting to flee the hustle and bustle of city life. Renowned for the tranquil beaches and British cuisine hotspots, a peaceful weekend couldn’t be more appropriate at Newquay. From Pirates Quest to cocktail bars, this English hidden gem in definitely on our bucket list.

Fly from London: In just over 1 hour.

26/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Val d’Isere, France

Apart from the exceptional ski resorts, luxurious chalets and mountains of snow, Val d’Isere can host a great getaway for non-skiers, from the Vanoise National Park to dog sledding. With the panoramic French Alps as a backdrop, it’s fair to say Val d’Isere can act as a calming trip away before your thirties.  

Fly from London: In 1 hour 30 minutes.  

27/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Cancun, Mexico

An indulgent beach retreat, Cancun boasts some of the most exceptional sea views in the world. Clear-as-day turquois sea, soft-to-the-touch white sands, trendy hotels, what more could you ask for? Well, also being renowned for its nightlife, underground rivers and thrilling watersports, Cancun is a touristic haven.

Fly from London: In under 11 hours.  

28/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Krakow, Poland

Markets, parks, a Salt Mine and cathedrals adorn this Polish city, boasting Gothic buildings and exciting cuisine. Make this uniquely quite city next on your European trip.

29/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: The Maldives

This luxurious country boasts almost 2,000 individual islands, some uninhabited. No matter which island you choose, expect to be stunned. With eye-catching resorts propped up above the gleaming Indian Ocean, the luxury on this island is paramount, with intimate privacy, over-the-sea hammocks and personal butlers. This trip that is a must-experience for all.

Fly from London: In just over 10 hours.

30/30 Places to visit before you turn 30: Giza, Egypt

This Egyptian city is home to the iconic pyramids and King Khufu’s historic tomb. Must-visits include The Great Sphinx, The Solar Boat Museum and Cairo Citadel. Swamped in desserts and heat, a trip to Giza will be very unique to any other on this ultimate bucket list.

Fly from London: In under 5 hours.

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Emily mertens.

Magazine journalism graduate, design, lifestyle, & travel. Writer for ExquisiteEssex & ExqEscapes .

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30 Things to Do in 30 Countries Before You’re 30

I let my 30th birthday slip by pretty quietly. It’s been one hell of a journey thus far, and turning 30 seemed like the last thing I needed to be celebrating. After all, milestones aren’t measured in years— they’re measured by the journey .

Coincidentally, my 30th year (which just passed on the 30th of last month!) took place in my 30th country. Now, I’m not one to count countries, but when the numbers line up like that, it’s just too good to ignore. So in the spirit of 30, here are the 30 best things I’ve done in my 30 years on this planet.

Scuba Dive on the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest and most beautiful network of coral in the world. If there’s any place on earth go to diving, it’s here.

I’ve been a scuba diver since I was 13 years old, and it was always a dream of mine to dive the Great Barrier Reef. I finally fulfilled my dream on a live-aboard boat, where I spent eight days diving four times every day. In exchange for washing dishes and making beds, my week was entirely free!

Jump Out of an Airplane

Because if we can jump out of planes, why shouldn’t we?

I’ve always been one to push the boundaries, and once I arrived in Australia, one of the first things I did was jump out of a plane. I was on the Sunshine Coast, in the small coastal town of Caloundra, and I jumped from 14,000 feet! It was just as exhilarating as it sounds, and I believe it’s an experience everyone should have at least once in their life–it’s about pushing your personal limits.

Become a Bartender

Bartending is a) tons of fun, and b) a very productive way to fund your travels.

After two months backpacking up the east coast of Australia, I found myself completely and utterly broke. With barely enough money to pay for a place to sleep for the night, I landed a job at a nightclub, and the rest, as they say, is history. I’ve used bartending as a means to travel the world , everywhere from New York to Melbourne to Beijing.

Hike a Glacier in New Zealand

There aren’t a lot of places in the world where you can hike a glacier. New Zealand has two of them!

I spent 15 months living, working, and traveling in New Zealand. The landscapes are like something out of a movie  (actually, they are in movies), and spending a beautiful day hiking the Franz Josef Glacier  was one of the big-time highlights. Look at this place!

Bungee Jump Completely Naked

It doesn’t have to be bungee jumping–do something naked. It will break your comfort zone and you’ll find freedom in doing so.

For me, it was early in the morning, and the cute girls at the counter knew just how to push my buttons. It only took about three minutes to convince me to get naked, and ten minutes later I was jumping off a bridge .

Celebrate an Orphan’s Thanksgiving

Holidays are so often skipped when we travel. But sometimes, when everybody is seeking a little comfort from home, it’s possible to create new traditions and lasting memories.

During my stint in New Zealand I spent six-months living in a hostel. There was a whole group of us actually, from all over the world. When Thanksgiving rolled around the Americans among us decided to share the holiday with everyone. We basted a turkey in the hostel kitchen, cooked mashed potatoes and stuffing, and stocked up on $6 wine. The Americans each shared a unique family tradition, and everyone, including the Swedes, Brits, Canadians, and more, shared what they were thankful for that year.

Hitch-Hike Your Way Through a Country

Hitch-hiking is a lot safer that most people think, especially in places like New Zealand. You’re guaranteed to meet some interesting people along the way.

In fact, I used it as a reliable form of daily transportation when I lived in Queenstown! When New Year’s rolled around, my friend Gabe and I hitch-hiked from Wellington to Gisborne , the first city in the world to welcome the sun. We were among the first people in the world to say hello to the year 2012, and our weekend-long adventure was nothing short of incredibly epic.

Teach English to Kids in China

English teaching jobs are available all over the world, and they are one of the best ways to travel on a limited budget. They often include flights, accommodation, and a competitive pay package.

When I saw an offer to teach English in China scroll across my Facebook page, I quickly inquired and quickly accepted. The next thing I knew I was making my foray into Asia, a place that now feels like my second home. I spent six months teaching in Xi’an  before moving to Beijing for a few months to work in the city’s best cocktail bar.

Go Somewhere Really, Truly Remote

Somewhere that makes you feel like you’re exploring new frontiers.

During the Chinese New Year, a period of two weeks when almost everyone in China goes on holiday, I traveled to the Yunnan province and spent ten days traveling into the far reaches of China and to the border of Tibet. Towns like Dali and Lijiang were uniquely charming, and the mountains of Tiger Leaping Gorge  were the most stunning thing I’ve ever seen. Traveling north to Shangri-La , an occupied Tibetan region, I biked way out of town–closer to the border–to one of the most remote places on earth that I’ve ever been.

Party All Night at the Full Moon Party

The Full Moon Party is the party that every backpacker talks about.

After 10 months in China, I headed to Southeast Asia for three months , and just in time for the Full Moon Party. It’s a monthly beach party that is known to get, well, beyond crazy. I’ll let this photo do the talking.

Play with Elephants

Elephants are an icon in Southeast Asia and you’ll find them just about everywhere. Though riding an elephant is high on many people’s bucket list, there are some very good reasons not to . Try your hand at volunteering with them, instead!

In 2013, I spearheaded a grassroots charity organization that raised $7,500 to buy extra land for protected elephants in Northern Thailand. A few months later I found myself in Thailand and I spent a full day at the park, up close and personal with the elephants that we were helping to rescue.

Explore the Temples of Angkor

Perhaps one of the most famous sites in all of the world, the temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia are magical at sunrise.

I spent 13 straight hours with a local tuk-tuk driver, riding around to all of the temples, taking photos, learning about their history, and sweating my ass off!

Find Paradise on an Island

Southeast Asia is full of islands, but something about Koh Rong is just…special.

A very precarious boat ride from Sihanoukville in southern Cambodia took me to this tiny island, a small backpacker utopia with the most incredible beaches and a laid-back vibe that could suck you in for months (in fact, for some people, it does!). I spoke to a few people who hadn’t worn shoes in so long they actually didn’t know where they were.

Do a Sunrise Mountain Trek in Northern Vietnam

For a real look at rural Vietnam, Sapa is the place. The trek takes you through the mountainous, terraced rice fields which are inhabited by local H’mong tribes.

One morning during my trek, I woke up very early (at about 4:30am) and took a solo hike up the mountain and out of the village. I don’t know where I went or how far I hiked, but the sunrise that morning over the mountains was glorious.

Experience Reverse Culture Shock

Definitely the least enjoyable thing on this list, reverse culture shock is the most honest way to see your own culture from a different perspective.

I had spent 3.5 years overseas, more than one of them in Asia, and returning to the States was a devastating experience. I’ll never forget the unbearably isolating feeling that reverse culture shock brought with it , but I saw my beloved America in a whole new light.

Fly an Airplane Over the Mountains

When you’ve had enough of economy, the cockpit is calling your name.

Though I had plenty of flights under my belt, I had never been the one driving. I flew a Cessna 172 over the mountains of North Carolina and didn’t realize, until I was thousands of feet in the air, that I accidentally left the door open.

Live in New York City

They say that if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere in the world.

I had already made it “anywhere in the world” and I was ready to put myself to the ultimate test. I lived and worked there for six months, and still use it as a home base. While there, I was offered my dream job but ultimately turned it down to continue my travels !

Discover Pristine Beaches

Puerto Rico is an easy escape from the United States. Whether you’re an American or you’re just traveling in the States, flights from NYC only cost about $300 round trip.

New York got hit with one of it’s worst winter’s to date, and the numbing cold literally sent me packing. I took a week off and lazed around the beaches of Puerto Rico , drinking more Medalla Light than was healthy, replenishing my Vitamin D, and making all of my friends jealous.

Spend a Weekend Offline

These days, we are never too far from technology–a weekend offline would serve anybody well.

Prior to arriving in Tayrona National Park , Colombia, I didn’t realize there wouldn’t be any cell service; my first day was spent frantically looking for WiFi. I worried that my family would assume me to be dead after not hearing from me for 24 hours, which, of course, is ridiculous. Three days later I emerged feeling refreshed , and found that absolutely nothing important had happened while I was gone. Imagine that!

Go Crazy at Carnival!

It’s one of the most notorious festivals for a reason–Carnival is CRAZY.

Carnival de Barranquilla is the second largest Carnival celebration in the world, falling only behind the grand celebration in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We arrived in town a few days early to prepare ourselves. The party usually started in the middle of the day and it would end in the wee hours of the night. There were huge parades, there were foam fights, there was dancing in the streets…and trust me when I say that there was plenty of Aguardiente .

Almost Die Hiking a Volcano

Everybody hikes mountains, but we are adventurers, and should thus be hiking volcanoes.

My first taxi driver in Quito, Ecuador pointed to the tallest, cloud-covered summit in view. From that moment, I knew I had to climb it (though I didn’t know it was a volcano at the time). I ended up in the middle of an insane hail-storm  and seriously thought I would die there.

Visit the Birthplace of Jesus Christ

We grow up learning about these places but most of us never put Jerusalem, Nazareth, or Bethlehem into a real-world context.

Religion has always been more conceptual to me, but seeing these places with my own eyes made it much more real. While traveling in Israel , I explored Bethlehem (which is actually Palestinian territory), where Jesus was born, Nazareth, where he lived, and the Holy City of Jerusalem, where he was crucified.

See the Conflict in Palestine First Hand

To truly understand what’s going on in Palestine would take years of study. To see it up close and personal is another experience altogether.

I spent a few days in Palestine, exploring first with a Palestinian guide, and then with an Israeli guide. They each told us their side of the conflict, speaking to locals and visiting them in their houses. I learned, first hand, what a complicated situation the Middle East is really in. Most people would never visit the West Bank, but it was one of my most memorable experiences to date.

Climb to the Top of the Monastery in Petra, Jordan

Actually, you shouldn’t do this. But you should break some rules once in a while 😉

After visiting Israel and Palestine, I made my way into Jordan for a few days to explore the Wadi Rum desert and the ancient city of Petra. I befriended a local bedouin and he decided to show me something incredibly special: he brought me to the top of the Monastery —a restricted area in the protected park—and I saw some remarkable views that most people never get to see.

Crawl Inside the Ancient Pyramids of Egypt

The ancient Pyramids are one of mankind’s greatest mysteries.

There was no way I would leave the Middle East without first visiting the pyramids. I detoured to Cairo, met a local bedouin named Rami (who I now call my brother) and we stood in awe before one of the most remarkable pieces of architecture on earth .

Traverse Europe by Train

It’s like the European sister of a US road-trip. Traveling in Europe by train is the only way to go. The network is vast and incredibly easy to navigate.

My entry to Greece this past summer was actually my first visit to Europe. I spent the following three months traveling from Greece to Germany. There’s no way I can describe the whole trip in a short paragraph, but despite the crazy ups and downs, it was a summer I will never forget.

Learn the Plight of the Refugees

We can’t ever understand a problem until we’ve come face to face with it.

This was perhaps one of my most impactful travel experiences of all time. Riding the train from Greece to Macedonia, we came face to face with Syrian refugees who were fleeing their home country. I never wrote about the experience, but my traveling partner in crime, Leah, penned an emotive piece  about how it went down and how it affected us. It’s well worth a read.

Discover the Balkans

The Balkans are rife with corruption, war, and poverty, but they are, indeed, a beautiful and astonishing place.

I’m not sure what attracted me to the Balkans in the first place—it was a place I hadn’t read much about, and it wasn’t on the radar of most travelers I know. I spent about two months traveling in Greece, Macedonia, Albania, Serbia, and Montenegro , and I learned that the Balkans could very well be the most bizarre place on earth (excepting China, maybe). It’s rife with war, poverty, and corruption, but it’s contentious history and beautiful coastline make it a uniquely interesting destination.

Party Until Sunrise on a Beach in Montenegro

It’s basically what our twenties are for.

Being a huge fan of music festivals, I made my way to Montenegro with my good buddy Adventurous Kate for Sea Dance. It’s the little sister of the more famous Exit Festival, and on two of the four nights, we partied on the beach until sunrise, dancing to world-renowned DJ’s, watching the sky flicker and change colors for hours.

Buy a One-Way Ticket to Anywhere

The journey is always more exciting when you don’t know where or when it’s going to resolve.

I’ve never been one to plan my travels, and I’ve never regretted doing it that way. I usually don’t know what’s going to happen, and though my lack of planning may end up costing me a few extra dollars, it’s always worth it. I came to Belgium a month ago with a one-way ticket, and I don’t have a clue what’s going to happen next.

READ NEXT: Five-Star Hotels to Five Dollars a Night: How I Afford to Travel

Jeremy Scott Foster

This is an awesome article, Jeremy!! One of my favorites of yours.

Don’t think I’ll be able to fit all this into the next 5 months before I myself turn 30, but it’s got me thinking about the next few years, for sure.

Thanks, Amy! I know you have a couple big adventures planned, and I’m sure they’re going to be incredible, beyond your wildest expectations!

I joined the Fourth Decade Club a few months ago, and after getting married just before, I didn’t have the chance to think about what an awesome journey my 20s were while living abroad! Here’s to exploring more!

A good reminder for me to make the most of my thirties! 😉

Really enjoyed this! What a ride. Happy b-lated and here’s to more crazy adventures!

Thanks, Gloria! Cheers!

Dude, you’re in Europe?? Come to Paris (or Venice for Carnevale!) and let’s hang out! Also, belated happy birthday 🙂

I am! Let’s talk 🙂

Love this post! I’m currently bartending in Melbourne and it is definitely the best way to fund travel. How did you break into cocktail bartending? Did you find it difficult? I was thinking about heading home and basing myself back in NYC towards the end of the year but this list has showed me there’s still so much I want to do!

I ended up working with some really great people who trained me well. It was a hell of a journey getting into it!

awesome and inspiring for all the 20s out there. You’ve done soooo much bro!!!!!

Thanks, buddy! Happy travels!

A late happy birthday to you, Jeremy. I think it’s fair to say that you’ve experienced quite a bit. Lovely photos – as always.

Cheers, Zascha! Thanks for following along on my journey and for being an engaged part of this community!

So if you’re 30 or older, you can do these things anymore? Hehehe!

Amazing list here! I’ve done quite a few of these already, but got tons of new ideas as well. I got 3 more years. I’m thinking the Balkans are at the top of this list. Can’t believe it’s taken me this long to explore that region of the world. I’ve never heard a bad thing.

The Balkans are crazy. You’ll love it!

I’m already 30. I hope I’m still allowed to do these.

Great information and best post 🙂

I’m really impressed with all that you have fitted in! Seeing the temples at Angkor would be very high on my list. Looking forward to reading what crazy adventures you get up to next ;-). Of mine this year, my faves were dog sledding in Scotland and a hot air balloon ride – not naked I hasten to add 😉

Maybe that’s a new one to add to the list? 😉

Interesting that I’ve done some of that as well – good for you, though nothing in SEA. First trip to Italy (Florence as starting point) in two days time. Though I’m past 30 – just a little bit. If you get bored in Belgium, come on down, will be there for a few months, then -???

I hope you’re having a great time in Italy, Ted! I’ll be sure to let you know if I make it down that way 🙂 Happy travels!

Hi Jeremy, found Florence is too expensive for me and heading south to Salerno (warmer there). Hope to get room for 3 moths down there

Found a few interesting things here in Florence, though.

Great post, have to ask: that top picture must be from Ios, correct?

You nailed it!

I turned thirty in my thirtieth country in January too! Your adventures are all so interesting. I’m leaving on a one-way ticket to Ukraine tonight so I’m looking forward to having some similar ones soon. 🙂

Happy birthday, Amy! And have fun 🙂

Wow.. m jealous of u and m not ashamed of admitting it..:D !! Great list, truly inspiring

Jeremy, I just found your site probably at the best possible time. I left to Asia on a one way ticket from the states a few months ago and all my free hours are consumed dreaming up ways to never stop traveling. Super stoked to go through the rest of your articles 🙂

You need to add to this list “go to some sort of major sporting event,” like the Olympics or World Cup. Now granted, it isn’t the most “affordable” trip you can go on. But, when you are young with some cash and few responsibilities, then it is certainly a life changing experience to have before you are 30 (or 35 in my case)! They are once-in-a-lifetime experiences for a reason.

Oh yes! That’s a good one. But then I’d have 31 things 🙁

Which means I still have two years ahead of me. Not bad, only 9 months into our travels, so let’s see how well I do!! Can’t believe you did bungee jumping NAKED! I mean, is that even legal? hahahah

Probably not in America! 😀

Phew, luckily managed to tick a few boxes on this list, otherwise feel like haven’t been LIVING in comparison lol

I feel like there’s still so so much to see, explore and do though and that’s what looking forward to 40s is about =D

Enjoy your travels~!

I am planning a backpacking the world trip now and am leaving in February and I literally wanna do everything on this list. I’m really excited about bartending across the globe and just seeing where it takes me. I am buying a one way ticket and although I thought about starting in Europe I am considering starting in Australia after reading this. I think it would be cool to just make my way across the continents and end up in Europe. Any thoughts on which is better? Regardless you are my new travel icon! Maybe our paths will cross sometime and I’ll buy you a beer! Cheers!

Cheers, Tyler! If you’re American, work visas are a lot easier in Australia, which will make your life infinitely more manageable 🙂

Hey Jeremy, was your BD Nov 30? Sorry I missed it, what a great article! Fabulous photos and wishing you many many more wonderful years traveling and sharing your experiencing with us! Xox Your CDN Mom

Definitely need to do some of those things 🙂 Awesome pictures!

I’m a little bit scared of scuba diving but maybe one day I’ll try 😀

Great list, but I don’t know if I want to do all of this 😉

awesome trip, whats next?

Great list. The world would be a better place if everyone had to do this stuff. I’d up the ante on your ‘weekend offline’ and make it a 10 Day Silent Meditation Retreat (ideally in Mazunte, Oaxaca). That thing wakes people up.

I’ve been wanting to do one of those for a long time actually. Soon enough…

What was yours like?

Love this post! Inspiring! As my 30s are coming closer I feel like I need to do more crazy unplanned travels and music festivals. Keep up the good work!

Great article, all the trips are so awesome and i want to do all of these but the favorite one is the last point. Really enjoyed it.

Thank you, for sharing your 30 things to do journey diary. You really a True traveller, who wants to be happy and make happy.

Really appreciated this! What a ride. Happy b-lated and here’s to more crazy experiences!

You have definitely been busy! I have ticked a few of these off and have 7 years of adventure until I turn 30 so better get cracking!

Jenny | Local Leo

Haha you’ve got time! Happy travels 🙂

too late already for me… But already did a few of those things and will continue to catch up 😉

Now that is one action packed bucket list! Time to get to work and start crossing some off!

Great Article!

Thanks, John! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

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30 Countries Before 30

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I think I was so inspired to start this blog because of all the wonderful blogs I read. Honestly, I read A LOT of blogs…and they’re about a variety of topics: traveling, fashion, baking, politics, etc. One of my favorite travel blogs is called “ 40 Before 30 .”It is about a woman who wants to visit 40 countries before she turns 30. So I’ve made it my mission to visit 30 countries before 30!

40 countries seemed a bit ambitious for myself but it inspired me to write down where I’ve visited and where I want to go before I turn 30 (although, I’m already halfway to 40 countries!). There is something that is absolutely wonderful and exhilarating about writing down goals and things I want to do. It seems to give me purpose and drive in my life. I’m such a list maker and this current list I’m calling “30 Countries Before 30”

North America:

• Canada – Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland & Labrador, Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, British Columbia (honestly, I’ve probably been to even more provinces but can’t remember!)
• United States (duh!) – I’ve been to all 48 continental states (just need to visit Hawaii and Alaska)
• Austria – Innsbruck
• Croatia – Zagreb, Pula, Opatija
• France – Paris, Normandy Region (Honfleur, Caen, Bayeux, Gold Beach, Omaha Beach, Point du Hoc), Nice
• Germany – Heidelberg, Tuebingen, Frankfurt, Berlin (4 times), Munich, Dresden, Stuttgart, Bonn, Cologne, Essen, Dusseldorf, Dortmund, Potsdam, Mainz, Wiesbaden, Dachau, Schloss Neuschwanstein, Ulm (honestly, the list goes on and on!)
• Ireland – Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, Dalkey
• Italy – Genoa, Pisa, Cinque Terra, Florence, Rome, Naples, Venice, Bellagio, Lake Como, Ischia
• Liechtenstein
• Luxembourg – Luxembourg City
• Monaco – the entire city!
• Netherlands
• Portugal – Lisbon
• Slovenia – Julian Alps, Kranjska Gora
• Spain – Barcelona, Montserrat (monastery)
• Sweden – Stockholm, islands surround Stockholm, Vasteras, Nykoping
• Switzerland – Chur, Interlaken
• United Kingdom – London (and all surrounding areas), Edinburgh (Scotland is almost like its own country! haha), Oxford, Cambridge
• Vatican – I saw the Pope!

After visiting Portugal in a few months, I’ll have been to 20 countries (which isn’t bad for someone who is only 22 years old!). Here are the 10 countries I want to visit in the next 8 years. I’m optimistic that I’ll be able to easily accomplish that (and hopefully 10 more after that make it “40 Before 30”!)

Places I want to visit before 30:

• Australia – Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide
• Czech Republic – Prague
• Denmark – Copenhagen
• Greece – Athens
• Hungary – Budapest, Debrecen
• Iceland – Reykjavik
• Israel – Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv
• Jordan – Amman
• Norway – Oslo
• Poland – Warsaw, Krakow
• Turkey – Istanbul

** OK, so maybe this list is 31 countries by 30 because it was too hard to narrow down my list! Also, I feel like crossing the Atlantic Ocean on an ocean liner has to count for something…half a country? That took 8 days!

I might be being overly optimistic, but hopefully I’ll be able to accomplish this before I leave Germany in April/May of 2015! Well, as my Dad said the other day, I don’t need a job…I need a trust fund! Currently taking donations!

Orientation Week

Off to Cologne!

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The Ultimate 30 Before 30 Bucket List

You should have a list of fun things to do on your birthday for every single year, but turning the BIG 3-0 is a milestone for a lot of people. It’s a time when most have settled down into a career, marriage, and maybe even have a child or two. Before that you need to fine tune and complete your 30 Before 30 Bucket List. Whether you want to travel solo, go skydiving, or just learn a new skill, I have got the best bucket list ideas to do before 30.

The Best 30 Before 30 Bucket List Ideas

1. travel solo.

If you’re waiting for the perfect travel companion— don’t ! Every year thousands of people safely travel solo to their dream destinations and make huge checkmarks off their travel bucket list.

Traveling solo can be great for a bunch of reasons. First, it allows you to move at your own pace and see all the things that you want to see without having to wait on someone else. Additionally, it gives you the opportunity to meet new people and make friends from all over the world. Finally, solo travel can help you to learn more about yourself. With no one else to rely on, you’ll be forced to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. As a result, you may return home feeling more confident and independent.

Sometimes not wanting to travel solo isn’t about having a companion, but about fear. It could be related to the embarrassment of just going somewhere public alone or believing that other destinations are unsafe. If this is the case these article can help: Overcoming Anxiety to Live Your Dream: 8 Tips to Facing Your Fears Eating Out Alone: Tips for Dining Solo at a Restaurant

2. Learn How to Make Your Signature Cocktail

Become your own mixologist by concocting the perfect cocktail that reflects you personal taste. The best part about this 30 Before 30 Bucket List idea i s that you will have to do a lot of sampling before coming up with your own perfect harmony of flavors. Practice makes perfect!

A great place to start is by thinking about your favorite flavors. Do you like citrusy drinks? Spicy cocktails? Sweet and fruity beverages? But, if you’re not the best at creating drinkable concoctions, you can check these 10 tips on how to make a great cocktail . Or base your drink off one of the Great Classic Cocktails .

After many trials and errors, my signature cocktail creation was a Lemon-Basil Fizz made with prosecco, coconut rum, raspberries, basil and lemon sorbet!

3. Get Settled Into Your Career

It can be tough to figure out what you want to do with your life, but before the end of your thirties you may want to consider focusing your energy on building up a successful career. Not only can it be a fulfilling achievement, but it will also give you time to build a stable financial foundation and save up for your future.

If you don’t know how what direction to take your career read Coursera’s article How to Choose a Career If you decide to go the blogging route read our article:  Become a Blogger: How to Start a Successful Blog in 6 Easy Steps

4. Face a Fear

It’s natural to feel a little scared when faced with something new or challenging—after all, our brain is hardwired to protect us from danger. However, it’s important to remember that sometimes the only way to achieve our goals is to push through our fears and take a leap of faith. If we let our fears hold us back, we’ll never really know what we’re capable of achieving.

To push your comfort zone to the ultimate limit get some crazy ideas, from our adventure bucket list .

5. Buy a House

You’ll never forget the feeling of buying your first home—I certainly haven’t, it’s one of the proudest moments! Buying a house is a bucket list goal for many people. To begin this dream, start saving money ( our article 75+ Simple Ways to Save Money for Your Bucket List can help) for a down payment and then get your house hunt going. For help you can check out websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia.

6. Donate Blood

Most people are familiar with blood donation, but many people don’t realize why donating blood is so important. Every day, patients in hospitals across the country receive transfusions of donated blood—this gift helps to save lives.

For a little inspiration you can read about my experience of  Giving Blood and also get more information for teen donors on the Red Cross website .

7. Get a Meaningful Tattoo

Putting permanent ink on your body shouldn’t be done on a whim—it’s important to choose a design that has meaning to you and that you won’t regret it five years down the road. But, it is also a great way to show your personality and make a statement.

Don’t know what tattoo to get? Pinterest has plenty of cool ideas, but if you are a traveler like me check out these 27 Beautiful Tattoos That Tell Their Own Travel Stories for inspiration.

If you’re not committed to a forever tattoo just yet, then check out Etsy’s temporary tattoos to test one out, (I personally LOVE WearFINK’s simple mountain range .

8. Go On an Epic Getaway With Your BFFs

Going on a trip with your best friends is not only fun, but one of the most incredible ways to bond. You’ll get to create special memories together, share new experiences and have a great time in each other’s company as you check off your travel bucket list.

9. Host a Dinner Party

Whether you’re hosting a casual get together or a more formal affair, there nothing like a dinner party to bring people together. Though there are a few things to keep in mind to make your experience a success.

First, consider your guest list carefully—you’ll want to invite people who will get along and have common interests. Second, plan your menu well in advance so you are not stressed out on the day of the party. And third, don’t forget the table setting details.

10. Learn a New Language

You can learn a new skill at any age, so why not learn a new language before you turn 30? It can be a fun and interactive experience for the whole family. Maybe you can learn the language of a dream destination where you hope to go on a vacation someday? Or the language connected to your family heritage? One of the great things about learning a new language is that it can open up new opportunities for you.

Rosetta Stone and Duolingo are two great programs to get you started.

11. Create a Financial Plan

Becoming financially stable is probably something most people are striving for, and it is best to start when you are younger. Start by creating a financial plan that includes savings and investing goals, but strategies for dealing with debt. You may also want to consider taking out life insurance or creating a will.

Legal Zoom is highly rated for doing wills and living trusts or will, and our article 75+ Simple Ways to Save Money can give you some great financial tips!

12. Volunteer Your Time

Like the old adage says, it’s better to give than to receive. Walking dogs at the shelter, reading to children at the library, giving blood or spending an afternoon feeding families at the soup kitchen? Determine what’s close to your heart and then make a decision to make a difference today.

Don’t know where to start? Visit VolunteerMatch who has opportunities in many major cities or check the United Way website.

13. Run a Marathon (or a Half Marathon)

Preparing and completing a 26-mile marathon takes a lot of training, time and determination. Aside from a standard marathon, there are also fun themed ones like the Walt Disney World Marathon (you can wear a costume!) or the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon. Some local organizations also hold marathons for a cause (like California’s Big Sur International Marathon), so you can join one to support them.

To find some marathons near you, see race-find.com .

14. Learn to Meditate

Meditation is an age-old practice that has many benefits, like easing anxiety, improving sleep quality and overall well-being. In its simplest form, meditation is the act of focusing your attention on a single point of reference, such as your breath.

Don’t know where to start? These articles will help:

• How to Meditate by Lions Roar
• How to Meditate When You Have No Idea Where to Start by Self

Or, take the Mindfulness and Meditation MasterClass by Jon Kabat-Zinn

15. Prioritize Your Health

As an advocate for your own health, it is important to prioritize your wellness in order to maintain your quality of life. Eating healthy, being active, taking vitamins, and reducing stress are just a few things you can do to start your healthy lifestyle journey. If you smoke or drink, you might want to consider asking for help quitting first, as these will affect your health.

16. Fine Tune Your Style

Just like many things on this 30 Before 30 Bucket List , figuring out your personal fashion style can seem daunting at first. But once you take the time to find out what looks good on you and what you feel comfortable wearing, it’ll all start to fall into place. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Take a look at your closet and make a note of the items that you wear most often. What do they have in common? Do they tend to be casual or dressy? Comfortable or structured? Bright or muted?
• Pay attention to the fashion trends that appeal to you. What do you like and why?
• Don’t be afraid to experiment! Trying new things is part of the fun of fashion. So go ahead and try that bold color or edgy silhouette that you’ve been eyeing. The worst that can happen is that it doesn’t work out—and then you’ll know for sure not to wear it again.

17. Take a Road Trip

There’s just something about hitting the open road that’s really freeing. Maybe it’s the sense of adventure or the feeling of independence. Or maybe it’s simply the opportunity to unplug from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

You road trip might take some planning to work out the perfect route, or just pack up your bags, take time off work and hit the road with choosing your destinations on the fly. It doesn’t even have to be a long trip, it could just be for a day or two, but make sure you have plenty of entertainment along the way.

18. Live in Another Country

When you live in a different country you get to experience a new culture and an entirely different way of life. You may want to choose a country by where you could secure an overseas job or one that is a part of your family’s history. Or one that you just fall in love with (it would be Portugal for me!)

19. See a Broadway Show

Seeing live theater is one of the most breath-taking activities you can participate in, so getting tickets to see one of the best Broadway musical shows will be a night you won’t forget. It will be easy to get swept up in the elaborate sets, the costumes, and the music.

20. Fly First Class

Just imagine yourself on a long flight in the lap of luxury, with your legs stretched out and a glass of bubbly in your hand before takeoff. While flying first class is by no means cheap, the convenience and comfort it offers will ensure that you are well-rested and looking forward to the journey ahead once you arrive at your destination.

21. Read The Top Classics

A good classic book will take you off to a place you’ve never been or even a time different from your own. That’s the thing about books—they let you travel somewhere without moving your feet.

For a list of must-read classics, see our list of the Best Classic Books to Read . Lucky for you, many of them are free (or close to free) on Kindle, so this list will be cheap to complete.

22. Learn to Love Your Body!

With seeing beautiful models in the pages of magazines and the seemingly perfect bodies of celebrities, it’s easy to be insecure about our bodies. But, it’s important to remember that your body is a temple, and we are all uniquely beautiful. Learn to love it and treat it well not because you want it to be perfect, but because you want to be healthy for many years to come.

23. Treat Yourself to an Extravagant Item

Whether it is the latest Louis Vuitton bag or Hermes scarf, it’s not uncommon to feel like you deserve a little something special for a milestone birthday, achieving a big accomplishment, or just because. As long as you can afford it, and hopefully you will be able to by the age of thirty, there’s nothing wrong with splurging on a little something that will make you feel good.

24. Become Wine Literate

A restaurant wine list can be a daunting thing to look at if you’re not familiar with all of the different types of wines available, or what you even like. However, with a little bit of knowledge you can easily navigate it to find a varietal that is perfect for your meal (and possibly impress your dining companions too!).

There’s plenty of books to read to further your wine education, like Wine Simple , or you could tour a few wineries that include a wine tasting at the end (they’re a wealth of information). With just a little bit of effort, you’ll be ordering wine like a pro in no time.

25. Learn Self Defense

Learning self-defense is not just about being able to defend yourself, it also instills a sense of confidence and empowerment. It’s a bonus that self-defense classes can also provide a much-needed outlet for stress and anxiety.

26. Visit a New Country

Traveling to a new place within your home country is great, but traveling to a different country brings the whole experience up a notch. Plus, getting to experience new things is a big plus!

Being in a different country helps you become more open-minded about your cultural differences. It also opens you to unique adventures and attractions, like having edible bugs in Thailand, staying in a Bedouin camp in Jordan’s Wadi Rum Desert or hiking the classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu .

27. Adopt a Pet

There are so many incredible benefits to adopting a pet . They’ll enrich your life in numerous ways, from helping you to destress to getting you more active to being a loyal companion. And in turn, you’ll give an innocent animal a loving home they absolutely deserve. Just make sure your ready for the long-term commitment!

There are so many fur babies out there just waiting to be adopted by you and your partner. You can start your search at Petfinder .

28. Go Skydiving

Why not add something that takes you way out of your comfort zone to your list of 30 Before 30 Bucket List ideas, like skydiving?

Yes, it can be a thrilling (and frightening) experience, especially if it’s your first time. But once you’re out of the plane, you will feel a rush of adrenaline as you freefall through the air. And once the parachute deploys, the view from above is simply breathtaking and rewarding.

29. Attend a Cool Music Festival

Whether it’s Coachella , Tomorrowland or another fun music event, there’s just something about being surrounded by great tunes and good vibes that makes the experience truly special. So, snag some tickets, make a plan and grab your group of best friends for a fun event.

30. Plan the Ultimate 30th Birthday Party

As anyone who has ever planned a birthday party knows, there are a lot of factors to consider. Who will you invite? What kind of cake do you want? What activities do they want to do? But with a little planning and creativity, you can easily create an epic birthday party that your friends will be talking about for years to come. You could plan a treasure hunt, a karaoke party, or even a movie marathon. For more ideas see your Things to Do on Your Birthday Bucket List.

From big adventures like skydiving to simple pleasure like reading a classic book in a hammock, there’s no wrong way to approach your 30 Before 30 Bucket List, and I hope these ideas will help.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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Bucketlist · May 12, 2017

30 Countries Before 30: Where I’ve been thus far

In less than 2 months I will be 30, it’s no longer daunting but quite exciting. Two years ago I put together a 30B430 bucketlist which I am nowhere near completing but excited nonetheless. Whilst the bucketlist is not all travel, half is about travel to my favourite cities. The other half is experiences I would love to encounter before I am 30.

Looking back 2 years is not really enough time but then again it is when you look at my travel challenge. I managed to travel at least once a month to somewhere abroad. I participated in the # take12trips travel challenge where you visited 12 cities/countries in 12 months. In the last two years I have seen more countries and cities compared to 28 years before that. It’s amazing what one can do with the right opportunities and mindset. I am not rich by any means but I endeavor to visit 30 Countries Before 30. The idea I got from a fellow blogger and excited to share where I have been in the last 29+ years.

30 Countries Before 30: Where I’ve been thus far 

Turning 30 is a big deal and dependent on how you look at it, it can be terrifying or very gratifying. I for one I am looking forward to it and thankful to the lord for bringing me this far. It is why I have chosen to share my travels of the last 29+ years in chronological order.

1. Zambia 🇿🇲 – Motherland

Born and raised in the Copperbelt, one of the 9 provinces of Zambia. I am the first of three with a large extended family scattered all over the country. With such a large family we visited practically all provinces except Northern. Zambia to those who don’t know is a landlocked country in Southern Africa NOT SOUTH AFRICA . It gained its independence from colonial Britain in 1964, October 24th. The main mineral is copper and staple food is Nshima {akabwali}.

2. United Kingdom 🇬🇧 { England, Wales, Scotland + Northern Ireland – not yet been}

In December 2004 we emigrated to the United Kingdom for a better education and life in general. Remainder of my teens and all of my twenties I have lived in the UK. It is a second but current home which has afforded me so much. I have visited almost all the countries that make United Kingdom except Northern Ireland.

3. Germany 🇩🇪 { Dusseldorf, Munich, Hamburg & Berlin}

It’s surreal to think I have just returned from Berlin. A country as a kid only knew of from the Atlas maps and geography books or the globe and nothing more. Fast forward many years and it’s barely 2+ hours from me and very much within reach. I have loved every city I have visited in Germany and glad to have finally been to Berlin.

Related: Hamburg Weekend Getaway

4. Spain 🇪🇸 { Costa de sol in Malaga}

Malaga is very close to my heart, not only is it similar to my surname it’s also the first vacation abroad with my ex. I loved it there, it was such an experience which I won’t be forgetting any time fast. The weather was overbearing but perfect for the beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the breeze.

5. Lithuania 🇱🇹 {Kaunas, Kedainiai, Vilnius}

God knows I loved every visit to this beautiful country and that’s all I will say. Definitely worth a visit for those who have Eastern Europe in their plans.

6. Malawi 🇲🇼 {Lilongwe, Blantyre}

Not sure if I can claim it as motherland but my mother is from their and grandmother lives there. I remember my first visit in 2012, it was definitely an epic experience especially with all the family. Though I am told I had been before I don’t remember it as I was a kid then.

7. South Korea 🇰🇷 {Seoul}

The first international country I visited immediately after becoming a dual citizen of United Kingdom and Zambia. It was my first 16+ hours solo flight where I would discover I am more capable than I originally thought. The experience of visiting South Korea was second to none at that point.

8. Belgium 🇧🇪 {Brussels}

Brussels was the first city in Europe I ever took a solo trip in. It was definitely an experience I still relive today and glad I went. I have been two more times since and I still can’t get enough.

9. United States 🇺🇸 {New York}

This was a business trip which I included a couple of days to see New York City especially times square and Central Park. I inadvertently saw Trump towers but missed out of the Empire State Building.

10. Slovenia 🇸🇮 {Ljubljana, Bled, Primostek}

Ljubljana marked the first solo trip as part of my #take12trips travel challenge. It would define me more than Brussels and ignite the traveling fire spirit in me.

11. Czech Republic 🇨🇿 {Prague, Brno}

Prague would mark the first trip of many in 2016. It opened doors inside me that I didn’t know were closed or even existed. Whilst Prague was not a solo trip it taught me so much with that I embarked on 2016 with zealousness.

12. Austria 🇦🇹 {Vienna}

I had planned to spend 4-days in Brno only to find you can tour the entire city in half a day. With that I had 3-days to burn so I chose to visit Vienna with it only being 2 hours away. Again a very terrifying experience not knowing what you’re doing but exhilarating when you go with the flow.

13. Slovakia 🇸🇰 {Bratislava}

The remainder day from my 4-day tour of Brno I opted to spend it in Bratislava. The city is a mere 2 hours by train from Czech Republic’s Brno city.

14. The Netherlands 🇳🇱 {Amsterdam}

A city I have long dreamed to visit one day and even promised a friend who resides there. It was a dream come true to both visit the city and see my friend. Next visit I plan will be all about the Ann Franklin Museum.

30 Countries Before 30: Half-way Point.

15. poland 🇵🇱 {warsaw}.

Was never on any list of mine but when you’ve got friends everywhere its paramount to visit. Though it was blooming freezing when I visited it was the best decision as a solo traveler. I am still encapsulated by the old town of Warsaw and fascinated by the power of the polish people in rebuilding the city.

16. Norway 🇳🇴 {Oslo, Rygge}

I fell in love with a Norwegian on TV and wanted to go see for myself. As South Korean TV has taught me, what you see on TV is not replicated in real life. Boy did I make the right decision, every dude I saw was a freaking viking in his own right. Though the name of the bar escapes I know exactly where it is to find my vikings.

17. France 🇫🇷 {Paris + Disneyland, Nice}

For the longest time I had wanted to visit Disneyland Paris like crazy. Paris I had wanted to visit but held off because I thought I would go with my love. But that didn’t happen and I learnt a lesson of never putting your life on hold for someone else. If you could see me when I arrived in Disneyland Paris you wouldn’t believe a 28yo was there. Not that there is anything wrong with adults visit but wow, I was a kid again. Paris the city I loved big time but enjoyed it more the second time round more than first.

18. Ireland 🇮🇪 {Dublin}

Irish 🍀 coffee or whiskey anyone? No, hoe about a baby Guinness shot? All these were new to me and boy did I fall in love or what. I would return to this awesome city because of that and the lovely people not for the weather.

19. Denmark 🇩🇰 {Copenhagen}

Your visit to Scandinavia wouldn’t be complete without the a dip into the Danish city of Copenhagen. Whilst they were short on viking looking men but made up in every other way. This is a city after my own heart.

20. South Africa 🇿🇦 {Johannesburg, Pretoria}

Though the aim was to visit my family residing on Johannesburg I did get a chance to see other parts of South Africa. Next time I go I want to see Cape Town and maybe the safari too.

21. Italy {Milan, Venice}

The visit to Venice was epic, though we were in Milan and stayed in Milan we hardly ventured out. I am excited to book a couple more Italian cities like Florence and Rome.

22. Monaco {Monte Carlo}

It was an impromptu decision to visit Monaco whilst I was in the south of France but best one ever. I was able to explore the majority of this tiny country in half a day and it was truly epic. Definitely want to go back but this time to watch formula one.

23. Hungary {Budapest}

Who wouldn’t love to visit Budapest? I know I would go back in a heartbeat if I ever got a chance to see it again. Every thing is as good as you hear especially at night cruising on the Danube or spending all day in a thermal bath.

24. Cyprus {Limassol, Nicosia, Paphos, Larnaca}

I have always been intrigued by this small island in the Mediterranean sea not only by the weather but foods too. When I finally did get a chance to visit I try to explore it all in space of 4-days.

25. Sweden {Stockholm}

I love Swedish people, not only do they have awesome DJ’s they practice Hygge like the Danish. I love that they take time out of their day to just sit and enjoy life, taking a moment to appreciate it all.

30 Countries Before 30: Excluded countries

I have chosen to exclude the following countries because most were airport layovers or I spent less than 3 hours. It would have been easier to add them but where is the fun in that?

• Fukuoka, Japan – I had a 14-hour layover and because the airport is not 24 hours I had to book a hotel. I didn’t really get to explore the city, I just had my food, looked for a minute and went to sleep.
• Shanghai, China – I had a 3-hour layover and did not set foot outside the airport.
• Nairobi, Kenya – flights with Kenyan Airways you always have a layover at Kenyatta international airport. All the times I have used the airway on route to Zambia I am not set foot outside the airport.
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates – again same thing as Kenyan Airways, not set foot outside the airport no matter the length of layover.
• D.R.C Congo – Zambia borders with Congo and I have visited the no-man’s lands and set foot in Congo but only for a minute.

I am not even going to say technically I have visited 30 countries already because I actually haven’t. As a wanderlust traveler, I am looking forward to visiting 5 more countries in the next 9 weeks. Wish me luck as I will need it.

For those who are 30 or will soon be 30, have you done {or started} this type of challenge {self}? How are you progressing?

You’ll Also Love

Manoj @Bloggingtriggers says

May 17, 2017 at 1:25 pm

Hi Miranda,

What an exciting journey! 30 countries. OMG! It should be a good experience to you. Travelling through various countries, different cultures and food habits. Really a dream journey.

OhNikka says

May 16, 2017 at 4:18 pm

This list is so amazing!! You inspire me to make a list like this!

polarbelle says

May 16, 2017 at 7:22 am

That’s an amazing accomplishment this far, keep it up! I’ve always wanted to visit Ireland and the UK.

Stephanie says

May 15, 2017 at 8:57 pm

wow that is amazing! well done on travelling so much, creating so many memories

May 15, 2017 at 6:12 pm

Wow you only have 5 more places before you compete your list! Amazing and I have always wanted to go to Seoul!

Holly H says

May 14, 2017 at 7:51 pm

Wow! What a travel history you have – will have to seek any Berlin blog posts you’ve written as I’m thinking of taking a trip there in September!

Baby Isabella says

May 14, 2017 at 6:16 pm

You are very lucky even if you didn’t get near your target. We’d like to visit more of The States and would love to explore Japan! Maybe one day…

Love You Wedding says

May 14, 2017 at 5:49 pm

Oh you are so lucky to be able to do this. I have not traveled as extensively as you. I wish I did when I was younger. Anyway, I’ve been to the places I dreamed of when I was a little girl, so in a way, I feel sort of “accomplished.”

Rebecca Swenor says

May 13, 2017 at 11:33 pm

Wow this is indeed a wonderful challenge to yourself before you turn 30. You are so lucky to have traveled all these places. Thanks for shairng your amazing achievement.

Musings of a tired mummy...zzz says

May 13, 2017 at 9:19 pm

Great idea for a challenge. I have a phobia of flying but maybe I could do something where I visit all the counties of the UK…

Stella Kashmoney says

May 13, 2017 at 8:14 pm

Never tried a challenge like this. Don’t think I could manage to do this now. Maybe when the kids are older. Been to most of the cities here though. New York is next on my list.

David E says

May 13, 2017 at 5:43 pm

I’m impressed. I wish I had been able to travel this much when I was younger. There is something amazing about experiencing everything with fresh eyes. And like you I would have loved to have gone to Paris Disneyland. I really hope to some day.

Alison Rost says

May 13, 2017 at 3:06 pm

Wow! What a great adventure you had! I wish I can also have a list like this.

May 13, 2017 at 7:47 am

Wow, you have done really well so far and what an incredible list of places you have been

May 13, 2017 at 1:58 pm

Thank you Kara, it’s been truly incredible thus far

Lisa Favre says

May 13, 2017 at 3:48 am

You have quite the list accumulated! That’s amazing – so many people dream of traveling but you’re totally going for it! I loved Spain when I visited – we went to the Salvador Dali museum and it was incredibly interesting.

Thank you, I made a conscience decision to ensure I traveled as much as I can whilst I am still capable.

TheNewClassy says

May 13, 2017 at 3:26 am

i guess it is safe to say that you are well traveled! I thought that I had been to a lot of places, but my list of countries pales in comparison to yours.

May 13, 2017 at 1:57 pm

Aww thanks lol 😂

May 13, 2017 at 3:11 am

You have been to some truly beautiful places! I’d love to visit Zambia one day, it looks stunning!

It’s such a beautiful place and I know I am biased but it’s epic

chubskulit says

May 12, 2017 at 10:41 pm

Oh wow, way to go ! I think it is wonderful that you set that goal.

Jenn Padgett says

May 12, 2017 at 9:52 pm

Wow, that is an incredible list. Not traveling has been a major regret of mine, but we are almost empty nesters, so there is hope for us yet.

Awww bless and I hope after the kids have flown the nest you can start

Nickolai Kinny says

May 12, 2017 at 9:26 pm

That’s great going! Which of these remains your favourite place?

May 13, 2017 at 1:56 pm

Paris and Monaco are my top favourites at the moment

Lauren Porter says

May 12, 2017 at 7:11 pm

Wow that’s an impressive list in such a short space of time! x

May 13, 2017 at 1:55 pm

Thank you Lauren, it truly is short when it comes to execution

Sarah Bailey says

May 12, 2017 at 6:45 pm

Wow good luck doing 5 more countries in the next 9 weeks where are you going to go and what are you going to do I wonder.

Thank you Sarah, I have two destinations already planned and 2 more in the pipeline so just stuck on one!

May 12, 2017 at 5:11 pm

Fantastic list. I hope I could got to Spain and a lot in Europe before hitting 30. I’m going to Seoul late this year. I’m so excited. Yay!

May 12, 2017 at 6:16 pm

Oh how nice, I am still debating between Seoul and Johannesburg. I have been to both at least once (three times in Seoul). So will see

Tamara Bowman says

May 12, 2017 at 4:56 pm

This is really incredible. I’ve been to two countries before 30 – USA and Canada. Yikes. I want to see Europe next. So many places to see!

I am yet to explore Canada and USA I barely scratched the surface

May 12, 2017 at 1:52 pm

You’ve been to a lot of amazing places! I have been to several of these–growing up my mother was in the military so we were in Europe most of the time. Germany, Italy, Belgium..and we were able to travel, which was a blast!

May 12, 2017 at 6:15 pm

Aww sounds awesome, we didn’t travel outside the country when I was young but did travel enough within

Candy Kage says

May 12, 2017 at 1:06 pm

Wow you are doing pretty darn good with all your travels before the age of thirty. You really didn’t get to see the U.S. have to come back and really see this big country.

I couldn’t agree more, I definitely need to come visit the USA properly

Heidi Dee says

May 12, 2017 at 12:41 pm

I love this idea! I will be 30 next year 🙁 and would love to try out a modified version of this!

May 12, 2017 at 6:14 pm

You should definitely get on board and think of things you want to do and are achievable

Kachee || KacheeTee.com says

May 12, 2017 at 11:46 am

I was looking forward to our feature already! But i guess I can wait nine weeks and I hope it works out.

I def can’t do 30 countries before 30, but I’ve interviewed two of my friends who have on my blog. So exciting and you can read them below.

http://www.kacheetee.com/blog/2017/3/21/30-countries-before-30-ruchika-patel http://www.kacheetee.com/blog/2017/1/21/30countriesbefore30-kemi-onabanjo

http://www.KacheeTee.com

May 12, 2017 at 12:06 pm

Awww thanks Kachee, it’s been exciting and can not wait to do the other 5.

Alli Smith says

May 12, 2017 at 11:13 am

I’m so impressed! I love the idea of 30 Countries Before 30! It’s amazing what you have accomplished in the last two years. I also like that your reasoning as to why you didn’t include the countries where you had a 3-hour or less layover. Congrats to you!

May 12, 2017 at 11:18 am

Thank you Alli, I have had a blast so far and excited to visit more than 5 countries in my life time 🙂

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30 Once in A Lifetime Trips to Take Before 30

I’ve been lucky enough to visit some amazing places around the world and have some of the best experiences while doing so.  Checking off the Northern Lights, solo travel, food experiences, pagoda hopping, and more…. these are the trips that have left a lasting impression on me.  If you’re looking for places to visit before 30, look no further.  I’ve compiled my “30 before 30 list” here detailing all of the experiences worth spending time and money on!

30 Experiences to Have and Places to Visit Before 30

When traveling internationally I highly encourage you to purchase travel insurance for peace of mind in case anything were to go wrong.  I use and recommend SafetyWing .

 1. Travel Solo

One of the best decisions I’ve ever made was facing my fears and traveling solo !  Sure, you may feel lonely but the truth of the matter is when you travel solo you’re more likely to make friends, go at your own pace, and learn the local culture!  Get up at 5 am, go to bed at 8 pm.  Or stay in and watch Netflix for the day.  The world is your oyster when you’re alone… do with it what you please!

Read more about solo travel here:

13 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Lone Traveller

How Solo Travel Changed Me

The One Thing that Nobody Tells You About Solo Travel

The Ultimate Solo Travel Bucket List

The Best European Countries to Visit As a Solo Female Traveler

2. Fall in love with Paris

Growing up I had a bit of disdain for Paris.  I mean, how could it truly be that wonderful?  And why is everyone so obsessed with the French?  It took me actually visiting Paris to experience firsthand the magic of the city.  The chic-ness of the French as they make their way to work, fresh baguette in hand.  The stunning architecture and romance of the city.  And oh don’t get me started with the cheese, pastries, and wine.  There’s truly no better place to fall in love and no better city to fall in love with.

Read more about Paris here:

How to Spend 4 Days in Paris

How to Spend a Day in Montmartre – Paris’s Cutest Neighborhood

The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide

Exploring Paris’s Neighborhoods in Six Days

A Guide to Le Marais

3. Chase the Northern Lights, but don’t be discouraged if you don’t see them

A bucket list dream of mine has always been to see the Northern Lights.  When I found myself in Estonia I knew I had to head north to cross this off my list.  So I booked a flight to Finland and headed north to a small town – Ivalo.  I checked into my hotel and waited in bed all day for my “Northern Lights tour” to start.  10 minutes before we were set to depart, the tour was canceled due to weather conditions.  The next day I packed my bags and left Ivalo feeling let down, discouraged, and disappointed.  After all… I did fly to Ivalo strictly to see the Northern Lights.

I ended up flying south to Rovaniemi, where I got lucky.  The weather cleared and I was able to experience this phenomenon after all.  Seeing the lights dance in the sky will be something that will forever amaze me.  So go chase the Northern Lights, but don’t get discouraged if you don’t see them.

Read more about the Northern Lights here:

Chasing the Northern Lights – What Not to Do

4. Sail through the British Virgin Islands

Get some friends or family together, rent a boat, and sail through one of the most gorgeous parts of the world.  White sand beaches, clear blue water; there are endless activities to enjoy in the British Virgin Islands!  From adventuring around islands on scooters, swimming with turtles and nurse sharks, to jumping off abandoned pirate ships.  Sailing through the British Virgin Islands is truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Read more about the British Virgin Islands:

Sailing Through the British Virgin Islands

Five Reasons to Visit Anegada Now

5. Slow down at Lake Bled

Slovenia is an incredibly underrated country.  Full of quaint towns, beautiful nature, and lacking in hoards of tourists (so far!).  Make it a point to visit Slovenia sooner than later, and discover what makes the country so special.  While you’re in town make sure to stop and spend time in Lake Bled.  Found in the Julian Alps, enjoy the scenery and jaw-dropping backdrop as you slowly mosey around the lake.

Read more about Slovenia here:

48 Hours in Ljubljana

6. Visit Budapest for no other reason than it’s awesome

Budapest is one of the most underrated capital cities around.  Not only is it a walkable city full of charm and history but you can also bathe in natural hot baths, see amazing architecture, come across friendly locals, old churches, fun nightlife, and do all of this cheaply!  Budapest operates on the local currency, the Hungarian Forint allowing your dollar to go far.

Read more about Budapest here:

Four Days in Budapest

Buda vs Pest

10 Things to See and Do in Budapest

7. Skip Napa, visit lesser-known wine regions

While Napa is beautiful and produces some of the best wine in the world, there are so many other great wine regions around the US with far fewer visitors.  This allows you more time to get to taste the wine, get to know the winemakers, and enjoy the atmosphere without crowds of people around.  My favorite “less-visited” wine regions include Applegate Valley, OR, Los Olivos, CA, Temecula, CA, and Fredericksburg, TX.

Read more about my favorite wine regions across the USA:

The Best of Fredericksburg – Wine Edition

Woodinville Wine Tasting – The Best Tasting Rooms to Visit

Sonoma Wine Tasting – Which Vineyards to Visit if You Only Have One Day

Spending the Day in Healdsburg, the Best Healdsburg Wineries to Visit

The Best Things to Do in Paso Robles

8. See for yourself why Italy is such a tourist hotspot (but don’t get scammed!)

Italia !  By far one of the most beautiful countries I’ve visited (it is popular for good reason)!  As you move from Northern Italy to Southern Italy (or vice versa) you get dramatic landscape changes, weather changes, and even cultural changes!  The best part about visiting is the country is train friendly.  Hop on a train for cheap and you can be in a different part of the country in a few short hours!  You’ll definitely want to visit Italy to see what the rave is all about.

Read more about Italy:

A Complete Guide to Visiting Rome

Italy, the Country that Has Mastered the Art of the “Tourist Scam”?

Photos to Inspire You to Visit Verona

A Complete Guide to Visiting Florence

A True Foodie Experience in Naples

9. Visit Bangkok – Strictly for the street food

Bangkok was the first city I ever visited in Asia.  I was nervous, overwhelmed, and quite frankly not very excited.  I was using Bangkok as a fly-in city in order to connect to different countries around Southeast Asia that I wanted to visit instead .  But my, that was a mistake!  Bangkok totally blew me away.  The crowds of people, the Thai culture, the food… it was all part of this incredible experience making Bangkok one of my favorite cities in the world.  I’d highly recommend visiting not only for the experience but mostly for the street food !  Go in with an open mind, loose pants, and let your preconceived notions about street food go!  My favorite street food markets in Bangkok included the Rot Fai Night Market and the Floating Markets.

Read more about Bangkok here:   The Best 3 Day Bangkok Itinerary

10. Why yes, Ireland really is that green!  Visit to see for yourself!

One of my first “big girl” trips abroad took me to Ireland!  I went with one of my best friends, we rented a car, and explored the country for a week.  While stopping for fish n’ chips and drinking beer in old pubs was great, the true highlight of the experience was the scenery as we drove from town to town.  Lush, rolling green hills, and traffic jams as we weaved through narrow roads due to sheep passing.  The beauty of Ireland is unlike any of I’ve seen before.

Read more about Ireland:

A Complete Guide to Visiting Dublin

How to Spend 2 Days in County Wicklow, Ireland

11. discover the quaint towns of the uk.

Sure, visiting London and Edinburgh are great!  Both are fascinating, lively cities that are rich in history and popular for good reason!  But the true beauty of the UK?  The beauty lies in the quaint towns and hidden villages of England and Scotland; between London and Edinburgh.  I suggest slowing down and spend some time exploring the countryside.  Drive along the hilly roads until you find somewhere suitable to stop.  There’s so much beauty to discover in the countryside.

Read more about my favorite UK towns here:

Solo Guide to 48 Hours in Oban

A Stay in the Cotswolds

Five Places to Visit in Great Britain that Aren’t London

12. Gorge on tapas while simultaneously admiring Gaudí’s work in Barcelona

In awe of the food and architecture found around Barcelona, this city is one of the tastiest and visually appealing cities I’ve ever visited!  From La Sagrada Família, Parc Güell, and Casa Batlló, Antoni Gaudí has made a lasting impression on Barcelona.  Admire his works while working your way through the city eating different tapas (small plates) found in cafés lining the streets.

Read more about Barcelona here:

The Ultimate Guide to Barcelona, Spain

72 Hours in Barcelona

13. Prove to people why going off the beaten path is worth it by visiting Tallinn

One of the best-preserved medieval cities found around Europe, Tallinn is an underrated gem found in Eastern Europe.  The capital of Estonia sits on the Baltic Sea, making it easy to take the ferry to Helsinki for the day.  Or experience what Tallinn has to offer by learning the history as you visit the sites around the town dating clear back to the 13th-century.

Read more about Tallinn here:

Solo Guide to Tallinn

10 Things to See and Do in Tallinn

14. Rent a scooter and drive one of the most stunning roads in the world – The Hai Vân Pass

A thrilling and exciting (yet terrifying) must-do activity when visiting Vietnam is driving the stunning Hai Vân Pass .  Taking you up the Annamite Mountain Range away from the scenic South China Sea, this 13-mile stretch of road is an invigorating drive.  As you leave behind the ocean you’ll ascend high up into the clouds, only to depart back to the beach again.  This drive truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Read more about Vietnam here:

How to Spend Two Weeks in Vietnam

From Hôi An to Hue via the Hai Vân Pass

15. See for yourself why people flock to Prague for Christmas time

In a city that sees more than 600,000 visitors in the month of December alone, there’s a reason why Prague is one of the most visited cities during Christmas.  Whimsy and mystical, the city is adorned with Christmas lights, Christmas trees, and wooden stalls selling trinkets, goulash, and mulled wine.  In a city where beer is oftentimes cheaper than water, the streets are still made of cobblestone, and architecture from the 13th-century still stands, Prague is a city that is definitely worth visiting.

Read more about Prague here:

Must-See Sites of Prague

16. Experience coffee culture in Vienna

Coffee culture is “The set of traditions and social behaviors that surround the consumption of coffee, particularly as a social lubricant”, and there’s no city that does it better than Vienna.  Here Viennese coffee culture has shaped the city and has a long history dating back to the 1600s when some of the first coffee houses were built.  Since then the coffee culture in Vienna has been deemed a UNESCO “Intangible Cultural Heritage” as a place “Where time and space are consumed, but only the coffee is found on the bill.”

Read more about Vienna here:

Complete Guide to Vienna

48 Hours in Vienna

17. Explore Myanmar’s ancient pagodas on a scooter

Seeing ancient Myanmar pagodas up close is an eery and mystifying feeling.  Over 4,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas, and monasteries were built during the 11th-13th century and today only approximately 2,000 of those are still standing.  In Myanmar, you’ll get a true sense of what life might have been like centuries ago as you enjoy a more simplified part of Asia.

Read more about Myanmar here:

One Week in Myanmar – Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake

Why Bagan Should Be On Your Bucket List

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Myanmar

18. Road trip up the west coast, making sure to stop in America’s Riviera

From San Diego up to Seattle, there are so many towns and cities to stop in as you make your way up the west coast.  One of my favorite beach towns on the coast is nestled in the San Ynez Mountains – Santa Barbara, CA.  With upscale dining and wine experiences, relaxing days at the beach, and a fun nightlife, Santa Barbara has a lot to offer for a town housing less than 100,000 people.

Pro tip:  I use Discover Cars to compare rental prices across multiple different companies!

Read more about road tripping across the west coast:

From Seattle:  A 2-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip from San Francisco to Santa Barbara

From San Francisco:  The Best Road Trip to Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur

19. Discover the many facets of Seattle

One of the cities that most amazes me in the United States is Seattle, WA.  Here you can experience wine country by day and city life by night.  Or get out in nature to hike and explore the surrounding PNW or even ferry to surrounding islands!  In what other cities can you get city life, hikes, wine country, and boating experiences all in one place?

Read more about Seattle here:

The Ultimate Guide to Seattle

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Pike Place Market

A Foodie’s Guide to Seattle

10 Unique Things to Do in Seattle

How to Have a Perfect Weekend Trip to Seattle

20. Relax on Thailand’s white-sand beaches

When it comes to beautiful destinations, Thailand is high up there.  Island hop your way around Southern Thailand as you walk through white sand beaches and dip your toes in the clear blue waters.  With endless activities such as snorkeling, diving, and visiting temples, there’s more to do than just relax on the beach.

Read more about Thailand’s beaches:

The Best Finds in Northwest Phuket, Thailand

21. Learn about the devastating effects of WWII by visiting a concentration camp

It’s estimated that approximately 3% of the population died in WWII (70-85 million people), making it the deadliest war in history.  This time, the people that perished, deserve to be remembered and paid tribute to.  Step back and history and try to put yourself in those people’s shoes who were forced into concentration camps.  Learn a little bit about what life might have been like for those people and pay respect and remembrance to them.

22. Stay in a glass hotel during wintertime

What better way to get the experience of being in a winter wonderland than to enjoy it from the heat and coziness of your own hotel room?  You can do just that by staying in a glass igloo or hotel!  Watch the sunset early in the day, as the snow falls to the ground blanketing the earth in a sheet of white.  If you’re lucky you may even be able to experience the northern lights without leaving your room!

Read more about my time in Finnish Lapland:

Visiting Lapland as a Solo Female Traveler

23. Visit a lesser-known country; perhaps Macedonia?

In 2017 I set off to Macedonia for eight weeks to experience what life was like in a country I had heard very little about.  It turned out to be one of my favorite countries I’ve visited; full of friendly locals, great food, cheap drinks, and stunning views.  All with very few tourists!  Although I was nervous to go, (it isn’t a country that is talked about much), Macedonia will always hold a special place in my heart.

Read more about Macedonia:

What to Expect in Skopje

Macedonian Bucket List – What to See and Do While Visiting

24 Hours in Ohrid, Macedonia

24. Road trip up the east coast of the USA, learning about American history along the way

While the USA isn’t nearly as old as the other countries, we still have quite a fascinating history.  From immigration to the Boston Tea Party, and even Paul Revere’s final ride, learn about how America came to be as you road trip up the east coast!

Read more about my favorite east coast cities:

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Boston – Everything You Need to Know, Guaranteed

A Visit to the Cape – One Day in Provincetown

A One Day Stay in Newport, Rhode Island

25. Marvel at the uber clean, futuristic city of Singapore

While expensive, Singapore is a city, unlike any other and one that you must see.  Futuristic architecture, supertrees, and housing one of the best airports in the world, Singapore is a city like no other.  Where it’s illegal to chew gum, there are cameras found on every street corner, and the highway to the airport can be rearranged to an emergency landing strip within 20-minutes, it’s truly unique.

Read more about Singapore:

48 Hours in Singapore

10 Things to See and Do in Singapore

26. Volunteer abroad

One of the best ways to learn about different cultures is by volunteering!  With different opportunities all over the world, there’s no excuse not to get out there and help others.  In 2017 I volunteered with Project Hope in Macedonia and it changed my life from the inside out!

Read more about my experience volunteering:

Working as a Volunteer Nurse – My Experience in Macedonia

27. Get lost in nature at Banff National Park

Taking a “nature” trip is a great way to disconnect, recenter, and explore the beauty of planet earth.  And what better place to do so than Banff National Park?  Located in the Rocky Mountains, Banff is the oldest national park in Canada packed with glaciers, mountainous hikes, wildlife, and stunningly blue glacial-fed lakes.  Visiting Banff is a feast for the eyes no matter where you turn.

Read more about Alberta:

Canadian Rockies Itinerary – How to Make the Most of 3 Days in Banff and Jasper

23 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Alberta in the Summertime

The Nitty Gritty Details of Visiting the Most Popular Banff Lakes – Louise, Moraine, Peyto

28. Skip Oktoberfest!  Instead, head to Munich for Springfest

Like Oktoberfest, Springfest is an annual beer festival that takes place in outdoor tents around Munich.  Without the crowds of Oktoberfest, you get a more local experience if you opt for Springfest instead.  With beers and pretzels the size of your head and lederhosen the dress of choice, this is definitely a trip for the books!  And one to take before 30!

Read more about Munich:

48 Hours in Munich

29. Take a girls trip

The flip side of solo travel?  Group travel!  Some of my favorite trips have been with my girlfriends!  Take to the beach, mountains, or city, group travel can look different for everyone!  My favorite places to enjoy girls’ trips are in cities like Nashville , on the beaches in Florida, and in wine country like Los Olivos!

30. Visit the heart of America – Nebraska!

And to round out 30 trips to take before 30, discover what makes middle America so great.  Down-to-earth people, affordable housing, and an expanding dining scene you can’t go wrong when you visit Nebraska.  Visit our famous zoo , float down the Niobrara River, or take one of the most scenic drives in America, the Sandhills Journey. There’s more to Nebraska than what meets the eye.

Read more about Nebraska:

10 Reasons You Should Want to Visit Omaha, Nebraska

From Omaha:  A 2-Day Trip to Western Nebraska

While my travels are just getting started, these have truly been some of the most life-changing experiences I’ve had.  But I’m curious, what are some of your favorite once-in-a-lifetime trips you’ve taken?  What places would you recommend to visit before 30?  Let me know in the comments below!  I may just be adding some to my ever-growing bucket list.

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase through my link, at no cost to you.

Kylee is a NICU nurse passionate about making travel affordable and accessible to nurses. Inspiring nurses to travel both near and far, Kylee began Passports and Preemies in 2017 while volunteering in Skopje, North Macedonia as a way to reach nurses and advocate for the prevention of nurse burnout by traveling. Kylee has been a NICU nurse for 9 years and a travel nurse for 7 years. Since starting her career in travel nursing, she’s worked in six different states, 10 different hospitals, volunteered as a nurse in North Macedonia, worked as a nurse in Saudi Arabia, and has traveled to 45+ countries. Her favorite travel nurse assignment was in Seattle and her favorite destination is Georgia (the country). Kylee is the original creator of the “8 Day Vacay” – a vacation geared towards nurses who aim to take advantage of the potentially 8 days off between work weeks with no need to use PTO.

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Why I Want to Visit 30 Countries By 30

You may have seen me recently in the Daily Mail where they wrote a pretty awesome piece about me with the headline “Teacher Sets off on Mission to Visit 30 Countries by 30.” When they sent me the published article I was a little surprised. We hadn’t discussed this as a title and I had casually mentioned it while they were interviewing me. I go back and forth on the country counting thing but honestly it’s kind of fun!

My goal when I’m traveling isn’t to count countries but it’s ended up being a really fun goal. My goal when I travel is to have a great time and experience something new and exciting! Should counting countries be your ultimate goal? Probably not. Is it fun and exciting? Yes! I don’t think you have to pick between the two as a goal when you travel so here’s why I chose to visit 30 countries by 30 and how I keep my mindset about it in check.

PS – I’m past 30 now and did hit my goal!!!

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Reason 1: experience lots of different cultures.

Not because I was to check off more places.

I love experiencing different things and different places. There’s so much to see and do in this world and one of the best ways to do that is go to new countries. Everywhere I’ve visited has given me a different experience and that makes me excited to have more.

If I decide to go somewhere just to check it off my list, then it probably will not be an experience I enjoy nearly as much. I do revisit places I love frequently. For example, I’ve been to  Puerto Rico  and  Italy  three times. I’ve visited  Mexico  three times and I have been to  California  at least five times. I love revisiting places and seeing what else there is to offer. You’ve got to have a balance of both!

Reason 2: every country is so unique

Not because I can go to a place for one day and say I know everything about it.

Every country (and city honestly) has it’s own unique culture and space. The more I can experience the better! I don’t feel like you have to visit a bunch of countries for something unique, but I think you do get something unique from each place you go. I’ve been lucky enough to have layovers in different countries and start to experience them. I know I want to go back to countries like  Turkey  to spend more time, but did get to experience the city it’s self and it was completely unique and wonderful!

Reason 3: I have 6 weeks of vacation between now and my birthday to visit 3 countries

Not because I am going to do a multi-country hooping trip in a short amount of time.

Honestly, I am so close anyway and travel all the time so why not make it a goal? It’s fun to think about and gives me motivation to go to new places. I am lucky enough to have a ton of time off. A week is a decent amount of time to spend in a country (although more is better!) and so why not take advantage of those breaks? I went to  6 countries and 3 continents last year  and I don’t want to slow down.

Reason 4: there’s so much good food out there

Not because I want to try one dish and say I know everything about the food in a country.

I’m obsessed with all the different foods that are around the world! I love visiting different countries and trying the best of what they have to offer. I’m always happy eating a good meal and having some wine. Traveling expands your knowledge of food and let’s you see the best of each country. I am by no means a food expert, but eating the delicious food in a country is one of my favorite parts of visiting!

Reason 5: I’m really close already and I love making goals.

I have no reason not to for this one. As I mentioned, I’m pretty close to being there already and I might as well make this goal! It’s tons of fun to be working toward something (yes, I may be a bit type A…) and I do think it’s a fun way to document my travels. I think people way overthink the idea of counting countries. If your goal is to have fun and have great experiences, then you should go for it!

Reason 6: I know how to find great deals and make travel a priority.

Not because I make so much money I might as well spend it.

This one is really important. I know how to find a good deal and probably spend about $5,000 a year on my travels. I’m pretty transparent about the money I spend when I travel on my blog because I want people to know how affordable it can be . I am not afraid to say that I took an extra job to fund my travels and I’m not worried about how it looks.

Travel is a priority for me and I want to make it something that I continue to do for a long time. I know how to find good deals and will continue to be able to afford to travel as much as I do because of my research and what I want to do!

So, how do you feel about counting countries? Hopefully I gave you some insight into my thoughts about it and why I think it can be fun if done for the right reasons! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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30 Under 30: 30 Places You Need To Visit Before You Turn 30

Isn’t it amazing to know and visit some of the best places in the world? Of course, it is! Travelling is remarkably powerful and there is nothing more exhilarating than exploring new destinations across the globe. However, travelling means different things to different people. While some love taking wildlife safaris, some opt for surreal desert scapes. Some dream to relax on sandy beaches while for some, vibrant cities with blazing skyscrapers seal the deal.

So, to help you with your inspiration to do a round-the-world trip, we have curated a list of 30 places you need to visit before you turn 30. Please tag along!

1. Seoul, South Korea

The vibrant Seoul in South Korea is a melange of ancient history and modernity. With bustling skyscrapers and modern subways, Seoul is one of the most frequently visited tourist places in South Korea. The lush green parks and Seoul’s many museums make the city more interesting.

The city is filled with a wide range of major attractions. One can explore the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village or bask in the beauty of Cherry blossoms in front of N Seoul Tower. A trip to Seoul is incomplete without witnessing the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace built during the powerful Joseon dynasty. Taking long walks along Cheonggyecheon isn’t a bad idea either!

2. Kashmir, India

The enchanting Kashmir makes for one of the most beautiful places to visit in the World. With its picturesque vistas of chinar trees and criss-cross wooden bridges, Kashmir is every traveller’s dream. And you need to experience it at least once before you turn 30.

Nestled high in the Himalayas, Kashmir in India has a lot to offer. Its quaint hamlets, frozen rivers, native bazaars, Sufi shrines, alpine vales, and historic forts will keep you excited throughout your trip. However, a Kashmir visit is incomplete without taking a Shikara ride in Dal lake and enjoying a Heritage Walk to Old Srinagar!

3. Sri Lanka

The ‘pearl of the Indian Ocean’, Sri Lanka, with its tropical jungles and mountain towns, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the World. So if you are someone who loves exploring ancient World Heritage sites and going on safaris, Sri Lanka is a perfect location to visit.

Places of interest in Sri Lanka include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, home of Sigiriya Rock Palace known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. Tourists also visit Wilpattu National Park, and Monkey Kingdom, and go for whale watching tours in Mirissa.

4. Maldives

The tropical paradise Maldives, with its clear waters, gorgeous palm trees, and white-sand beaches, houses almost 1200 of the world’s most scintillating islands. The island country is a perfect place to plan your idyllic beach getaway.

The Maldives is also one of the best places in the World for adventurous souls. Jet-skiing in the Arabian sea is a must here! Tourists can further visit places like Male city, Como Cocoa Island, Addu Atoll, and Maafushi in the Maldives.

Turkey, located in Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia, is rich in cultural heritage. It is one of the places in the World which is replete with beautiful coastlines and charming villages. Imagine being able to witness the beauty of the numerous chimneys and Turkish landscapes. Truly, magical!

Among the most attractive interests of Turkey are Istanbul, Bosphorus, Cappadocia, Holden Horn, and Eyup Sultan Mosque. You can also visit the glorious Topkapi Palace, and the Anatolian plateau.

6. Paris, France

All you romantics at heart, how do you feel about travelling to one of the most romantic places in Europe? The French capital Paris is the perfect place for people who crave mornings with buttery croissants and dream of boating down the Seine. Also, let’s not forget the Insta-worthy pictures you will get with the idyllic Eiffel Tower backdrop.

Paris is also the cultural hub in Europe and a trip to the city lets tourists indulge in arts, music, and its many museums. The Louvre Museum In Paris, one of the most famous art museums in the world, is a must-visit here. There’s also the Palace of Versailles for all the history lovers! And all the Disney fans, don’t miss out on Disneyland!

7. Sardinia, Italy

It’s a dream for many to visit Sardinia, the Second-largest Island In The Mediterranean Sea. This Italian island spreads over nearly 2,000km of coastline. The calm beaches and hiking trails make Sardinia an attractive global tourist destination. It’s one of the most stunning places in Italy and deserves to be on every traveller’s bucket list.

Also read: Travel Destinations Visited By Priyanka Chopra That Deserve To Be On Your Bucket List

A trip to Sardinia offers Sella del Diavolo, dolphin sightings, and visits to the Costa Smeralda, Alghero, and Nuraghe Losa. Tourists can also explore the World famous Museo Archeologico Nazionale which displays Punic, Greek, and Roman artifacts.

If there is one word that can describe London the best, it’s ‘Charming’. With pretty stately parks, emerald grass vistas, and bustling towns, London has its own charm! They say when you leave London, a simple image or a random smell is enough to transport you back to the metropolis. And that it is a city you must visit before you turn 30!

London is full of attractive touristy places. One can sit and enjoy the views of Kensington Gardens or take lazy evening strolls in Hyde Park. The London countrysides and Rutland sunsets let you explore cozy chocolate-box villages and warm country houses. One can also bask in some pride and love in the World famous G-A-Y bar in Soho.

9. Birmingham, UK

Birmingham in the UK is a city that takes pride in its history and mystery! With pretty canal-side venues, museums, and bars, Birmingham is one of the most unique cities in the World. After the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the city is seeing a huge influx of tourists.

You can explore a lot of places in Birmingham, starting from Roundhouse Birmingham. The secret canal to the Jewellery Quarter, National Sea Life Birmingham, and the Lego 4D cinema in Birmingham are other major attractions of the city.

10. Aizawl, North East

Craving for a getaway amidst nature? Well, Aizawl in Mizoram is abundantly blessed with lush green hills and serene natural beauty. This stunning hill station lies at a height of 1132 above sea level and is one of the most beautiful places in the North East.

For tourists interested in exploring nature and Mizo culture, Aizawl has a lot to offer! Visit the main handicrafts market, Bara Bazar, buy local garments at Zion Street and indulge in history with the Mizoram State Museum in Zarkawt. You can also visit the famous family of Pu Ziona, the largest existing family in the World. Just head to the Baktawng Village in Aizawl.

11. Sarbal, Kashmir, India

Sarbal in Kashmir is a lesser-known tiny hamlet that boasts in its rich culture. Sarbal is full of scenic meadows, cozy huts, and adorable people. Sarbal is known as Kashmir’s last hamlet and is nestled in the foothills of the Great Himalayas.

A trip to Sarbal will offer you blooms of Canopies, glacial lakes, and alpine vales. Trekking trails start from Sarbal village. Adventurous souls can also visit Durinar and Barafsar. These peaks will give you the best views of Kashmir.

12. Busan, South Korea

If you thought South Korea was all about Seoul, then let us take you through the country’s second-largest city. Busan lures in travellers from across the globe with its majestic temples, scintillating beaches, and busy local markets. The street food in Busan will leave you speechless!

A few major attractions of Busan include Beomeosa temple, Lantern Festival at Samgwangsa, Seokbulsa, Haeundae Beach, Taejongdae Resort Park, and Oryukdo Skywalk.

13. Guwau Village, Taebaek, South Korea

Another place you must visit before you turn 30! Guwau village in Taebaek, South Korea, is that rare Instagram-worthy tourist spot that most travel enthusiasts crave to find! The village is home to a vast field of around 300 species of wildflowers. So, travel bloggers, this is your chance to make your ‘Gram’ game strong.

Gangwon Province is South Korea’s largest sunflower patch. So when you take your wanderlust to the country, make sure you don’t miss out on one of its most beautiful places! The best time to visit the vast spread of sunflowers is in August. You can also enjoy the annual Taebaek Sunflower Festival usually here and it’s usually held between July to August.

14. Arizona, United States

Arizona, known for its lively cities, sports warm weather all year around. With its famous red rocks, hiking trails, and natural wonders, Arizona totally deserves to be on your bucket list. The state is also home to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon.

One of the most attractive places of interest in Arizona is the majestic natural wonder, the Grand Canyon. After exploring the pride of the state, tourists can go hiking in the North Rim. They can also raft the Colorado River and explore the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Nature lovers can visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. The museum spreads over an area of 98-acre and you might spot native animals like coyotes and prairie dogs while on an outing there.

15. Majuli, Assam, India

Majuli is the second largest freshwater river island in the world and the largest in Asia. This serene river island on the Brahmaputra River in Assam is around 352 sq km. Tourists from all over the globe flock to indulge in the sublime beauty of Majuli.

Majuli is one of the cultural hubs in Assam and has a lot of major attractions. One can explore the Shri Shri Dakhinpat Satra, witness the Water hyacinths ride on the wooden boats, take lazy strolls in the Mishing village, and relax in Sunset point.

16. Lapland, Finland

Ever dreamt of visiting Santa Claus at his home and singing jingles amidst the northern lights? If yes, then a trip to Finland’s Lapland is what you need to make your dream a reality. From the Northern Lights and the Nordic woodland to the midnight sun in summer, Lapland is where magic happens.

A trip to this fairytale land is incomplete without experiencing nature’s greatest spectacle, Aurora Borealis. A few other places of interest include Lapland’s main town, Rovaniemi, Inari village and Ranu Zoo. You can also visit Halti, the highest peak in Lapland. After all, walking uphill to discover hidden trails is never a bad idea!

Also read: 5 Underrated Destinations In Thailand Indians Must Visit

17. Zanzibar, Tanzania

The Indian Ocean archipelago Zanzibar is home to several islands lying off the coast of East Africa. This gem of Tanzania is nestled between Pemba and Mafia and is World famous for its white-sand beaches, fun nightlife and remarkable cultural history. Zanzibar is also one of the major administrative districts of Mjini Magharibi Region in Tanzania.

A list of places to experience the best of Zanzibar include the laid-back beach bar in Kendwa, Forodhani Market, Stone Town, Nungwi, Paje, Jozaniforest, Jambiani and Unesco World Heritage site, the House of Wonders.

A vacation in Spain is all about jaw-dropping museums and stunning natural features. With a sunny climate and vibrant culture, Spain is every traveller’s dream destination. So bookmark it right away! The gorgeous landscapes and world-famous mountain ranges are totally a treat to the eyes.

When in Spain, you can go swimming in the deep blues of Costa Brava, visit Pueblos Blancos – the white-washed villages of Andalucia, explore the famous Moco Museum and one of the masterpieces of Spain, Casa Battlo Gaudi in Barcelona, designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudi.

19. Chadar, Leh, India

Ever wondered about trekking on thin ice? Well, the most dangerous trekking trail in India, Chadar, takes you through a frozen River, and is an experience like no other!

The Chadar trail which starts at Leh at an altitude of 11,400 ft, is going to take you through the Zanskar River. This frozen river is the only link between the outside world and the Zanskar village. The trail’s unparalleled beauty is one of the reasons why trekkers from across the globe are tempted by Chadar.

20. Mumbai, India

Aamchi Mumbai also is a place you must visit before you turn 30! Mumbai, the Indian city of stars and dreams, is the 14th best city in the world according to the Time Out 2022 list. This capital city of Maharashtra is located on the west coast of the Indian peninsula.

From iconic landmarks to glorious nightlife, Mumbai has a lot to offer to tourists. The best way to identify with Mumbai is to visit the majestic tall arch, the Gateway of India. Tourists can also visit places like Nariman Point, the Manhattan of Mumbai, Flora Fountain, Jehangir Art Gallery, Marine Drive, and the very famous Dabbawalas.

21. Bangkok, Thailand

Want to enjoy a calming dawn by the riverside? Head to the ‘City of Angels’, Bangkok. The capital city of Thailand with its quiet klongs, hip clubs, and glorious temples will leave you speechless with its jaw-dropping beauty.

There’s a lot to explore in Bangkok. Take a tour of the Floating market, visit the Temple of Dawn, enjoy the Chao Phraya River Boat Cruise and maybe swim with Sharks at the Siam Ocean World!

22. Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, India

Wouldn’t it be amazing to be able to take a walk amidst the clouds before you turn 30? Well, a visit to Pasighat will offer you that and so much more. It’s one of the oldest towns in Arunachal Pradesh and sits in the eastern Siang district bordering Assam in Northeast India.

There are numerous places of interest for backpackers in Pasighat. One can trek to the Sirki waterfall, visit Kekar Monying, explore Yagrung Village and enjoy the Bodak View Point. However, nothing can beat the feeling of witnessing the sunrise standing amidst cottony white clouds!

23. Iceland

Iceland is one of the world’s top travel destinations and is most popular amongst adventurer seekers and nature lovers. If you are all in to witness black sand beaches, active volcanoes, hot springs, glaciers, ice fields, and fjords, Iceland is the perfect destination for you!

A trip to this Nordic island nation is incomplete without whale watching in Reykjavik, exploring the Blue Lagoon in Grindavík, and the Northern Lights in Aurora Borealis.

24. Hampi, Karnataka, India

Hippie Island, Hampi is one of the best places in India where you can relax and unwind. Hampi is all about meeting hippie backpackers, taking part in drum circles, exploring history, and relishing amazing food.

Tourist spots in Hampi that attract a lot of travellers include its many temples like the Vijaya Vittala temple and Lakshmi Narasimha temple, the Queen’s bath, Hampi Bazaar, Narasimha statue, and the serene Tungabhadra river.

25. Osaka, Japan

Osaka is one of the cities in Japan that lets tourists indulge in history and culture. The ‘Venice Of The East’ is popular because of its lit nightlife, history and culture, and delectable cuisine. Osaka is also a major financial center, and is recognized as one of the most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities in Japan.

Osaka is one of Japan’s largest cities and offers numerous tourist attractions such as Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Tennoji, Bunraku Theatre, Osaka Aquarium, Museum Of History, Minoo Park, Umeda Sky Building, and the Bay Area among many others.

26. Dubai, UAE

Dubai in UAE is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city, with its skyscrapers, nightlife and architectural marvels like the Jumeirah Palm, attracts huge numbers of tourists across the globe almost every year.

There’s always a lot to explore in Dubai. Visit the Burj Khalifa, take a Yacht tour in Dubai Marina, enjoy lazy strolls in Old Town, and gorge on yummy street food. Places like the Fountain at the Dubai Mall and the Dubai creek add to the greatness of the City. You absolutely should visit here before you turn 30!

27. Maui, Hawaii

The geographically diverse Hawaiian island Maui is all about hidden ocean coves and lofty mountain ridges. With an abundance of natural beauty to explore, Maui is a paradise for all nature lovers.

There are numerous places to experience the best of this Hawaiian island. One can visit the beautiful Wailea, explore the wilderness in Haleakala National Park and witness the rainforests in the West Maui Mountains. However, it’s the underwater submarine adventure in Kahana that attracts a lot of tourists to Maui.

28. New Zealand

Described by locals as Godsown, New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places in the world – one that you should totally visit before you turn 30! With rolling green hills, gorgeous mountains, and breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand is pure magic.

Tekapo is a must-visit in New Zealand. It’s one of the places that offer some of the world’s darkest skies and purest stargazing opportunities. A few other tourist attractions of New Zealand include the Bay of Islands, Castlepoint, The Coromandel, and Aoraki Mount Cook.

29. Zagreb, Croatia

The capital city of the Republic of Croatia, Zagreb, is ‘made’ of 2 hills, Gradec and Kaptol. This beautiful city with a rich history and numerous places to explore is also the largest cultural hub of Croatia.

To savor the best of Zagreb, tourists can visit St. Mark’s Church, explore the Museum Of Broken Relationships, bask in the beauty of Stone Gate, and witness the fire-a-cannon ceremony in the Lotrscak Tower.

30. Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

Who wouldn’t want to visit the largest tropical rainforest on Earth before turning 30 right? Famed for its biodiversity, Amazon Rainforest in Brazil houses more than 40,000 species of plants, thousands of species of birds, more than 400 mammals, and millions of species of insects.

A trip to the Rainforest will allow you to explore Manaus and witness the glory of the Amazon River. Tourists also go for various nature and wildlife tours and water tours while in the Rainforest. The beauty of this ecosystem which spans eight countries is unparalleled.

So, now that you know enough travel destinations across the globe, we hope some of these stunning places make it to your travel bucket list sooner or later!

Feature Image Courtesy – Unsplash

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Reaching 30 countries before 30 – the goal.

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Reaching 30 countries before 30 – the debrief.

Those of you who have been following my blog for a while, will know that it was originally called ‘Reaching 30 before 30’. If you are new around here, let me explain why. It was born as way of documenting my quest of reaching 30 countries before 30 years old. I have now turned 30 and, as you probably know, I smashed it! For a full list of the countries I have visited, have a look here !

How the ‘Reaching 30 countries before 30’ began

I was 24 when I set myself this goal. I had read an article about a woman who had done something similar, and decided this seemed like a excellent goal! What a fantastic way to start seeing the world. I did a quick count, and at this stage I had visited 17 countries.

It really was as simple as that! I also bought a pin board map. Previously I had thought I was well travelled, and then realised how much of the world there still was to see. I am very goal driven and loved the idea of having something to aim for!

How I achieved it

Upon setting my reaching 30 countries before 30 goal, the first thing I decided to do, was book a 9 week sabbatical exploring South East Asia. I visited 7 countries across this period, starting in China and finishing in Bali. In theory this trip was meant to get the travelling bug out of me, for me to then focus on my career. It did the opposite!

At the age of 27, I reached my 30th country in May 2016. Just over two years after I set myself my goal! If you want to read my post on this – click here (it was rather an excited, brain dump post, do please forgive me!)

In those two years I visited:

• Czech Republic

The SE Asia countries were obviously all part of my sabbatical. Iceland, Ireland, Czech Republic and Morocco were all long weekends / short breaks. Japan was a three week trip, which I combined with a second visit to Singapore.

My South East Asia trip obviously crammed quite a few countries in, in quite a short time. I would never say I had ‘done’ those countries (can you actually ever say that?) but I have definitely visited them. If you are looking at trying to fit a few different countries in, into a short of space of time, I would definitely recommend a group travel tour (take a look here to read all my thoughts on these!)

Indeed, my visit to Guatemala was the beginning of a three week tour across Central America.

What did I learn?

I got very very fixated at one point on the counting aspect of my goal. It made me turn down deals or bargains because I had already been to that country. I have now realised how ridiculous this is. Perhaps I have been to a certain country, but it is so blind sighted of me to not want to visit a different part of that country. Let’s think about the USA for example. How can a trip to New York be anything like heading to Alaska?

I also learnt to consider countries I might not have thought of before. This was particularly true when I joined group travel tours. I ended up visiting Malaysia because it was part of the Thailand to Bali tour, and I really wanted to explore Indonesia. But it ended up being one of my favourite countries!

What’s next?

Well, firstly I upped the goal from ‘reaching 30 countries before 30’ to ‘reaching 40 countries before 30’.  I also achieved this goal in November 2018, with a work trip to Belgium in Brussels !

But now it about focusing on travelling somewhere simply for the reason I want to! I re-visited the USA, for the 7th time, to go on a Fall road trip around New England. This is even a part of the country I had been to before, but a road trip with my best friend was a very different experience from the family holiday I went on when I was 13!

Read more about this AWESOME trip here:  One Week New England Roadtrip

I am also not going to stop counting (find out more about why here ). I love knowing how many countries I’ve been too and I also love finding new destinations to fall in love with. But, I am definitely focusing on discovering new experiences, not just new countries.

How you can achieve reaching 30 countries before 30

Firstly make sure you aren’t travelling simple to tick countries off a list. Travel somewhere because you really want to visit that place, enjoy the experience and soak up the culture.

Having said that, it is great to have a goal and that feeling of satisfaction when you achieve it is quite something.

If you are trying to achieve this goal, and don’t have the luxury to be able to travel full time – it is still possible! With the exception of my sabbatical none of my trips have been longer than 3 weeks, and most are long weekends to week breaks. I tend to plan my travel calendar around the idea of having one ‘big’ trip in the year, and then shorter breaks interspersed across the rest of the year.

If you are lucky enough to live in Europe the easiest way to visit a few countries is city breaks and long weekends. With short flights, you can maximise your time in a location. Take a look at this post for some inspiration:  The ultimate European city break bucketlist

For the longer distance destinations, consider group travel tours. They take all the stress out of planning. And most importantly when you are trying to cover distance, the transport. If you are short on time, this is invaluable.

Take a look at some of these trips (all 2 – 3 weeks) which cover some great countries:

Mayan Sun – Belize, Guatemala and Mexico.

Classic Vietnam and Mekong River – Vietnam and Cambodia

Delta Falls – Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe

Think about adding a day or two on at the beginning and the end to maximise the amount you see in each destination.

Do you have any travel goals? I would love to hear them!

If you liked this post, please pin for later. 

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As amazing as reaching your goal was (huge well done!) it’s nice to just sit back and enjoy the ride, so to speak 🙂

It definitely is!!! I’m so excited to be heading back to Menorca and Italy this year. And just enjoy

After a really shitty end to 2018 with a break up, I’ve made 30 before 30 my goal too! Hoping to hit it before then so may have to up my goal to 40 like you did xx

I’m so sorry you had a rubbish end of the year. It’s just the worst. But I’m so pleased something positive happened to. Congrats on reaching 30! How long have you got before turning 30?

Ahhhh well done for hitting your goal lovely, thats great. Its funny, I used to see people banging on about the amount of countries they had visited, and thought it was some weird competition that everyone was in haha! I didnt realise people did it for reasons like this. I have never counted the countries I have been to, but now I want to! I love that you are just enjoying your travels now, an American road trip sounds amazing!

Thank you lovely! Haha the only competition I have is why my self 😂😂

Definitely want to enjoy 😊 although do have at least 4 new countries for this year 😁

Wow, this is incredible and so are you! Funnily enough, I have this same goal, with 2 years still left to accomplish it though with ways left to go still.

Xoxo, Laura

I have everything crossed for you! How many have you got left?

Definitely worth still counting countries but not if it’s the detriment of your travels and stops you visiting places you’d probably enjoy. The USA is a great example as it’s so vast and diverse everywhere you go.

Exactly. It got a bit out of hand, when I stopped wanting to go back to a different part of a country I’d already been. But I’ve sorted myself out now!

Great post and great inspiration. However, what I think is the most important part is that you’ve realised ticking off a country from a list doesn’t mean you should never visit it again. I’m part of a travel club in Denmark (where I’m from) and so many people I meet there take a few weeks off to travel to as many countries as possible – I honestly find it idiotic. To me travel is (mostly) about immersing myself in a country, experiencing it as much as possible and getting to know the locals. ☺️

Thanks so much. So pleased you enjoyed it. I think the most important part of travelling is to enjoy it, however you choose. I would love to spend a month in each country, but it’s just not possible. So sometimes a quicker pace can be good too. I figure as long as I enjoy the experience then nothing is wrong with that

I had the same goal! I also managed to hit 40 and I was really hoping to try and make it to 50 before I’m 30 but given the current situation, that’s not looking too likely now as I only have a few months left.

Now that I’ve hit my main goal though, I definitely am trying to re-vist countries more often (both to new areas, and back to places I love).

Well done for hitting it! 40 before 30 felt pretty great. But you’re right, its definitely nice to be re-visiting some awesome countries too now.

I’d love to set myself a goal like this! Might have to be 35 now though as I’m 30 in just under a year and COVID ha.

That bloom in’ C-vid! What number are you on now? I loved having a goal to work towards!

Well done of hitting your goal, I have yet to reach that I hope to do it before I turn 40 🙂

Nic | Nic’s Adventures & Bakes

Fingers crossed for you

Thhis is a great post

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30 Trips To Do Before You Are 30

Yep. It’s one of those lists. But hear me out. This post has been written with some deep travel reflection, taking into consideration that Jules is now over the decorated 30 mark and we’ve been traveling consistently throughout our 20s and now into our 30s!

As we get older our approach to travel changes. Jules and I both did solo backpacking trips in our early twenties and we can attest that how we traveled then is vastly different than now. This article is partly tongue-in-cheek because, of course you can go to Carnival in Rio way past your thirties. In fact, I encourage you to. All of these trips can be done at any age and I highly recommend forgetting how old you are and just living it up.

“But, there is something to be said for traveling in your twenties!”

There’s a reckless abandon, an assumed invisibility that pushes you to go cliff-diving and party till dawn. In your twenties you’re much less likely to care that the hostel you’re staying at has a thick layer of dirt over everything, that your next meal is probably going to be beans and rice and your cheap beer has gone warm. Travel in your twenties isn’t just about sightseeing or checking things off your bucket list, it’s about experiences, connecting with people from all over the world and living in the moment. So if you’re under 30, go out and experience these to the fullest. And if you’re over 30, do them anyway, having more life experience under your belt brings another unique perspective to travel.

1. Carnival in Rio , Brazil

Arguably the biggest party in the world. Partying all day and night for a week calls for some young blood.

2. Full Moon & Half Moon Parties in Koh Phangan, Thailand

We just made this one before Jules hit 30. Both parties are epic and full of messy twenty-something backpackers ready for a 3 day binge.

3. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

When you’re in your twenties you have the stamina to get up at 4, walk around the temples all day and then party it up in Siem Reap that night.

4. Las Vegas

Vegas is great at any age, but there’s something about experiencing Sin City for the first time as a twenty-one year old with the lights of the strip and the cha-ching of the slot machines.

5. Carnival in Veracruz, Mexico

Unlike Rio, Veracruz’s parade is pretty much anything goes. That includes jumping in line and dancing with the performers.

6. Coachella in Indio, California

Coachella in your twenties isn’t just about the music (although it’s fantastic). It’s about the epic road trip down to Indio, piling your 15 closest friends into a Palm Desert rental home, the excitement of getting ready and scheduling your day around band times. And of course the music.

7. Vang Vieng, Laos

If you’ve been to Southeast Asia you’ve heard of the infamous tubing parties. These are supposed to get pretty messy with gap year kids and other youngin’s drinking for weeks on end. You gotta be in your twenties to enjoy that.

8. The Death Road in La Paz, Bolivia

This biking trip in Bolivia may not be quite as scary as the name implies, but it still takes guts to ride down the terrifying road.

9. Machu Pichu, Peru

Another wonderful spot that can be done at any age. But in your twenties you’re much more likely to opt for the adventurous route, walking for hours along the train tracks and hiking up to the entrance. Plus you’ll still have the stamina for partying the rest of the night in Cusco.

10. Amazon Jungle

Because you’ll be young enough not to worry about all those crazy jungle diseases.

11. Tomorrowland Music Festival, Belgium

One of the world’s biggest music festivals. Get down with over 180,000 of your new best friends.

12. New York City

Concrete jungle where dreams are made of. There’s nothing you can’t do!

13. Great Ocean Road , Australia

Cruise up this historic Australian highway and have a crack at surfing some of the country’s best breaks. Your twenty-something year old body can withstand all your wipeouts.

You’d have to be in your twenties to keep up with the Spaniards who party well into the next morning. They start eating dinner at 10PM, hit up some bars by 12PM and really start partying when most people are getting up. It’s a young persons game, but plenty of Spaniards are keeping up.

15. Sacred Valley, Peru

This peaceful area not far from Machu Pichu is home to the famous Ayahausca retreats . Grab a spot between some old hippies and try the famous Amazonian hallucinogen.

16. Semuc Champey , Guatemala

These gorgeous Guatemalan pools are perfect to visit while you’re young and foolhardy enough to explore the underground cave system.

17. Venice, Italy

Not only is this romantic city perfect for young hearts, but better to go soon before it sinks!

18. Utila, Honduras

Join throngs of twenty-somethings getting their Scuba training by day and partying by night.

19. New Zealand

Explore this country with your feet kicked up on the dash of camper van, a Kiwi version of “On The Road.”

20. Ibiza, Spain

This Spanish island is all party, pretty much sums it up in a nutshell. If you’re looking for all night debauchery, then this is your place to go!

21. EDC in Las Vegas, California

Don you neon tutus and put on your beaded bracelets, you definitely can’t get away with coming to this electronic music festival past 30.

22. Bali, Indonesia

Whether you party it up in Kuta or surf at Bingin, Bali is truly young at heart.

23. New Orleans

Because no one wants to see you flash your chest for beads at 50. Well… most people!

24. Traveling to Cuba

Cuba is great at any age, but in your twenties you can join all the twenty-something locals drinking rum from the bottle at the Malecon in Havana.

25. Partying in Taganga, Colombia

This Caribbean town in Colombia may not have the nicest beaches, but there’s plenty of partying.

26. Trekking to the Lost City of Teyuan, Colombia

This three day trek requires you to cross a roaring river using a rope. We’ll leave that to the young and able-bodied.

27. San Francisco, California

The young rule this city, where you’re just as likely to meet a 21 year old college grad as a 21 year old CEO.

28. San Pedro, Guatemala

This beautiful town by Lake Atitlan is the perfect spot to post up for a few weeks and take advantage of the cheap Spanish classes and cheaper beer. There’s a young atmosphere of Spanish students and plenty of action and adventure if you’re looking for it.

29. Explore the Favelas in Rio, Brazil

Yes, Rio again, but for a completely different reason. Checking out the city’s slums, favelas , in your twenties will give you a good perspective on how the majority of the world live. Experiencing this level of poverty is humbling and will most likely give you a sense of empathy that stays with you throughout the rest of your life.

30. Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Nothing will make you realize what a tiny space you take up in this world better than these epic waterfalls.

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40 thoughts on “30 trips to do before you are 30”.

I’ve done quite a bit of these already, and will be crossing off a few more in the next couple years. I do have 3.5 more years until the big 3-0, so I actually might be able to complete this whole list. Thanks for sharing!

Plenty of time Dave! Sounds like you’re already doing well! Safe travels and happy blogging!

nice trips . thanks for sharing

Thanks Drake 🙂

These places are awesome! 🙂

Cheers Hannah! Hope you’ve knocked a few off the list!

some great adventures to do anytime!

Definitely available anytime, but some are just more fun when you’ve got the excuse of being young and dumb haha.

Wowww, I am about to hit 29 and I’ve done 16 of these things. I’m pretty proud of myself!

Would love to tick off the Ocean Road in Oz and Ibiza before next year.

Great work Jeni 🙂 Still got plenty of time to tick a few off. Ibiza would be amazing, as is the Great Ocean Rd. If you make it there in December let me know 🙂

How many of these have you done Christine?

Not enough! But i’ve still got a couple of years 🙂

Yep….Now I really just want to pack up and go!! What a fantastic list of experiences & places to visit! Definitely printing this out so I can start checking stuff off. Have you guys been to Ibiza yet?

Thanks Nicole! Unfortunately we haven’t made it yet, but we’re planning on Spain in June, so hopefully then! Would really love it!

I’ve actually done the Full Moon Party once and New York City many times. I had a blast at the former but I don’t know if I’d do it again.

Wow wow wow… So I have only three years to do all of this??! I need holidays!! 😉

Tick tock! Haha just kidding!

Good grief! (to put it politely) I’ve travelled to some amazing places but I’ve not been to a single one of these places or events. I’ve over 50 now but it’s never too late. I might skip the party at Ibiza and head out to one of the sleepy villages instead though.

Haha you’re only as young as you feel, which after Ibiza, could be pretty bad haha.

I would also add Barcelona, a city that never sleeps. I’m 31 now and I think I still have some time to visit these places. 😉 Thanks for your suggestions.

I just celebrated my 31st in Barcelona and i’m not slowing down haha.

Amazing post, more things to add to my list!

I’m glad to say that I’ve been at near 10 of these locations. Hoping to move on) The list is great.

And if your budget allows for it, attend a major sporting event, like the World Cup or the Olympics. Sure, these events can be done at any age, but there is something to be said about attending these events in your twenties when you are looking for experiences and trying to connect with people from around the world. Totally worth it! Hope to go to a few more World Cups in my lifetime.

Seems I can’t go anywhere without hearing about Coachella. I suppose I’ll have to check it out!

Ops.. I think we need to keep moving!!! Not 30 anymore and only have done two things in the list! hahaha Great List guys 🙂

Haha yeah there are plenty more things to do in the world 🙂 But this is a good start!

I want to travel to somewhere, and your post provide more things to my list. Next trip, i’ll plan to travel to Mexico. I think that’s an interesting. =)))

Cheers Kevin! You’ll love Mexico!

I am very close to 30. I hope I can complete the list 🙂

Nice List. Thanks for sharing i would love to visit all these palaces before 30.

I’d love to visit the carnival in Rio. Do you have any tips for going there? Can I go there on a budget?

Hey Agness, we actually have an article about doing Carnival in Rio on the cheap: Backpacking Rio Carnival

Vang Vieng tubing is totally toned down now- due to curfews etc in Laos I am pretty sure it got raided and is now a shell of its former self. I worked at Bucket Bar as a crazy 19-year-old and it really was the craziest place I have seen. I believe you can still tube but there are hardly any bars and much quieter than it once was! Shame as it was crazy fun back then- 8 years ago!

Good to know! Thanks for giving us that update Jamiee!

Hey Christine

I think everybody is turning 30, I have read so many posts about the things to do before 30. Well, this post is awesome because I love traveling. <3<3

Namibia wouldn’t have tempted me but the Peru is really something special,so good post. I like this list!

Thank you for your unique trip suggestions! I really really want to go to Thailand and attend a full or half moon party. Bali looks gorgeous as well!

This is an awesome list, I think i will try these places in my thirties.

Wow, what a beautiful post. This is the first time I visited your blog and its so amazing. Keeping it bookmarked for your next tour. I am highly motivated. Thanks for sharing the information and Happy Traveling.

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30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Home » 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Welcome to your 30s, a decade that promises adventure, self-discovery, and unforgettable travel experiences. As you step into this new chapter of life, the world becomes your playground, and there’s no better way to embrace it than by exploring these 30 trips to take in your 30s. 

From ancient wonders to tropical paradises, from thrilling adventures to serene spiritual sojourns, each continent has something unique to offer. So, pack your bags, set your wanderlust free, and get ready to embark on Framey’s journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of the world. Your 30s are your time to shine, and these top 30 destinations will make this decade one to remember.

Table of Contents

A. South & Western Europe: History, Culture, and Mediterranean Splendor

• Paris, France: Wander the romantic streets and indulge in world-class art and cuisine.
• Barcelona, Spain: Experience the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of Gaudi.
• Florence, Italy: Renaissance art and marvelous architecture.

1. Paris: The City of Love and Lights – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre

Paris, the capital of romance, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking love and enchantment. The Eiffel Tower stands tall as a symbol of the city’s charm, inviting you to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Seine River. Louvre Museum, home to timeless masterpieces like the Mona Lisa invites you to explore. And let’s not forget that Paris is a synonym for delectable pastries in quaint cafés, strolls through Montmartre’s artistic streets, and the artsy vibe of the Seine River.

2. Barcelona: The Architectural Marvel – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Gothic Quarter, Barcelona 📸 _ksu_erm_

The colorful, youthful, and artistic spirit of Barcelona makes the city of the best travel destinations in your 30s. Admire the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudi, including the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Wander through the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, filled with history and charm. Enjoy tapas and sangria at lively local bars, and soak in the Mediterranean sun at Barceloneta Beach. Barcelona’s unique blend of culture, art, and beachside bliss makes it a top choice for travelers of all ages.

3. Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Museum of Illusions Florence 📸 miry_clay_

Immerse in the artistic wonders of Florence, Italy’s Renaissance jewel. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David and admire the intricate facade of the Florence Cathedral. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Wander through the charming streets, stopping at cozy cafes for a cappuccino. Florence’s cultural heritage and artistic treasures create a captivating journey through Western Europe’s rich history.

B. Central and Eastern Europe: Hidden Gems & Old Charm – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Transylvania, Romania: Explore fairytale landscapes and legends of Dracula.
• Krakow, Poland: Wander through historic streets and experience Polish charm.

4. Transylvania, Romania – A fairytale of folklore and myths

Bran Castle, Transylvania 📸 thetravellingfrenchy

Venture into the enchanting landscapes of Transylvania, a region steeped in folklore and myths. Discover fairytale castles, including Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. Explore the medieval streets of Brasov and Sibiu, picturesque towns frozen in time. Immerse in the Carpathian Mountains’ beauty, dotted with charming villages and stunning vistas. Transylvania’s hidden gems and rich history create a captivating journey through the heart of Eastern Europe.

5. Krakow, Poland – The city with a rich past and bright future

Piec Piekarnia Bakery, Krakow 📸 piekarnia.piec

Wander through the historic streets of Krakow, Poland’s cultural capital, where history comes alive. Visit the magnificent Wawel Castle, home to centuries of royal history and legends. Explore the haunting remnants of the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, and pay tribute at Auschwitz-Birkenau, a poignant reminder of humanity’s past. Krakow’s architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere offer a journey into the heart of Eastern Europe’s rich cultural heritage.

C. Western and Northern Europe: Art, Architecture and Majestic Fjords

• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Explore world-class museums and historic canals.
• Tromsø, Norway: Witness the magical dance of the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Q uirky architecture and lively nightlife

Damrak, Amsterdam 📸  @jessicachaw

Discover Amsterdam, a cultural capital teeming with world-class museums and historic charm. Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Explore the iconic Anne Frank House and learn about the city’s rich history. Cruise along the picturesque canals, admiring the elegant canal houses. Amsterdam’s artistic heritage and vibrant atmosphere offer a cultural journey like no other.

7. Tromso, Norway – Aurora Borealis Extravaganza – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Embark on a journey to Tromsø, Norway, where the magical dance of the Northern Lights illuminates the winter skies. Join a Northern Lights safari, chasing the celestial spectacle across snow-covered landscapes. Experience dog sledding or reindeer sleigh rides, connecting with the Arctic wilderness. Tromsø’s remote location and stunning natural phenomena make it a top destination for travelers seeking an otherworldly experience.

D. South Asia: Home of oldest civilizations and tallest mountains – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Varanasi, India: Experience the spiritual energy along the sacred Ganges River.
• Bhutan: Discover the land of happiness and explore ancient monasteries.
• Maldives: Indulge in the ultimate romantic escape in luxurious overwater bungalows.

8. Varanasi, India: Spiritual Awakening 

Journey to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, where life and death intersect along the banks of the Ganges River. Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunrise and sunset, filling the air with divine energy. Take a boat ride on the sacred river, observing the rituals and ceremonies that play a central role in Hindu traditions. Varanasi’s mystical aura and spiritual significance will leave you with a profound sense of self-discovery and enlightenment.

9. Bhutan: The Land of Happiness

Tiger’s Nest, Paro, Bhutan 📸 angelydub

Uncover the secrets of happiness in Bhutan, a kingdom nestled in the Himalayas. Embrace the country’s unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness, where the well-being of its people takes precedence. Explore ancient monasteries perched on cliffs, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest. Immerse in traditional Bhutanese culture and witness colorful festivals that celebrate the nation’s rich heritage. Bhutan’s untouched beauty and spiritual ambiance offer a transformative experience for travelers in their 30s.

10. Maldives: Paradise on Earth – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Escape to the paradise of the Maldives, a haven of luxury and tranquility. Stay in opulent overwater bungalows, waking up to the sound of gentle waves. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, encountering colorful coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, under the starlit sky. The Maldives’ secluded beauty and world-class hospitality create a dreamy escape for travelers seeking a luxurious retreat.

E. East Asia: Island Hopping in one of the earliest cradles of civilization

• Kyoto, Japan: Find inner peace among serene temples and traditional tea houses.
• Bali, Indonesia: Discover the island’s spiritual essence and lush rice terraces.

11. Kyoto, Japan – Serenity and Tradition

In Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, find tranquility amidst traditional wooden temples, immaculate gardens, and the grace of geishas. Experience the meditative Zen culture by participating in a tea ceremony or practicing meditation in serene surroundings. Witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and the vivid colors of fall foliage. Kyoto’s profound spirituality and cultural richness offer a unique and reflective experience for travelers in their 30s.

12. Bali – The Island of Gods

Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida 📸⁠ mariefeandjakesnow

Discover the spiritual essence of Bali, where ancient temples and lush rice terraces await. Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Experience the cultural heart of Ubud, attending traditional dance performances and exploring art galleries. Unwind in luxury resorts surrounded by lush jungles or rice paddies. Bali’s unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty creates a soulful island-hopping experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.

F. Western Asia – Best Cultural Exploration in the Middle East 

• Petra, Jordan: Explore the ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs.
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Experience the opulence of futuristic architecture and luxury shopping.

13. Petra, Jordan: The Rose-Red City – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Petra, Wadi Musa, Jordan – 📸 thewayfaress

Step back in time and explore the ancient city of Petra, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Wander through the narrow Siq, a natural gorge that leads to the Treasury, Petra’s most famous monument. Discover ancient tombs, temples, and theaters carved into the rose-red cliffs. Petra’s archaeological wonders and rich history offer a cultural journey like no other, where you can imagine the lives of the Nabateans who once thrived in this desert oasis.

14. Dubai, UAE – A Modern Marvel 

Experience the futuristic marvel of Dubai, where innovation and opulence converge in a desert metropolis. Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and take in the breathtaking city views from the observation deck. Indulge in luxury shopping at Dubai Mall and experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional souks. Dubai’s modernity and traditional charm create a cultural fusion that captivates travelers seeking unique experiences.

G. North America: Unparalleled mountain scenery and exquisite diving 

• Banff National Park, Canada: Hike through pristine wilderness and spot majestic wildlife.
• Yosemite National Park, USA: Marvel at breathtaking waterfalls and granite cliffs.
• Bahamas: Snorkel in the clear waters of the Exumas and explore the vibrant marine life.

15. Banff National Park, Canada – Nature’s Playground

Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Canada adventuringeyes

In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies Banff National Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along scenic trails, surrounded by towering peaks and turquoise lakes. Witness the stunning Moraine Lake, its pristine waters reflecting the beauty of the mountains. Encounter wildlife, from elks to grizzly bears, in their natural habitat. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Banff’s rugged landscapes and boundless adventures make it a top destination for adrenaline junkies in their 30s.

16. Yosemite National Park, USA – Majestic Wilderness

Yosemite National Park 📸 @codyconk

Explore the iconic Yosemite National Park in California, a land of awe-inspiring natural wonders. Stand in awe of the mighty Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Marvel at the grandeur of El Capitan and Half Dome, iconic granite cliffs that attract climbers from around the world. Hike through ancient sequoia groves, where massive trees have stood for centuries. Yosemite’s breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes offer an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to reconnect with nature.

17. Bahamas: Tropical Bliss 

Discover the tropical paradise of the Bahamas, where picture-perfect beaches and turquoise waters await. Snorkel in the clear waters of the Exumas, swimming alongside friendly nurse sharks and pigs. Experience the vibrant culture of Nassau, with its lively markets and historic sites. Indulge in fresh seafood and tropical cocktails while watching the sunset over the ocean. The Bahamas’ warm hospitality and idyllic setting make it a top choice for beach lovers.

H. South America: A myriad of cultures and natural wonders

• Patagonia, Argentina, or Chile: Discover the breathtaking landscapes of glaciers and mountains.
• Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Witness unique wildlife species in their natural habitat.
• Machu Picchu, Peru: Trek to the ancient Incan city and savor its mystical charm.
• Aruba: Lounge on white sands and swim in the turquoise waters of Palm Beach.

18. Patagonia: Untamed Wilderness – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Nahuel Huapi Lake, Patagonia, Argentina 📸 lasmorillashuemul

Venture into the wild landscapes of Patagonia, where untamed beauty and dramatic scenery await. Witness the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, with its blue ice towering over the lake. Trek through Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, surrounded by rugged mountains and turquoise lakes. Patagonia’s vast wilderness is great for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting. Embrace the raw power of nature and the sense of freedom that  comes with exploring one of the world’s last wilderness areas.

19. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – A Living Laboratory 

Embark on a journey of discovery in the Galapagos Islands, a unique paradise teeming with rare and diverse wildlife. Encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and playful sea lions in their natural habitat. Snorkel with marine iguanas and colorful fish in the crystal-clear waters. The Galapagos’ isolated ecosystem inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and continues to captivate travelers with its natural wonders. A visit to the Galapagos Islands is a journey of exploration and conservation that will leave you with a deep appreciation for our planet’s biodiversity.

20. Machu Picchu, Peru – Ancient Wonder of the Andes 

Trek to the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu, hidden among the lush mountains of Peru’s Andes. Follow the Inca Trail, witnessing stunning vistas of valleys and cloud forests along the way. Marvel at the precision and ingenuity of Incan architecture as you explore the ruins of this ancient city. Machu Picchu’s enigmatic charm and spiritual ambiance make it a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking to connect with the mysteries of the past.

21. Aruba, ABC Islands (Leeward Antilles): One Happy Caribbean Island

Underwater expedition in Aruba

Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino, a Marriott Luxury and Lifestyle Hotel, Oranjestad, Aruba

Escape to Aruba, known as “One Happy Island” for its year-round sunshine and warm hospitality. Lounge on the white sands of Palm Beach, savoring the cooling breeze and the sound of waves. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, encountering colorful fish and coral formations. Explore the vibrant nightlife of Oranjestad, with its casinos, bars, and lively atmosphere. Aruba’s laid-back charm and natural beauty create the perfect beach getaway for travelers in their 30s.

I. Central America: High-adrenaline Escapades and Great Coral Reefs – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Costa Rica: Discover lush rainforests, wildlife, and thrilling adventures.
• Belize: Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Blue Hole and explore ancient Mayan ruins.

22. Costa Rica: Pura Vida 

Adventure In Costa Rica, the land of “pura vida,” embark on an adventure-filled journey through lush rainforests and along pristine coastlines. Zip-line through the jungle canopy, spotting exotic wildlife like sloths and toucans. Surf the Pacific waves in Tamarindo or Nosara, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Immerse in the rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio National Park, where monkeys and colorful birds roam freely. Costa Rica’s vibrant nature and exhilarating activities create an ideal playground for thrill-seekers in their 30s.

23. Belize: The Jewel of the Caribbean

Secret Beach Belize, San Pedro, Belize

Dive into the underwater paradise of Belize’s Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snorkel among coral formations and swim alongside nurse sharks and giant rays. Explore ancient Mayan ruins, like Caracol and Xunantunich, that reveal the mysteries of a fascinating civilization. Hike through lush jungles, where Howler monkeys and jaguars roam. Belize’s mix of natural wonders and cultural heritage offers an immersive ecotourism experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

J. East Africa: Best Wildlife Safaris to ever witness – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Witness the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras.
• Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Encounter the “Big Five” in their natural habitat.

24. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – The Great Migration 

Embark on a wildlife safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti, where nature’s greatest spectacle, the Great Migration, unfolds. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the vast plains in search of greener pastures. Spot the predators, including lions and cheetahs, as they follow the herds. The Serengeti’s rich biodiversity and dramatic landscapes create a safari experience that will leave you in awe of the animal kingdom.

25. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya – Wildlife Haven

Hot air ballooning at Maasai Mara National Reserve, Narok County, Kenya

Lions at Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Discover the abundant wildlife of Kenya’s Maasai Mara, home to the iconic “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Witness the thrilling sight of a lioness hunting her prey or a herd of elephants bathing in the river. Experience the Maasai culture by visiting a traditional village and learning about their ancient way of life. The Maasai Mara’s unparalleled wildlife sightings and cultural experiences create a safari adventure like no other.

North & NorthEast Africa: Unforgettable Ancient Ruins and Civilizations

• Marrakech, Morocco: Wander through bustling bazaars and serene gardens.
• Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Explore the iconic ancient wonders and Sphinx.

26. Marrakech, Morocco – An Enchanting Oasis

A day at the Medina Beach 📸 riadsakkan

Immerse in the vibrant ambiance of Marrakech, where ancient traditions and modern life intertwine. Wander through bustling souks, haggling for treasures like colorful carpets and intricate lanterns. Visit the serene gardens of Majorelle and experience the tranquility of the Bahia Palace. Enjoy the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, from tagines to sweet pastries. Marrakech’s enchanting charm and rich history create an immersive journey through North Africa’s cultural heritage.

27. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt – Ancient Marvels – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Step back in time and explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza, an ancient wonder that has stood for millennia. Marvel at the majestic Great Pyramid, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Admire the enigmatic Sphinx, guarding the pyramids with its mysterious gaze. Learn about ancient Egyptian civilization at the nearby Egyptian Museum. The Pyramids of Giza’s timeless beauty and historical significance offer a journey into the heart of ancient history.

F. Australia/Oceania: Marine life at its finest – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Tahiti, French Polynesia: Discover lush landscapes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches.

28. Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Underwater Wonderland

The Great Barrier Reef from above – Daintree Rainforest, Australia

Incredible fish shot while exploring the Great Barrier Reef, Australia by 📸  @dive_down_under via leestorrow

Dive into the underwater wonderland of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Snorkel among coral formations teeming with marine life, from colorful fish to graceful turtles. Witness the annual migration of humpback whales, a majestic spectacle of nature. Take a scenic flight over the reef, appreciating its vastness and beauty from above. The Great Barrier Reef’s rich biodiversity and natural wonders make it a top destination for eco-conscious travelers.

29. Tahiti – A Tropical Haven 

Escape to the tropical haven of Tahiti, where lush landscapes and turquoise lagoons await. Discover hidden waterfalls and hike to scenic viewpoints with panoramic views of the island. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of black sand beaches, experiencing the unique volcanic beauty of the island. Savor traditional Polynesian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Tahiti’s remote allure and untouched nature offer a paradise for travelers seeking a peaceful and authentic escape.

G. Antarctica: The very best expedition of a lifetime – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• South Shetland Islands: Explore research stations and enjoy up-close wildlife encounters.

30. South Shetland Islands: Gateway to Antarctica 

A leopard seal hunting a young Adélie Penguin. Pictures taken near Brown Bluff, Antarctica hemmi90

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica hemmi90

Explore the South Shetland Islands, the gateway to the Antarctic Peninsula. Visit research stations and learn about ongoing scientific studies in this extreme environment. Encounter curious penguins and brave the icy waters for a polar plunge. Experience the unique sense of camaraderie among fellow adventurers as you navigate this remote and pristine wilderness. The South Shetland Islands offer a glimpse into life at the edge of the world, making your Antarctic expedition even more extraordinary.

30 After 30 Final Thoughts – Top 30 Best Travel Destinations in Your 30s

With the world at your fingertips and these top 30 destinations awaiting your exploration, your 30s will be a decade of adventure, growth, and unforgettable memories. Embrace the diversity of our planet, connect with new cultures, and cherish the moments that will shape your life. So, download Framey , the ultimate travel companion, and let it capture your journey through your 30s, making every moment a cherished memory. Happy travels, wanderer!

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30 Epic Places You Absolutely Must Visit Before You're 30

Lifestyle Editor, HuffPost

Traveling young is important because it shapes your worldview . When you travel young, you realize who you are and what you believe in before it’s time to make the big-kid decisions (career, marriage, and all that scary stuff) that will impact the rest of your life.

If you were to visit each of these places before turning 30, you would be pretty darn well in touch with yourself and pretty equipped to take on real, adult existence.

Check out -- and check off! -- our ultimate soul-searching bucket list.

20. Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia The world’s largest salt flat is miles of flat, zen, abandoned bliss.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story indicated that the Berlin Wall was built by Nazi Germany. In fact, it was built by the Communists during the Cold War.

Before You Go

13 Great Adventures

From our partner, huffpost shopping’s best finds, more in life.

10 destinations to visit before you turn 30

When you’re young, it’s easy to drop everything and jet off to explore the world, and if you’re studying, there’s no better use for your (long) holidays. When every continent is home to so many breathtaking and exciting places to visit, deciding where to go can be tricky. To help you decide where to head to next, we compiled – with some difficulty – a list of ten destinations that you simply HAVE to visit before you turn 30 and you know… get old. Go and add them to your bucket list. Now.

1. London, England

The London Eye, Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Oxford Street, Notting Hill, Brick Lane… From the touristy to the super hip, London is the perfect city to visit if you want to binge on all things amazing. Tick off all the tourist spots at a fast pace that only a 20-year old can keep up with. Then, once you’ve seen the sights and taken some fresh snaps with a  Queen’s Guard for Instagram, treat yourself to some world class shopping on Oxford Street (and nearby Regent Street) and amazing food and cool bars in East London (Brick Lane, Hoxton Square, Shoreditch etc.)

2. Paris, France

The City of Love isn’t just for couples to saunter along the banks of the River Seine, though it certainly is a city of indulgence. Eat your body weight in delicious cheeses, fresh baguettes and colorful macarons while soaking up the gorgeous architecture and art that characterizes the city. From standing at the top of the Eiffel Tower to exploring the galleries of the Louvre and the beautiful backstreets of Marais, Paris always manages to offer up something fresh, exciting and yes, delicious. So, indulge while you can and eat yourself silly in Paris; the day that your doctor says that you have to start cutting down on the cheese will come soon enough after 30.

3. Tokyo, Japan

Why? Because there’s nowhere else in the world quite as crazy as Tokyo . Japan’s capital city is the only place that pulls off the bizarre combination of cherry blossom trees, Harajuku girls and robot cafes on the same street with such style and charm. Tokyo is definitely one to visit before all your friends start to have babies and become sensible.

4. New York, USA

New York is THE place for shopaholics; empty your bank account dashing between Macy’s Department Store and the designer shops on 5th Avenue. Who cares about rent or a mortgage? You’re not thirty yet! Then catch a show on Broadway and tick off two of the best views of the city; from above at the top of the Empire State Building and from below when Times Square shines bright at night. And did we mention that the food is awesome and bars are plentiful (as if you needed another reason to go….)?

5. San Diego, USA

But you also have to relax and enjoy your 20’s before they turn into 30’s and responsibilities start to pile up, right? Where better to take it easy than the home of laid-back life, San Diego? Relax on the beach or in the water: try surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, or just sun-worshiping while reading your favorite book or listening to party tunes on Spotify. When hunger hits, head over to one of the city’s world-famous food trucks and eat your body weight in fresh fish tacos.

6. Cape Town, South Africa

From Table Mountain standing tall over the bustling V&A Waterfront, to the penguins at Boulders Beach and whales and great whites offshore, Cape Town easily secures its place on this list as simply all-round awesome. It’s also a short flight from some of Africa’s greatest safari destinations, so stay a few extra days and search for lion and elephant in the bush. Safari holidays give memories that last a lifetime so the sooner you go, the longer you can enjoy them for! Surely that’s good enough logic.

7. Vancouver, Canada

King of the outdoors, Vancouver has almost too much choice when it comes to epic activities. Ski world-class runs in Whistler, watch whales on a trip out to sea, mountain bike and hike through the stunning mountains around the city – just slow things down and finally spend some quality time with Mother Nature. You could (and should) spend a few months in Vancouver, and that’s far easier and more fun to do when you’re young, strong and just a little reckless (you know, just enough to do that bungee jump you know you won’t do when you’ve hit 30).

8. Dublin, Ireland

Hop over to the Emerald Isle in search of the good old Irish ‘Craic’ – humor as dry as the famous Guinness that is still brewed in the city’s original distillery. Here, bars are filled with Dublin’s iconic beer, merry music and probably some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Dublin is the perfect choice for a cheeky carefree weekend with friends.

9. Rome, Italy

Rome  combines gorgeous Italian weather with cultural and historical experiences; oh, and some of the best food in the world. Don the sunglasses and hop on a scooter and journey through time by zipping around the city, hitting up The Colosseum, the Vatican and the Pantheon. And then make a beeline for the pizza. Spend your evenings in the Eternal City indulging in pizza, pasta, tiramisu and gelato, and remember, it’s best to tick this food-filled trip off your bucket list while you still have the kind of youthful metabolism that can handle only eating pizza for days.

10. Rio, Brazil

Rio is full of icons that deserve a visit, from Copacabana Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain to Christ the Redeemer keeping watch from above, but the real draw in Rio? It’s the vibe and the people; the music and the dancing. This is the place to forget about sensible bedtimes and just party until the sun rises. Visit during carnival season to experience one of the world’s greatest (and most colorful) parties.

20 Places Everyone Needs To Visit Before We Turn 30

Traveling is the best way to say adios to the first two decades of your youth and welcome the rest of it!

Being a millennial can be both special and scary at the same time, especially since it is a generation that is slowly drifting towards its 30s and 40s. If you fall in this age group, you may feel anxious; as if the time to do fun things is running out. However, the truth is that age is just a number, and you will actually love this journey into the third decade of your life, if you make the most of what you have now.

Instead of mourning the passing of your 20’s, you need to welcome your 30’s with open arms. One of the ways you can enjoy every bit of springtime left in you is by saving up and taking a long vacation. After all, you deserve a long break from the process of self-discovery and fulfilling career goals of the early 20’s.

Traveling is the best way to say adios to the first two decades of your youth and welcome the rest of it! And there are places out there you can visit to begin this process. Here, we list out 20 places everyone needs to visit before they turn 30. Single or taken, these places can be enjoyed by anyone.

Travel to these destinations to revitalize your energy and strength before you turn 30. Don't worry, we are not giving you a list of places where you can go and be old, but instead a list to remind you that age is just a number and 30 is young!

20 Florence, Italy – Days & Nights Memorable

Birthplace of artistic geniuses such as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Brunelleschi, Masaccio and Donatello, Florence is an enthralling city in Italy’s Tuscany region. Stretching along the banks of river Arno, Florence is the cradle of renaissance and culture in Europe. It is surrounded by vine-covered hills and has several iconic sites that captivate the visitor.

The contemporary arts, exquisite architecture, happening nightlife, and vibrant culture of the city will make your days and nights memorable. If you are in the mood for some vintage music, you can visit a classical or opera theatre. The city is an anachronism built on the crossroads of modernity and antiquity, and is best enjoyed before turning 30.

19 Patagonia, South America – Doubled The Magic

Patagonia is a region in the southern tip of South America shared by Argentina and Chile, and bordered by the Andes. The magical place is marked by arid steppes, grasslands and deserts on Argentina's side, and glacial fjords and temperate rainforest on Chile's side.

If you have never been to border cities before, you should consider a visit to this wonderland. It will show you the true meaning of harmony and coexistence. Its impregnable granite ranges, blue lakes of greenish hues, and gargantuan glaciers will soothe your eyes and reinvigorate your youth. Patagonia also offers outdoor adventures such as hiking. Seriously, 30 is many decades away from old age!

18 Coba, Mexico – Climb, Swim & Stare

Located in the Mexican State of Quintana Roo in the Yucatán Peninsula, Coba is an ancient Mayan city that has several fascinating archaeological sites. The city also has several temple pyramids built thousands of years ago. The panoramic view of lake Macanxoc from a pyramid of Coba, known as the Temple of the Church, is breathtaking.

For daredevils, Coba offers a slew of opportunities to hike its highest cliffs and enjoy the lush jungle landscape sprawling over vast areas. There is also the limestone cenotes where you can snorkel. A trek to the heights of the mysterious pyramids and a swim in the deep cenotes amid the rainforests of the city are things you need to do before you hit 30.

17 Rio De Janeiro, Brazil – Perfect Holidaying

Mountains, beaches, nightlife and adventures - that’s our idea of the perfect holiday for people in their mid and late 20’s. Offering all these in a bombastic package experience, Rio De Janeiro woos travelers from around the world. The tropical paradise place features golden beaches, lush mountains, smouldering landscapes, Samba-fueled nightlife, picture-perfect lakes, stunning architecture, and epic football matches make the city ideal for holidaying.

Rio De Janeiro is overseen by Atlantic rainforest mountains and guarded by shimmering white beaches. The dramatic landscapes, adventure sports avenues, emerald rainforests, cerulean lakes, and sensuous beaches will make you feel 18 all over again. The coastal city requires high energy levels if you want to enjoy it to the fullest.

16 Buenos Aires, Argentina – Dance Into Sunset

Argentina’s capital city, Buenos Aires, is a unique fusion of qualities of both France and Italy. The metropolitan city boasts of a heritage of grand architectures from both the European countries.

Buenos Aires doesn’t sleep - exactly what you need before you hit 30. The city is lit up by a diverse range of clubs and live-music concerts and vibrant murals painted by street artists enhance the beauty of its streets

If that’s not enough, you can visit Buenos Aires during the carnival season when the city gets really exciting and tempting. Explore the famous landmarks and icons of Buenos Aires, sync with locals, and groove to the raving music.

15 Eiffel Tower, Paris – Make A Wish

Regarded as a must-visit landmark in Europe, the Eiffel Tower, an iconic landmark in Paris, should be in your bucket if you are reaching your 30’s and are still hopelessly in love (which millennial isn’t?!). If you aren’t, you can still get drenched waist-down in the beauty of the towering monument, and take pictures or shoot videos to show to your friends and family.

If you believe in magic, you can make a wish for your next birthday from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Or you can stare at the gorgeous tapestry of the city of light from a bird’s-eye view atop the Tower. You can also buy colorful and cheesy macarons while you gape at the delicious view the place offers.

14 Bukit Peninsula, Bali – An Exotic Trip

Known for its arid landscapes, Bukit Peninsula is an enchanting group of islands in the southern end of Bali. It is a fantastic holiday destination that offers exotic recreational activities for tourists, and appeals to people who have a lot of energy to burn before they enter the third decade of their lives.

You can surf and swim along the white sand beaches of the island. The peninsula is a photographer’s paradise where they can capture spell-binding views, including sunrise and sunset, on their cameras.

On the southern tip of Bukit Peninsula lies the Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple where devotees perform the famous Kecak and fire dance ritual.

13 Venice, Italy – Fairytale City

Built over a fleet of islands in the Adriatic Sea, Venice is an epitome of beauty. Titled “the floating masterpiece,” Venice has no roads, just canals. The garden islands, great artworks, incredible lagoons, Venetian cuisines and scrumptious seafood are a few of the several delights Venice offers.

The fairytale city is filled with life and hope. The people of Venice are warm and welcoming. The fuschia sunsets over historic attractions in Venice will melt your heart. The ballet shows and live music will heighten your spirits. Venice is certainly a place you would want to visit when you are young.

12 Turks & Caicos Islands, Bahamas – Beautiful Escape

With 40 low-lying coral islands in the Atlantic Ocean, Turks & Caicos is an archipelago in the southeast of Bahamas. The archipelago was named among the world’s top two scuba diving destinations. Even the beaches in the islands, especially of Providenciales, are crowned “the best beaches in the world”.

The place is a beautiful tropical escape from worldly pressures and tensions one may face in their mid and late 20’s. The clean beaches, blue and gentle waters, and warm sun rays are said to be relaxing. Basking under the light of the blazing sun beside the glittering waters and the cool sea breeze is an experience you do not want to miss.

11 Cape Town, South Africa – Cape Marvel

Cape Town, the capital city of South Africa, is a marvelous tourist destination. The vibrant cultures, luscious cuisines, adventure sports and exciting landscapes make the coastal city a must-visit place for people before they turn 30.

Also, the place is blessed with natural wonders such as the Table Mountain National Park, Lion’s Head, the historic Company’s Garden, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, and Green Point Urban Park.

While the city has plenty of pleasures to offer, you can also go for adventures such as surfing, mountain biking, tandem-paragliding and more at Lion’s Head mountain. Besides its natural beauty, Cape Town is also a center for art.

10 Maui, Hawaii – Truly Magnificent

Maui is an island in Hawaii that enchants every soul that sets foot on it. It offers many attractions and activities for tourists. The island is perfect for an adventure of a lifetime, whether or not you are below 30. You can hike on the dormant Haleakala, and learn the history and culture of the sites such as Lao Valley State Park, Old Lahaina Luau, and Banyan Tree Park.

You can take a ride to Hana to catch the best scenic coastline views of Maui. Alternatively, opt for a helicopter trip for an aerial view of the island. The snorkeling tours, national parks and beaches are truly magnificent.

9 Napa Valley, California – Everything's Shining

Napa Valley is noted as the world’s premier viticultural regions. Located in California, the wine country is a land of grand estates, quaint towns, and ethnic food galleries. There are more than 400 wineries in the Napa Valley. From harvests to art exhibitions, the place is always teeming with rustic charm.

The diverse restaurants in Napa Valley exhibit gourmet food prepared by the locals. If you visit the place during the harvest festivals, you can get your hands and feet dirty too. Take a bike ride to explore the wine region or lose yourself in the fresh air of the valley. This may look old-school, but give it a try before you turn 30.

8 Machu Picchu, Peru – Hint of Mystery

Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel floating in the Andes of Peru, is another site we would recommend for people below 30 for its adventure and history. The site inspires art lovers and travel-seekers alike. Machu Picchu is the most visited place in Peru, and for good reason! Tourists marvel at the architecture and grandeur the citadel offers.

Machu Picchu is shrouded in mystery and fascinates visitors and archeologists alike. It was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The historical aspect and the overwhelming curiosity surrounding it should be experienced at least once in our youth.

7 Apokoronas, Greece - The Local Way Of Baking

Apokoronas is a region in Greece that extends to the northeastern part of Chania. The unique blend of green hills, blue waters, and villages and settlements render the place picturesque. The shallow water beaches of Apokoronas is well-suited for people with a fear of water or novice swimmers.

Apokoronas is also known for its fun bread-baking and cheese-tasting cooking tours. If baking is in your to-learn list, then you should visit Apokoronas and learn from the Greeks the fun way to do it. While you are at it, you also should explore the stunning Lake Kournas, the vibrant Kalivaki Beach, the happening Ombros Gialos Beach, and the mysterious Samonas Cave. That’s a lot of fun before you turn 30!

6 Walt Disney World, Orlando – Magical Tour

Walt Disney World isn’t just for kids. It has several attractions for adults too. The Disney theme park is as exciting for a grown-up to visit as it is for a child. Walt Disney World also offers extravagant nightlife. From live music to scrumptious food, the Disney Springs spots will exceed your expectations.

You don’t have to be a kid to appreciate the stunts people pull off at the theme park. The acts of strengths and agility by performers will blow your mind away. The magical treats, theme parks, fireworks at the Magic Kingdom, and real and virtual thrills, to name a few, will make your jaw drop.

5 Goa, India – Sun, Sand, Spirituality

Goa is a place you must visit in your early or late twenties. Goa is a Union Territory in India that stretches along the western coast of India in the Arabian Sea. Also known as the party capital of India, the coastal region is a mesmerizing ensemble of essences from Italy and Portugal. The place has clean beaches, sunset and sunrise views, great seafood, nightlife, and spiritual getaways. Vacationing in Goa is pocket-friendly and never disappoints tourists.

The sunrise and sunset over the golden-sand beaches of Goa is a “divine” experience. The UT also offers traditional healing courses, including meditation and yoga. Goa will unburden your emotions and lift your spirits before you turn 30.

4 Costa Rica, Central America – Biodiverse Country

Bordered by Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, Costa Rica is a rainforest nation in Central America. Costa Rica is lined with caves and volcanic peaks. Titled as one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, Costa Rica is home to more than half a million species . By harnessing and enforcing green energy, the country is able to sustain its developing infrastructure.

If you are a spirited youth in mid and late 20’s wanting to bring a change in your own country, you should visit and take inspiration from Costa Rica. Besides this, Costa Rica offers outdoor adventures such as rainforest hiking and surfing for people looking to do something amazing before they turn 30.

3 Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Heavenly Touch

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, and one of the most remarkable places in Australia. The natural masterpiece is enriched with marine life. The sun-soaked golden beaches above the reef are perfect for photography.

The Great Barrier Reef is ideal for outdoor adventures such as snorkeling, scuba diving, aircraft touring, bareboating, glass-bottomed boat viewing, semi-submersibles and more.

The natural wonder is the only singular structure made by living organisms, and is larger than the Great Wall of China. The vast labyrinth of reefs and passages, coral cays, and exotic islands above the reef will bring back that spirit of youthfulness in you.

2 Dubai, UAE – Before You Bid Adieu To Your 20s

The city of Dubai is one of the seven “emirates” of the United Arab Emirates. It offers luxurious shopping and entertainment facilities. The emirate has several monuments and ancient places that draw the attention of the world. Dubai has an opera house that offers several pieces of regional and global entertainment.

Not to mention, the panoramic view from Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest structure in the world, is an exhilarating experience. If you are in Dubai, you must explore its textile, gold, and spice souks in the Dubai Creek. If you still have enough money to burn, you can take a hot air balloon above the desert dunes and skydive over the Palm Jumeirah before you say bye to your 20s.

1 Tokyo, Japan – Always On The Move

Known to be always on the move, Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, shines with its culture and passion for life. If you want to get inspired and need motivation before kick-starting the third decade of your life, then Tokyo will help you. Tokyo has a culture of its own and is known for the unique work ethic of its people.

The interesting museums, historic temples, fine gardens, entertainment venues, restaurants, and futuristic buildings will blow you away. The neon-lit streetscapes of Tokyo resemble sci-fi movie sets. The utopian shopping mega-malls and designer boutiques are a treat to the shopaholic. The unlimited entertainment, culture, and cuisines are just a few of the reasons you need to visit Tokyo.

References: lonelyplanet

I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

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The World's 30 Happiest Countries & People: 2024 List

I n 2012, the United Nations declared March 20 as the International Day of Happiness . Twelve years later, the 2024 World Happiness Report , which just released its latest rankings of the world's happiest countries, zeroed in on the happiness of people at different stages of life.

Regardless of whether you're young or old, these are the countries where people rate themselves as happiest and are most satisfied with their lives.

What is the happiest country in the world?

According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, Finland is the happiest country in the world for the seventh year in a row. It's followed by Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, and the Netherlands in the annual survey released on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, that ranks countries by how happy their citizens perceive themselves to be. European countries, including Norway, Switzerland, and Luxembourg dominate the rest of the top 10. (It's worth noting that the survey in Israel took place after the attacks on October 7, 2023, but before the ensuing escalation in warfare, according to the report.)

The only country beside Israel outside of Europe to make the top 10 in 2024 is Australia, which ranked 10th. The United States dropped considerably to 23rd this year, down from its spot at 15 in the rankings last year, while the United Kingdom dropped one spot since last year to 20th.

Why are the Finnish so happy?

"Finnish happiness boils down to the simple things in life: connecting with nature, caring for one's mind and body, and appreciating design and art around us. Happiness can be found in moments of pure contentment you get when the setting is just right: on a bike ride in a forest with the perfect playlist on or enjoying a post-sauna sausage while cooling off on a beautiful summer evening," stated Heli Jimenez, senior director of international marketing at Business Finland, which is part of the Finnish Ministry of Employment and the Economy.

The World Happiness Report bases its annual rankings predominantly on data from the main life evaluation question in the Gallup World Poll .

In it, respondents are asked to rate their current lives on a scale of 0 to 10, with 10 being the best possible life for them and 0 being the worst possible life. The countries that made the top 10 this year ranged from Australia's 7.057 up to 7.741 for Finland at the top. Afghanistan had the lowest score at 1.721.

While these results are based entirely on self-reported perceptions of satisfaction, factors that the World Happiness Report says contribute to making these life evaluations better in each country include a higher GDP per capita, a strong social support system, higher life expectancy, greater freedom, absence of government and corporate corruption, and charitable giving.

"Rankings differ a lot for the young and the old. In some cases these favor the old, as in the United States and Canada, where the rankings for those aged 60 and older are 50 or more places higher than for those under 30. In other cases, especially in Central and Eastern Europe, the reverse is true, with many rankings being more than 40 places higher for the young than for the old," the Happiness Report concludes. "In almost every global region . . . social interactions add to happiness, with their effects flowing through increases in social support and reductions in loneliness."

The 30 happiest countries in the world in 2024

If you're looking for inspiration for your upcoming travels and like the idea of traveling to a place where happiness is in ample supply, these are the 30 happiest countries in the world, according to the 2024 World Happiness Report.

• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates
• United States
• Saudi Arabia

Can traveling to the happiest country in the world bring you greater joy?

In Finland, it's a common belief that happiness is "a skill that can be learned," according to the country's tourism marketing organization Visit Finland , which has unveiled a new five-day Helsinki Happiness Hacks urban expedition that will be free for select participants.

Those who are interested in participating have until April 4, 2024, to apply; Visit Finland will then select a group of lucky travelers to come to Helsinki to learn "new happiness hacks that they can apply to their everyday life"-free of charge. To be considered, applicants must complete a social media challenge and an online form .

From June 9 to 14, 2024, a group of "Helsinki Happiness Hackers" will guide participants on what makes the city's residents so happy, based on four categories: nature and lifestyle, health and balance, food and well-being, and design.

Finland's friendly locals, thriving culture and coffee scenes , and unfettered access to nature all make it a great destination for those looking to find greater joy in their own travels.

Arts and culture lovers will be thrilled to explore Helsinki's museums. In the past few years, Helsinki opened Amos Rex , a world-class contemporary art museum, and Oodi , an energy-efficient public library at the center of the city designed to be the nation's "living room."

If being outdoors makes you happiest, Finland has plenty of that, too. Like many other Nordic residents, Finns have a close relationship to nature and get outside even during the coldest months . Finland is also home to numerous islands, many of which make for an idyllic remote escape . For those who want to relax in a serious way, Finland has more than 3 million saunas .

This article was originally published in March 2019; it was most recently updated on March 20, 2024, to include current information.

Lyndsey Matthews is the senior commerce editor at AFAR who covers travel gear, packing advice, and points and loyalty.

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Delegation of 90 NRIs from 30 countries along with Bhutan speaker visit Ram Mandir

A delegation of 90 NRIs from 30 countries along with Bhutan speaker Vetsop Namgyel visited the Ayoshya's Ram Mandir. Earlier last week a beam of sunlight fell directly on Ram Lalla's idol at the new temple, marking the "Surya Tilak" of the deity on the first Ram Navami since its consecration. Devotees began queuing up at the Ram temple here before the break of dawn, district officials said. The local administration and the temple authorities had made special arrangements to handle the crowds on Ram Navami.

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

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With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Jessica Puckett

Alex Erdekian

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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About a third of U.S. workers who can work from home now do so all the time

Roughly three years after the COVID-19 pandemic upended U.S. workplaces, about a third (35%) of workers with jobs that can be done remotely are working from home all of the time, according to a new Pew Research Center survey. This is down from 43% in January 2022 and 55% in October 2020 – but up from only 7% before the pandemic.

While the share working from home all the time has fallen off somewhat as the pandemic has gone on, many workers have settled into hybrid work. The new survey finds that 41% of those with jobs that can be done remotely are working a hybrid schedule – that is, working from home some days and from the office, workplace or job site other days. This is up from 35% in January 2022.

Among hybrid workers who are not self-employed, most (63%) say their employer requires them to work in person a certain number of days per week or month. About six-in-ten hybrid workers (59%) say they work from home three or more days in a typical week, while 41% say they do so two days or fewer.

Related: How Americans View Their Jobs

Many hybrid workers would prefer to spend more time working from home than they currently do. About a third (34%) of those who are currently working from home most of the time say, if they had the choice, they’d like to work from home all the time. And among those who are working from home some of the time, half say they’d like to do so all (18%) or most (32%) of the time.

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to study how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the workplace and specifically how workers with jobs that can be done from home have adapted their work schedules. To do this, we surveyed 5,775 U.S. adults who are working part time or full time and who have only one job or who have more than one job but consider one of them to be their primary job. All the workers who took part are members of the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP), an online survey panel that is recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses.

Address-based sampling ensures that nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education and other categories. Read more about the ATP’s methodology .

Here are the questions used for this analysis, along with responses, and the survey’s methodology .

The majority of U.S. workers overall (61%) do not have jobs that can be done from home. Workers with lower incomes and those without a four-year college degree are more likely to fall into this category. Among those who do have teleworkable jobs, Hispanic adults and those without a college degree are among the most likely to say they rarely or never work from home.

When looking at all employed adults ages 18 and older in the United States, Pew Research Center estimates that about 14% – or roughly 22 million people – are currently working from home all the time.

The advantages and disadvantages of working from home

Workers who are not self-employed and who are teleworking at least some of the time see one clear advantage – and relatively few downsides – to working from home. By far the biggest perceived upside to working from home is the balance it provides: 71% of those who work from home all, most or some of the time say doing so helps them balance their work and personal lives. That includes 52% who say it helps them a lot with this.

About one-in-ten (12%) of those who are at least occasionally working from home say it hurts their ability to strike the right work-life balance, and 17% say it neither helps nor hurts. There is no significant gender difference in these views. However, parents with children younger than 18 are somewhat more likely than workers without children in that age range to say working from home is helpful in this regard (76% vs. 69%).

A majority of those who are working from home at least some of the time (56%) say this arrangement helps them get their work done and meet deadlines. Only 7% say working from home hurts their ability to do these things, and 37% say it neither helps nor hurts.

There are other aspects of work – some of them related to career advancement – where the impact of working from home seems minimal:

• When asked how working from home affects whether they are given important assignments, 77% of those who are at least sometimes working from home say it neither helps nor hurts, while 14% say it helps and 9% say it hurts.
• When it comes to their chances of getting ahead at work, 63% of teleworkers say working from home neither helps or hurts, while 18% say it helps and 19% say it hurts.
• A narrow majority of teleworkers (54%) say working from home neither helps nor hurts with opportunities to be mentored at work. Among those who do see an impact, it’s perceived to be more negative than positive: 36% say working from home hurts opportunities to be mentored and 10% say it helps.

One aspect of work that many remote workers say working from home makes more challenging is connecting with co-workers: 53% of those who work from home at least some of the time say working from home hurts their ability to feel connected with co-workers, while 37% say it neither helps nor hurts. Only 10% say it helps them feel connected.

In spite of this, those who work from home all the time or occasionally are no less satisfied with their relationship with co-workers than those who never work from home. Roughly two-thirds of workers – whether they are working exclusively from home, follow a hybrid schedule or don’t work from home at all – say they are extremely or very satisfied with these relationships. In addition, among those with teleworkable jobs, employed adults who work from home all the time are about as likely as hybrid workers to say they have at least one close friend at work.

Feeling connected with co-workers is one area where many workers who rarely or never work from home see an advantage in their setup. About four-in-ten of these workers (41%) say the fact that they rarely or never work from home helps in how connected they feel to their co-workers. A similar share (42%) say it neither helps nor hurts, and 17% say it hurts.

At the same time, those who rarely or never work from home are less likely than teleworkers to say their current arrangement helps them achieve work-life balance. A third of these workers say the fact that they rarely or never work from home hurts their ability to balance their work and personal lives, while 40% say it neither helps nor hurts and 27% say it helps.

When it comes to other aspects of work, many of those who rarely or never work from home say their arrangement is neither helpful nor hurtful. This is true when it comes to opportunities to be mentored (53% say this), their ability to get work done and meet deadlines (57%), their chances of getting ahead in their job (68%) and whether they are given important assignments (74%).

Most adults with teleworkable jobs who work from home at least some of the time (71%) say their manager or supervisor trusts them a great deal to get their work done when they’re doing so. Those who work from home all the time are the most likely to feel trusted: 79% of these workers say their manager trusts them a great deal, compared with 64% of hybrid workers.

Hybrid workers feel about as trusted when they’re not working from home: 68% say their manager or supervisor trusts them a great deal to get their work done when they’re not teleworking.

Note: Here are the questions used for this analysis, along with responses, and the survey’s methodology .

• Business & Workplace
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A look at small businesses in the U.S.

Majorities of adults see decline of union membership as bad for the u.s. and working people, a look at black-owned businesses in the u.s., from businesses and banks to colleges and churches: americans’ views of u.s. institutions, 2023 saw some of the biggest, hardest-fought labor disputes in recent decades, most popular.

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