Travel has always been one of the greatest joys in my life. Every time I get the chance to explore somewhere new, I have to pinch myself that I’m lucky enough to do it. There’s just something about stepping into a different culture, seeing new landscapes and trying food you can’t pronounce that makes you feel alive.
Of course, like many people, my travel plans hit a pause during the 2020 pandemic. I was far too anxious to risk boarding a plane and ending up stranded in another country. But now, with the world slowly opening up again, I’m ready to make up for lost time, and finally tick a few more places off my travel wishlist. Here are the destinations that are calling my name next
New Zealand
I don’t know what it is about New Zealand, but every time I see a photo of its coastlines, mountains or rolling green hills, I feel this pull to go. There’s something beautifully untouched about it — small towns, friendly locals, and landscapes that look straight out of a painting.
It’s a serious trek from the UK, but I’d love to visit before we start a family, while those long-haul adventures are still on the cards. Whether it’s a road trip through the South Island or soaking up the culture in Auckland, it’s right at the top of my bucket list.
South Africa
South Africa has been a dream destination since I was a child — mainly because I’ve always wanted to experience a real safari. Imagine watching elephants and lions in their natural habitat rather than on a TV screen!
For years, two things held me back: budget and (I’ll admit it) my absolute terror of spiders. The first issue I’ve finally solved, but the second might take some psychological preparation. Still, I’m determined that one day I’ll make it happen — and when I do, it’s going to be the trip of a lifetime.
Hawaii
Believe it or not, my husband and I have never actually had a proper honeymoon. Between getting the keys to our house and the chaos of COVID, it just never happened. So, a Hawaii honeymoon-style trip is firmly on the wishlist — two weeks of sunshine, beaches, and cocktails that arrive in coconuts.
The thought of the flight from the UK makes me break out in a cold sweat, but the chance to see volcanoes, waterfalls and turquoise water all in one place? Worth every minute in economy.
Canada
While I love the idea of Hawaii’s sunshine, deep down I’m more of a nature-and-mountains person than a sun-lounger one. That’s why Canada is another dream destination for me.
A friend of mine lives there and is constantly sending me photos of lakes, pine forests and jaw-dropping landscapes. It’s the kind of place where I imagine taking long drives, spotting bears from afar, and drinking coffee somewhere that smells like pine and fresh air. I think it’s finally time to take her up on the invitation.
Iceland
Iceland might be one of the most popular quick getaway destinations for UK travellers, but I still haven’t made it there. Every time I see photos of the Northern Lights or those icy blue lagoons, I’m reminded that it’s only a short flight away.
I’d love to visit in winter, wrap up warm and watch the night sky explode with stars. I’ve heard it can be pricey once you add in excursions and food, but honestly — the chance to see the Aurora Borealis in real life? That’s worth saving for.
Final Thoughts
Those are the top places on my travel bucket list, and just writing them down makes me excited to start planning again. As much as I love saving and being sensible, I’ll always see travel as an investment — not in things, but in memories.
There’s nothing quite like meeting new people, seeing how others live, and realising how big (and small) the world really is. I’ll share another post soon on some of the countries I’ve already visited and why they’ve left such a lasting mark on me.
Where’s next on your travel wishlist? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear what destinations you’re dreaming of.
