When I first was posed this question, my mind went blank. At first I really couldn’t think of any places I’d go again, if given the chance.
I have a feeling many of you understand–it’s difficult to really go back somewhere when you have so many new places to see. For me, there are just not enough hours in the day to see every place I would like to see.
That being said, there are some places that I’ve always wanted to go again. Once I started thinking about it, of course, I suddenly wanted to go back to almost every place I’ve been–even the ones I don’t really care to visit again probably deserve another chance. Anyway, I narrowed it down! I’ve picked five countries (and one bonus, because I’m just that indecisive) that I hope to revisit one day. Some of these countries I only visited for a short time and would love to see more, while others have stuck with me, no matter where else I have gone since.
I was only able to visit Cozumel, a tiny corner of Mexico. I was certainly given a fantastic introduction during our week on the island last winter, but there is so much left for me to see. I feel like it’s a shame that I lived in the country that borders Mexico for most of my life, and have only been to one tiny island. I hope to go there for a swim-up bar (because who doesn’t want to experience that once in their life?) but also to discover more of the true Mexican culture. San Miguel de Allende, in particular, is high on my list.
When we visited Scotland last summer, E had talked it up so much (he visited a long time ago and fell in love) that I was almost worried I would hate it. But, he was right–I completely fell for Scotland, too. We were there less than a week, though, so it’s definitely one of the rare places I would choose to visit over many unknown ones. My dream is to rent a car and spend weeks driving through the Highlands and taking in the views and stopping wherever I please. Of course, I would return to one of my favorite cities, too: Edinburgh!
I can’t say my experience in China was easy. I was there to complete my internship, which involved (ideally) bringing mental health care to earthquake survivors. The politics and culture was extremely difficult, and as a result, I couldn’t wait to take a break from China at the end of two months. However, the country is so huge and there are so many unique, beautiful pockets. Even in the Sichuan province, where I spent most of my time, there are so many things I would love to go back and see. The people from the organization we worked with, too, were always so welcoming and fun, and I still miss them! China was difficult for me, but it pushed me out of my comfort zone like no other place.
Iceland felt like a whole new world to me. The landscape almost looks like it belongs on a different planet. I was there under 24 hours–if that doesn’t tell you how captivating that country is, I don’t know what else will! We took a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula, followed by a couple of hours in the incomparable Blue Lagoon (talk about otherworldly) and I loved every second. I need to go back to explore more, and maybe even see the Northern Lights if I’m lucky!
Thailand is one of those places where I spent a month and traveled most of the time, but there are still so many places I didn’t get to see. In addition, I would love to take E back to Chiang Mai see the Loi Krathong festival (which I plan to write about next week, so come back!). I feel like I had a great introduction to Thailand, and now I would love to go back and delve even deeper. One place that was neglected on my trip was the coast–we were on Koh Tao and a few unnamed islands, but we never made it to Phuket! I think it’s time to go back for some island-hopping, too.
BONUS:
I will always dream about returning to Ireland. The incredible landscape, the green, rolling hills, punctuated with ruins that are just there. The place simply breathes magic and someday I will spend an extended amount of time on the Irish coast.
Are there any places you would like to re-visit?
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**I was asked to participate in the Booked.net – Top Destinations to Go There competition. I nominate Camila, Bonnie, Melanie, Natalye and Cynthia to share five places they’d love to see again. Looking forward to seeing which places you choose if you decide to join!
Linking up with Travel Tuesday!