Bucket List Adventures: 5 Must-See Travel Destinations

I have so much Wanderlust that it is crazy. My heart is constantly drawn to travel and need to experience the wonder and culture of new lands full of exotic foods, smells and sights. I’m hoping 2017 will bring tons of adventure (starting by jetting off to NYFW isn’t bad huh?) and will bring me to all my bucket list destination – yet another ‘trip of a lifetime’.

These five spots are at the top of my bucket list adventures for very obvious reasons. From bikinis to hiking shoes, my bags are basically already packed…To be honest, I haven’t even unpacked…  This year, I am going to be taking you with me on Instagram @HelloWhitneyXO with the hashtag #HWTravel so be sure to follow along, and get some tips for a journey of your own.  Come on y’all, let’s take a trip around the world together!

Let’s start our bucket list adventures here, shall we? This destination is right at the top of my bucket list for summer. St. Thomas is a U.S. Virgin Island, and though it is only 32 square miles long, it is packed full of beautiful and unspoiled beaches. There are so many things to do in St. Thomas – chill on the beach, explore colonial churches, sail in the crystal blue seas, indulge at one of the many spas in St Thomas hotels, yep, shop the local markets. It seems like an absolute PARADISE! I can already see the endless Instagram worthy moments…

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

Where to eat: Oceana, Restaurant & Wine Bar

Where to wander:The best beach in St Thomas: Lindquist Beach

When you hear about traveling to Europe it seems like the only places people really want to go to are Paris, London, Ireland etc…but one of the hidden gems is Hamburg, Germany. It is actually one of the best places to travel in March and April because plane tickets and hotel prices are extremely reasonable. A perfect mix of bustling city center and ancient roots make this travel destination perfect for visitors with a mix of priorities. You can take a walk along the Elbe river, or even canoe in it if you’re feeling adventurous. This is definitely an interesting European getaway for all of your loved ones regardless of age.

Where to stay: The Hotel Atlantic Kempinski Hamburg

Where to eat: Haerlin Restaurant

Where to wander: Along the river Elbe

Not just for bachelorette parties or night life anymore!! Miami has become a food lovers paradise and is quickly garnering more of my attention because of its amazing and –free– excursions. Besides lounging poolside at a modern hotel, you can take a walk to the Wynwood walls and see some incredible graffiti artistry (another Insta moment). But let’s be honest…you can’t beat the beaches and culture of Miami for a fun weekend getaway! I really do think it is one of the coolest places on earth and should be added to everyones bucket list adventures!

Where to stay: The Nautilus South Beach

Where to eat: There are just too many to choose..so check out the Zagat guide!

Where to wander: Wynwood Walls

Lake Lucerne is the ultimate departure from all your day to day stresses. Nestled in the mountains of Switzerland, this small town has all the comforts of home while offering a less touristy version of the country. The crystal clear blue waters and crisp weather make it the perfect getaway, and a one of the best off the beaten path travel destinations. Rent bikes, go paragliding, or just stroll through the enchanting downtown for an amazing vacation!

Where to stay: Grand Hotel National Luzerne

Where to eat: Grottino 13

Where to wander: A day trip to the Swiss Alps!

This destination is really a must see for all Americans. At Yosemite you can see some of the coolest things in the world, right in America! Originally, I thought it would be a rough and tough place for the more adventurous travelers, but it turns out there are many upscale accommodations in Yosemite! Spot a grizzly or just relax in a heated pool. Yosemite has so many activities for all different ages that it really is the perfect family getaway. Not to mention you can totally use the “I don’t have any cell service” excuse while you’re there! *book flight now*

Where to stay: The Westin Lodge Mammoth

Where to eat: The Yosemite Dining Room

Where to wander: Yosemite National Park! duh

I’ve already done the research and planning, so hopefully I can tick a few places off this list soon! From beach weekends to European adventures, my travel bucket list is full of places that are destinations of a lifetime. I hope my bucket list adventures have inspired you to bite the bullet and buy the ticket…and most of all that it has given you a little wanderlust of your own. See you in my comments or on Instagram @HelloWhitneyXO , and until then…