Seven Dream Destinations to See This Year

Travel Tips

Jan 15

When I was putting together this year’s travel wishlist, I couldn’t help but notice that it’s a little less city-centric compared to last year’s list. It’s no surprise that living in New York has me looking for some quieter escapes in 2019. Last year I revisited a couple old favorites (Savannah in the fall and London at Christmas), explored Los Angeles and New York. I’m not sure where 2019 will take me, but these are the top spots on my list!

7 Dream Travel Destinations to See This Year | A Travel Writer and Photographer’s 2019 Travel Destination Wish List | Travel Bucket List in the US, Europe, Asia, Africa for solo travel or couples | Seven places that I can’t wait to visit, from a sun…

photo by @mantaroq

1. Exploring Japan

The most I’ve seen of Japan so far is Narita airport, but I’d love to spend a couple days in Tokyo and a handful in Kyoto. From there, I’d be torn between the picturesque town of Shirakawa-go, art-filled Naoshima, and scenic Hokkaido.

photo by Kerry Elizabeth

2. Biarritz, France

When we were just starting out on our summer abroad, the wonderful Ashley Seale said I should add Biarritz to our trip if it was possible. We didn’t make it there, but I’m still enchanted by the idea of this pretty, surf-loving city on the Bay of Biscay.

photo by KT Merry

3. Giraffe Manor, Kenya

Pretty much since Pinterest became a thing, this hotel has been on my travel wishlist - and my list of hotel crushes. The manor is on a reserve that’s home to endangered Rothschild giraffes who wander up to the windows for a bite of breakfast. Maybe 2019 is the year I finally make the trip!

photo by Merritt Beck

4. Carmel-by-the-Sea

After exploring Los Angeles and San Francisco, the next spot on my California list is Carmel-by-the-Sea - a town that looks like it was plucked from a fairytale. During a road trip along Highway 1, I’d plan a couple nights here to explore Carmel and take in the famous views around Point Lobos.

photo by Molly Carr Photography

5. Skiing in the Alps

As a snow lover that’s been skiing off-and-on since childhood, a wintry getaway to the Alps sounds particularly magical. My friend Molly’s trip to Megève has me dreaming of raclette by the fireside after a day on the mountain.

photo by Gal Meets Glam

6. A Sunny Island Getaway

The not-winter-but-not-spring weather of March and April always makes me crave a really great beach trip. I rarely give in, but that’s half because there are too many places to choose from - Harbour Island (above), Hydra, Costa Rica… if you have a favorite, let me know!

photo from My NYC Favorites (so far!)

7. New York City

Is it too cheesy to list my own (new) city? Even though we’ve been here for eight months already, it feels like we’ve barely scratched the surface. You can read about some of my New York favorites - so far - and some ideas for a wintry visit, but I can’t wait to keep exploring.