2018, we’ve got lots of planning to do. We’re destined to explore some fascinating corners of the world, some close to home, some far flung this year. What are some places your itching to cross off your travel bucket list? I’d love to know! Also, if you’re looking for a bit more thrill, head over to HonestlyFIT for Orissa’s awesome adventure travel bucket list.
Kyoto, Japan: My parents just returned from Kyoto and said the most wonderful things about this historically and culturally significant city. Despite how beautiful it is covered in snow, I’d love to visit during the Spring, where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Mérida, Mexico: There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding Mérida, Yucatán’s capital and best kept secret. In addition to a plethora of Mayan archaeological sites, Mérida is luring travelers for their incredible cuisine, local markets and well appointed boutique hotels and rental homes.
Big Sur, California: Sometimes, adventure is waiting in your own backyard. Case in point: I’ve lived in Northern California for over 10 years and still have not made the 3 hour drive to magnificent Big Sur. It’s a no-brainer.
Petra, Jordan: Petra has been on my bucket list for years and although I might not get around to it this year, I’m hoping to make the trek soon. Amman is also of much interest as a few friends just recently returned and raved about the charm and hospitality.
Lima & Cusco, Peru: After college, I had the opportunity to meet up with friends who were traveling throughout South America. A work conflict forced me to choose: Brazil or Peru. I chose Brazil and have regretted it ever since. Not to say I didn’t love Brazil, I just can’t believe I missed the chance to ascend Manchu Pichu and hang with alpaca. 2018. It’s happening.
Montana: Ahhh, beautiful and majestic Montana. One of the few states I haven’t visited. Question is: summer at a dude ranch (ahem, Paws Up)? Or winter in Big Sky?
Jordan via The Culture Trip; Montana via The Taste SF, Pearson Design Group, Mérida via Conde Nast Traveler, Rosas x Xocolate, Big Sur via Local Adventurer, Kyoto via 500px, unknown, Peru via A Culture Trip, Michael Rees)
These places look so magical! I really want to see Japan as well!
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@Michelle Let’s go!
MT is amazing, and I like your thinking – I’ve never been to WY, so I signed up for an 8 day cattle drive scheduled for this summer. Nothing helps you get to know a place better than 8 straight days of not showering and not a single outlet to plug in a charger. I hope you get a good ranch experience!
@Jamie Ohhh, Wyoming is one of my favorite places in the world. You must visit the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. Jackson Hole is the best! Have fun on your cattle drive – I’d love to hear more about it when you return!
I so want to go to Petra too, hopefully this year!
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@Chichi fingers crossed. for the both of us!
I’m trying to book a trip to Peru this year, so your comment about wishing you picked Peru over Brazil is reassuring. Big Sur always looks so beautiful, and I’ve never heard of Merida, even though I’ve been to Playa del Carmen, which isn’t too far away. I went to Kyoto in November and it was really beautiful then, with the tree leaves changing, so consider the fall, too. Great picks!
@TheLuxeStrategist Oh, good to know about Kyoto. Thanks!!
Go for Paws Up in Montana!! It’s pretty close to Missoula (where I live, full disclosure), such a great little town. The Big Sky scene is a little vanilla resort-y for my taste, but it’s still BEAUTIFUL. You really can’t go wrong in Montana tho, so wherever you end up will be amazing.
@Laurel I’d love to visit Missoula – I have a few friends who grew up there. Would love to hear any more Montana recs you might have!
My parents work in Montana in the summers. They say the best time to visit is the early fall. Even mid to end of September is too late, it gets cold and snowy early!
@Sarah Thanks for the tip! xx
I’m heading to Japan for the cherry blossom season. I hear that Tokyo is a great city to walk around and Osaka is great for food! I would love to go to Okinawa but doubt i’ll have time. Can anyone recommend any Onsens / Hot springs? Thank you! 🙂
@Elam So many places, too little time!
Breathtaking pictures! I think my favorite is the one if the mountains and alpaca in Peru. It’s magestic and whimsical all at once!
@The Tote Trove who doesn’t LOVE alpacas? 🙂
Goals for 2018: Stop shopping clothing and save for travel!
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@Asshly AMEN!
From the places I’ve been from your list, Japan is definitely my recommendation! Amazing country, very interesting culture and people and delicious food!
But I must say that you choosing Brazil over Peru was the right call! Maybe because I live in Brazil and I think it’s so beautiful and rich in terms of culture, food and nature 😛 Even though Cusco is a lovely city, I personally thought Machu Picchu a tiny disappointing (or I had too high expectations!)
Amazing pics
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Oh my what a year you’ll have with all that travel. I would love to visit Japan, it looks like such a fascinating country
Lauren
livinginaboxx
sharing is very nice.
Japan in Spring is the best!! When the cherry blossom is blooming all the way, I believe it’s the best time. And I think it’s the best time to see the tradition and culture of Japanese. All these cities are stunning!! Love your list.
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Erica, of course!! I think Missoula’s by far the coolest little town, I’m blown away by our community of artisans here (I mean check out @bean_an_ti on insta) and I think the most important tip is to schedule your visit between October and early July so you don’t run the risk of being here if/when it gets smoky. Sometimes fire season is barely noticeable, but if you happen to roll through during a bad spell, you might not be able to see all the gorgeous scenery that you’re here for. Feel free to send specific questions!! xx
Petra is a great place. Desert trekking can be done here.
Add Ladakh or Sikkim to the list and even Kolkata for the beautifully layered madness. Safe magical travels
It really looks impressive. Just like I wanted, like I imagined. Thank you so much.
Hi, Erica. I loved the photos, particularly those of Merida, Big Sur, and Montana. Were you able to visit all the places on this list?
hello i love your blog and i visit it every day
Even in 2021 your tour unmatchable 🙂
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