1. New Orleans
Though I've lived in the American south for a total of six years, I've never actually been to New Orleans. I must say, it's probably the only southern city I actually want to visit. I want to see the bayous firsthand (without getting killed by alligators) and see how the natives across the city live within their culture. Also, as someone of Vodun heritage, I've always wanted to visit Marie Laveau's grave site. She's the only known voodoo priestess in American history, so I feel it would be beneficial to see her grave and learn more about her straight from the people. And of course, I want that good Cajun food.
I
highly recommend this destination. The food is superb and the architecture is iconic. There's jazz music all over the place and you won't be hard-pressed to find an impromptu concert! Regrettably, I didn't have a chance to see Marie Laveau's grave, but New Orleans is not the kind of city you can visit only once. You'll want to watch yourself while you're there due to the fairly high crime rate, but if you stick to the French Quarter and other tourist-y areas you shouldn't have any problems!
Boston is also a great city that I thankfully don't live too far from.
Now, for my list:
1.
California and Pacific Northwest, USA
I haven't been further west than Minnesota, so I've only seen this area on TV shows, films, videos, and photographs. Notable destinations I want to see here are San Francisco, Seattle, Yosemite National Park, Napa wine country, and Crater Lake. Further north I feel like
Vancouver would make for a nice trip as well.
2.
Ireland
The only two countries I've been to outside of the U.S. are Canada and the UK. I loved both, but I'm drawn to visit Ireland due to my predominantly Irish heritage, plus gorgeous scenery and solid beer!
3.
Germany
Same reason as Ireland, as I'm also part German and am interested in German history and culture.
4.
Spain
I debated on not including this one because it's less of a dream destination and more of a reality - I'm going there for my college graduation trip next year. However, I became bewitched by the country after taking three years of Spanish in high school and learning that my mother studied abroad in Madrid back in the 70s.
5.
Italy
I'm a foodie and a fan of wine. Can't help myself.
6.
Scandinavia/Iceland
See a pattern here? Everywhere in Europe I basically have an inclination to visit. Why? Because if the term "Europhile" is a word, I likely am one.
7.
Japan
Okay, something outside of Europe for once! Japan looks like a dream. Beautiful scenery, highly developed, very educated people, phenomenal food.
8.
Australia/New Zealand
Not sure why I lumped these two together considering they're two very different countries, but I feel like these are definite bucket list destinations nonetheless.
9.
Thailand
Apparently, it's a fairly cheap destination. I could be very wrong about this, but Thai food and culture fascinates me!
And lastly 10.
Orlando
Anti-climactic? Nah. Believe it or not, I have
never been to Disney or Universal in all 22 years of me being alive. I think it's about time, no?
