Virtual Trip Around the World: Because the travel bug waits for no one!
It's no secret that the travel bug waits for no one. Follow along on my Semester at Sea itinerary from 2010 and travel the world from the comfort of your couch. 110 days, 12 ports, 10 countries, and 4 continents later, you'll have traveled around the world and be equipped with the knowledge you need to plan your next great adventure!
It’s no secret that this past year has been full of difficulty and challenges, especially for those of us that have perpetually itchy feet and are used to exploring new places. Despite it all, it’s important to continuously remind ourselves that a global pandemic isn’t forever and the time will come when we can get back on those dusty, off the beaten path roads around the world.
Until it’s safe to do so, we’ll have to settle for curbing our wanderlust through virtual trips, books, and documentaries.
The below itinerary is what I was fortunate enough to follow while studying abroad on Semester at Sea in 2010. Consisting of 110 days, 12 ports, 10 countries, and 4 continents, this post is less about my personal experience and more about taking you on a trip around the world to discover something new because, after all, the travel bug waits for no one!
Grab your favorite first-class cocktail, recline back in your seat, and let’s take off!
Interested in learning more about my Semester at Sea experience? Check out this post:
CANADA
Official Languages: English, French | Area: 9,970,610 sq-km | Population: 37.59 million | Capital City: Ottawa | Currency: Canadian Dollar
From sea to shining sea, experience everything from the rugged Atlantic coast in Newfoundland to the foggy Pacific in British Colombia. Get lost exploring the bustling cities of Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver or push north into the Yukon Territory and chase the northern lights during the winter months. As such a large country, it’s hard to comprehend all that Canada encompasses.
SEE & DO:
Get soaked on the Maid of the Mist at the 8th Wonder of the World, Niagara Falls.
Eat your way through Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods. Over 250 ethnicities and 170 languages are represented in the region.
Explore Quebec City’s Old Town, a registered UNESCO Heritage Site.
Be humbled by the awe-inspiring Canadian Rockies and visit the towns along the way such as Lake Louise, Banff, or Kananaskis.
Experience the way of life along the North Atlantic Ocean in Newfoundland and scope the icebergs, cliffs, and more.
Get your camera ready to capture the abundance of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and grizzly bears.
EAT: Poutine. A glob of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy sauce, this is sure to keep you warm during the blistering winters!
DRINK: Molson. Not only is it the oldest beer in Canada, it’s also the oldest brewery in North America (1786).
WATCH: Montreal, Samantha Brown’s Places to Love S1E12 (PBS).
ONE WORD: “Eh”. Canadians have not one, not two, but ten popular functions of the word. Pretty neat, eh?
KNOWN FOR: Hockey, cold winters, diversity, Tim Hortons, rocky coasts, abundant wildlife, friendly people.
RANDOM FACT: Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, sits along the geographical center of North America.
Parliament Building, Ottawa
Canadian Rockies
Tourists ice skate on the famous Lake Louise
SPAIN
Official Language: Castilian Spanish | Area: 40,525,002 sq-km | Population: 46.94 million | Capital City: Madrid | Currency: Euro
Spain is high on food and social scenes, so much so that it’s rare you’ll never be steps away from a glass of sangria and a table full of tapas. The country is overflowing with vibrant culture and intricate architectural wonders. Wander, eat, sleep, repeat, and don’t forget to loosen those belt buckles! You’ll thank me later.
SEE & DO:
Bask in the glorious view of the world-famous Alhambra in Andalucía.
Indulge in an evening full of sangria and tapas hopping between bars.
Get lost in the rhythm of a live flamenco performance.
Gawk at the intricate tiles of the Plaza de España.
Step back in time and watch professional Matadors elegantly maneuver around charging balls. Note: watching the bulls die isn’t for everyone. Do your research ahead of time and know what to expect.
Relax on the pristine beaches and explore the secluded coves of Mallorca.
Pack a bag and hike a section of the famed Camino de Santiago.
EAT: Paella, but be sure to wash it down with a couple of delectable churros.
DRINK: Sangria.
WATCH: Spain, Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations S4E14.
ONE WORD: Siesta. It’s no joke here!
KNOWN FOR: Flamenco, delicious tapas, siesta and fiesta, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Antoni Gaudi.
RANDOM FACT: There are several words in Spanish with no direct translation, including Friolero, that person whose fingers are always white while yours are fine, and Pardo, the color between grey and brown.
A matador narrowly evades a charging bull in Sevilla
MOROCCO
Official Language: Arabic | Area: 504,782 sq-km | Population: 36.03 million | Capital City: Rabat | Currency: Moroccan Dirham
Located a stone’s throw away from the Spanish coast, Moroccan culture is seamlessly blending the new with the old. The ancient medina walls offer a glimpse into past kingdoms while the streets of Casablanca are brimming with a new generation of chic youth.
SEE & DO:
Fine tune your bartering skills at the Djemaa el-Fna square in Marrakesh. Stick around after the sun goes down and feast at one of the open-air food carts.
Get lost in the ancient Medina of Fez and follow your nose to one of the ancient leather tanneries.
Pay a visit to a local hammam, a traditional Moroccan bath.
Trek through the Atlas Mountains and immerse yourself in the Berber culture.
EAT: Couscous (crushed and steamed balls of durum wheat and topped with heaps of vegetables or meat).
DRINK: Mint tea, a staple of the Moroccan culture.
WATCH: Marrakesh with Chrissy Teagen, Breakfast Lunch & Dinner S1E2 (Netflix).
ONE WORD: Labas, how are you?
KNOWN FOR: Sahara Desert, tagine, Chefchaouen (a village where very house is painted blue), abundance of spices, Atlas Mountains.
RANDOM FACT: The minaret of Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque rises to 210m and is the largest in the world while the mosque itself holds 25,000 worshipers at prayer.
The Hassan II Mosque’s minaret towers over visitors
A boy sits at the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
GHANA
Official Language: English | Area: 446,550 sq-km | Population: 29.77 million | Capital City: Accra | Currency: Cedi
Commonly touted as "Africa for beginners," tourists love visiting Ghana because of its laid-back atmosphere, colorful culture, and ease of travel. To truly understand the people, pay a visit to one of the several slave castles that dot the coast and learn how the country became the first African nation to achieve independence in 1957.
SEE & DO:
Wander through the canopy at 40m above the forest floor in Kakum National Park.
Walk with elephants at one of Africa’s cheapest safaris in Mole National Park.
Soak up the sand between your toes and sleep in a thatched hut at Maranatha Beach Camp.
Get turned around in Accra’s Makola Market, but somehow still find everything you need.
Allow yourself to be overcome with emotion at one of Ghana’s forts as you stare at the ominous “Door of No Return” where slaves once left their homeland behind.
Experience all that Kejetia Market, West Africa’s largest, has to offer in Kumasi.
EAT: Fufu and bofrot (Ghana’s version of a donut).
DRINK: Palm wine from a villager’s homemade stash.
ONE WORD: Hani-Wodzo, let’s dance!
KNOWN FOR: Coastal forts, high-life vibes, beautiful beaches, colorful culture, “Africa for beginners”, friendly people.
RANDOM FACT: 20% of all cocoa beans come from Ghana, making this West African nation the second largest producer in the world.
A visitor carefully navigates the swinging canopy walk at Kakum National Park
Maranatha Beach Camp, Ghana
SOUTH AFRICA
Official Languages: Afrikaans, Venda, Tsonga, English, Southern Soto, Swati, Zulu, Tswana, Ndebele, Xhosa, Northern Soto | Area: 1,219,9090 sq-km | Population: 57.78 million | Capital Cities: Pretoria (administrative), Bloemfontein (Judicial), Cape Town (Legislative) | Currency: Rand
It wasn’t until 1994 that a democratically-elected government took control of South Africa, making it a relatively young country in regards to independence. The effects of the previous regime’s ruthless apartheid policy can still be felt throughout the nation, but the people are determined to rebuild a better tomorrow.
SEE & DO:
Hike to the top of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head Peak for stunning views over Cape Town.
Take the ferry to Robben Island and learn how apartheid ravaged the country until 1994 when the first democratic government was formed.
Bushwalk through Kruger National Park and spot elephants and zebras at dawn.
Travel to the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa’s southern tip. Be sure to make time to visit the penguins at Boulder Beach as well.
Trace the path of the FIFA 2010 Soccer World Cup, the first and only held on African soil.
Need more trip ideas? Check out these activities!
EAT: Vetkoek, a multi-use pastry commonly stuffed with minced meat and eaten as a savory snack or topped with jam for dessert.
DRINK: Wines from the Cape Winelands, Springbok shot (paying homage to South Africa’s national rugby team, the shooter combines creme de menthe and Amarula).
READ: Nelson Mandela’s inspiring autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s emotional account of the Truth & Reconciliation Committee as the nation embarked on a long and painful healing process after apartheid, No Future Without Forgiveness.
WATCH: Cape Town, Somebody Feed Phil S2E5 (Netflix)
ONE WORD: Ubuntu (I am, because we are; a testament to the interconnectedness of humanity).
KNOWN FOR: Table Mountain, Springboks Rugby, Kruger National Park, Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, freedom fighters, unity.
RANDOM FACT: There are more than 2,000 shipwrecks off the coast of South Africa that date back 500 years.
Lion’s Head Peak at Sunset, Cape Town
MAURITIUS
Official Language: English, French, Creole | Area: 2,040 sq-km | Population: 1.265 million | Capital City: Port Louis | Currency: Rupee
Frequently overshadowed on a map by its neighbor, look for a small dot to the east of Madagascar and you’ll find Mauritius. A tiny island full of pristine beaches, creole cuisine, and stunning highlands, it’s a slice of paradise in the Indian Ocean.
Craving to learn more about Mauritius?
Check out this post:
SEE & DO:
Visit the cascading Chamarel Falls and mesmerizing Seven Colors of the Earth.
Hike through Black River Gorge National Park.
Relax on the beaches of Grand Baie.
Wander through the lively Port Louis Market.
Walk around the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolom Temple.
EAT: Camarons (freshwater prawns in spicy sauce).
DRINK: Phoenix Beer from Mauritius’ largest brewery.
ONE WORD: Kreol Morisien (Welcome).
KNOWN FOR: Phoenix beer, beach resorts, land of the lost dodo bird, sugar cane plantations, religious tolerance, island vibes.
RANDOM FACT: Electricity from sugar cane accounts for 14% of the island’s needs.
Seven Colors of the Earth
Black River Gorge
INDIA
Official Languages: English, Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil, Urdu, Gujarati, Malaalam, Kennada, Oriyu, Punjabi, Assamese, Kashmiri, Sindhi, Sanskrit | Area: 3,287,263 sq-km | Population: 1.353 billion | Capital City: New Delhi | Currency: Indian Rupee
India often feels like a world of its own with so much diversity between north, south, east, and west. Traveling here requires stepping out of your comfort zone with all of the sights, sounds, and smells constantly overwhelming the senses, but it’s worth the effort.
SEE & DO:
Float down the Ganges River at sunrise in Varanasi and observe the morning cleansing and cremations along the ghats on shore.
Stand speechless at the entrance to the Taj Mahal.
Ride an overnight train for a true Indian experience.
Navigate rush hour in the gridlocked cities of Mumbai and Kolkata.
Catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest in Darjeeling.
EAT: Chaat (a savory snack served at roadside stalls).
DRINK: Scalding hot chai tea, lassy (a refreshing sweet or salty yogurt shake).
READ: Around India in 80 Trains by Monisha Rajesh.
ONE WORD: Dayaf, baya, sidha (right, left, straight, because a trip to India almost certainly requires directing your rickshaw).
KNOWN FOR: Holy cows, Taj Mahal, Gandhi, Himalayas, towering temples, Bollywood, hectic driving, Holi Festival.
RANDOM FACT: The Taj Mahal’s dome was covered in bamboo scaffolding in 1942 as a way to protect and disguise it from German bomber planes during World War II.
Mid-day viewing of the Taj Mahal with the masses.
SINGAPORE
Official Languages: Chinese, Malay, Tamil, English | Area: 697 sq-km | Population: 5.64 million | Capital City: Singapore | Currency: Singapore Dollar
Careful not to break the rules here as it’s known for strict regulations. Even chewing gum finds itself on the list of banned substances, but don’t be deterred. Singapore might be small in size, but it’s a cultural melting pot of food and people.
SEE & DO:
Wander the Waterloo St. temples and markets.
Soak up the sights, smells and sounds of Little India, Singapore’s ode to the bustling subcontinent.
Swim high above the city at one of the most famous infinity pools in the world, located at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.
Enjoy a cold drink at Clarke Quay, a popular riverside hangout with plenty of bars and restaurants.
Take in a bird’s eye view aboard the Singapore Flyer, the city’s iconic ferris wheel.
Check out these guides for a comprehensive list of things to do in Singapore!
EAT: Any and all hawker food. Singapore is a place where cultures converge, so it’s only fitting that you try all it has to offer.
DRINK: Tiger Beer, Singapore Sling.
WATCH: Singapore, Somebody Feed Phil S4E3 (Netflix).
ONE WORD: Kiasu. This represents a person’s fear of losing, something that is a staple of sorts within the population.
KNOWN FOR: “No Durian” signs, strict laws including hefty fines for spitting and littering, Tiger Beer.
RANDOM FACT: Singapore is the world’s largest exporter of exotic aquarium fish.
Downtown Singapore
VIETNAM
Official Language: Vietnamese | Area: 331,210 sq-km | Population: 95.54 million | Capital City: Hanoi | Currency: Dong
Organized chaos is the best way to describe the buzzing streets of Saigon as motorbikes whiz by. For a country ravaged by war, the Vietnamese people are a smiley bunch that are eager to show their homeland to everyone and anyone willing to visit. Fresh food, friendly faces, and never a dull moment; what more do you need?
SEE & DO:
Slurp a steaming bowl of pho from the comfort of a rickety plastic stool on the streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
Hire a local fisherman and float the back channels of the Mekong Delta.
Play a game of human frogger in the cities as you try to dodge motorbikes from all directions before giving up and riding one yourself.
Explore the picturesque terraced rice fields in Sapa.
Live on a boat amidst the towering rock formations of Ha Long Bay.
EAT: Pho, Goi Cuon (spring roll).
DRINK: Cafe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee, also known as crack coffee).
WATCH: Vietnam, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown S4E4.
ONE WORD: Thu’o’ng (th-uong) which describes something that is more than love.
KNOWN FOR: Conical hats, scooter mayhem, Mekong Delta, pho, “same same but different”.
RANDOM FACT: According to ancient Vietnamese folklore, Vietnamese people are descendants of dragons.
Boats docked along the Mekong Delta
A fisherman navigates the offshoot rivers of the Mekong Delta
HONG KONG
Official Languages: Chinese Cantonese, English | Area: 1,110 sq-km | Population: 7.45 million | Capital City: Central | Currency: Hong Kong dollar
Most recently, Hong Kong has created headlines around the world as tensions with China have reached a boiling point. Needless to say, the tiny island is living through a turning point in its history with new, more restrictive regulations. There’s only one question: what will the outcome be?
SEE & DO:
Explore Sham Shui Po, one of the oldest districts in Hong Kong that’s known for it’s textile industry.
Hop aboard the iconic Star Ferry for some of the best views of the city’s skyline from Victoria Harbour.
Reach the top of “The Peak”, the city’s best birds eye view, and marvel at the sheer magnitude of the metropolis below.
Be hypnotized by the extensive evening light show of downtown’s buildings.
EAT: Street food. Widely available, affordable, and a great snack for exploring. Some popular ones include curry fish balls, pineapple buns, and egg tarts.
DRINK: Red bean ice (red beans, sugar syrup, and milk).
WATCH: Hong Kong, Samantha Brown’s Places to Love S2E1 (PBS).
ONE WORD: Gay-dor-cheen-ah (how much is this?) because let’s face it, Hong Kong isn’t the cheapest place to visit in the world.
KNOWN FOR: Skyline views, Victoria Harbour, dim sum, luxury shopping, and political strife with China.
RANDOM FACT: Hong Kong means “fragrance harbor” in Cantonese.
Hong Kong as seen from the top of the The Peak
CHINA
Official Language: Mandarin | Area: 9, 596,961 sq-km | Population: 1.39 billion | Capital City: Beijing | Currency: Chinese Yuan
China is an intellectually intriguing nation to visit. On the surface, the vast country is filled with stunning scenery found nowhere else in the world, but dig a little deeper and the government’s harsh policies rear their ugly head. Where do you fall on this spectrum? One must visit to find out!
SEE & DO:
Hike the Great Wall of China.
Be humbled at the shear vastness of the country by taking a train from east to west.
Head to Yangshuo and float the Li River amongst the towering peaks that seemingly shoot straight up towards the sky.
Observe, learn, and practice T’ai chi each morning in one of the peaceful parks.
Walk the famous Shanghai Bund.
Uncover the 6,000 sculptures of Xi’an’s terracotta warriors.
Need help planning your trip? Here’s a list of curated guides to help!
EAT: Sichuan cuisine and it’s iconic fiery pepper seasoning.
DRINK: Tea at a traditional teahouse where the leaves are rolled, brewed, and roasted for an unmatched and unimaginable aroma.
READ: Peaks on the Horizon, a harrowing tale about one man’s escape from Chinese Authorities in Tibet.
ONE WORD: Ren, meaning to endure.
KNOWN FOR: Calligraphy, t’ai chi, Olympic Games, holistic medicine, the “ghosts” of Tibet, an up and coming wine industry, ancient culture.
RANDOM FACT: China is recognized by the Federation of International Football Association as having the oldest documented version of soccer during the Han Dynasty, over 2,000 years ago. The game was called “Tsu’ Chu” which translates as “kicking ball”.
The city of Guilin, the gateway to Yangshuo
Bamboo rafts float down the Li River in Yangshuo
JAPAN
Official Language: Japanese | Area: 377,915 sq-km | Population: 126.5 million | Capital City: Tokyo | Currency: Yen
No trip to Japan would be complete without venturing outside of the futuristic cities and into the past. The country prides itself on preserving its ancient culture, making it easy to stumble upon relics from throughout history. While you’re at it, be sure to take a deep dive into the food scene that awaits.
SEE & DO:
Hop between 7-11 and Lawsons for the quintessential Japanese convenience store meal, a staple of traveling through the country.
Get lost in busy streets of Tokyo and visit the world’s largest crosswalk at Shibuya.
Explore the zen gardens in Kyoto while trying to spot Geishas.
Confront the dark history of the world at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Play with the deer in Nara, Japan’s ancient capital.
EAT: Sashimi, ramen, and gyoza.
DRINK: Shochu, the national spirit of Japan.
READ: Rice Noodle Fish, an unmatched culinary adventure through Japan’s food culture.
WATCH: Japan: Hokaido, Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations S7E8.
ONE WORD: Danryoku-sei, meaning resilient.
KNOWN FOR: Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, sushi, sumo, anime, kimonos, and Tokyo’s massive public transport system.
RANDOM FACT: Japan’s rail system is one of the most efficient and on-time around the world, so rush hour requires professionally employed “pushers” to make their rounds and shove passengers into the packed car for trains to run on schedule.
Todaiji Temple in Nara, Japan
Voila! You’ve completed a trip around the world. Although the future of travel still seems uncertain, it’s never too early to start planning your next great adventure. At the very least, it takes the edge off the travel bug a bit, right?
Need more information about a destination? Want my personal recommendations? Leave a comment below and let’s start putting your next adventure together!
Stay safe, wear a mask, & happy travels!
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Hello, World!
6 Wintry Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List: It's time to go play in the snow!
Traveling doesn't have to stop just because winter is in full force! Check out these 7 destinations and start planning your next adventure!
Please note: This post has been updated as of December 2023
The temperature has dropped, the heavy jackets have been dusted off, and the snow is flying. Although winter has arrived, don’t let that fool you - the traveling doesn’t have to stop!
After galavanting around the globe with professional ski racers for the past four years, here are 6 wintry destinations that everyone should be adding to their bucket list.
Note to readers: This post is NOT sponsored. All opinions and experiences are my own.
1. LAKE LOUISE, CANADA
Canada’s Winter Wonderland
Tucked away deep within the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise is best known for a lake named… Louise. One can appreciate the straightforwardness, but it’s important to look beyond the obvious attraction — this small town is much more than the turquoise waters that pour into the valley from the distant Victoria Glacier!
Once the snow starts falling, Lake Louise turns into a wintry wonderland of sorts, albeit a frigid one.
Sip on a cup of hot chocolate as you wander the grounds of the Fairmont Chateau, rent a pair of skates and dance across a frozen lake, or pack your skis and head over to the Lake Louise ski resort for some stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Looking for a slightly larger area? A short 40-minute drive to the southeast lies Banff, a town widely known for Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade towering high above the cityscape.
It’s not hard to spend an afternoon perusing the picturesque main street, visiting the various boutiques and restaurants as you go.
Stay:
Fairmont Chateau - This is the priciest option in the area, but also the most luxurious. Dating back to 1890, the 539-room hotel sits directly on the shores of Lake Louise and offers visitors diverse and expansive services, including a spa, gym, free-wifi, horse drawn carriages through the snow, tea time, and more.
Mountaineer Lodge - Significantly cheaper and still conveniently located, the Mountaineer Lodge is a great value-stay. Free wi-fi and breakfast available.
Play:
Lake Louise Ski Resort - Voted the #1 resort in Canada in 2019 and just a short drive from the town center, Lake Louise Ski Area is full of terrain for all ages and levels.
Feeling adventurous? Ride the Glacier Express to the top and make some turns along downhill track, the same run that the world’s best alpine ski racers compete on each year!
Ice Skating on Lake Louise - Glide along the frozen waters or play a pick-up game of ice hockey. Either way, the surrounding white peaks of the Canadian Rockies will create the perfect winter scene. Skate rentals start at $20 for two hours (and a hockey stick will cost $5 extra).
Getting There:
Calgary is the closest airport and only a 2hr. drive away from Lake Louise. Car rentals are widely available, but shuttles also run regularly and can often be arranged through your accommodations.
Lake Louise, Canada
2. KITTILA, FINLAND
Wintry Lapland Wilderness
Kittilä’s location, 110 miles north of the Arctic Circle, means that darkness dominates the winter, so why would anyone want to visit?
Aside from the Levi Ski Resort, which is the largest in all of Finland, and the Lapland wilderness being largely synonymous with Santa’s headquarters, the area also averages around 200 sightings of the Aurora Borealis each year.
It’s certainly not a place to visit if you’re in search of a sunny après after a long day on the slopes, but the tiny town of Kittilä is chock full of experiences and adventure!
The skiing is great, the people are friendly, and the food is delicious, but the real show happens when darkness descends and the Northern Lights illuminate the sky.
The isolation means that it’s not hard to leave the town’s ambient lighting behind and find your slice of winter paradise as you gaze up towards the sky in awe of the Aurora Borealis dancing across the horizon. It’s truly a magical moment and one that I genuinely hope everyone gets to experience in their lifetime.
The best part? It’s easy to do for free. No tours, no fees and, most importantly, no hassle. Simply rent a car and drive out of town!
Need a break from the cold? Head to the cluster of hotels and restaurants that make up the heart of Kittilä and sample a glass of Finnish lakka, an alcoholic drink made from locally sourced cloudberry, or warm up in a sauna, a staple of the country’s culture.
Stay:
Hotel Levi Panorama - For the best views of the surrounding landscapes, book a room at this mountainside hotel. As always, the ski in/ski out access comes at a cost but if it’s in your budget, then why not go for it!
Hullu Poro Levi - Located a stone’s throw away from the town center and complete with a sauna, gym, and multiple restaurants, Hullu Poro offers comfortable accommodations at a fraction of the price.
Play:
Chase the Northern Lights - Rent a car from the Kittilä airport, track the forecast, and go hunt this spectacle on your own! It will be an adventure that you’ll remember for the rest of your life and you may even get lucky enough to bump into a herd of reindeer along the side of the road!
Ski Levi - You don’t have to travel far from the airport to reach the resort (15min, to be exact) and once there, don’t be shocked to have the slopes all to yourself as you ski in and out of the Lapland forrest!
Getting There:
Driving from Helsinki will take 11+ hours, so it’s best to fly into Kittilä. Regularly scheduled shuttle buses are widely available to transport visitors the short distance town.
3. INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA
Tyrol’s Capital City
I’ve had the privilege of visiting Innsbruck on multiple occasions, but my fondest memory is exploring this Austrian city during Christmas.
There’s just something so majestic about sipping on a glass of mulled wine under the evening glow of the snowcapped peaks.
This is also the perfect winter destination if you’re not excited by the thought of endless amounts of snow sports.
Instead, shop along the famed Maria Theresien Strasse, climb to the top of the Innsbruck City Tower for panoramic views, or get your wintry fix by riding to the top of the Nordkette, commonly known as the “Jewel of the Alps,” and sip on a cappuccino as you soak up the sunshine high above the city.
During the holiday season, the old town transforms into an inviting Christmas Market, complete with evening brass instrument performances of classic carols from the surrounding rooftops. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
For a list of things to do in Innsbruck, check out this post:
Stay:
Best Western Plus Goldener Adler - If you’re set on staying in the old town, this Best Western Plus is as central as it gets and is located in one of the oldest buildings in all of Innsbruck.
Barenwirth Hotel - For a more relaxing and peaceful experience, be sure to check out the Barenwirth Hotel which is located in the nearby village of Patsch. The area is full of walking paths amongst the surrounding peaks and regularly scheduled buses make it easy to reach the city center.
Play:
Explore the Bergisel Ski Jump - Situated high above the city as a reminder of their olympic hosting days (1964 and 1976), the Bergisel Ski Jump is still in use for competitions today. Visitors can ride to the top, look down, and imagine what it might be like to jump towards the city below. Quite a unique perspective!
Ride the Hungerburg Funicular - Departing straight from the city center, the funicular takes riders to a viewing platform above the city and, if looking for more altitude, is the first mode of transportation on the way up to the Hafelekar Peak.
Getting There:
Fly into Innsbruck’s Kranebitten Airport or arrive via train. If you have a short stopover here, luggage storage is available at most major transportation hubs and is a convenient way to drop your bags and explore the city.
Innsbruck, Austria
4. BETHEL, MAINE (U.S.A.)
Quaint New England Town
Settled in 1774, this charming New England town is often overshadowed by the likes of Killington and Stowe over in Vermont, but it serves as a great place for a winter getaway!
At first glance, it may seem like a sleepy village, but dig a little deeper and I guarantee you’ll find much more.
The town itself is located a mere 10 minutes from the Sunday River ski resort where visitors can enjoy some of the Main’s best terrain. The area also offers a plethora of other activities including dog sledding, tubing, nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and more!
After a long day on the slopes, be sure to stop by Sunday River Brewing on the way down from the mountain and sample a flight of their locally made beers.
Stay:
Bethel Inn - Opening its doors in 1913, visitors can certainly feel the history that radiates all around this building. Complete with snowshoeing trails in the winter, it’s conveniently located a stone’s throw away from the town’s main road, Broad Street. Be on the lookout for the elusive female spirit that is said to wander the hallways!
The Chapman Inn - I’m listing this hotel for all of the paranormal enthusiasts out there. The Chapman Inn consistently appears on a list of the most haunted hotels in Maine, many visitors reporting sightings of a female spirit and a black as well as hearing voices throughout the night.
Play:
Sunday River Ski Resort - With skiing, tubing, sledding, and more, Sunday River is home to a seemingly endless amount of winter activities for all ages!
Getting There:
Only a short drive from both Manchester, NH (2.5 hrs) and Boston, MA (3 hrs), it’s relatively simple to get in and out of this wintry destination, so there’s no reason to not check it out!
5. WENGEN, SWITZERLAND
The Best of the Swiss Alps
Wengen is the epitome of living in a snow globe if ever there was one. Accessible only by train and hiking trails, this Swiss Alpine Village is known for its car-less streets, chalets, and spectacular views of the surrounding Alps.
It’s certainly not the cheapest destination on this list, but you can bet that you’ll be treated to some incredible skiing, good food, and an all-around memorable winter experience.
Be sure to take a ride up to Europe’s highest train station, the Jungfraujoch, or plan your trip around the Wengen World Cup, arguably the greatest spectacle on the professional ski racing circuit. With a beer in hand, watch as skiers risk it all for a shot at glory in the shadows of the mighty Monach Peak.
Don’t forget about the parties back in town once the final racer has crossed the finish line!
Need a break from Wengen? Head back down the mountainside and explore the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, two of Switzerland’s most picturesque villages.
Stay:
Hotel Regina - A four-star boutique experience, this quaint Victorian hotel is located near the train station and offers visitors all of the comforts that they could ever desire, including a spa, wine bar, and more. It’s worth the splurge!
Hotel Bernerhof - Need something a bit cheaper? The Hotel Bernerhof is likely the best bang for your buck.
Play:
Visit the Jungfraujoch - Take a walk through the ice palace, stand in awe at the Sphinx Observation Deck, or hit a golf ball off of Europe’s highest train station! Follow the link for everything you need to know.
Snow Fun Park - If skiing isn’t your thing, that’s ok! Head up to the Snow Fun Park for a tubing or sledding experience you won’t soon forget!
Getting There:
Arriving via train is the best way, but if traveling by car then park at the garage in Lauterbrunnen and hop on the rails from there.
Wengen, Switzerland
6. SAALFELDEN, AUSTRIA
Austria’s Epicenter of Winter Sports
Compared to other places in Austria and nearby Switzerland, Saalfelden may be considered by some as “off the beaten path,” but it’s certainly not a place you’ll want to overlook.
Located just an hour away from Salzburg, this area dates back to neolithic times and is an epicenter for winter sports.
Test your skills on the rodelbahn track as you race down the mountain using nothing but a wooden toboggan (helmet and goggles recommended, but not required), cross country ski along the walking paths turned trails or hit the alpine slopes.
Skiing is Austria’s most popular sport which means there will be plenty of options around, but I’d recommend Hinterreit for a more local experience.
No gondolas, no chairlifts, no lines. Simply a snow-covered farm with a couple of t-bars, cows in the stables, and an inviting family-friendly atmosphere.
Once sufficiently tired from a day of fun, be sure to head to the Bauernhof Brandstatthof Apartments at the top of the road for a well deserved afternoon schnitzel.
Stay:
Sport Chalet Maria Alm - Apartment accommodation with a full kitchen located in the neighboring town of Maria Alm. Complete with a sauna, gym and friendly staff.
Play:
Ski at Hinterreit - A family run area that’s friendly for all levels. You’ll find no gondolas or chairlifts here, only a great and casual skiing experience!
Rodel in neighboring Leogang - Buckle up for a wild ride… and maybe take a shot or two of schnapps to calm the inner voice that’s telling you to turn around and walk back down!
Getting There:
Salzburg is the closest airport, however Saalfelden is easily accessible via train from cities such as Innsbruck, Munich, and Zurich.
Rodeling in Saalfelden, Austria
Have you been to any of these destinations before? Do you have memorable winter trips of your own? Let me know in the comments below!
Until next time, stay safe & happy travels.
Here’s how I stay warm during my winter travels!
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Top 30 Experiences from a Semester at Sea: Here's what a 110 day trip around the world is like
It has now been nine years since I stepped off of North American land, onto a ship, and straight into the unknown. To be honest, it still feels like yesterday and I think part of me is still processing the experience all these years later. I never imagined that an introvert such as myself would thrive in an environment like that, circumnavigating the globe for 110 days with complete strangers. As it turned out, it was truly the journey of a lifetime...
I’m not the most outgoing person in the world. If you find me in a social setting, I’ll be the person that happily sits there silently until spoken to. With that said, there are a few things that, if you get me going, I won’t be able to shut-up about: soccer, travel, and Semester at Sea.
Consider yourself warned!
This week marks nine years since embarking on my semester abroad.
Wait, what?
That’s right; NINE YEARS since I stepped off North American soil, onto a ship, and straight into the unknown.
To be honest, it still feels like yesterday. I think part of me is still processing the experience all these years later. I never imagined that an introvert such as myself would thrive in an environment full of strangers, all the while circumnavigating the globe.
As it turned out, it was truly the journey of a lifetime.
To celebrate the anniversary of the Fall 2010 Voyage, here are the top 30 experiences from my Semester at Sea!
ITINERARY
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Cádiz, Spain
Casablanca, Morocco
Takoradi, Ghana
Cape Town, South Africa
Port Louis, Mauritius
Chennai, India
Singapore
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Hong Kong
Shanghai, China
Kobe, Japan
Yokohama, Japan
Honolulu, Hawaii
Hilo, Hawaii
San Diego, California
SPAIN
1. Bull Fighting in Seville
Fresh off of a turbulent seven days at sea and ready to immerse ourselves in a different culture, we found our way over to the Plaza de Toros de la Real Masetranza de Caballería de Sevilla (talk about a mouthful). Little did we know there was a bullfight scheduled for that evening!
Did I stay past the first event? No, I did not. I opted for gelato over watching bulls die a slow death. Was I glad that I went to get the experience? Absolutely.
A bull chasing a matador in Sevilla, Spain
MOROCCO
2. The Train That Broke Down
The ship docked in Casablanca, but a group of us decided that we wanted to make our way to the Djemaa el-Fnaa market in Marrakech to get our first taste of bartering.
Halfway through the 2.5-hour ride, the train stopped. Stranded on the rails with nothing in sight, we passed the time by attempting to communicate with the locals in our compartment through charades, broken French, and awful drawings.
Miriam and Abdul have likely forgotten about the time they shared a seat with the crazy college students from America, but I still vividly remember the laughter that filled that day.
My roommate and I with Miriam on the broken-down train
3. Djemma el-Fnaa market at the end of Ramadaan
On a normal evening the market is buzzing with vendors and snake charmers. Clouds of smoke fill the sky with beautiful aromas from the food carts as music blares from all around.
Our trip coincided with the end of Ramadaan. I’ll always remember meeting a couple from the UK on the hotel shuttle en route to the market, a look of concern on their faces as we told them it was our first time in a place like this.
We stepped out of the van and stood on the sidewalk like a herd of deer staring directly into oncoming headlights. “It’ll be fine,” they said as we watched our new friends disappear into the chaos.
4. Haggling in the markets of Marrakech
This was my first experience of bartering and to put it bluntly, I was terrible. With that being said, learning how to negotiate a price, the acting skills needed to portray disinterest, and the guts to walk away from something I actually wanted - it was all thrilling.
GHANA
5. The Broken Down Van
The moment we stepped off of the ship, a group of us piled into a rickety van and drove 8 hours north to the village of Senase.
As the smooth pavement gave way to potholes beneath our wheels, the homes along the road vanished. All of a sudden the van came to a slow halt, moving only as far as gravity would take it.
The only thing in sight was a narrow path that led to a church. The driver caught a cab back to the closet village and we decided to wander the path while we waited.
The family that lived on the premises didn’t speak any English and we certainly didn’t speak their local dialect, but someone spotted a soccer ball in our periphery and that was enough to break any invisible barriers that lay between us.
6. Drumming & Dance Ceremony
As we prepared to depart Senase, the village had prepared a traditional drumming and dance performance.
The sounds of the beating drums, the vibrant colors, and the dazzling movements were enough to overload my senses. We were informed that it was our turn to dance for the village.
One minute I was sitting in a chair and the next I was making an utter fool of myself in front of hundreds of strangers. To tell you the truth, I loved every second of it!
Traditional drumming and dance in Senase, Ghana
7. Getting Soaked in the Back of a Truck
We whipped down the dirt roads of Ghana as I tried to take it all in with my eyes half-shut, shielding myself from the pounding rain while dodging overgrown tree branches along the way.
It was a rush of pure joy and remains one of my favorite parts about returning to Ghana.
SOUTH AFRICA
8. Climbing Table Mountain
I have an affinity for birds-eye views, so the second that we docked in Cape Town and saw Table Mountain rising high above the city skyline, I knew I needed to climb it.
We ended up hiking farther than required, but once we reached the summit no one cared. The sweeping views across the cape were worth it.
9. Visiting Robben Island
A humbling, sober, and powerful experience, to say the least.
10. Lion’s Head Peak at Sunset
Lion’s Head remains one my favorite hikes in the world.
Sure, the views from Table Mountain were spectacular as well, but reaching the peak as the sun dipped below the horizon capped off my South African explorations in the best possible way.
View from the top of Lion’s Head Peak in Cape Town, South Africa
MAURITIUS
11. Stranded in Grand Baie
One taxi driver, a major miscommunication, and hours of driving later, a friend and I found ourselves stranded in Grand Baie with no money left to make it to the ship in Port Louis. There was only one thing to do: take a swim in the Indian Ocean and enjoy the sunset! We made it back, eventually.
INDIA
12. Ganges River at Sunrise
I felt compelled to take a trip here the second I read about the field excursion planned through Semester at Sea. Why? I’m not entirely sure.
As our boat gently glided across the calm waters of the Ganges at sunrise and watched the local people cleanse their bodies along the banks, it all made sense. Serene is the only way to describe it.
Early morning scenes at the Ganges River in Varanasi, India
13. Driving a Rickshaw in Varanasi
My friend and I jokingly asked our driver if we could take a turn. Without missing a beat, he scooted to his right and made room for me in the front seat. It was the ultimate driving test: could I avoid the densely packed streets and roaming cows? Barely.
14. Taj Mahal
Usually I’ll try to avoid the tourist trail, but this was one experience I couldn’t pass up. I found a spot in the lush grass and simply sat and stared for what felt like hours. I’ll never forget that view.
The Taj Mahal in Agra, India
SINGAPORE
15. Playing with Monkeys
During a nature walk through the city’s forest we happened to stumble upon a family of monkeys waiting to steal food from unsuspecting tourists. The term “playing” is used loosely here, but nonetheless it was fun to watch these bandits carry out their business.
VIENTAM
16. Tourist-napped in Saigon
No, we weren’t actually kidnapped although it certainly felt like it at the time.
We knew that we could hire a boat that would take us along the Mekong Delta if we could reach the town of My Tho . What we didn’t know was that the taxi driver we hired from Ho Chi Minh City worked with a tour company and would take us straight to a boat dock, accompanying us the entire day.
We begrudgingly went along with the tour, plotting our “escape” as we went. In the end, we paid the guide to drive himself back to Ho Chi Minh City and continued wandering My Tho in search of our own adventure on the Mekong Delta.
It was worth it!
Cruising the Mekong Delta in My Tho, Vietnam
17. Playing Frogger in Ho Chi Minh City
It’s common to be taken aback by the sheer amount of motorbikes on the road in all of Vietnam, but especially in a city as densely packed as Ho Chi Minh.
The moment we thought we had mastered the art of crossing the road without hesitation, we learned of another version of the game: car vs. car.
As we rode in a cab through a torrential downpour, we couldn’t figure out what the tiny white lights in front of us were. It was only when our driver took a hard left that we realized we had taken an exit ramp onto the highway and had been heading into oncoming traffic.
In all likelihood, it wasn’t as exciting as this story sounds, but with the rain clouding our vision, it sure got the adrenaline pumping!
18. Hy Vong 8 School for the Deaf in Ho Chi Minh City
Semester at Sea did a phenomenal job of organizing service trips in nearly every port that we visited.
This was the first one I was able to squeeze my way into and I enjoyed it so much that I ended up visiting the school twice. We watched the students dance, chaperoned a field trip to the local zoo, and laughed so hard our stomachs hurt as we tried to learn sign language.
CHINA
19. Overnight buses
I stepped onto the overnight bus in Shenzen only to find that my ticket didn’t correspond with a seat, but rather a bottom bunk that came complete with a pillow and comforter.
Amazing.
Later on, when it was time for another overnight trip, I didn’t think twice. Another night spent falling asleep in a comfy bed while watching a movie in Mandarin, creating the plot in my own head? No problem!
Except for this time, my ticket led me to the back of the bus, into the middle row, and onto the top bunk.
I’m not sure if it was the sticky mat that served as my bed or the fear of being flung over the metal railings that were far too small to provide any sort of protection, but I didn’t catch a wink of sleep that night and I loved every second of it.
20. Cruising the Li River in Yangshuo
The Li River was one of the most picturesque landscapes that I have had the privilege of experiencing.
Surrounded by limestone cliffs that rose majestically towards the sky, we gently floated along with the current.
As beautiful as the mountains were, I’ll never forget the group of Asian tourists that passed us by and, in the process, gleefully sprayed our bamboo raft with water guns. Why? Your guess is as good as mine!
Floating along the Li River outside of Yangshuo, China
21. Entering Zizhou Park
The overnight bus had dropped us in Guilin at 5 am, so we decided to go wander Zizhou Park before finding breakfast.
As we reached the gates and realized it was closed, a woman appeared and offered to have her husband take us into the park via his raft. With nowhere else to go, we agreed.
Before we knew it, the three of us were on floating down the Lijiang River under the cover of darkness, accompanied only by a Chinese man puffing a cigarette and a dimly lit lantern that illuminated the way.
The park itself was beautiful, but entering before the sun rose above the horizon was the true adventure.
The man and boat that brought us into the park before dawn
22. Eating Our Way Through the Streets
Dumpling, dumplings, and more dumplings. Maybe this is the reason why I constantly find myself seeking out the best jiaozi (Chinese dumplings) wherever I go!
JAPAN
23. Sleepless in Tokyo
We took the train from Yokohama with one thing in mind: visiting the famous Tsukiji Fish Market and arriving early enough to watch the giant tuna auctions unfold.
In order to save money, we decided to migrate between 24-hour restaurants throughout the night. As the clock turned to 3 am, we headed to the market only to find a sign that read: “Today is a regular holiday.”
In the moment we were flabbergasted, feeling completely exhausted and disheveled, but that night is now one of my favorite memories.
I’ve been to Tokyo on one other occasion and again, the fish market was closed. What are the odds of that?
24. Feeding the Deer in Nara
Deer are considered sacred to the Shinto religion and, as a result, roam freely around the streets of Nara.
As with any other species that has had extensive contact with humans, it’s not uncommon for the deer to approach people in search of food (which is conveniently sold throughout the parks).
The result? Endless amounts of fun.
25. Yokohama F. Marinos Soccer Game
Japan is well-known for it’s rambunctious baseball games, but while most of our fellow sport-fanatic shipmates headed to the Tokyo Dome, we opted to attend a soccer match in Yokohama. The pageantry from the fans did not disappoint!
Fans of Yokohama F. Marinos passionately cheer their team on
LIFE AT SEA
26. Stargazing on the Observation Deck
Periodically throughout the voyage, the Semester at Sea staff onboard the ship would organize an evening of stargazing. As the Captain temporarily shut off the outdoor lighting, the sky was immediately illuminated with millions of stars.
27. Sunsets at Sea
It didn’t matter what the weather was; overcast, stormy, or even as sunny as could be. Each and every sunset was amazing.
Sunset in the middle of the Pacific Ocean
28. Crossing 0° Latitude and 0° Longitude at the Same Time
During our passage from Ghana to South Africa, the Captain veered in order to bisect the prime meridian and equator at the same time.
As the shipboard community gathered on the deck, we knew that as the ship’s horns bellowed across the open ocean, for a split second, we were indeed at the center of the world.
29. Early Morning Port Arrivals
Nothing quite brought the shipboard community together like standing outside on the deck at 5 am, huddling together for warmth as we all stared at the twinkling lights on the horizon.
It quickly became my favorite pastime throughout the voyage, each time eliciting a feeling of excitement and anticipation of what was to come.
Arriving in Cape Town, South Africa at dawn
30. Work Study
One of the many benefits of Semester at Sea was the vulnerability it took to build a brand new community within the confines of the ship. Between classes, roommates, clubs, and volunteering, there were plenty of opportunities to do so. I was fortunate enough to receive a work-study scholarship and had a blast helping out in the field office!
BONUS
31. Embarkation
The mixed emotions I felt - anticipation, nervousness, disbelief, excitement - as we departed Halifax and the last remaining visible piece of land disappeared below the horizon is what hooked me to travel.
It’s a feeling that I still chase to this day.
32. Diverse Faculty and Staff
Part of the allure to go on the Fall 2010 voyage was the opportunity to live alongside Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his wife, Leah.
Needless to say, the entire 110-day journey was filled with “pinch me” moments as the Archbishop went about his business, casually fist-bumping students and spreading joy as he sauntered the halls.
I often contemplate what defines me as a person; what words or phrases might come to mind when someone mentions “Chris Toone.”
I’m confident that Semester at Sea is one of them. It not only opened my eyes and shattered my views of the world, but challenged me on a personal level in ways that I never could have imagined.
For that, I am eternally grateful.
Thanks for reading and as always, stay safe & happy travels!
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