Top 8 Dream Travel Destinations

Last updated on October 14th, 2024 at 09:23 pm

Traveling has always been my passion, and it always will be. However, This year, my approach is shifting from dreaming about travel adventures to making them happen. It all begins with a bold dream.

This year, I’m determined to:

– Gather the courage to purchase my round-the-world ticket

– Persuade a friend or two to join me on a long-term journey

– Borrow my aunt’s RV for an epic road trip along the coast or across America

– Or perhaps all of the above

While these plans are still unfolding, I have booked or am planning eight exciting trips. As I share my upcoming travel adventures, I encourage you to think about that one place you’ve always wanted to visit. Is it a new destination or an unexplored territory? For me, it’s a blend of both.

My Top 8 Dream Travel Destinations

1. Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky is the ultimate destination for my February ski trip with friends. We’ve got a ski-in, ski-out house perched right on the mountain, complete with a hot tub to soak in after long days on the slopes. I’m beyond excited to explore this vast, untouched corner of the country. This will be my first time visiting Montana, and the landscape’s rugged beauty promises adventure at every turn.

Whether it’s tackling fresh powder on the mountain or taking in the endless views, anything feels possible here. The energy of the wide-open spaces feels like it will be a breath of fresh air, and I can’t wait to dive into new experiences. If you have any must-see spots or recommendations for après-ski activities, let me know—I’m ready to discover all that Big Sky has to offer!

2. White Mountains of Arizona

I have previously written about the surprising fact that you can ski in Arizona. (If you haven’t guessed yet, skiing is my favorite individual sport—it’s how I explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.) I get it: the idea of skiing in Arizona may still seem puzzling to some. But believe it or not, Arizona has more than one ski resort.

Recently, I hit the slopes at Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff, just seven miles from my front door. Next up, I’m heading to the White Mountains, about two hours east of Flagstaff, to spend the Martin Luther King Jr. weekend at Sunrise Ski Resort. This resort offers a whole new kind of Arizona skiing experience, with expansive trails and the quieter, rustic charm of the White Mountains.

While there, I plan to stop by Molly Butler’s Lodge and Restaurant, a historic gem in Greer. Established in 1910, this lodge is an institution in Arizona and has been serving hungry adventurers for over a century. Molly Butler herself was known for her warm hospitality, and today, her legacy lives on through the cozy atmosphere and hearty meals the lodge offers. It’s famous for dishes like prime rib and trout, served with a side of stunning mountain views.

Whether you’re warming up after a day of skiing or just soaking in the local history, Molly Butler’s is the perfect spot to experience both great food and a piece of Arizona’s past. Trust me, no trip to the White Mountains would be complete without a stop at this iconic establishment.

3. Havasupai Falls, Grand Canyon, Arizona

I’ve had the privilege of exploring both the south and north rims of the Grand Canyon. But this year, I’m taking the adventure to the next level by hiking all the way to the bottom, to Havasupai Falls, one of the most remote and breathtaking places in the U.S. This hidden gem is located within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, home to the Havasupai Tribe, who have lived in this rugged area for over 800 years. It’s so remote that donkeys still deliver the mail daily—a reminder of this place’s secluded and untouched.

Getting to Havasupai Falls is no easy feat. It’s a 10-mile trek down the canyon to reach the turquoise-blue waters that look almost unreal against the stark desert backdrop. I’m opting for the hike instead of taking a helicopter—after all, part of the magic lies in earning the view through the physical challenge of the journey. The trail descends steeply from Hualapai Hilltop, winding through narrow canyon walls and desert terrain. As you get closer, the sound of rushing water grows louder, signaling the approach to one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the world. Once there, you’re greeted by cascading falls and stunning pools with vivid blue-green waters that seem otherworldly.

I’ll be camping overnight near the falls, immersing myself in this otherworldly beauty and the ancient culture of the Havasupai people. Hiking back up will be an intense challenge, but the experience will be well worth it. Few places feel as untouched and sacred as Havasupai Falls, and I can’t wait to explore its pristine beauty firsthand.

4. Alaska

My first trip to America’s Last Frontier was back in 2008. I went solo and stayed with a family who lived there, soaking in the incredible wilderness. This time, I’m bringing a friend along for an unforgettable adventure filled with camping, snowmobiling, fishing, and—believe it or not—possibly some surfing!

I am thinking of heading to Denali National Park for camping. It’s one of the best places to truly experience Alaska’s vast and untamed wilderness, with towering peaks, wildlife sightings, and wide-open spaces that stretch as far as the eye can see. Whether we’re hiking or just enjoying the serenity of the backcountry, camping under the shadow of Denali feels like the ultimate escape.

When it comes to snowmobiling, there’s Knik Glacier just outside of Anchorage. This area offers some of the most exhilarating snowmobiling trails, with breathtaking glacier views and the thrill of navigating through snowy valleys. The cold air and epic landscapes will make for an unforgettable ride.

For fishing, the Kenai River is calling our names. Known for its legendary salmon runs, the Kenai is one of Alaska’s most popular fishing spots, and I’m hoping to reel in a few stories worth sharing. Whether we’re casting lines from the riverbank or taking a guided boat trip, it’s one of the best places to experience Alaska’s rich fishing culture.

And then, there’s the surfing. Yes, surfing in Alaska! I’m considering taking on the challenge of Yakutat Bay, one of the top cold-water surf destinations in the world. With wetsuits to keep you warm, surfing the chilly waves against the backdrop of snow-covered peaks will be a surreal experience. Alaska’s surf scene may be small, but it’s full of adventure and the kind of wild beauty you can only find here.

5. California Wine Country – Livermore Valley

Every time I visit San Francisco and the Bay Area, I make it a point to explore a different wine-producing region. It’s an easy decision because of the incredible variety nearby, but it’s also tough—once you fall in love with a region, it’s hard to branch out. This time, however, I’m excited to venture into new territory. A good friend recently moved to Livermore, so I’ll be tasting my way through this lesser-known wine region for the first time.

Livermore Valley may not have the name recognition of Napa or Sonoma, but it’s one of California’s oldest wine regions and has its own unique charm. Wente Vineyards is a family-owned winery that’s been around since 1883 and is considered a pioneer in the region. Their vineyard tours and tastings are highly recommended, especially their Chardonnay, which helped put Livermore Valley on the map.

Another spot is Concannon Vineyard, another historic gem known for its Petite Sirah. It has a beautiful estate and offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine with scenic vineyard views.

For something a little different, there’s Murrieta’s Well, a boutique winery with small-lot, handcrafted wines. Their tasting room is intimate, and they offer food pairings that will make the experience even more memorable.

As for dining, I’ve heard great things about Posada, a contemporary Latin restaurant in Livermore. It’s known for its innovative dishes that blend bold flavors with locally sourced ingredients, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day of wine tasting.

I’m excited to explore this new corner of wine country and experience Livermore Valley’s unique flavors and laid-back vibe.

6. California Wine Country – Healdsburg

Back in 2006, my college advertising campaign class traveled to San Francisco to compete in the National Student Advertising Competition. (We took 2nd place, by the way.) While the competition was thrilling, what I cherish most about that trip was the day my good friend and I rented a car and embarked on our first taste of California wine country. The concierge gave us an unexpected piece of advice: skip Napa and head to Healdsburg instead. It was the first time I heard of Healdsburg, but I haven’t looked back since.

Healdsburg is now familiar territory for me—or, more appropriately, terroir. This year, however, I’ll be experiencing it from a whole new angle—not just as a wine drinker, but as a runner. I’m signed up for the Healdsburg Half Marathon, a race that blends fitness with fun, complete with wine parties and tastings along the way. A little exercise combined with post-run wine tastings sounds like the perfect motivation to keep me going.

One of the things that makes Healdsburg special is its downtown plaza. This charming square is the heart of the town, where wine lovers, foodies, and locals gather. Lined with boutique shops, tasting rooms, and cafés, the Healdsburg Plaza has an inviting, small-town feel that contrasts beautifully with the sophistication of the surrounding wine country. Whether I’m grabbing a coffee at Flying Goat Coffee or browsing local art at The Healdsburg Center for the Arts, I love how the plaza offers a little bit of everything. It’s also the perfect place to unwind after a day of wine tasting or, in this case, after crossing the finish line of the half marathon.

While I’m here, I plan to revisit some of my favorite wineries, starting with Jordan Vineyard & Winery, known for its elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and beautiful estate. Another must-stop for me is Ridge Vineyards’ Lytton Springs, where their old-vine Zinfandels capture the true essence of the region.

After the run, I’ll likely head to Dry Creek Kitchen for a well-deserved meal. Located right near the plaza, this restaurant blends local ingredients with wine country flair. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the day and savor the flavors of Sonoma County.

Running through the picturesque vineyards, followed by indulging in some of the best wine Healdsburg has to offer, feels like the perfect way to celebrate both my love for wine and the excitement of the race. I can’t wait to see this region from a whole new perspective.

7. Cactus League Spring Training – Phoenix, AZ

Last year, I experienced the magic of America’s pre-season pastime for the first time, attending a single Cubs game during Cactus League Spring Training. It didn’t take long for me to get hooked—between the sunshine, the laid-back atmosphere, and the affordable ways to enjoy professional baseball, I knew I’d be back. This year, I’m upping the ante. Though I haven’t broken the news to my boss yet, I’m planning to take a week off work to fully immerse myself in the Cactus League experience.

Phoenix becomes a baseball lover’s paradise during spring training, with 15 Major League Baseball teams spread across 10 ballparks throughout the area. I’m gearing up to visit some of the top parks, starting with Scottsdale Stadium, home to the San Francisco Giants. The stadium’s downtown Scottsdale location is ideal for grabbing a bite or a drink after the game, with spots like The Rusty Spur Saloon offering a classic Western vibe.

Sloan Park in Mesa is where the Chicago Cubs play. Known as “Wrigleyville West,” this park is a must for Cubs fans, with an energy similar to the iconic Wrigley Field. There’s also Camelback Ranch in Glendale, shared by the White Sox and Dodgers. This ballpark has a more relaxed desert oasis feel, complete with walking trails and scenic views.

Beyond the games themselves, Cactus League Spring Training is about more than just baseball—it’s about the camaraderie, warm weather, and spontaneous fun that comes with it. Between games, I plan to explore the local bar scene, like The Yard in Tempe or The Churchill in downtown Phoenix, where I can catch up with fellow baseball fans.

Whether it’s the Giants, White Sox, Cubs, Angels, or any team in between, I can’t wait to soak in the Arizona sun, enjoy the pre-season matchups, and indulge in everything the Cactus League has to offer.

8. Somewhere Abroad

Once upon a time, during my college days, I had the unbelievable fortune of living in a lakefront property on Lake Geneva in Switzerland, with breathtaking views of the Alps and Mont Blanc. That fairytale setting was part of my study-abroad adventure, and I made a promise to myself: every year, I would leave the country to recapture some of that magic and deal with the inevitable post-adventure blues. I haven’t always been loyal to that promise, but I’ve tried my best. It took me two and a half years to fulfill my promise again after that first trip.

Now, I feel it’s time to honor that commitment once more. I’m not sure where this trip will take me yet, but I know it’s time to pack my bags and head out into the world—even if I have to fly solo.

For solo female travelers like myself, the world is full of possibilities. One idea is Lisbon, Portugal—a city brimming with culture, stunning architecture, and warm, welcoming locals. As a solo traveler, I can explore the colorful streets of Alfama, indulge in a custard tart or two, and take in the sweeping views from São Jorge Castle. Lisbon’s safety and ease of navigation make it ideal for solo travel.

Another destination that’s been on my radar is Kyoto, Japan. This city combines tradition with tranquility, offering serene temples, Zen gardens, and peaceful walks through bamboo forests. Japan is known for being incredibly safe for solo female travelers, and Kyoto’s slower pace of life is perfect for some personal reflection.

Or perhaps I’ll head to Reykjavik, Iceland. Solo travelers rave about the country’s otherworldly landscapes, where I could soak in the Blue Lagoon, chase the Northern Lights, or hike through dramatic glaciers and volcanoes. Iceland’s natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for both adventure and solitude.

Wherever I end up, I know that traveling alone will offer the kind of personal growth and freedom that’s hard to come by in everyday life. There’s something empowering about setting out on your own, with no set plan but plenty of room for discovery.

Whether it’s skiing in Montana, hiking to the depths of the Grand Canyon, sipping wine in California, or embarking on a solo adventure abroad, each trip is a step toward something bigger: fulfilling a dream. Travel is more than just the destination; it’s about the experiences that transform us, the memories we create, and the challenges we embrace.

As I look ahead to these incredible adventures, I can’t help but think of the promise I made to myself years ago—never to stop exploring. Maybe your big dream is a road trip across the country, an island escape, or a trek through foreign lands. Whatever it is, the first step is making the decision to go. So, if you don’t already have one, it’s time to get a passport and start planning that trip you’ve always dreamed about.

The world is waiting, and it’s never been more accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first big adventure, there’s no better time to chase those travel dreams. Remember, the journey begins when you say “yes.” So, book the ticket, take the leap, and make your travel dreams a reality.