travel europe in your 30s

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Where to Travel in Europe in Your 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s

See recent posts by Lilly LeClair

With so many different countries (44 to be exact) and cultures, Europe is likely to be a lifelong source of wanderlust for many travelers. So where should you travel and when? Any of the continent's destinations are a draw at any age, but to help you narrow things down -- and get your travel juices flowing -- we decided to focus on three places that suit specific stages of life. Keep in mind that the best times to visit are in May, June, and September (with the exception of Iceland for the Northern Lights), when prices are reasonable, weather is pleasant, and crowds are fewer than peak summer months. Check out our list for where to travel in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s below, then start checking off your bucket list.

Your 20s: Amsterdam, Berlin, Krakow

London is often the first point of entry for travelers headed to Europe, but cheap it is not. That being said, it might be better to wait until one has a little more money in the bank before visiting. It’s a place that not only boasts a global dining scene and interesting historical landmarks, but also where partying with fellow backpackers ends in chic boutique hotels (versus hostels). Many of London’s world-class museums are gloriously free, so you can pop in for an hour or two. Your 30s are the perfect age to take advantage of hip, gentrifying neighborhoods like Walthamstow, Shoreditch, and Peckham as well as classics like Marylebone, Mayfair, and Kensington. This is, arguably, the best decade to fully appreciate all that sprawling London has to offer. 

A popular European train route is the ride from London to Paris via Eurostar. The City of Light is another expensive destination that’s better enjoyed with a bit of cash flow. A city for romantics, art enthusiasts, foodies, and more, Paris is a place where one can experience long-standing traditions in France, like lingering at a cafe and hitting up traditional French bistros and boulangeries. Folks can also explore — perhaps by Velib bike — the many trendy shops, bars, and restaurants, like Hotel Costes.

The TGV train speeds from Paris to Barcelona in under seven hours. A bit more affordable than the two aforementioned cities, Barcelona is packed with stunning Gothic architecture, art and culture, superb restaurants (and a killer late-night dining scene), and hip bars and clubs. There are also plenty of seriously cool family-owned boutique hotels throughout the Gothic Quarter, Sarria-Sant Gervasi, Eixample, El Poble-sec, and Tres Torres neighborhoods — many of which have rooftop bars and/or pools overlooking the city and gorgeous Catalan landscape. 

Pricing for Hotel Brummell

Your 40s: Vienna, Split, Corfu

By this time in your life, you’ve knocked out the major European capitals, but may have skipped over Austria’s home to Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, and Freud. Vienna is an elegant city, exuding a special grace with all of its lovely Rococo (or late Baroque) architectural character. Simply wander the spacious streets, stop into museums and palaces, and take long, leisurely breaks in Vienna’s great cafe landmarks (3 p.m. is the usual time for the daily coffee-and-pastry ritual) before getting ready for a production at the Vienna State Opera. 

Take a quick flight south to Split , which lies along the Croatian coast, and acts as the gateway to many nearby islands. But the Old City here is even older than Dubrovnik ’s (another walled city) and in many ways, just as impressive without as many tourists and cruise ship passengers. Split’s downtown is the only one that’s actually carved from the remains of an ancient Roman palace. (Emperor Diocletian built the extravagant palace to live out his days as the head of the Roman empire’s eastern half.) Not only that, but prices here tend to be cheaper than those in Dubrovnik as well. Split’s unique setting and dramatic mountains act as a beautiful backdrop to the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. Visitors can head inland to Klis, a town located around a mountain fortress. “Game of Thrones” fans will recognize this setting from Season 4.  

From here, head further south to the Greek Islands. Corfu , the northernmost of the Ionian islands, is a charming blend of Venetian, British, and French colonial influences, along with a vast landscape of pastel villages, woody mountains, rolling olive groves (resembling Tuscany), and better beaches than other nearby islands. Younger types will want to stay south, but 40-somethings will want to stay on the island’s resort-studded northeast coast, (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea), which offers sophisticated cocktail and dining options plus museums and culture that comes from a long line of intellectual and artistic roots. 

Pricing for Restia Suites Exclusive Resort

Your 50s: Akuyeri, Copenhagen, Puglia

By this decade, you are likely to feel well-traveled and are looking to cross some important experiences off the lifelong to-do list. Timing is everything and your 50s is an ideal age to visit the scarcely populated island country of Iceland . Akureyri, the country’s second largest metropolis, will provide a fun base for taking in the spectacular Northern Lights (also called Aurora Borealis), which can be seen from September through April on clear and crisp nights. 

From here, take a flight to Copenhagen , the Danish capital festooned with bright colorful architecture and cobblestone streets. This is one of the famously cool and expensive Scandinavian cities. Quality on a whole tends to be quite high, so the higher prices feel somewhat valid. Save up and splurge on one of the city’s best restaurants. Noma, Rene Redzepi’s restaurant that opened in 2003 and was once voted best in the world, was the birthplace of the modern Scandinavian movement (foraging for ingredients) that’s now found all over the globe. Redzepi closed Noma at the end of 2016 and will re-open as an urban farm, but visitors can still book a table at Geranium, the first Danish restaurant to earn three Michelin stars.

End this epic trip by flying into Rome and renting a car. Instead of heading southwest towards the Amalfi Coast with its touristy vibe, head southeast to lesser-known and approachable Puglia , located in the heel of Italy’s famous boot. Here, you’ll find prehistoric trulli (or stone huts), which are whitewashed houses with cone-shaped roofs. Dine on earthy Italian cuisine, visit nature reserves, wineries, caves, and relaxed villages known for Greek and Turkish history, and take in the gorgeous vistas overlooking the Mediterranean and Adriatic coasts.  

Pricing for Hotel d'Angleterre

Your 60s: Portugal, Switzerland, Prague

What’s that saying — 60s are the new 40s? Perhaps you’re thinking about retirement or slowing down the career, so that you can pick up on the adventure. Start the trip by flying into Lisbon , the capital of Portugal. In addition to its pastel houses, mix of architectural styles, ancient ruins, black-and-white mosaic cobblestone streets, cathedrals, and fountains, the city is also known for seven hills overlooking views of Rio Tejo, as well as the Palace of Pena with 500 species of trees. Afternoon bicas (espresso stops) turn into pitchers of sangria, and with cheap booze and lackadaisical laws (no open-container laws), Lisbon has a laid-back and young vibe. Partake in the fun for a night before heading north to Porto , a hilly coastal city known for miradouros (or lookouts) and Port wine production. There are even plenty of places to enjoy the signature drink. The Beaux-Arts train station is a great stepping stone to Porto’s charming historic and medieval riverside district (Ribeira), which is home to rabelo boats (cargo ships), bridges, narrow cobbled streets, hilly overlooks, and baroque churches and palaces. Save the last night for dinner at Cantinho do Avillez, a chic restaurant from one of Portugal’s top chefs, Jose Avillez.

Fly into Zurich and take advantage of Switzerland’s excellent train systems. This is a way to experience and photograph some of the most spectacular scenery in the Swiss Alps without worrying about the white-knuckle drive. There are two picturesque railways called the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express, and tour companies offer excellent itineraries, like the 10-day route that starts in Zurich and heads to the jagged peaks of the Matterhorn from the base of Zermatt. There’s only one way in and out of this charming car-less alpine town (the train), which is a prime spot to enjoy skiing, hiking, and gondola rides through beautiful mountain landscapes. The journey continues to St. Moritz and further south, crossing the alps and into the Italy to end the trip at Lake Como before flying out of Milan. 

Fly from Milan to Prague , Czech Republic’s capital and City of 100 Spires. Prague is known for its Gothic-style architecture, including the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn, Prague Castle, and the Charles Bridge that was built between the 14th the 15th centuries with 30 statues. Tip: head to the latter at sunrise before the crowds hit. Culture and history lovers will enjoy exploring the Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock, the oldest working clock of its kind in the world. While there, pop into a pub for a local beer and Czech classics like beef tartare, garlic soup, and chicken schnitzel. Take the funicular railway to the summit of Prague’s picturesque park that boasts stunning views across the city from the observation deck. Folks can also walk through neighborhoods like Mala Strana (also known as Lesser Town) as well as other hip — and far less touristy — neighborhoods boasting cosmopolitan cafes and cutting-edge art galleries.

Hotel Pick: 

Pricing for Golden Well Hotel

Your 70s: Edinburgh, Lisse, Rhine Gorge

Truth be told, Paris is one of those places that makes for a great vacation at every age. Start your European adventure with a night or two at Hotel Plaza Athenee , then hire a private car to transport you to Reims , a city in northeastern France’s Champagne-Ardenne region. The city boasts stunning Gothic architecture, like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims, where French kings (two dozen of them) were crowned for more than 1,000 years. Also, look for Porte Mars, an ancient Roman arch that dates back to the third century AD. From Reims, take a day trip to Epernay, where you can visit the best Champagne houses, many of which offer tastings and cellar tours. Check out the Taittinger headquarters — some of cellars here occupy fourth-century Roman stone quarries. And while in Reims, stay (or at least visit) the unbelievably elegant Les Crayeres .

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train uses original carriages from the 1920s and 1930s and runs to major destinations in Europe, including London, Venice, Paris, Istanbul, and more. Enjoy a few days in Istanbul , which is home to wonderful sights like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. If you have extra time to spare, take the Orient Express route from Istanbul to Venice, which travels through Bucharest, Budapest, and Venice. The ride offers excellent service and cuisine, including breakfast served in the luxury cabins, three-course lunches, and four-course dinners. 

Once in Venice , drive down to Tuscany . Rent a villa with an outdoor pool during the summer months and invite the whole family. Cortona is one of the oldest hill towns in Tuscany and is featured in Frances Mayes book “Under the Tuscan Sun.” Its medieval streets are pleasant to wander and you’ll be rewarded with wonderful views of the countryside along the town walls.

Pricing for Castello Banfi - Il Borgo

NOW WATCH: 11 Things You Need to Do in Europe Before You Die

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HyiNSLbSq0

Update (January 10, 2017): We had originally planned to publish a separate story on where to travel in later decades, but after feedback decided it would be best to expand the original piece.

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30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Home » 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Welcome to your 30s, a decade that promises adventure, self-discovery, and unforgettable travel experiences. As you step into this new chapter of life, the world becomes your playground, and there’s no better way to embrace it than by exploring these 30 trips to take in your 30s. 

From ancient wonders to tropical paradises, from thrilling adventures to serene spiritual sojourns, each continent has something unique to offer. So, pack your bags, set your wanderlust free, and get ready to embark on Framey’s journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of the world. Your 30s are your time to shine, and these top 30 destinations will make this decade one to remember.

Table of Contents

A. South & Western Europe: History, Culture, and Mediterranean Splendor

• Paris, France: Wander the romantic streets and indulge in world-class art and cuisine.
• Barcelona, Spain: Experience the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of Gaudi.
• Florence, Italy: Renaissance art and marvelous architecture.

1. Paris: The City of Love and Lights – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre

Paris, the capital of romance, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking love and enchantment. The Eiffel Tower stands tall as a symbol of the city’s charm, inviting you to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Seine River. Louvre Museum, home to timeless masterpieces like the Mona Lisa invites you to explore. And let’s not forget that Paris is a synonym for delectable pastries in quaint cafés, strolls through Montmartre’s artistic streets, and the artsy vibe of the Seine River.

2. Barcelona: The Architectural Marvel – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Gothic Quarter, Barcelona 📸 _ksu_erm_

The colorful, youthful, and artistic spirit of Barcelona makes the city of the best travel destinations in your 30s. Admire the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudi, including the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Wander through the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, filled with history and charm. Enjoy tapas and sangria at lively local bars, and soak in the Mediterranean sun at Barceloneta Beach. Barcelona’s unique blend of culture, art, and beachside bliss makes it a top choice for travelers of all ages.

3. Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Museum of Illusions Florence 📸 miry_clay_

Immerse in the artistic wonders of Florence, Italy’s Renaissance jewel. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David and admire the intricate facade of the Florence Cathedral. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Wander through the charming streets, stopping at cozy cafes for a cappuccino. Florence’s cultural heritage and artistic treasures create a captivating journey through Western Europe’s rich history.

B. Central and Eastern Europe: Hidden Gems & Old Charm – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Transylvania, Romania: Explore fairytale landscapes and legends of Dracula.
• Krakow, Poland: Wander through historic streets and experience Polish charm.

4. Transylvania, Romania – A fairytale of folklore and myths

Bran Castle, Transylvania 📸 thetravellingfrenchy

Venture into the enchanting landscapes of Transylvania, a region steeped in folklore and myths. Discover fairytale castles, including Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. Explore the medieval streets of Brasov and Sibiu, picturesque towns frozen in time. Immerse in the Carpathian Mountains’ beauty, dotted with charming villages and stunning vistas. Transylvania’s hidden gems and rich history create a captivating journey through the heart of Eastern Europe.

5. Krakow, Poland – The city with a rich past and bright future

Piec Piekarnia Bakery, Krakow 📸 piekarnia.piec

Wander through the historic streets of Krakow, Poland’s cultural capital, where history comes alive. Visit the magnificent Wawel Castle, home to centuries of royal history and legends. Explore the haunting remnants of the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, and pay tribute at Auschwitz-Birkenau, a poignant reminder of humanity’s past. Krakow’s architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere offer a journey into the heart of Eastern Europe’s rich cultural heritage.

C. Western and Northern Europe: Art, Architecture and Majestic Fjords

• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Explore world-class museums and historic canals.
• Tromsø, Norway: Witness the magical dance of the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Q uirky architecture and lively nightlife

Damrak, Amsterdam 📸  @jessicachaw

Discover Amsterdam, a cultural capital teeming with world-class museums and historic charm. Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Explore the iconic Anne Frank House and learn about the city’s rich history. Cruise along the picturesque canals, admiring the elegant canal houses. Amsterdam’s artistic heritage and vibrant atmosphere offer a cultural journey like no other.

7. Tromso, Norway – Aurora Borealis Extravaganza – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Embark on a journey to Tromsø, Norway, where the magical dance of the Northern Lights illuminates the winter skies. Join a Northern Lights safari, chasing the celestial spectacle across snow-covered landscapes. Experience dog sledding or reindeer sleigh rides, connecting with the Arctic wilderness. Tromsø’s remote location and stunning natural phenomena make it a top destination for travelers seeking an otherworldly experience.

D. South Asia: Home of oldest civilizations and tallest mountains – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Varanasi, India: Experience the spiritual energy along the sacred Ganges River.
• Bhutan: Discover the land of happiness and explore ancient monasteries.
• Maldives: Indulge in the ultimate romantic escape in luxurious overwater bungalows.

8. Varanasi, India: Spiritual Awakening 

Journey to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, where life and death intersect along the banks of the Ganges River. Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunrise and sunset, filling the air with divine energy. Take a boat ride on the sacred river, observing the rituals and ceremonies that play a central role in Hindu traditions. Varanasi’s mystical aura and spiritual significance will leave you with a profound sense of self-discovery and enlightenment.

9. Bhutan: The Land of Happiness

Tiger’s Nest, Paro, Bhutan 📸 angelydub

Uncover the secrets of happiness in Bhutan, a kingdom nestled in the Himalayas. Embrace the country’s unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness, where the well-being of its people takes precedence. Explore ancient monasteries perched on cliffs, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest. Immerse in traditional Bhutanese culture and witness colorful festivals that celebrate the nation’s rich heritage. Bhutan’s untouched beauty and spiritual ambiance offer a transformative experience for travelers in their 30s.

10. Maldives: Paradise on Earth – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Escape to the paradise of the Maldives, a haven of luxury and tranquility. Stay in opulent overwater bungalows, waking up to the sound of gentle waves. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, encountering colorful coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, under the starlit sky. The Maldives’ secluded beauty and world-class hospitality create a dreamy escape for travelers seeking a luxurious retreat.

E. East Asia: Island Hopping in one of the earliest cradles of civilization

• Kyoto, Japan: Find inner peace among serene temples and traditional tea houses.
• Bali, Indonesia: Discover the island’s spiritual essence and lush rice terraces.

11. Kyoto, Japan – Serenity and Tradition

In Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, find tranquility amidst traditional wooden temples, immaculate gardens, and the grace of geishas. Experience the meditative Zen culture by participating in a tea ceremony or practicing meditation in serene surroundings. Witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and the vivid colors of fall foliage. Kyoto’s profound spirituality and cultural richness offer a unique and reflective experience for travelers in their 30s.

12. Bali – The Island of Gods

Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida 📸⁠ mariefeandjakesnow

Discover the spiritual essence of Bali, where ancient temples and lush rice terraces await. Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Experience the cultural heart of Ubud, attending traditional dance performances and exploring art galleries. Unwind in luxury resorts surrounded by lush jungles or rice paddies. Bali’s unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty creates a soulful island-hopping experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.

F. Western Asia – Best Cultural Exploration in the Middle East 

• Petra, Jordan: Explore the ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs.
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Experience the opulence of futuristic architecture and luxury shopping.

13. Petra, Jordan: The Rose-Red City – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Petra, Wadi Musa, Jordan – 📸 thewayfaress

Step back in time and explore the ancient city of Petra, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Wander through the narrow Siq, a natural gorge that leads to the Treasury, Petra’s most famous monument. Discover ancient tombs, temples, and theaters carved into the rose-red cliffs. Petra’s archaeological wonders and rich history offer a cultural journey like no other, where you can imagine the lives of the Nabateans who once thrived in this desert oasis.

14. Dubai, UAE – A Modern Marvel 

Experience the futuristic marvel of Dubai, where innovation and opulence converge in a desert metropolis. Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and take in the breathtaking city views from the observation deck. Indulge in luxury shopping at Dubai Mall and experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional souks. Dubai’s modernity and traditional charm create a cultural fusion that captivates travelers seeking unique experiences.

G. North America: Unparalleled mountain scenery and exquisite diving 

• Banff National Park, Canada: Hike through pristine wilderness and spot majestic wildlife.
• Yosemite National Park, USA: Marvel at breathtaking waterfalls and granite cliffs.
• Bahamas: Snorkel in the clear waters of the Exumas and explore the vibrant marine life.

15. Banff National Park, Canada – Nature’s Playground

Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Canada adventuringeyes

In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies Banff National Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along scenic trails, surrounded by towering peaks and turquoise lakes. Witness the stunning Moraine Lake, its pristine waters reflecting the beauty of the mountains. Encounter wildlife, from elks to grizzly bears, in their natural habitat. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Banff’s rugged landscapes and boundless adventures make it a top destination for adrenaline junkies in their 30s.

16. Yosemite National Park, USA – Majestic Wilderness

Yosemite National Park 📸 @codyconk

Explore the iconic Yosemite National Park in California, a land of awe-inspiring natural wonders. Stand in awe of the mighty Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Marvel at the grandeur of El Capitan and Half Dome, iconic granite cliffs that attract climbers from around the world. Hike through ancient sequoia groves, where massive trees have stood for centuries. Yosemite’s breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes offer an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to reconnect with nature.

17. Bahamas: Tropical Bliss 

Discover the tropical paradise of the Bahamas, where picture-perfect beaches and turquoise waters await. Snorkel in the clear waters of the Exumas, swimming alongside friendly nurse sharks and pigs. Experience the vibrant culture of Nassau, with its lively markets and historic sites. Indulge in fresh seafood and tropical cocktails while watching the sunset over the ocean. The Bahamas’ warm hospitality and idyllic setting make it a top choice for beach lovers.

H. South America: A myriad of cultures and natural wonders

• Patagonia, Argentina, or Chile: Discover the breathtaking landscapes of glaciers and mountains.
• Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Witness unique wildlife species in their natural habitat.
• Machu Picchu, Peru: Trek to the ancient Incan city and savor its mystical charm.
• Aruba: Lounge on white sands and swim in the turquoise waters of Palm Beach.

18. Patagonia: Untamed Wilderness – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Nahuel Huapi Lake, Patagonia, Argentina 📸 lasmorillashuemul

Venture into the wild landscapes of Patagonia, where untamed beauty and dramatic scenery await. Witness the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, with its blue ice towering over the lake. Trek through Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, surrounded by rugged mountains and turquoise lakes. Patagonia’s vast wilderness is great for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting. Embrace the raw power of nature and the sense of freedom that  comes with exploring one of the world’s last wilderness areas.

19. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – A Living Laboratory 

Embark on a journey of discovery in the Galapagos Islands, a unique paradise teeming with rare and diverse wildlife. Encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and playful sea lions in their natural habitat. Snorkel with marine iguanas and colorful fish in the crystal-clear waters. The Galapagos’ isolated ecosystem inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and continues to captivate travelers with its natural wonders. A visit to the Galapagos Islands is a journey of exploration and conservation that will leave you with a deep appreciation for our planet’s biodiversity.

20. Machu Picchu, Peru – Ancient Wonder of the Andes 

Trek to the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu, hidden among the lush mountains of Peru’s Andes. Follow the Inca Trail, witnessing stunning vistas of valleys and cloud forests along the way. Marvel at the precision and ingenuity of Incan architecture as you explore the ruins of this ancient city. Machu Picchu’s enigmatic charm and spiritual ambiance make it a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking to connect with the mysteries of the past.

21. Aruba, ABC Islands (Leeward Antilles): One Happy Caribbean Island

Underwater expedition in Aruba

Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino, a Marriott Luxury and Lifestyle Hotel, Oranjestad, Aruba

Escape to Aruba, known as “One Happy Island” for its year-round sunshine and warm hospitality. Lounge on the white sands of Palm Beach, savoring the cooling breeze and the sound of waves. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, encountering colorful fish and coral formations. Explore the vibrant nightlife of Oranjestad, with its casinos, bars, and lively atmosphere. Aruba’s laid-back charm and natural beauty create the perfect beach getaway for travelers in their 30s.

I. Central America: High-adrenaline Escapades and Great Coral Reefs – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Costa Rica: Discover lush rainforests, wildlife, and thrilling adventures.
• Belize: Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Blue Hole and explore ancient Mayan ruins.

22. Costa Rica: Pura Vida 

Adventure In Costa Rica, the land of “pura vida,” embark on an adventure-filled journey through lush rainforests and along pristine coastlines. Zip-line through the jungle canopy, spotting exotic wildlife like sloths and toucans. Surf the Pacific waves in Tamarindo or Nosara, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Immerse in the rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio National Park, where monkeys and colorful birds roam freely. Costa Rica’s vibrant nature and exhilarating activities create an ideal playground for thrill-seekers in their 30s.

23. Belize: The Jewel of the Caribbean

Secret Beach Belize, San Pedro, Belize

Dive into the underwater paradise of Belize’s Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snorkel among coral formations and swim alongside nurse sharks and giant rays. Explore ancient Mayan ruins, like Caracol and Xunantunich, that reveal the mysteries of a fascinating civilization. Hike through lush jungles, where Howler monkeys and jaguars roam. Belize’s mix of natural wonders and cultural heritage offers an immersive ecotourism experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

J. East Africa: Best Wildlife Safaris to ever witness – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Witness the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras.
• Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Encounter the “Big Five” in their natural habitat.

24. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – The Great Migration 

Embark on a wildlife safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti, where nature’s greatest spectacle, the Great Migration, unfolds. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the vast plains in search of greener pastures. Spot the predators, including lions and cheetahs, as they follow the herds. The Serengeti’s rich biodiversity and dramatic landscapes create a safari experience that will leave you in awe of the animal kingdom.

25. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya – Wildlife Haven

Hot air ballooning at Maasai Mara National Reserve, Narok County, Kenya

Lions at Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Discover the abundant wildlife of Kenya’s Maasai Mara, home to the iconic “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Witness the thrilling sight of a lioness hunting her prey or a herd of elephants bathing in the river. Experience the Maasai culture by visiting a traditional village and learning about their ancient way of life. The Maasai Mara’s unparalleled wildlife sightings and cultural experiences create a safari adventure like no other.

North & NorthEast Africa: Unforgettable Ancient Ruins and Civilizations

• Marrakech, Morocco: Wander through bustling bazaars and serene gardens.
• Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Explore the iconic ancient wonders and Sphinx.

26. Marrakech, Morocco – An Enchanting Oasis

A day at the Medina Beach 📸 riadsakkan

Immerse in the vibrant ambiance of Marrakech, where ancient traditions and modern life intertwine. Wander through bustling souks, haggling for treasures like colorful carpets and intricate lanterns. Visit the serene gardens of Majorelle and experience the tranquility of the Bahia Palace. Enjoy the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, from tagines to sweet pastries. Marrakech’s enchanting charm and rich history create an immersive journey through North Africa’s cultural heritage.

27. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt – Ancient Marvels – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Step back in time and explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza, an ancient wonder that has stood for millennia. Marvel at the majestic Great Pyramid, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Admire the enigmatic Sphinx, guarding the pyramids with its mysterious gaze. Learn about ancient Egyptian civilization at the nearby Egyptian Museum. The Pyramids of Giza’s timeless beauty and historical significance offer a journey into the heart of ancient history.

F. Australia/Oceania: Marine life at its finest – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Tahiti, French Polynesia: Discover lush landscapes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches.

28. Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Underwater Wonderland

The Great Barrier Reef from above – Daintree Rainforest, Australia

Incredible fish shot while exploring the Great Barrier Reef, Australia by 📸  @dive_down_under via leestorrow

Dive into the underwater wonderland of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Snorkel among coral formations teeming with marine life, from colorful fish to graceful turtles. Witness the annual migration of humpback whales, a majestic spectacle of nature. Take a scenic flight over the reef, appreciating its vastness and beauty from above. The Great Barrier Reef’s rich biodiversity and natural wonders make it a top destination for eco-conscious travelers.

29. Tahiti – A Tropical Haven 

Escape to the tropical haven of Tahiti, where lush landscapes and turquoise lagoons await. Discover hidden waterfalls and hike to scenic viewpoints with panoramic views of the island. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of black sand beaches, experiencing the unique volcanic beauty of the island. Savor traditional Polynesian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Tahiti’s remote allure and untouched nature offer a paradise for travelers seeking a peaceful and authentic escape.

G. Antarctica: The very best expedition of a lifetime – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• South Shetland Islands: Explore research stations and enjoy up-close wildlife encounters.

30. South Shetland Islands: Gateway to Antarctica 

A leopard seal hunting a young Adélie Penguin. Pictures taken near Brown Bluff, Antarctica hemmi90

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica hemmi90

Explore the South Shetland Islands, the gateway to the Antarctic Peninsula. Visit research stations and learn about ongoing scientific studies in this extreme environment. Encounter curious penguins and brave the icy waters for a polar plunge. Experience the unique sense of camaraderie among fellow adventurers as you navigate this remote and pristine wilderness. The South Shetland Islands offer a glimpse into life at the edge of the world, making your Antarctic expedition even more extraordinary.

30 After 30 Final Thoughts – Top 30 Best Travel Destinations in Your 30s

With the world at your fingertips and these top 30 destinations awaiting your exploration, your 30s will be a decade of adventure, growth, and unforgettable memories. Embrace the diversity of our planet, connect with new cultures, and cherish the moments that will shape your life. So, download Framey , the ultimate travel companion, and let it capture your journey through your 30s, making every moment a cherished memory. Happy travels, wanderer!

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Larisa Negreanu

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Didn’t travel in your 20s? No problem, here’s why it’s better in your 30s

I thought ditching work and going travelling was something you did when you were straight out of university. If you didn’t do it then, you didn’t do it.

With that in mind I was both lucky and unlucky to get a job I loved soon after graduating. While my friends were beginning their travels I was beginning a career.

The job was great. It was at a desirable company doing work I was passionate about… but I was still in dreary old England.

My friends were living their adventures in places like Costa Rica, New York and Italy, but I was far too focused on my career to take any big breaks.

I didn’t do any serious travel for years, until a good friend of mine was dumped and decided to hire a car and take us both on a road trip around Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Germany.

Loving life in Vienna

I realised that I didn’t miss out. My best traveling days are still to come.

Travel is just better as you get older.

A decade or so of settling into yourself turns you into a better traveler.

On my last solo trip, Lisbon, I stumbled upon a group of solo travelers in a bar in Cais do Sodre and we ended up drinking buddies for the evening. Perhaps because I am older and happier in my own company I find it much easier to make new friends. When I was younger I’m sure my awkwardness would have got in the way of meeting people and stopped me from enjoying being alone.

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On a tram in Lisbon

You probably have a bit more money

There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking the cheap option. Hostels and campsites are great places to meet like-minded travelers, but when I was on a camping tour in Botswana it really helped that I could occasionally splash out and upgrade to a hotel room with air-con. In Toulouse I could thank my host by taking her and her partner out to dinner and buying a decent wine. Money isn’t everything, but there is no denying it makes travel easier and just that little bit more pleasant.

READ MORE ABOUT MY EPIC BOTSWANA TOUR

You can make your job work for you

Once you have put a bit of a career behind you and proven your worth then a lot of companies are open to career breaks, and flexible working is becoming more fashionable. With solid experience you could go freelance, or maybe it’s time to just quit and start something new when you come back!

I know lawyers who took a year out from their work. A good friend of mine works in bio-engineering, partly from an office but partly from a laptop wherever he happens to be in the world. I’ve met nurses on career break overlanding across South America.

The Amazon Jungle awaits

I make it work because my current job is shift-based so I can earn more annual leave and tend to have bigger gaps between runs of shifts. There are loads of ways to fit proper adventures around your career. If you’re reading this thinking you can’t because of work… well you can, you just haven’t figured out how yet.

READ MORE: HOW TO TRAVEL THE WORLD, EVEN WITH A 9-5 JOB

You know your limits

Perhaps this is because my hangovers are worse now but I am far less likely to waste a day in bed after a 5am finish than I used to be. I still drink more than I should when I’m traveling (you have to try the local booze right?) but I know how to pace it out.

That doesn’t mean I don’t party… but I’ve learned the hard way that nothing good happens after 2am. Besides, hammered tourists making locals uncomfortable is not cool.

Toulouse: a city so beautiful you don’t need beer goggles to appreciate

LIFE IS SHORT. THIS STORY IS A REMINDER TO LIVE IT TO THE FULLEST.

You’ve know who your real friends are

If you choose to travel with someone then that travel partner can make or break an experience, but by the time you’ve made it to your thirties you have a pretty good idea of who you can tolerate for extended periods of time.

The party friends are ditched; you’ve stopped bothering with that one person who is really funny but always flakes on plans. You have a few, important people who you know and trust to take you to the ends of the earth.

And those new friends you meet in the bar? You figure out pretty quickly whether they’re worth keeping in touch with.

Kayaking with company in BC, Canada

Since my European road trip I have camped in the Okavango Delta, kayaked with seals off the coast of British Columbia and seen a quartet play Mozart in Vienna. I’ve traveled solo and with a partner. I haven’t had to quit my job and I’m not rich. But I am planning a really big adventure for this  year.

Now I’m glad I came to travel late, the only downside is that I have to pack a bigger suitcase because I have more stuff.

Ready to take the plunge and see the incredible world for yourself? Check out Intrepid’s range of top trips and destinations.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel, Jay Cockburn x2, Intrepid Travel, Jay Cockburn x2.)

Feeling inspired?

Jay Cockburn

Jay’s home is in London but his heart is in the British Lake District. He’s obsessed with rainy wilderness, tall trees and sci-fi, so you’ll often find him hiking up mountains, in forests or on another planet. When he’s not doing that, Jay directs radio programmes for the BBC.

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• Smart Living

13 European Cities 30-Somethings Will Love

Looking for something a little different for your next trip away with your friends? If you want to go beyond the usual hotspots, Europe is full of cities that deliver a decent dose of culture but also have the requisite food, fun, and photo opportunities. If you and your favorite ladies spent your 20s downing cocktails in NYC, partying hard in Vegas, and earning your beads in New Orleans, you may fancy a change of pace now that you're in your 30s. And if you've always been an old soul, these cities have plenty of quiet places to escape to. Pamper yourself at a thermal spa in Budapest, shop till you drop in Florence, gorge on chocolate in Bruges, or live that Game of Thrones life in Dubrovnik. These are the cities to add to your 30-something bucket list!

Valencia, Spain

Spain's third city is an intriguing mix of old and new. The amazing City of Arts and Sciences has enough to keep you occupied all weekend: the futuristic buildings house a 3D cinema, a science museum, an aquarium, and plenty more. But you can also soak up more traditional Spanish culture by visiting the older parts of the city, including the incredible cathedral, Barrio del Carmen and its palaces, and the amazing central market. Oh, and did we mention there are beaches, too? Visit during the famous Fallas Festival in March if you want to see the city at its absolute best, the streets lined with incredible statues that are dramatically burnt down at the end of the fiesta.

Bruges, Belgium

If you loved visiting Amsterdam in your 20s, add Bruges to the list for your 30s. The canal city is small enough to walk around on foot, but do make sure you take a boat ride to enjoy it properly. You can also eat and drink to your heart's content, whether you choose to buy fries and mayo from one of the many stalls lining the town square, or sit down in a laid-back bistro to indulge in mussels and a glass of kriek (cherry) beer. Even if you're not a beer drinker, the brewery tour is worth it for the view from the roof of the building, and there's also a chocolate museum that goes some way to explain why Bruges has a chocolate shop on every corner. Needless to say, you're going to need to bring a few boxes home with you.

Cannes, France

The joy of a trip to Cannes (which is a town, not a city, but let's not get technical) is that, thanks to great transport options along the coast, it opens up the entire French Rivera to you and your friends. Though Cannes itself boasts plenty to keep you occupied (including beaches, a marina, and half a dozen museums including one dedicated to perfume), it's also a great starting point for visiting other places along the coast like Monte Carlo, Villefranche, Eze, Nice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and even the island of Corsica. Pack plenty of bikinis! Don't forget to travel inland too; the villages on the hillsides around Cannes and Nice are stunning, and many boast their own artistic communities.

Florence, Italy

Boasting some of the best museums and galleries in the world, Florence is a must for anyone who loves a bit of culture, but it has plenty to offer those who don't, too. Aside from being one of the most visually stunning cities you'll ever set foot in, Florence is home to some of the best shopping in Europe and is a city that you can completely lose yourself in, just by strolling around. All this, and we haven't even gotten started on the food yet. Don't pack anything with a tight waistband, that's all we'll say.

Budapest, Hungary

Not only is Budapest absolutely beautiful , it's also affordable. The architecture will satisfy even the pickiest traveler, with a little something for everyone, particularly when it comes to baroque and art nouveau. Those who enjoy a pampering session will be happy here too: there are 100-plus hot springs found in the city, meaning there's also an abundance of thermal spas, and they're all absolutely stunning. For refreshments, head to the city's "ruin bars", which have breathed new life into dilapidated buildings and courtyards. Yep, Budapest is hipster central and proud!

Salzburg, Austria

Much like Bruges, Salzburg is a compact city you can explore on foot, and there's definitely plenty to take in. It has all the museums you could wish for, including one dedicated to Mozart, located at his birthplace. The city's also home to some incredible historical architecture, including Hohensalzburg Fortress, the biggest fully preserved castle in Central Europe. The city's squares and gardens are worth exploring too, as they change dramatically with the seasons. Rest assured, you definitely won't be the only one singing songs from The Sound of Music as you tour this beautiful city .

Thessaloniki, Greece

Greece's second city offers the same history, food, and beautiful weather as Athens with far fewer crowds. Old buildings like the White Tower blend with newer developments, including the new waterfront, completed in 2013 and home to a beautiful piece of public art, George Zongolopoulos's "Umbrellas". Discover ancient structures like the intricately carved Arch of Galerius as you tour the city, then settle down at a taverna for some of the best food you'll ever eat. Just one thing: that friend who hates olives? Best leave her at home for this one!

Riga, Latvia

The major thing Riga has going for it is value for money. This is one of the reasons it has become a popular destination for bachelor parties, but don't let that put you off. While those gangs of guys are filling up the cheap hotels and hostels, you can book a night in a luxurious five-star hotel for under $100. And while they're drinking the day away, you can view the incredible architecture on Alberta Iela, explore the art museum, and marvel at the cathedral. Visit in Summer, and you can also travel the 16 miles to nearby Jūrmala, a posh holiday resort on the Baltic coast, for some rest and relaxation.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Yes, it's King's Landing. But you don't need to be a Game of Thrones fan to appreciate the beauty of what Byron called "the jewel of the Adriatic". Walking the walls of this incredible city is an experience that shouldn't be missed, but do bear in mind that Dubrovnik's role as a Westeros doppelgänger has made the city busier than ever, and it's not cheap to visit, especially during the peak Summer months. Most of the old town has been turned over to tourism, so you'll never be short of a place to stay, eat, or drink. Take the cable car for incredible views over the city, and drop by the Maritime and Cultural History museums to learn more about the area. If you fancy a change of pace, the War Photo Limited Gallery offers the opportunity to view incredible and moving photography from war zones around the world.

Bergen, Norway

The city of Bergen is a Unesco World Heritage Site, and it's easy to see why. It puts the "picture" into "picture postcard". The best photo ops come if you take boat tour out into the harbor, or ride the funicular railway up into the hills. There's a lot of musical heritage in Bergen, and you can visit the homes of two of the city's most famous exports: Grieg's home at Troldhaugen and Ole Bull's Summer paradise at Lysøen. If you can drag yourself away from Bergen itself, it's also the perfect gateway to discovering the Norwegian fjords.

Hamburg, Germany

Forget Berlin or Munich: next time you visit Germany, make Hamburg your city of choice. It's perfect for foodies, with a wide range of cuisines on offer, and also has a flourishing music scene. The Sunday Fischmarkt markets sell a lot more than fish and are definitely worth setting your alarm for. Known as "The gateway to the world", the city also opens up multiple possibilities for two-center trips. Our top tip is the island of Sylt, nestled in the North Sea and full of sandy beaches that are perfect for long walks. A three-hour train journey will offer a complete change of pace.

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is one of the hottest destinations right now , and its capital city is one of the most affordable cities in Western Europe. Lisbon is a melting pot of cultural and historical influences, and there is something to see on every corner. Get your culture fix at the Gulbenkian and the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, before strolling the streets to visit antique shops, supercool bars, and laid-back eateries. Travel west to the Estoril-Cascais coastline for a spot of beach life. Finally, be sure to make time in your schedule to stop by the Museu do Azulejo (the tile museum) too. These are not your average bathroom tiles!

Kraków, Poland

If you love old architecture, Kraków's Wawel Castle should be enough of a draw to get you to the city. With elements that represent the medieval, renaissance, and baroque periods, it was once the home of Poland's kings, before becoming an art gallery in the 1930s. Kraków also boasts Europe's largest market square, the vast Rynek Główny, where you can shop for flowers, sit down for a drink, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. At night, the city really comes alive: Kraków is home to hundreds of bars, restaurants, and clubs, if you're the kind to burn the candle at both ends.

• Travel Tips
• Travel Inspiration

The Ultimate List of 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

quickwhittravel

Everyone talks about travel in your 20s like it’s the prime time, right? People talk (and bloggers write) like it’s the only time travel is possible or something, you know? But let me tell you, that’s 100% not true! Instead of hostels and taking the slow transportation to save money, your 30s is the time when you can afford to stay in a nice hotel, take the hour-long flight to Santorini instead of the 6.5-hour ferry, eat street food because you want to , not because you can’t afford anything else. 

Your life situation will almost certainly be different in your 30s than it was in your 20s, and so should your travels be. One of my most popular posts ever is 20 Trips to Take in Your 20s , so I thought it was high time to take it up a notch! In case you need some inspiration, here are the top 30 trips everyone should take in their 30s. Pick three, and commit to accomplishing them in the next year. Then pick three more! What’s first on your list?

1. An Event Trip

This is that concert you couldn’t afford in your 20s. This is that opera at the Sydney Opera House you were too afraid to go to on your own. This is the running of the bulls in Spain. This is tickets to Wimbledon! Whatever huge, previously unattainable thing you want to do, your 30s is the time in your life to do it. 

Start here: Travel Splurges Worth the Money

2. a hobby trip.

Are you a runner? Pick a new race anywhere in the world—my husband and I met at the Prague Marathon! Are you a Titanic enthusiast? Visit the Titanic Museum in Belfast , where it was built. Are you a bird watcher? Choose one of the best bird watching destinations in the world, and go there. Whatever formerly uncool, very niche, much-beloved hobby you have (maybe one you hid in your 20s), make it your travel inspiration in your 30s!

For my fellow runners: How to Run Anywhere in the World

3. a nature trip.

In your 30s, you probably spend a little more time at the office—or at home—than you realize. When was the last time you went for a hike, went camping, spent the day at the beach, or went skiing in the shadow of a majestic mountain? Probably a while, right? Sounds like it’s time to book a glamping trip in the Moroccan Sahara. Or maybe a Safari in Kenya. Or an epic adventure in the Galapagos to see unique animals who don’t have to be afraid of people. Get back to nature, even if just for a short trip, and see what you’ve been missing. 

My favorite way to appreciate nature: The Best Hikes in All of Hawaii

4. gift a trip.

This is one kind of trip you probably didn’t have in your 20s-style budget. In your 30s, however, you’ve had some time to save, time to climb the occupational ladder, or maybe just time to learn how to loosen your purse strings a little. This is the perfect time to give your parents, siblings, or another important person in your life the trip they’ve always dreamed of, but never took for one reason or the other. Trust me, even if it’s not a place that’s on the top of your travel list, you’ll love seeing them enjoy it—and enjoy it with them. 

Fun ideas here: How to Surprise Someone With Travel

5. a heritage trip.

Where did you come from? Can you pin-point the country? The region? The city? Try to find out, and then go there to see what your distant relatives saw, experience their experiences, eat what they ate, and find out a little bit about your background. You might just gain an understanding about yourself and your family you never realized you were missing. 

Not sure where to start? What to Know about Working with a Travel Agent

6. a luxury trip .

You earned it! If you spent your 20s in hostels and shady Air BnBs, you really need to book a luxury hotel somewhere special. There are major deals out there, even on luxury hotel brands, so you really have no excuse! But don’t stop at the hotel room. Treat yourself to a spa day, ask the concierge to make an impossible-to-get dinner reservation for you, order room service, and if you’re feeling especially fancy, upgrade your flights to business class! Whether you use cash or cash in on credit card points, just make that luxury trip happen.

My favorites: The Ultimate Hotel Luxuries Around the World

7. a staycation.

Hear me out! Sometimes we don’t appreciate the good things that are right in front of us. And sometimes, you need an efficient vacation that won’t leave you jet lagged, or break the bank! A staycation is the perfect compromise. Treat it just like you would a trip to an exotic land: Book a hotel, make dinner reservations, plan to visit museums and famous sites you take for granted (even if they’re just famous in your town!), and remind yourself of why you live where you do. Bring a friend, take your family, or go solo!

More here: How to Love Your Staycation

8. a one-on-one trip.

If your 20s were all about finding yourself, your 30s are about connecting with others. This can be achieved in many different ways, but I believe the best way is one-on-one. Maybe you and your spouse need some alone time together to reconnect. Maybe you and the parent you didn’t relate to as a child need an opportunity to learn how to be friends. Maybe you had kids early, and your oldest is ready to see a little more of the country or the world with you. Maybe your best friend is getting divorced and needs some time away from it all with someone they can trust. Whatever the reason, a one-on-one trip could be just the right thing. 

Save some heartache: What to Know about Your Travel Buddy

9. an island getaway.

There’s nothing better than an island, hot or cold. Islands are generally secluded, there’s only so far to go, there are only so many things to do, and whether you’re visiting Iceland or Tahiti, there’s something inherently slower about life on an island—in a good way! Every island is unique, even within the same island chain, so there’s an island out there for you, no matter your travel preferences. Trust me, you need an island getaway for happiness, mental well-being, and a reminder to slow yourself down! 

Looking for something special? How to Choose the Right Hawaiian Island for You

10. a foodie trip.

Love coffee? You need to visit some coffee farms! Are you a key lime pie enthusiast? Head to the Florida Keys! Always wanted to try French pastries in France? Now’s your chance. Want to taste real Thai food in Thailand? What are you waiting for? I know several people who want to eat their way through Italy. I, myself, had a dream of going to afternoon tea at the Savoy in London—so my husband made sure we got to do it! Whatever your foodie dreams, make them a reality.

Can’t find someone to go with you? How to Enjoy Dining Solo

11. step outside your comfort zone.

No, really. Do something you thought you’d never want to do, and see how you like it. I’ll be the first to say I hate the cold, but seeing snow-covered mountains in person, hiking in the snow, bundling up to see the Northern Lights—it’s kind of magical! Do something a little uncomfortable in your 30s. Maybe it’s skydiving, scuba diving, or not at all diving-related. The point is to do that thing you were afraid of. Do that thing you never thought you could. You’re in your 30s: You know what you like, you know what’s comfortable. Challenge yourself in a new way now. 

Need some ideas? 6 Solo Travel Experiences Everyone Needs to Have

12. a trip you didn’t pick.

Some of my favorite trips are the ones I didn’t even have on my radar! When my friend Andrea wanted to go to Turkey, I tagged along even though it had never been on my “to travel” list. When Steve wanted to go to the Baltics, my first thought was “Didn’t that used to be Russia? Are we allowed to go there?” But that trip remains one of my favorites ever ! My younger brother wanted to go to Belfast, Northern Ireland, to visit the Titanic Museum there. I had no idea I would love Belfast and its people until I went myself! Find a new destination by asking a friend or family member where they want to go. Then, go! No complaints, all open mind. 

One of my most popular posts: The World’s Most Underrated Travel Destinations

13. explore a new-to-you country.

Even the most adventurous travelers have “that place” where they go back to again and again, and that’s perfectly fine! (My husband’s and mine is Hawaii.) However, when you find yourself booking the same vacation multiple times, that’s the perfect moment to remind yourself try somewhere new. Maybe you need someone to tell you that you need to branch out (I’m here to do that for you!), or maybe you need someone to give you permission to go somewhere new (I’m here to do that for you, too!). Either way, make sure you visit a new country in your 30s. You might just find it’s a new favorite!

Also helpful: 5 Things You Need to Know for International Travel

14. a road trip.

Okay, so, personally, road trips are not my favorite. But some destinations are worth it . The Road to Hana can only be done… On the road! The best way to explore the Florida Keys is by car. California’s Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Load up your family, or simply yourself, grab your favorite car snacks, and plan to hit up every local coffee shop you come across on the journey. Make that road trip happen! 

More here: Tips for the Ultimate Road Trip

15. a tropical vacation.

Island breezes, limitless sunshine, sandy beaches, scenic hikes, adventures on land and sea… What could be better?! A tropical trip, whether to an island or a coast, is the dream for most people, right. But when was the last time you went somewhere like that? My husband and I visit an island for our anniversary each year, because we want one trip where there’s only so far to go and only so much to see. It helps us relax and reset while we get our vitamin D and vitamin “sea.” Where’s your next tropical trip? 

Also this: 5 Trips for Positive Vibes

16. a wellness trip.

I don’t mean an hour at your local spa. I mean a trip that’s fully focused on recharging yourself. Don’t just visit the spa. Stay at a spa hotel . Do the yoga you never have time to do. Go on a whole yoga retreat if you feel like it! Go to Italy for a food tour, and take a cooking class if that’s the kind of thing that makes you happy. Go to Iceland to visit every hot spring! Visit Sedona and see what it’s all about. However you’ve always wanted to spend your “self care” time, find a place where you can do that, and go. 

Need ideas? How to Practice Self-care on Travel

17. a truly romantic trip.

This may not be for everyone. But if you’re married or have a significant other, you’ll want to make this a priority at least once a decade! Whatever is romantic to you, whether that’s spending Valentine’s Day in Verona , skinny dipping in your own private plunge pool in Bali, creating your own perfume on St. Martin , or dining at the restaurant in the Eiffel Tower, plan a trip to go and expereince it together!

Inspo: The Top 10 Romantic Experiences in the World

18. a girls’ trip (or a boys’ trip).

Just like you need some exclusive time with your loved one, you also need some time with your friends, too! Take a weekend in New York City with the girls, a hunting trip to Ni’ihau with the guys, or pick a place you’ve always wanted to go and convince your friends they’ve always wanted to go there, too! It’s all about balance. Your 30s is the time to lean toward the serious side and make responsible life choices, but it’s a disservice to yourself to forget you also have a fun side! Give yourself an excuse to have a little fun.

Also helpful: How to Plan Travel with a Group (and Still Like Each Other When You Return!)

19. a trip you earned entirely on points.

You’re old enough now that you don’t need to play the “what’s the cheapest thing” game. If you haven’t already, your 30s is the time of your life when you need to start playing the points game . With the right travel credit card , you can earn enough points to fly where you want, how you want; stay where you want, when you want. While you have to stay on top of your finances (which you should be doing anyway!) to make this work correctly, the reward of travel is worth the little bit of effort to harness the cash you’re already spending on your regular life. You may as well get rewarded!

Here’s how: The Beginner’s Guide to Using Points to Travel

20. a business class flight.

One red-eye flight in a lay-flat seat, with a proper meal or two in your belly, and you’ll see what all the fuss is about. Treat yourself! Use those points you earn from either flying or using your credit card to upgrade yourself, or simply buy the seat you want outright. Sometimes the price difference isn’t so much more! Everyone flying more than six hours needs to experience a lay-flat, business class seats at least once in their life, preferably overnight so you can enjoy some sleep, too.

More worth it than you think: Hidden Benefits of Business Class

21. a parent payback trip.

I don’t know what your relationship with you parents is like, but like my husband says, “By the time you’re 30, it’s no longer your parents’ fault.” In my 30s, I started appreciating my parents more, even though they still didn’t understand my need to move and travel and see the world . I started seeing them as people instead of only as my parents, and I wanted to use my travel experience as a gift to them.

I’ve taken my mom to Prince Edward Island, Canada; Waco, Texas; and soon I’ll take her to St. John’s Newfoundland to see puffins and icebergs! Steve and I took my dad on trips to Gettysburg and Annapolis, and we plan to take him to Iceland when he retires. We took both my parents on an anniversary trip to Key West last year for their 40th anniversary! Where can you take your parents as friends?

Start here: How to Plan a Trip (A Step-by-step Guide)

22. a carry-on only trip.

No, this doesn’t mean you’re traveling like you did in your 20s; this means you’re traveling efficiently . Take it as a challenge! If you’re used to checking an oversized bag (or two), you’ll be amazed at how freeing it is not to worry about all that and just go . No waiting at baggage claim, no worrying whether or not your bag made that tight connection, none of that. Give it a try. 

Read this next: The Pros and Cons of Traveling Carry-on Only

23. a long-term trip.

Okay, I realize a month-long (or longer) trip all at once is not in the cards for everyone in their 30s. However, if you can swing it, you won’t regret doing it. If you’re between jobs, take that six weeks of vacation time you’re owed, and take a true vacation before you start the new job. My doctor did that (and went solo—her husband stayed home!) and said it was one of the best things she ever did. Maybe you can take a sabbatical. Maybe you can transfer to an international office within your company for a year or two. My husband spent two years working in France in his 30s. Where there’s a will, there’s a way! 

More here: How to Plan Long-term Travel in Europe

24. a euro-trip.

Everyone needs to take a Euro-trip once in their life. Most of Europe is on the Euro, borders are largely open, the train system is fantastic, and the historic cities were all created to be walkable. You can cover a lot of ground, experience many different cultures, and eat a massive variety of food for the price of just one plane ticket, y’all! You don’t have to backpack it like people in their teens and 20s do (thank goodness!), but you do have to experience Europe as an adult with an appreciation of more than just night clubs and bars. Take the Euro-trip!

Keep reading: 8 Things You Forgot to Pack for Europe

25. explore a new continent.

Have you been to all seven continents yet? If not, find a new one and head that direction! I was so excited for my first-ever trip to Africa. My husband had been to Kenya and Uganda before we started dating, and his experience wasn’t stellar, so he wasn’t too keen to go anywhere else in the entire continent. But I wanted to check off my sixth continent!

Luckily, we have an agreement that on alternating years, one of us gets to choose a “trip of a lifetime” location, and the other doesn’t get to veto or complain! In 2019, we went to Morocco and visited seven cities—SEVEN! Which continent are you dreaming of visiting?

Read on: 7 Travel Rules You Don’t Know Until Someone Tells You

26. take a deep dive into your favorite season.

I think everyone has a favorite season. It’s the time of year when you come alive, feel most like yourself, smile the most, have the most fun. It’s your favorite. For me, it’s summer. I could live the summer girl life all year long. For others, it’s all about pumpkin spice and the colors of fall. For someone else, it’s the idealistic snow, skiing, and cozy nights that make up winter. Still others live for the new life and renewed energy that comes with spring (these are the people without allergies). 

So go for it! See the tulips at Keukenhoff Gardens in April for a spring fling! Visit French Polynesia for an endless summer experience any time of year. Go to New England for the ultimate leaf peeping trip in October. Or for the snow bunnies out there, head to Switzerland for epic snowscapes, iconic mountain peaks, and the ultimate in winter sports! Take one big, seasonal trip, and embrace everything you love about your favorite season.

Some of my favorites: The Ultimate Endless Summer Bucket List

27. a home country trip.

This is different from a “staycation” because, depending on how big your country is, it doesn’t have to be anywhere near your hometown! Go somewhere in your own country that’s completely different from where you live. Check out a different climate, a different part of the culture, a different cuisine. There are so many options to have an adventure in your own country!

Also helpful: How to Plan a Road Trip

28. a truly relaxing vacation.

Anyone who knows me is laughing right now at the fact that I put this one the list! This is one I’m definitely still working on. Your 30s is kind of like “go-time” right? You have the experience, so now you’re working hard to climb the ladder to your business goals. Or your kids are coming into that super-busy, non-stop, early swimming practice, late hockey game phase of life, and you’re barely treading water.

You need a vacation! Whether you’re dreaming of laying on the beach, or laying awake at night thinking about that Alaskan cruise you always wanted to take, stop waiting and start planning. However you need to be able to relax, make it happen.

More here: 10 Trips Every Traveler Should Take

29. a solo trip.

If you’ve made it into your 30s without even one solo trip, it’s high time! Leave your insecurities and fears behind. People less capable than you literally do this every day—trust me, I’ve met people in my travels who seem to have no business doing anything on their own! Believe me, you can do this.

You can find the time to make it happen, too. It doesn’t have to be a three-month sabbatical. It can be a long weekend, an overnight excursion, or just a day trip. You’ll be amazed at just how capable you are, and maybe just how fun you are to be around!

Get all the info on my dedicated Solo Travel Page !

30. a dream trip.

What are you waiting for? If it’s been your dream for over a decade to stay in an overwater bungalow, book your room and do it! If all your life you’ve wanted to see real castles in Europe, go! If you’ve always wanted to see lions, elephants, and zebras up-close, take that African safari, and don’t look back.

Even if you can’t find anyone else to go with you, even if you think it needs to wait, even if you think other people will think it’s weird, make your dream part of your real life. We’re not promised tomorrow, so make your life happen today. 

Keep reading: 10 Life-changing Trips

Which one will you cross off the list first?! Comment below, then take a look at my Travel Tips Page for destination ideas, travel hacks, and tips to make your travels seamless!

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A Travel Bucket List For Your 30s & 40s

I believe that travel in your 30’s (and beyond) is a different sort of experience than traveling in your 20’s.  For me, I was more settled in my career, more confident in what I enjoyed, and also more financially stable, which allowed me to seek out specific types of trips and experiences that I wanted, and not have to worry about every penny.  So this is a travel bucket list geared toward that life.

Some of what you’ll see below are destinations, and some are specific experiences…in general, my travel style is very experience-based.  Well, and let’s be honest, food-based!  So without further ado…

30 travel bucket list items for your 30’s & 40’s

1.  explore jordan’s lost city of petra.

Petra had been at the top of my bucket list since I was a teenager, and I was so excited to finally visit a couple years ago.

Wander through the ancient Lost City and marvel at  the intricate carvings that have stood the test of time, learn about the mysterious Nabatean people, and make sure to experience the mystical beauty at night !

You might also like:   A Detailed Packing List for Middle East Travel

2.  Cappadocia, the air balloons

This had been a dream for many years, and for my birthday last year I planned an epic trip to Turkey that included a couple days in Cappadocia .  It was awesome, but both mornings the hot air balloons didn’t fly due to weather conditions.  So a return trip is definitely in the cards…

You might also like:    Why Fleece-Lined Leggings Are a Must for Cold Weather Travel

3.  Go on my first safari

There are so many to choose from, and I want to experience so many different ones!  I want to stay at the giraffe manor in Kenya, a treehouse in South Africa , and see the “big 5” and so much more.  It’s just a matter of figuring out where to start…

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4.  Do an Alaskan cruise, rail, helicopter trip

The absolutely astounding natural beauty of Alaska has been on my list for probably a decade.  Fjords, glaciers, bears, mountains, and more…what’s not to love??  I had a couple co-workers that did a combination cruise-scenic rail-helicopter trip and it looked AMAZEBALLS.

You might also like:   11 of My Best Tips for ANY Trip

5.  Trekking in Son Doong Cave in Vietnam

Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, and photos of it are fascinating.  The cave is so large that it has its own weather systems and creates its own clouds.

There’s only one company who can do tours, and there’s a two-year waiting list so you should definitely plan ahead if this is on your list.  The five-day tour includes intense jungle trekking, river crossings, abseiling, climbing, camping, and more.  You can see more about the tour experience here and the cave itself here .

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6.  Hike Machu Picchu

I feel like this is self-explanatory, as it’s been on everyone’s world travel bucket list.  I’m not a crazy camper/hiker so I don’t know that I want to do a multi-day trek on the Inca Trail…maybe a day hike and rail would be more my style.  But llama selfies are a must.

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7.  Take a week-long sailing trip

Despite growing up on a farm in landlocked Kansas, I have discovered an intense love of being on a boat…and particularly more of a sailing style trip.  From sailing in Sweden to a couple days cruising the Turkish coast , I’m always looking for my next boating adventure.

I’ve done a couple of 2-3 day trips and a challenging 5 days from Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park, but I’d really love to do a full week sailing somewhere gorgeous.  Maybe Croatia or Greece, but open to even more exotic locations!

You might also like:   7 Travel Intentions for 2020

8.  Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives or Fiji

LIFE.  GOALS.   This just seems like the most luxurious paradise possible, and I really need this in my life.

You might also like:   My Favorite Bra for Travel

9.  Hike up a glacier

Hiking up a glacier in Iceland was one of my favorite activities on that trip, and I’ve had my eye on glacier hiking in Alaska, New Zealand, and Argentina as well.  It’s amazing digging your spiky shoes in, seeing the vast expanse of jagged ice rising up in front of you, and the mix of colors and textures inside!

10.  Fly legit first class

I’ve flown business class over to London and Italy before (both Delta One), which was awesome and *kind of* counts.  And I’ve done business class on Turkish Airlines  and Air France (during COVID), which vwere both nice a bit underwhelming relative to the cost.

But I mean one of those EPIC like Asian airlines with true luxury.  Experiencing an airplane suite just seems so over-the-top and something I want to try sometime.

You might also like:   Trip Planning Tips: How to Make Every Itinerary Epic

11.  See the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights have captivated me (and, like…all of Pinterest) for years, and I was excited to catch some glimpses in Tromso, Norway.  But it still was just a small amount and I had to mostly view them through my camera.

Then I spent the night on a frozen Finnish lake in a tiny mobile cabin with them fluttering overhead for hours.  So much better!

But someday I really want to see the lights DANCE, something I could see with my naked eyes and in all the different colors (like this pic).  Still very much on the bucket list.

You might also like:   6 Travel Intentions for 2022

12.  Soak in Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls

Nothing like an adrenaline rush on the edge of one of the world’s biggest waterfalls.  And I’m a sucker for waterfalls in general, so this is very much up my alley.

13.  Visit China’s amazing floating mountains

Immortalized in the movie Avatar, China’s Zhangjiajie Mountains are mind-blowing in their scope and other-worldliness.  I’m DYING to visit and experience this in person.  Blue creatures optional.

14.  Visit all 7 continents

Like…I’ve gotta get a move on here.  I’ve spent so much time in Europe, and obviously North America.  I’ve done some solid travel in South America and Oceania (IF THAT’S EVEN A REAL CONTINENT).

But other than technicalities (Asian Turkey, I think Israel and Jordan may technically be Africa), I’ve got a ways to go.

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15.  Experience Russia’s culture and architecture

The insanely colorful domes of Moscow and St. Petersburg have fired my imagination.  There’s so much I don’t know about this massive country and culture, and I’d love to start scratching the surface.

16.  Get my PADI dive certification

Up until my senior year of high school, I thought I wanted to be a marine biologist.  Then I realized that I wasn’t super into science 🙂

But I still really want to get my dive certification to be able to take advantage of great scuba diving opportunities in different destinations.  For instance, I would have loved to dive the Silfra Fissure rather than just snorkel, and same for Belize’s barrier reef.

You might also like:   10 Places I’m Dying to Visit in 2022

17.  And with that, dive the Great Barrier Reef

This has been on my travel bucket list since I was a teenager!  Even though half of the coral in the world’s largest barrier reef has been bleached or killed, there are tons of amazing dive spots left.

This article on Nomadic Matt has great info on how to plan your trip and what to expect, and I hope to make this a reality in the next few years…while it’s still open to tourists!

You might also like:   A Guide to Finding the Right Flight Every Time

18.  Ride in a hot air balloon

I’ve actually scheduled this multiple times, and been repeatedly thwarted!  I had hot air balloon rides planned in both New Zealand and Turkey, and both times the weather had other ideas.

I just think that floating over a cool landscape sounds awesome, and I can add it to my list of airborne activities…skydiving, paragliding, etc. 🙂

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19.  Road trip around New Zealand’s South Island

It’s hard to even know what photo to use, because the diversity of stunning landscapes is unbelievable.  From craggy snowy peaks to glaciers to turquoise beaches to alien landscape rocks to crashing waterfalls, there’s something for everyone here.

I spent a couple weeks exploring new Zealand and it still barely scratched the surface.  I’m dying to return and spend more time here.

20.  Visit the Grand Canyon

As an American, it just seems…shameful that I haven’t.  I’ve seen thousands of photos and video of one of our most iconic natural wonders, but still haven’t managed to visit myself.  Part of that is it truly is kind if in the middle of nowhere.  Like, you’re not going to just end up in the neighborhood!

I also feel like you have to plan this trip quite a bit ahead of time to get housing and such, and I’m terrible at that longer-term commitment.  But I definitely need to knuckle down!

Update: I was able to visit the North Rim on a day trip!

21.  Watch the sun set over the Greek islands

This just sounds so magical.  The Greek isles have been on my list forever…sure, I want to see the famous views of Santorini and Mykonos, but I’m not really a crowds person.  So I’d love to spend most of my time exploring some of the smaller more “hidden gem” islands that Greece has to offer.

And maybe combine that with my sailing trip 🙂

I finally made it to Santorini and Naxos !

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22.  Cruise in Antarctica

Now that I’ve been to Cappadocia (my last bucket list #1), getting to experience the wonders of Antarctica sits squarely atop my bucket list.  It takes planning and serious money, but it’s most definitely on my radar for the next 3-5 years!

From astounding icebergs to penguins to absolutely alien landscapes, my brain can’t even fathom what this would be like.  But I know it needs to happen.

23.  See a Broadway show in NYC

This is just one of those quintessential life goals, almost a rite of passage for travelers in their 20s and 30s.  No matter whether you’re a musical theatre nerd or not (I am a bit), this is such a fun experience.  Get dressed up, having dinner ahead of time, and then enjoy being dazzled.

I saw Wicked on Broadway several years ago (not the original cast, sadly), but would love to get back there for one of the even older classics some day!

You might also like:  The Best Travel Pillows for Different Sleepers

24.  Walk the Great Wall of China

This might feel cliche, but it’s a must-do for a reason.  The size and history are a huge part of the draw, not to mention its spot as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

And then I can pretend I’m a soldier defending the wall from the Huns …

25.  Take an amazing river cruise (or the fjords of Norway)

Again, I’ve *technically* done this, with my two-hour boat trip through the Nærøyfjord , but I’d like to do an all-day affair.  Norway’s fjords are stunning, and you know I love me a boat, so this is a match made in heaven.  I’d really love to see this in summer as well, with all the greenery and blue skies.

You might also like:   A Packing List for Active Winter Travel

26.  Eat breakfast with giraffes in Kenya

This feels kind of like a cheat since I already talked about a safari, but this is a little different.  I’ve been obsessed with Kenya’s Giraffe Manor ever since I first saw it on Pinterest.

The manor was originally built in the 1930s and has been a giraffe sanctuary since the ’70s.  There are only six bedrooms so it’s very private, and guests can share breakfast with the eight giraffes in residence.  And they are the CUTEST!!!

27.  Take cooking classes in Turkey (or anywhere else)

Turkish food is one of my absolute favorite cuisines (as evidenced by the ode to Turkish food I wrote).  I also got to experience a ton of homemade Turkish food on my 2-day sailing trip, and I want so badly to learn how to make some of this myself.  Tender spiced kofte and kebabs, doughy pide, crispy burek, comforting gozleme, flaky baklava, and so much more.  DROOL.

I actually learned to cook in Italy, way back in college when I studied abroad.  My mom was a great cook but I basically refused to learn, until I studied in Florence for a summer.  I still make my host mom, Giovanna’s, homemade pesto and tiramisu all the time, and would love to do more cooking classes there.

You might also like:   How to Make Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Corba)

28.  Go dog sledding in Scandinavia

I had an amazing time visiting Camp Tamok outside of Tromso, Norway.  We slept in a traditional Sami lavvu, enjoyed gorgeous scenery during Polar Night, and got to go dog sledding with the pups in the morning.  I did a TON of research ahead of time on the different tour operators and how they raise and treat the dogs to make sure I was able to find a great, ethical place.

These pups seemed so excited once we got to get out and run, and it was a breathtakingly beautiful pearly pink morning.  A must-do.

I also went dog sledding in Finland , if you want to check that out!

You might also like:   A Packing List for Iceland (or Similar) in Summer

29.  Snorkel or scuba dive between continents

Despite how insane it sounds, something that I think should be on everyone’s travelbucket list is snorkeling or diving Iceland’s Silfra Fissure .  I know, snorkel + Iceland sounds crazy.  And it is cooooooooooold (like 36 F cold…).  But totally worth it.  

The fissure is a gap between two continents, and the only place where you can dive or snorkel BETWEEN CONTINENTS.  How badass is that?!

The water in the Silfra Fissure is some of the clearest in the world, with visibility up to 400 feet.  It’s also clear water from glacier run-off, so totally safe to drink when it gets into your snorkel air tube… (only me??  fine then.)

You might also like:  Important Questions to Guide You When Planning a Trip

30.  Jet off to the Faroe Islands

These tiny islands are so remote, halfway between Norway and Iceland (though actually an autonomous part of Denmark), and THEY ARE SO CUTE.  It just looks so mystical, like a smaller and sparse Iceland but even more unique.  I want to get there before *everyone* has visited!

It feels like I’ve just scratched the surface, but I think this travel bucket list can keep you busy for a decade!  I’m continuing to add to my own list and starting one for my 40’s as well (I mean I *am* 35 already)…I’d love to know what else I should add to my list.  What future destinations should I dream of??

Other travel inspiration you’ll love:

• 6 Travel Intentions for 2022
• 7 Travel Intentions for 2020
• 10 Places I’m Dying to Visit in 2020
• The 10 Best Books I Read in 2019

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The Best Trips to Take in Your 30s

Your 30s are a magical time. You're a fully formed adult, with all the responsibility that adulthood entails, but you might also have disposable income to spend. Thirty-year-olds "are not looking to save money necessarily, they're looking to spend it quickly," says Andrea Malis, a travel advisor with Comeback Odyssey Travel in Tuscon, Arizona, of her millennial clients. And since so many are pressed for time, it isn't uncommon for these travelers to pack as much as they can into a fairly short time frame. "In four days, they'll do what a retiree would take three weeks to do," Malis says.

With help from a handful of seasoned travel experts, we chose the best trips to take in your 30s, whether you're looking to sample fine Malbec, hike Machu Picchu , or clock in some spa time. Each offers rich opportunities for seeing the world—and yourself—from a wholly new vantage point.

"You have the wine region, but then you have the active component—hiking and biking," Comeback Odyssey Travel's Malis says of Argentina's attractions . Lisa Lindblad, owner of Lisa Lindblad Travel Design in New York City, agrees the geographically diverse country is "very outdoorsy" with its snow-capped mountains and dreamy coastlines. From the café culture of Buenos Aires to Patagonia's rainforests and Mendoza's mouth-watering parillas, Argentina travel offers a little something for everyone—especially food-loving millennials with a fondness for nature.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

"Belize is really popular, even just for four nights," says Lynda Turley of Alpine Travel in Saratoga, California. That's especially true among newlyweds, who want "to stay somewhere close to the U.S. but want to get away for a last hurrah before they're a bit more tied down." She recommends "staying part of the time at the beach for excellent snorkeling and diving, and then part of the time in the rainforest for the culture and nightlife." The beach at Turtle Inn, part of the Coppola family of resorts , is a favorite thanks to its plethora of water activities, including zip lining.

"You've got your chance to see the Northern Lights in winter; in summer, you've got endless days," Lindblad says. Best of all, the country is highly accessible, making it ideal for time-crunched travelers. "It sits so close to the East Coast, you can go on your way to England. Or for a long weekend, spend two or three days there, and then carry on or come home," she says. Though no one really stays in Reykjavik, Lindblad says Hotel Rangá is an attractive option. There are many well-positioned lodges, since, after all, "logistics is everything in Iceland."

For foodies and hikers alike, Marjorie Shaw, founder of Insider's Italy, based in Rome, recommends the stunning Amalfi coast and Trentino-Alto Adige in the far north. Amalfi is best in winter, when it's low season, but if you insist on going in summer, you'll be rewarded with hikes and "excursions to Greek temples and villas destroyed by Mt. Vesuvius," she says. Late spring to early autumn is best for Trentino-Alto Adige, as it borders Austria and Switzerland and offers an enticing array of cultures. In the largely German Alto Adige, Shaw says, you'll find "small Latin communities scattered throughout."

"Japan is everybody's passion these days, particularly among 30-somethings," says Lindblad. "It's expensive, but if they have disposable income, there is really something for everybody: food, design, clothes and architecture." Malis agrees: "Japan has a booming culinary scene beyond sushi and teppanyaki , which should not be missed. Add a fish market, whiskey or sake tour, and your trip would be amazing." Health nuts will flock to Kyoto's ryokans , Lindblad says, especially Beniya Mukayu in artsy Kanazawa, while rookies will appreciate the ease of the country's transportation system .

New Zealand

"New Zealand is huge with the 30-year-old market and adventure market," says Turley of Alpine Travel. The locally grown food is almost fully sustainable—think fresh water salmon, green-lipped mussels, cheeses, and pit fruit—and the wine is superb. " Wellington is a super-fun college town and great jumping-off point for seeing The Lord of the Rings filming locations," Turley says, while visiting Waiheke Island "is like going to Tiburon or Sausalito for the day in California." Just a two-hour ferry from Auckland, Waiheke is perfect for day trips to wineries like Miro Vineyard or overnight stays at one of the many cute boutique hotels.

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

"Peru is a really achievable destination for somebody in their 30s," Malis says, because the airfare is reasonable. There's the allure of fulfilling a bucket list item (the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu ), and since millennials like to be rewarded for their efforts, they can chow down post-hike at one of the fancy Relais & Chateaux properties. Speaking of hiking, it doesn't get much better than the historic Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Sacsayhuamán, the "Stonehenge of the Andes," or the mother of all Inca trails, Machu Picchu.

" Portugal is a great value, especially with the dollar being so strong," says Turley, who's worked with many clients in their 30s. "It's half the price of Spain to start out with," and it fits the millennial bill thanks to its serious wine culture. "If they're not spending a lot of money in Lisbon , they can blow a little in the Duoro Valley in the north," the world's first designated wine region, Lindblad says. Dropping a few euros on Six Senses , a luxurious 19th-century manor house overlooking the vine-covered hills, isn't a bad idea either.

South Africa

Going back to the idea of accomplishing a lot in a short time frame, Malis says " South Africa is an amazing place for people to go visit," as "you have the ocean experience, where you can shark dive" and the ability to enjoy a couple of nights in the Cape Winelands , the country's mountainous answer to Napa Valley. For history buffs, Johannesburg offers themed walking tours to unlock the city's history and get a bit closer to Nelson Mandela, while the recent opening of Four Seasons Westcliff will suit a luxury-minded crowd in need of a spa treatment after a safari.

For those in search of tropical climates free from the threat of Zika, the largest island in French Polynesia is a wonderful option, Turley says. Of course, whether you go will depend on your budget since airfare doesn't come cheap. If you can swing it, Turley highly recommends The Brando resort, an eco-friendly oasis tucked 45 minutes away on the private island of Tetiaroa. "It used to belong to Marlon Brando, and it's been opened as a resort," she explains. "And again, it's got everything: excellent food and wine, all included; all your wellness is there."

South America's buzzy hotspot is super accessible, Lindblad says, especially for those coming east from Buenos Aires. From there, a roughly four-hour ferry-and-bus ride gets you to Montevideo, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll on the white-sand beaches; visit Ciudad Vija, the city's oldest neighborhood; or hit one of the many bars and nightclubs, where tango performances are a lively tradition. Montevideo is best in October, when the temperatures ease up and average rainfall takes a nosedive. But perhaps the most alluring aspect, Lindblad says, is that you won't need a tour guide.

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10 Bucket List Trips to Take in Your 30s

By Jennifer Dombrowski 31 Comments

I have celebrated my faux 29th birthday again and again…and again. When I officially entered my mid-thirties, it was time to just embrace it. If you’re like me with your 20s undeniably in the rear view mirror, you probably have more money in your bank account, a better sense of who you are, and more importantly, you’ve discovered your travel style . I know I have, so I’ve put together a list of 10 bucket list trips to take in your 30s for adventurers who love a little bit of luxury at the end of the day:

1. Go on an African Safari in East Africa

A bucket list trip I’ve already taken twice in my 30s, going on an African safari in Tanzania and Kenya tops the list of most amazing trips I’ve ever been on. Aside from spotting all of Africa’s Big Five , we watched a pack of hyenas hunt, zebras and wildebeest as they migrated on the Serengeti Plains and giraffes crane their necks just for a drink. We combined adventure with luxury by sleeping in tented camps and 1000 year old baobab trees all while traveling by private plane on a SkySafari in Tanzania and at boutique luxury camps in Kenya .

2. Camp in Antarctica

The seventh continent has been on our bucket list for a while and we WILL make it there in our 30s. Not all Antarctica cruises are created equal though. When we go to Antarctica we not only want to step foot on the continent, we want to camp on it. It would be the highlight of my 30s to wake up to a curious penguin checking me out while cocooned in my sleeping bag. Quark Expedition s, the leader in Polar travel, offers the option to camp on the continent and when we go, we’ll be going with them. (Unless I get that job at the Penguin Post Office.)

3. Glamping in Moab

I like the fancy form of roughing it. Tim likes a bona fide camping experience. Glamping is a great compromise to make both of us happy – he’s out in nature and I still get to be squeaky clean every day. Moab Under Canvas sits right at the edge of Arches National Park, allowing you to commune with nature’s bizarrely beautiful formations and sleep under the stars. We’d love to spend a few days glamping and wetting our appetite for adventure while white water rafting the Colorado River, hiking in Arches and Canyonlands National Park and hot air ballooning over Moab.

4. Dive in the Maldives

It be cliched to say, but the Maldives truly are paradise on Earth. The 1100 islands that make up the Maldives are home to some of the largest coral atolls on Earth. Swimming right off your over water villa is like diving right in to a life-sized aquarium. The over water villas with private plunge pools, underwater restaurant where you can dine on aphrodisiacs like lobster, couples massages and pristine white sand beaches at Anantara Kihavah Villas make for a sexy holiday best shared with your special someone.

The Colorful Underwater World of the Maldives

5. Explore the Alaskan Wilderness

Alaska. The last frontier full of untamed, untouched wilderness. We think it’s the perfect adventure for a thirtysomething; after all it’s been an adventure destination since the times of Captain Cook. With only 20% of Alaska accessible by roads, we think Un-Cruise Adventures is the way to go. Massive floating resorts, er cruise ships, aren’t our thing. But a small expedition style ship that can navigate small inlets and passages and hosts an itinerary full of adventure activities from kayaking to hiking and even SUP is right up our alley. And we’d just be tickled pink to get up-close with Alaska’s brown bears!

6. Go Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

We retired from the club scene years ago and moved on to the art of eating well and enjoying the finer things in life, like wine. Meandering through the lush vineyards of Bordeaux , sipping some of the most highly coveted wine blends in the world, blending our own wine and taking a cooking lesson to prepare the perfect meal to pair with the wine are just some adult ways to have fun in Bordeaux .

Blend Your Own Cognac at Camus Cognac

7. Swim with the Bahamas’ Swimming Pigs

Once upon a time we planned to honeymoon at the brand new Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. That was 13 years ago now and it never happened. But now that we’ve been to the Bahamas twice, we’re so glad we opted for the lesser known islands to seek out pristine beaches and exotic nature. The Exumas, where you can call ultra-exclusive luxury resorts home at the end of an adventure filled day, make us go googly-eyed. And you can swim with the Bahamas’ famous swimming pigs !

8. Drive the Ring Road in Iceland

Iceland is a great destination to go to no matter your age and we’ve seen the twenty-somethings hitch hiking, surviving off of nothing more than the $2 gas station hot dogs and pitching a tent wherever the wind took them that day. But in your 30s you can splurge on amazing experiences like a helicopter flight over glaciers and volcanoes , luxury accommodations like the stunning  Hotel Ranga and feast on Iceland’s fantastic cuisine. Honestly, after a day of hard core adventures like trekking to the summit of a glacier , wouldn’t you prefer to soothe your tired muscles in a hot tub under the stars before indulging in lobster bisque and filet of lamb?

Iceland’s Ring Road in 1 Week

9. chase the northern lights in lapland.

Northern Lights tourism is still a relatively new trend, though the Northern Lights themselves are not. The Aurora Borealis, and its southern counterpart the Aurora Australis, have been dancing in the Polar Night for at least as long as the Earth is old. Over the last two or three years as the sun reaches the peak of its solar cycle, spectacular photos of green, red, purple and sometimes even blue curtains have intrigued people enough to travel to the far north in teeth-chattering temperatures for a chance to witness the phenomena in person. Taylor made holidays to Lapland combine Northern Lights tours with other adventure activities from dog sledding to sleeping in an ice hotel . It truly is a trip of a lifetime, albeit an expensive one, and worth the splurge.

Why Abisko is the Best Place in Europe to See Northern Lights

10. Explore Easter Island on Horseback

I’ve wanted to visit the remote speck of an island in the middle of the Pacific, known as Easter Island, since I saw Matt Lauer report from there in his ‘Where In the World is Matt Lauer’ series on the Today Show . Though only a few flights each week carry adventurous tourists to Easter Island, it’s certainly not an undiscovered place. But some of Easter Island’s most spectacular Moais (the weird statues) are accessible only by trail and best explored on horseback. It’s even possible to arrange multi-day horseback excursions around Easter Island, which sounds like the perfect adventure to me.

This article contains affiliate links. When you book on Anantara , Booking.com or Viator through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

March 6, 2015 at 4:13 PM

I’m in my 30s too, and although I have no bucket list to speak of, I do want to go to Antarctica. I didn’t know you could camp out there though. I wonder what its effect will be on the “locals”? Based on this list, I also want to explore Lapland, see the northern lights, and of course set foot in Rapa Nui. Maybe I should write about my own bucket list…LOL

Jacomijn says

March 6, 2015 at 4:48 PM

I’m 40 now and did a lot of great travels in the last decade…..and planning on to do somd more 😉

March 6, 2015 at 5:24 PM

You are still so young – and these bucket lists will only get longer. I am heading to Maob at the end of the month. That part of Utah is one of my fave places on the planet. We’ll be staying at the Sunflower Hill Inn – a place I love. Good luck getting through this list.

March 6, 2015 at 8:16 PM

There are two that stand out for me in this list. Swimming with the pigs in those gorgeous clear waters! And the Ring Road trip in Iceland. I would love to see both of these even though It won´t be in my 30´s ; )

Sarah Harkness says

March 6, 2015 at 7:29 PM

I have already done the Bahamas, glamping in Moab (not all it has cracked up to be unless you spend the extra money for a large tent), and explored Alaska. Norway is on my list this year for Northern Lights, and I have always wanted to do a safari. I guess that isn’t bad for someone who is still 28!

Matthew Hirtes says

March 6, 2015 at 9:06 PM

I’m in my 40s now. But would still love to visit some of these places. Thanks for the recommendations.

Catherine Sweeney says

March 6, 2015 at 9:09 PM

Let me tell you about life beyond the 30s! It’s awesome. 🙂 And actually, still feels like 30 for me. Love these bucket list trips, although I might be able to skip swimming with the pigs. But Bordeaux? That’s right up my alley.

March 7, 2015 at 10:36 PM

I love the idea of swimming with pigs in the Bahamas! Easter Island is my ultimate bucket list destination, I am fascinated by the whole mystery. I had the most amazing time on safari in Tanzania

Jessica says

March 8, 2015 at 10:26 PM

Ahh your pictures of the Maldives definitely makes it look like paradise! I’d love to go there, and checking out the Northern Lights is on my bucket list too. I’m not sure about camping in Antarctica though – much as I like penguins, I hate both the cold and camping, so perhaps not. 🙂

Vanessa says

March 17, 2015 at 4:27 PM

OMG I literally want to do all of those but swimming with PIGS?! My favourite animal ever – gonna have to go immediately 😉

April 3, 2015 at 5:00 AM

I love this. Definitely makes me look forward to my 30s that are right around the corner. A few of these were already on my list like the Northern Lights but there are a couple more I am going to have to add. Thanks for sharing.

Suzan Hall says

November 3, 2015 at 7:55 AM

Great list! I would love to visit these places in my 30’s as I am traveler and it really excites me.People sometimes think that traveling is something you have to do when you’re young. It’s not. Currently I am exploring San Francisco tours and trust SF is one of the best place to visit in your 30’s.

Edwina says

March 12, 2016 at 4:30 AM

I’ve got horseback riding in Iceland on my bucketlist, never thought about doing that on Easter Island as well! Also, the Maldives and swimming with pigs are definite items on my list.

Rhonda says

January 21, 2017 at 10:30 AM

Easter Island is on my bucket list. I figured I’d get to it when I do South America but there’s so much to do in S. America, I’m not sure I want to spend the time to get there and back.

Nat Deduck says

January 21, 2017 at 10:32 AM

This is probably the most epic bucket list I’ve seen! You’re right, most of those items are on our list! Alaska, Antarctica, Maldives and Iceland have been on our list for ages!

January 21, 2017 at 7:02 PM

As somebody past her 30s, I say that it’s never too late to chase luxurious adventures. That being said, I’m more into drinking wine than camping in Antarctica. Hopefully I’ll make it to Bordeaux the next time that I’m in France.

Marcus and Mel says

January 21, 2017 at 10:04 PM

Some great ideas for trips. We are going to Iceland for Mel’s birthday next month and can’t wait. We’ve got some really interesting hotels booked, unfortunately the Hotel Ranga was unavailable for our dates.

January 22, 2017 at 10:04 AM

An article like this just supports my ongoing saying – the more you travel, the more you realise you still have to see. So many wonderful places here. Would love to get to the Maldives and I’m hoping to get to Alaska this year. Lots of inspiration here.

Anne Klien ( MeAnne) says

January 22, 2017 at 11:51 AM

The bordeaux is definitely high on my list wine good food hopefully this summer. And eastern island to explore

January 22, 2017 at 10:47 PM

It’s true that age and experience does clarify you travel style and many other things so I’m OK embracing it. You picked 10 fabulous trips here wouldn’t it be fabulous if you could tick these (or even some of them) off in the next 5 years.

Joan Torres says

January 24, 2017 at 10:48 PM

That’s an amazing travel bucket list! It’s sad to say that i haven’t done any of those adventures, but I’m not 30 yet so, I still have a lot of time! Love the swimming pig. Is this a real thing in the Bahamas?

Catarina Leonardo says

January 25, 2017 at 2:36 AM

Excellent tips that you got here!! I am in my 30 and i want to try all of this. Swimming with pigs it would be amazing!!!

January 25, 2017 at 7:27 AM

These are great! I’ll be 30 next year so need a whole new bucketlist to celebrate the coming of age :D! I’ve crossed offthe Tanzania safari, and will be camping in Antarctica next week eeeek! So excited for that one!!

January 25, 2017 at 8:28 PM

Great list there! I’ve done some of them, but would love to go to Antarctica, swim with pigs in the Bahamas and see the Northern Lights.

Andrea Crain says

March 31, 2017 at 10:18 AM

Hey Jennifer, I’m in my late 20’s. Your bucket list is great, I’ve covered just one from this list. 😛 Last year I went to Maldives with my special one. Glamping in Moab is already on my list but, I have never heard of camping in Antarctica, would love to do that. African Safari in Tanzania also sounds great, full of adventure. Thanks 🙂

Jennifer Dombrowski says

April 1, 2017 at 1:34 PM

Glad to hear you’re already working on some adventures from this list and got some inspiration for your own bucket list!

April 26, 2017 at 5:20 AM

While I am in my late 30s, I never did create a “Bucket List” for this decade. Aside from visiting Machu Piccu and watching the World Cup in Brazil, I have really been slacking on my International destination bucket list this decade. Glad you created this as it has now gotten me to think about how I want to live my 40s soon! Going to start off by planning an epic trip for my Big 4-0 and go from there!

April 26, 2017 at 4:02 PM

Glad we could give you some ideas, Ray! Where are you thinking about for your big birthday trip?

Bob Miller says

January 14, 2018 at 6:52 PM

Will be 31 this year and it’s a shame I haven’t done as much traveling as I would have liked. Been postponing my whole life and now with the kids here, it seems I won’t be doing much traveling as I had initially planned.

February 4, 2023 at 10:27 AM

You’ve got to add swimming with sharks in Bora Bora to this list! It’s one of the best experiences ever. Great list though, making a million plans for the year right now haha.

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30 After 30: The Thirty Best Travel Destinations for 30+ Travelers

A few months ago I set out to write a “30 Before 30” “bucket list” travel guide.  Thirty things that every traveler should do before they turn thirty.  I quickly realized that was a ridiculous idea, as it would take a pretty broad stretch of the imagination to identify thirty different things that would appeal to any and every twenty-something traveler.  Plus, assuming that eighteen is the age of majority in your region, that really only gives you twelve years of independent adulthood to work your way through thirty different travel challenges.  Who’s got time for that?

I knew I had to shift my thinking.  I started to wonder why we focus so much on the years between eighteen and thirty, when it’s actually the years after that when we’re more likely to have the ability, time, money, knowledge, skills and confidence to embark on life-changing travel adventures.  Screw “thirty before thirty” (in the nicest way possible, of course)… I wanted to make a “thirty after thirty” list of the destinations around the world that are truly worth waiting for .  

I reached out to more than twenty-five other “seasoned” travel writers and asked them to share their favorite destinations for travelers in their thirties, forties, fifties and beyond.  From opulent luxury getaways to once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters to complete cultural immersion, they found travel destinations that definitely won’t disappoint even the most experienced travelers.  And the great news is that with the average American citizen living to be seventy-eight years old (and with lifespans even longer in many other countries!) you’ve got plenty of time to visit all thirty of these destinations… no need to pack them all into a single decade just to cross them off an arbitrary bucket list!

(Still convinced that you need a “thirty before thirty” travel guide?  Well, I scaled that post down to “ten before thirty”, focusing on essential travel themes rather than super-specific experiences.  Read it here. )

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Europe

Often, traveling around Europe is associated with travelers in their late teens or early twenties, with big backpacks and an Interrail pass.  And yes, that image does accurately describe how I spent the summers in the mid-2000s!  However, I’m thirty-five years old now, and I have a completely different approach to travel in Europe.  I’m more willing to pay for little luxuries, to travel slowly and to go off the beaten path to have authentic travel experiences.  If you’re a little more mature (or even just a little older, not necessarily more mature!) consider adding these European gems to your “30 After 30” travel plans.

#1 – Costa Brava, Spain

While Spain’s big-city Barcelona gets a lot of tourist attention, the region north of the Catalan capital, the Costa Brava, deserves accolades as well. Full of relaxing beaches, a craggy coastline, and quaint villages, the “brave coast” is ideal for travelers who want to relax and explore destinations of authentic Catalan culture. The Costa Brava doesn’t disappoint for those over 30 – when your appreciation for culture, history, and nature deepens more and more!

The Costa Brava is the beloved region of international artist Salvador Dalí. He was born in the small town of Figueres, which houses the eccentric and incredible Salvador Dalí Museum-Theater. If you’re looking for scenery, the picturesque town Cadaqués is a whitewashed former fishing village with quiet coves and a rocky coast. Other than being a favorite vacation spot for Dalí, Cadaqués was also a special destination for other artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró. For Game of Thrones fans, the small town of Girona is an underrated Spanish town that boasts a gorgeous Gothic cathedral, Roman remains, and medieval buildings. On the Costa Brava’s interior, you can find scenic natural areas like the rocky Cap de Creus National Park, the Montseny mountain range, and ancient volcanoes in Garrotxa.

Justine Ancheta, 41, from Latitude 41

Carly’s Tip – If you’re passing through Barcelona on your trip to the Costa Brava, stay in one of my five favorite neighborhoods in the city!

#2 – Bologna, Italy

Many first-time travelers to Italy hit the big three: Rome, Florence, and Venice. But, once travelers start to plan repeat travels to Italy, they start to look for more sophisticated destinations. One of these top destinations to visit has to be Bologna, in Emilia Romagna.

Bologna, and some of the nearby cities like Modena and Parma, are home to slow food and fast cars. That means it’s a destination for people who want a little more than cheap street-side pizza. One of the main reasons to visit is to taste all of the famous Bologna foods . This includes mortadella, lasagna, and tagliatelle ragu.  As well, you can taste some of the top Emilia Romagna food products that are known around the world, including prosciutto, Parmigiano Reggiano, and traditional balsamic vinegar.  It’s also possible to go truffle hunting just outside of the city, in the Bologna Hills. In fact, only thirty minutes from Bologna is Savigno, the City of Truffles, where it is possible to go truffle hunting in the surrounding hills.

Amber, 43, from With Husband in Tow

Carly’s Tip: I also recommend Turin, Piemonte , for an authentic Italian experience!

#3 – Budapest, Hungary

I visited Budapest last summer and it was unexpectedly amazing! I often compared it to Paris and decided quickly that if given the opportunity, I’d return in a heartbeat.

There are so many things to do in Budapest that five days were barely enough to truly get a feel for this incredible historic city. A visit to Budapest’s Jewish Quarter is, for me, a must do. I’m not Jewish but to explore this area, especially with a local guide, is truly incredible. Visit the Kazinczy Synagogue and the Dohany Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe. Make sure to take time to explore the ruin pubs in the Jewish Quarter as well. While party locations at night, Szimpla Kert is so unique that its definitely worth exploring during the day. The building housed Jewish families during the war and now, you can even enjoy a Sunday brunch offered by local farmers and producers.

Another amazing area to explore in Budapest is Castle Hill, especially the area around Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion on the Pest side of Budapest. Matthias Church is stunning inside and the view over Parliament from the tower is one of the best views in Budapest. Just outside, you’ll find Fisherman’s Bastion with its peaked points similar to a fairy tale castle.

Finally, if you’re looking for an evening activity, you have to take a night time cruise on the Danube. The lights of Budapest at night are incredible. Parliament is truly one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve experienced and to see it glow against the water at night is a lifetime experience. Budapest is truly one of the world’s most incredible cities.

Joanne, 50, from Sunsets and Roller Coasters

#4 – The Azores, Portugal

The Azores is one of the best places for travelers of any age, but it is especially a fantastic destination for those of us over 30. I first went around a year and a half ago, have been planning several trips back since and can’t wait to embark on my next one!

The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands remotely located in the middle of the Atlantic in between Portugal and the United States. The main island, Sao Miguel , is home to the largest Azorean city, Ponta Delgada, and several of the islands’ natural wonders. The east side of the island is where Furnas is located; Furnas is a geothermal Disneyland where the local delicacy (Cozido das Furnas) is created and cooked underground in the Earth’s heat. On the island’s west side, you will find crater lakes and some of the most spectacular views the island has to offer, such as Miradouro da Boca do Inferno which overlooks the town of Sete Cidades and stunning, green crater lakes.

The other eight islands are completely unique in their own rights- from volcanic peaks to being saturated with waterfalls… the Azores are one of the best places to visit for those of us over 30. Getting to Azores is fairly easy from continental Europe and is becoming increasingly easier for those located in Canada and the US. The islands are gaining fame these days for their landscape and scenery and it is not long before they are a top contender for the most desirable place in the world to visit.

 Megan Starr, 35, from MeganStarr.com

#5 – Berlin, Germany

The first time I went to Berlin I got sucked so deeply into the city’s non-stop nightlife scene that I hardly saw any of the German capital.  It was my second trip, when I was thirty-four years old, that really helped me get to know the city, its culture and its people… and it was on that trip that I truly fell in love with Berlin.

Traveling to Berlin in my thirties meant that I didn’t have the energy (or the desire, for that matter) to go out partying from midnight to 9:00 am.  I mean, those are prime sleeping hours!  Instead, I trusted my body’s biological rhythms.  I woke up fairly early every morning for a hearty German breakfast (my favorite was the complimentary breakfast served at Casa Camper Berlin ) and then set out to explore the city by public transportation and by foot.  In the afternoon I might stop by a bar along the riverfront for an ice-cold glass of radler, and in the evening I sampled amazing German vegetarian food (okay, and just a teeny-bit of nightlife) before retiring to bed before 1:00 am every night.  I felt energized, balanced, happy and healthy every day, which is a lot more than I can say for my previous, hangover-filled visit to Berlin!

Carly, 35, from Fearless Female Travels

#6 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Think of Amsterdam and you think of young drunk and/or stoned travellers ignoring the city’s famous canals and culture in favour of coffee shops and bars. While there is no age limit for coffee shops or bars, and I know visitors of all ages like the city’s relaxed marijuana laws, Amsterdam has so much to enjoy for a traveller in their 30s or older.

It goes without saying that Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and so just wandering around is enough of a treat for travellers of all ages, but older (and more sober!) visitors may like to find hidden gems such as the Begijnhof Square in the middle of the city, which has Amsterdam’s oldest wooden house and a church featuring some Piet Mondrian artwork, or De Papegaai Church on the city’s busiest shopping street Kalverstraat.

It’s also worth mentioning the fact that Amsterdam has countless things to do , including more museums per capita than any other city, festivals for all occasions at all times of the year, and a highly underrated foodie scene, including 16 Michelin-starred restaurants. And if you do still want to enjoy Amsterdam’s coffee shop scene and the famous Red Light District, then you can do so in a surprisingly informative way by visiting the Cannabis Museum or by going on a tour of the Red Light District given by a former sex worker.

Frankie Thompson, 37, from As the Bird Flies

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Asia

Asia is one of the most popular continents for budget travelers, which makes it especially popular with young, inexperienced travelers on a shoestring.  Over the years, though, I’ve learned that there’s so much more to Asia than the cheap beers and budget hotels of Southeast Asia, and it’s a continent that I’ve grown to appreciate so much more in my thirties.  In fact, in six weeks I’ll be departing for a trip that crosses of more than ten of the thirty travel destinations I’ve always wanted to visit most.  This trip will take me from Taiwan to Bali to Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul to Bishkek to Tashkent to Delhi… and beyond!  Follow my trip on Facebook , or keep reading below for more Asia travel inspiration from distinctly different destinations.

#7 – Iran

Travelling to Iran is always a very cultural experience. I’ve been visiting this Middle Eastern country since I was 32 and I always can’t wait to go back. There is a great variety of experiences to be chased in Iran, from delving into the history of their Achaemenid Empire in Persepolis, near Shiraz, to discovering the mesmerising architecture of the Safavid era in Isfahan to exploring the Zoroastrian culture in the ancient city of Yazd.

In Iran, alcohol is illegal and so are night and disco clubs. Sure, you can find booze and underground parties if you really can’t stay away from it for a couple of weeks, but being illegal, it’s very risky. This doesn’t mean that there are no coffee shops in the Iranian cities. I loved the ones in Tehran’s Enghelab Street, those in Isfahan’s Armenian quarter Jolfa and the ones around the main Naqsh-e Jahan Square, where you can enjoy different delicious teas, drinks and cakes in an atmosphere that blends modern and traditional décor.

There are many tourists in Iran, including many young people, and most visitors respect the laws of the country. This makes Iran makes a more tranquil over-30 travel destination, but it definitely doesn’t make it less exciting. Each season has its festivals and regions to visit, each city its history and landmarks, and each market its stories. Iran requires a more savvy way of travelling, but it’s a country of perpetual discovery and for sure it’s never boring.

Angela, 40, from Chasing the Unexpected

#8 – Arunachal Pradesh, India

Travelling in the remote region of Arunachal Pradesh is easily one of our travel highlights in recent years. India’s Seven Sisters, a somewhat tribal region made up of seven states, is one of India’s least explored places, and Arunachal Pradesh is probably the most difficult of the country’s northeastern states to travel in.

Travelling on the abysmal roads in Arunachal Pradesh is tough, and not for the faint-hearted. The region tends to be expensive when compared to other places in India, and the process of obtaining the necessary permits can be rather off-putting. Nevertheless, Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful and diverse regions we have been to, with its wild mountainous interior, friendly locals and unusual tribal traditions.

A good understanding of the region’s tribal culture is essential when travelling in Arunachal Pradesh, especially if you intend to spend a fair amount of time there. Although not obligatory, guides may be necessary in some of the areas, particularly if you would like to experience and understand some of the tribal rituals such as those of the Apatani tribe in the Ziro Valley.

The majestic beauty of Arunachal Pradesh is mind-blowing and this, together with its rich cultural heritage, makes the little-explored Northeast Indian state one of our favourite over-thirty travel destinations!

Michelle, 41, from Cheeky Passports

#9 – Jordan

You don’t travel in your thirties for the same reasons that you travel in your 20’s. The “life of da party” is (for most) over and you can afford to travel to more expensive destinations. One of the first high-budget trips I took when I turned thirty was Jordan.

I had dreamed of going to Jordan ever since I watched Indiana Jones, but I knew it was not that easy to backpack. When planning my travels I realized that just the visa and the entrance to the most popular site in Jordan (Petra) would cost me more than 150 dollars! On top of that, there aren’t many ways to go from one place to the next because there are very few public buses. The best way to travel around is to either book a tour, rent a car or hire a private guide and driver like we did. When it comes accommodations, you won’t find my hostels or budget hotels like in many other countries. Jordan is a fabulous country, but you’d better have a good income to be able to afford it!

Amandine, 32, from Les Berlinettes

#10 – Lebanon

A great place for travelers over thirty, and also a very underrated travel destination, is Lebanon. Officially called Lebanese Republic, the country is located at the crossroads of the Arabian hinterland and the Mediterranean Basin. Yes, it is bordered by Syria to the north and east and by Israel to the south. But that actually doesn’t mean much, as long as you don’t go border hopping.

Lebanon may not be a typical holiday destination, although it a lot to offer. You can even visit the snow-covered mountains in the morning and then and chill at the beaches of the Mediterranean sea in the afternoon. Be ready for the most beautiful sunsets, visit the incredible historical sites such as Baalbek and the whole Beqaa Valley, enjoy evenings in bars and hidden clubs, and eat your way through the traditional restaurants of lively Beirut. Where other destinations offer just what twenty-somethings are looking for, Lebanon is on the rise to be the perfect thirty-something-travel destination.

Clemens Sehi, 35, from Travellers Archive

#11 – Maldives

We think one of the best places for more seasoned travelers would be the islands of Maldives. Maldives is made up of 1200 islands, but only around 200 are inhabited. There are two types of islands: local islands, and resort islands. The resort islands are perfect for a relaxing luxury getaway.

Overwater bungalows are the most sought after accommodations on these islands, and for good reason. You can enjoy your days in your overwater bungalow, swim in your own private infinity pool on the deck, and head out to snorkel in your own part of the sea. There are several islands that have some great all-inclusive resorts, where you can have the run of the entire island and everything taken care of for you. One of our favorite resorts was Robinson Club Noonu . This resort owns the entire island, so it was more of a small resort type feel, where we could go wherever we wanted by foot around the island.

If you’re looking for a luxurious vacation in your thirties and beyond, Maldives is worth checking out!

Sara, 31, from Our Kind of Crazy

#12 – Malaysian Borneo

Malaysian Borneo is a versatile destination for nature lovers, scuba divers and snorkelers, and foodies alike. If you love wild jungle beaches, rainforests and wildlife, river cruises, colonial cities, and adventurous activities, look no further. Borneo is a perfect choice for older travelers who are looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, fun in the sun, and soft adventures, since it’s more mature than many other Asian islands and definitely not a party destination.

Even a two-week itinerary in Borneo can include all of the above: You can see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, unwind on paradise islands where you can swim with turtles and sharks, eat your way through a couple of colonial cities, hike in the rainforest and even summit Mt Kinabalu. If you’re more into relaxing in five-star, all-inclusive resorts, Borneo still keeps you satisfied and offers varied day tours to wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, world-famous caves, and marine reserves.

Niina Lehikoinen, 38, from Bizarre Globe Hopper

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in North America

Hailing from North America myself, I have seen embarrassingly little of my home continent, choosing instead to travel to the opposite corners of the world.  I’ve been to Madrid, Spain, more times than I’ve been been to the next city over from my hometown (and it’s literally only twenty miles down the road!).  So, I had to turn to my travel blogger friends for more details about the best destinations for thirty-something travelers in North America, and they helped me generate this list of spectacularly sophisticated “30 After 30” trip ideas, with a heavy emphasis on sun-seeking getaways and cultural hotspots.  Count me in!

#13 – Havana, Cuba

I first visited Havana when I was 40. I had traveled all over Latin America but for some reason I found Cuba to be very intimidating. I learned it was nothing like I feared and so much more than I expected. But I do think it’s a great country to visit after you turn 30 and have had several years on independent travel under your belt.

There is an incredible culture of art, dance and music in Cuba. And there are amazing restaurants and cafes that serve local Cuban coffee . But you need to also deal with many of the frustrations of a country that suffers from food shortages and a US embargo. Many times you’ll enter a restaurant and half the items on the menu aren’t available. And perhaps it can be frustrating when not everyone speaks English. And wifi in Cuba is an on-going issue so you’re phone likely doesn’t work and you won’t be able to be on the internet all day. And…

Fortunately, with age and more experience traveling, you begin to embrace unique qualities in a country – like the Cubans’ incredible passion for music and dance. And you realize that you don’t need to be online all day, or have cable television in your room or fast food options. Havana is an incredible city of contradictions. Well-educated, modern citizens in a destination many people incorrectly think is frozen in time. Fortunately, with age you realize Cuba isn’t just about classic cars, cigars and mojitos but about the culture that continues to evolve despite all of its challenges. And that’s why over-thirty travellers love Cuba.

Ayngelina, 41, from Bacon is Magic

#14 – Valladolid, Mexico

Valladolid Mexico is often perceived to be a small, boring city on the Yucatan Peninsula, but that is not at all true. This city is exactly the place you are looking for when you are in your thirties (or beyond!) and tired of the hustle and bustle of Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

Valladolid is one of the most upcoming travel destinations in Mexico because of its super laid-back vibe. This is not a party place at all!  Valladolid is where you simply get lost in the streets and admire the historical buildings and search for hidden courtyards with local boutique shops. Lovely coffee shops, delicious vegetarian restaurants, and smoothie bars are opening everywhere around town and yoga workshops can be found across the city. On top of that, some of the best Yucatan cenotes can be found here as well. Renting a car and explore the cenotes around Valladolid is one of the best things to do in Yucatan (along with sleeping in one of the many historical haciendas).  I promise that Valladolid is one of those places that you will start liking more and more the longer you stay!

TravelTomTom, 41

#15 – San Pancho, Mexico

In my twenties, I often traveled to Sayulita, Mexico for a long weekend getaway of surfing, suntanning and boutique shopping.  In my thirties, though, I prefer to head five miles down Mexico’s Nayarit Coast to San Pancho , a much smaller, less-hectic fishing village that has barely been touched by tourism.

San Pancho is ideal for travelers in their thirties, forties and fifties who are looking for an authentic Mexican beach experience, minus the crowds, plus just enough comforts to make you want to come back again and again.  I always check in at Hotel Cielo Rojo , a locally-owned boutique hotel with breathtaking decor and homey touches like complimentary in-room tequila (yes, you heard me right!).  After borrowing a beach chair and umbrella from the hotel, I head two blocks down the road to the beach, which is a stunning strip of golden sand with more than enough space to spread out.  I could spend all day at the beach, reading a book under my umbrella and occasionally dipping my toes in the refreshing water, but I always succumb to the temptation of San Pancho’s surprising vegan and vegetarian cuisine culture, stopping by one of many local restaurants serving healthy brunches and seasonal organic dinner.  Everything is easy in San Pancho, making it ideal for older travelers looking for a break from a high-stress job (or mid-life crisis!).

#16 – Antigua, Guatemala

Visiting the colonial city of Antigua, Guatemala when you’re over thirty is a rewarding experience. The UNESCO World Heritage site was once one of the great cities of the Spanish Empire and the grandeur of its schools, monasteries, churches and government buildings can best be experienced by staying in the atmospheric colonial buildings that have converted into boutique hotels. Unlike when I was younger and my budget only allowed me to stay in a grim hotel on the outskirts of the historic zone, now that I’m older and have a bit more disposable income I’ve been able to stay in some unforgettable accommodations. A little more flexibility in your budget is especially valuable during Guatemala’s festivals and celebrations, such as Holy Week, when rooms are scarce and prices high.

One of the most beautiful boutique hotels I’ve enjoyed is Hotel La Catedral, an authentic Spanish Colonial home dating to the 1700s which was originally built as part of the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, a sprawling palace with stone pillars facing Antigua’s leafy Main Plaza. It’s just steps to the impressive Cathedral of San Jose and staying so close means being able to see the Holy Week processions as they proceed down the cobblestone streets in front of the hotel. I was able to spend leisurely afternoons on the rooftop terrace featuring panoramic views of Volcan de Agua, and in the evenings it was possible to see neon red lava spilling from the cone of still-active Volcan de Fuego.

As an older traveller I’m also interested in many more of the cultural activities offered in Antigua than I was in the past. Cooking classes, market tours and architectural walking tours are all activities that appeal to me now but weren’t of interest to me in my younger years. It’s the most rewarding time to travel and Antigua is filled with riches.

Michele Peterson, age top-secret, from A Taste for Travel  

#17 – Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, British Columbia is a great destination for travelers over 30, and as a native Vancouverite, I’ve enjoyed many aspects of Vancouver as a mature woman.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll find that Vancouver is chock-full of great restaurants at all price points, and it has particularly good Asian food. Fine dining restaurants are also in good supply, particularly in downtown Vancouver. Cocktail bars in Vancouver are excellent and attract people of all ages, with bartenders vying for best mixologist honours.

Vancouver is also a great destination for athletic pursuits of all kinds. Winter sports like downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed within thirty minutes of the city center at local mountains, with world-class skiing at Whistler just an hour and a half away. Summer fun at beautiful local beaches, sailing, and amazing hiking is all within arms-reach too. No matter what you enjoy doing in the outdoors, you’ll love doing it in Vancouver.

If culture is your jam, you’ll find some of the best examples of First Nations art at many Vancouver galleries. The music scene in Vancouver is lively and the nightlife abundant. Live theatre in Vancouver is especially good and there is a great variety of professional theatre companies. Come to Vancouver – it’s a great destination!

Lesley, 55, from Freedom56travel

#19 – Nashville, United States

One of our favorite destinations is Nashville, Tennessee. This capital of the south makes a great weekend getaway for people in their 30s… and there’s good reason!

The flavors and sounds of the south come alive in Nashville. This is Music City USA after all. Nashville is more than the country music, and there’s so much more to the city than the Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame. The clubs in Nashville feature a wide range of musical styles including rock, blues, folk, and even punk. But, unlike in college towns and other big cities, you won’t feel out of place going out for a night on the town if you’re in your thirties (or even older!). Nashville welcomes one and all.

The city is also a culinary powerhouse. Yes, you’ll find southern BBQ, but you’ll also find so much more. Nashville’s food scene can handle the most refined palate. And there’s a ton of breweries and distilleries in the area to quench your thirst. For us, when it comes to weekend getaways, Nashville is at the top of our list.

Lance and Laura Longwell, 42, from Travel Addicts

#20 – New York City, United States

One of the favorite destinations we have visited on our thirty’s is New York City in the United States. This place just has it all: awesome parks (like Central Park) to walk and relax, great restaurants of all kinds of food, awesome museums, outdoor activities, skyscrapers with 360º views of the town and so much more. You can find nightlife for all tastes and for us one of the best night activities were going up to the rooftops of hotels and restaurants to enjoy a glass of wine with the view of the city that never sleeps. The good thing is that in this city there are activities for everyone, no matter what your interests are or if you are traveling alone, with friends or with your loved one. This is what makes us fall more deeply in love with the place, we never felt like strangers in any place because there are many other over thirty’s like us visiting the places we wanted to see. You can’t get tired of New York and there is no way of seeing it all in just one trip, so everyone leaves wanting to get back as soon as possible.

Alejandra Werner, 30, from Universo Viajero

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in South America

South America is another continent where I’ve only dipped my toes into the amazingly diverse travel opportunities.  I blame it on the seasons, as I can usually only travel during the South American winter.  (I can hear your eyes rolling from here.)  After reading about these amazing ecotourism and adventure travel opportunities in South America, though, I am pretty sure that I’ll be adding stops across this continent onto my 30 After 30 “to visit” list!

#21 – Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Paradise island Fernando de Noronha , 340 km off the Brazilian coast, is one of the world’s most exclusive islands, a national park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To preserve the delicate ecosystem, the number of tourists is limited to a maximum of 500 per day and visitors must pay a daily environmental tax fee. That makes Fernando de Noronha a costly destination, accessible to people having rather deep pockets… such as 30+ travelers!

Forget parties and nightlife. Fernando de Noronha is suited to mature travelers in search of peacefulness and unspoiled nature. I had the privilege of spending a few days on the island when I was in my forties, after having saved money for months to afford a trip I had long dreamed of. With stunning golden beaches, black volcanic rocks emerging from crystal-clear turquoise water, and breathtaking views from atop the steep cliffs, Fernando de Noronha felt like paradise. Even today, it remains one of the most beautiful places I ever visited.

Simon Falvo, 55, from Wild About Travel

#22 – Patagonia, Argentina

Patagonia is an incredible destination. This huge region of South America sprawls across two countries (Argentina and Chile) and is perfect for people who enjoy nature, adventure and mountain hiking and who are experienced enough travelers to carefully plan their trips, for with such huge distances nothing comes easy in this part of the world. Though bars and pubs in Patagonia get crowded with people who enjoy a beer after a strenuous hike, this isn’t the kind of place where you can expect late night partying. It is all about trying to eat an earthy meal, going to bed early and waking up even earlier to get on the trails, to admire sunrise and to walk as much as possible. Patagonia is thus perfect for people who have grown out of the party-scene, who just want to be in the nature to be mesmerized by the incredible mountain, river and lake views; and who appreciate the force of the elements.

Claudia Tavani, 43, from My Adventures Across the World

#23 – Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island is situated off the coast of Chile and to get there its a five-and-a-half-hour flight from Santiago, Chile. The island is, of course, known for its mysterious and iconic moai statues. Having seen them, it’s no wonder they are one of the worlds greatest phenomenons!

Easter Island is reasonably small, and you can drive around it in a day, but to explore all the moai heads, you’ll need a few days. There are a couple of sights that should definitely not be missed. Watching the sunrise over Ahu Tongariki is stunning, and the heads at the quarry site Rano Raraku are incredible. It’s impossible to comprehend how the stone was chiselled by hand to make these sculptures not to mention moving them around the island without any machinery. Much of the Island is protected and as such its been awarded a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

In addition to the Moai, there is a wealth of cultural history to explore as well as extinct volcanoes, lava tunnels and caves. You can hike to some of the most secluded parts, which few tourists do. The island’s highest point, Terevaka, was deserted when I was there, and it was a moving experience to sit and reflect on a life well-lived. The three-hour hike to the eastern rim of Rano Kau crater is also worth it, as I got some fantastic photos, and there was not another person in sight.

Fiona, 41, from Passport and Piano

#24 – Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are a great destination for travellers that are over thirty because frankly, travellers under thirty probably can’t afford to do it justice!

As most are aware, the Galapagos Islands boast stunning wildlife that you won’t see anywhere else on earth, both on the surface as well as underwater. Unique birdlife, tortoises, and iguanas are a marvel to see on land and the Galapagos waters support a huge variety of sea life including sharks, whales, sea lions, and numerous endemic species of fish.

To make the most of your time visiting the Galapagos Islands you’ll end up spending much of your time doing tours or scuba diving, both of which can easily cost hundreds of dollars per day and would be a budget buster for the twenty-something traveller. There are some free sites to visit on land or snorkel at, but honestly they do not compare to the best tours where you can get up close to the unique wildlife endemic to the Galapagos Islands. Whether you’re following a land based itinerary or visiting on a cruise ship, the Galapagos islands will be remembered as a trip of a lifetime… but save it for your thirties, forties or fifties, when you can truly enjoy it!

Philip, 31, from Zen Travellers

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Africa

Africa is a top choice for older and/or more experienced travelers for a number of reasons, the least of which is that having a decade or two of independent travel experience in your pocket helps you feel confident when you face the (very expected) unexpected along the way.  If you’re in your thirties, forties or fifties (or older, though Google tells me that would put you in the 0.1% of all my readers!), why not channel your wisdom, patience and expertise into an African getaway?

#25 – Kenya

Most travelers interested in African safaris have Kenya near the top of their bucket list. And for good reason: Kenya’s wildlife ranks among the densest in the world (tenth, to be exact). The country is home to countless animals , including Africa’s famed Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo), more than 400 other mammals species and around 1,100 bird species.

Of course taking an African safari isn’t cheap, especially when it’s as luxurious as the one I took my family on last year to celebrate my 50th birthday. The three weeks we spent exploring Nairobi National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Conservancy, Meru National Park, and the conservancies of the Maasai Mara led to an abundance of incredible experiences. From a behind-the-scenes tour to meet the baby elephants of the Sheldrick Wildlife Orphanage to walking with the last two Northern white rhinos on the planet at Ol Pejeta, our time with Gamewatchers Safaris and Cheli & Peacock Safaris was full of memories we’ll never forget. It also made us more conscious than ever of the fragility of life on this planet, and more determined than ever to do our part to protect these beautiful creatures.

Bret Love, 50, from Green Global Travel

#26 – Uganda

I travelled a lot in Africa in my 30s, including climbing Kilimanjaro and visiting South Africa and Namibia, but the country that stole my heart is Uganda.

Uganda may not be an obvious big-hitter like Kenya or Tanzania in terms of wildlife, and it’s not as exotic-sounding as Mozambique or Ethiopia, but don’t let that fool you. Uganda has it all: national parks teeming with lions, elephants and zebras; tangled forests hiding chimpanzees and the elusive mountain gorillas; rolling landscapes so green it’ll hurt your eyes; the frothing rapids of the River Nile and the calm waters of Lake Victoria; and some of the most friendly and welcoming people I’ve met anywhere in 22 years of travelling and 65 countries.

Travelling in Uganda can be done cheaply – but some of the country’s best experiences do come at a price. The number one draw – trekking to see the endangered mountain gorillas – costs a hefty $600 per person, but that’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience it’d be a shame to have to miss. Getting around by public transport requires a lot of time and patience – but if you can afford to, a private car and driver turns a chore into a pleasure. And if you have a bit more disposable income then staying in one of Uganda’s many luxury lodges is one of life’s greatest pleasures. All good reasons to visit when you can afford to splash out and make the most of this stunning country.

Bella, 40, from Passport & Pixels

#27 – Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a great travel destination for travelers older than thirty given its history, culture, cuisine and many family-friendly activities. While Cape Town can be visited by younger travelers, travelers over thirty will have a deeper understanding and appreciation of its history and its changes in recent decades. Many travelers may have even lived through historical moments of Cape Town years back, seeing those events on the evening news and reading about them in the papers.

There are many museums in Cape Town (such as Robben Island and District 6 Museum) that may be greatly appreciated by older travelers. In addition to its history, Cape Town is known for its wine and cuisine. Travelers over thirty may be more interested in fine dining and have more means to try different restaurants and wineries. Some of the best restaurants in Africa are located in Cape Town and they are definitely worth a visit. Cape Town is also great for family friendly activities such as the cable car to Table Mountain, a visit to Cape of Good Hope, seeing the penguins, etc. These activities appeal to travelers over thirty… especially those with kids.

Cape Town is best enjoyed by those that want a slower pace of travel and full appreciation of its history and cuisine.

Serena, 33, from Serena’s Lenses

30 After 30 Travel Destinations in Oceania

One of the most exotic regions on the planet, Oceania delivers in stunning landscapes (I mean, just look at French Polynesia!), breathtaking eco-adventures and yes, even a few cosmopolitan capitals!  Simply by nature of its distance from North America and Europe, Oceania can be a time-consuming and/or expensive getaway for many people, making it ideal for older travelers who have the freedom to move at a more comfortable pace.

#28 – French Polynesia

Of all the places I travelled to in my 30s, French Polynesia stands out. More than just Bora Bora, this archipelagic nation is comprised of sub-archipelagos – from the dreamy sand atolls of the Tuamotus, to the volcanic islands of the Marquesas, and the cultural heartland of the Society Islands, just to name three!

French Polynesia seemed to draw the more mature tourist, and it’s not difficult to see why. Even with an independent travel style, the remote location and inter-island travel would favour travellers with more means at their disposal. Yachts anchor in the lagoons of the major islands, as Tahiti had always been welcoming of seafarers. Advanced divers fly off to Rangiroa for its epic tidal channel dives. Surfers come for the break waves of Teahupo’o. Seekers of black pearl roam the Society Islands for the perfect specimen.

There is a carefree, earthy vibe to French Polynesia. Its iridescent nature makes you almost forget that it has depth too, in its Polynesian and colonial history. It is the kind of destination that is most rewarding for the seasoned traveller who carry with them Mutiny on the Bounty references, Gauguin, life, and joie de vivre. Breadfruit and vanilla, secluded stays on private motus. There is also an egalitarian, civilised amity between traveller and host here. French Polynesia is not easy to reach, but once there, so easy to stay for the idyllic days in paradise lagoons.

Teja, 39, from Teja on the Horizon

#29 – Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia is a cool, all-round destination for all travelers and it is especially interesting for 30+ travel enthusiasts. This vibrant city has the right combination of urban delights and perfectly close nature getaways.

Right in the center of the city, you get to enjoy visiting the world-famous Opera House, chill out at Darling Harbour, enjoy a cool flick at the world’s largest IMAX (currently undergoing refurbishment, will open again late 2020) and fine-dining, all at the same spot.

There is so much to do in Sydney. For your nature fix, visit the gorgeous white sand beach at Bondi, cruise on Paramatta river, or picnic at the beautiful and vast Royal Botanical Gardens. Take a ferry to Watson’s Bay and visit Gap Bluff National Park here, or enjoy a delicious snack at Doyle’s on the Beach restaurant. If you still have the energy, take a trip to the Royal National Park at Bundeena and get lost in the majestic beauty at this spot where tall sandstone cliffs hug the ocean under deep blue sky and great wildlife around.

Priyadarshini Rajendran, 33, from Glorious Sunrise

30 After 30 – Yes, Even on Antarctica!

Again, I’m not one for bucket lists, but if you’re always dreamed of exploring every continent on the planet, then you’ll want to head to Antarctica… and in this era of a rapidly changing climate, you’ll probably want to book your Antarctic excursion sooner rather than later.

#30 – Antarctica

Antarctica is on many travelers’ bucket list; however, it is quite expensive to visit. It takes an enormous amount of money to reach the continent. But if you can save the money, it is worth splurging for this expedition if you have the means to do so.

While researching for our trip, we discovered that the price range varies vastly. The low range for Antarctica travel is around $8,000-$10,000 for a ten-day cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina. That’s a lot of money to spend for ten days, considering that for same amount of money, you could traveling South East Asia for about a year! For the average traveler, this Antarctica adventure could take years to save for. And for most, it will only come after you start making “real money” in mid-career. When you get there and when you hop onto the ship, you will probably see travelers who are in their mid-forties and older. There likely won’t be many travelers younger than thirty on board.

Some of the highlights of our Antarctica adventure included running the Antarctica Marathon and cruising the Drake Passage. But the biggest draw is always the wildlife. You’ll experience close encounters with whales, seals, albatross, and more. And if you stand or sit still enough, you may get lucky when a curious penguin stops by to check you out!

Halef and Michael, 40, from The Round the World Guys

Looking for more worldwide travel inspo?  I’ve collaborated with other bloggers on several other posts that will send you straight to Google Flights!

Check out my roundup of The Most Beautiful Places in Europe , or pour some Baileys in your morning coffee and get comfortable with The 50 Best Day Drinking Destinations Around the World .

Did we miss any destinations that are perfect for over-thirty travelers?  If so, let me know in the comments!

Long-Term Travel Health Planning: Sorting Out Health Stuff Before You Go

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• Travelling in your 30s and 40s is best – here’s why

Matt Risley 24th Nov 2023 7 min read

When I was younger, I made many, many mistakes. From the mullet that launched a thousand Facebook Memories, to the hours I spent obsessively learning the lyrics to Sir Mix-a-Lot’s Greatest Hits, we all have our own personal eye-rolling sins to bear. But with age comes wisdom (or so they tell me) and hindsight that makes you appreciate the value in those oft-facepalming learning curves.

I hadn’t realised this quite as much as when noticing the difference between travelling in my 20s and then in my 30s and 40s. Youth may be wasted on the young, but adventure, experience and travelling only gets better with age. Here’s why I believe that travelling in your 30s and 40s is better than in your 20s.

5 reasons to travel solo in your 30s and 40s

1. You don’t rely on a drink to find your comfort zone

I imagine most of us who drink alcohol can relate to the cringe-worthy morning after, and the attempt to piece together a litany of embarrassing escapades from the night before. The combination of social anxiety, backpacker booze culture and thrifty living meant that boozy nights at 7-for-1 bars were a common occurrence during my 20-something travels.

But as an older, wiser traveller in my 30s, with a decidedly more delicate liver, I don’t feel the need to rely on a drink to find my comfort zone anymore. Walking into a group of strangers is nowhere near as worrisome when you know you’re all there for the same shared experience. Even better, when you’re travelling in your 30s sober, you can soak up each new place undiluted, allowing for a more ‘in the moment’ holiday and memories you can actually remember.

2. Solo travel is a form of self care

Something I’ve learnt with age is that it’s important to treat yourself every now and again. Travelling in my 20s, I didn’t have cash to spare. But travelling in my 30s and 40s there was a little fiscal wiggle room – something I wholeheartedly embraced. In ten years’ time, I guarantee I won’t remember what I spent on that hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia , private boat trip and local hammam in Turkey . I’ll only remember the happy, joyful feeling of what it was like to live it.

I’ve found that taking a breather from the madness and monotony of a professional and personal life becomes ever more important the older (and more responsible) you get. Which means that when I travel to a new location and soak up all the new sights, smells and sounds, I appreciate every second all the more. Contentment is about balance, perspective and living in the moment, and travelling in your 30s and 40s allows you to experience each and every one of those in surprising harmony.

3. You are more assertive

It doesn’t matter how high your IQ is, there are some common sense life lessons you only learn through trial and error. That innate sixth sense for knowing when ‘going with the flow’ has slowly morphed into ‘oh whoops, what have I done and how do I get out of this predicament’. I’ve found that it factors into your travelling experience on a daily basis and becomes a finessed self-preservation instinct the older you get.

Next time, I won’t follow a complete stranger to a bar purely because they’re offering a margarita BOGOF deal. Next time, I won’t hitchhike with an overly smiley stranger because they reckon they know a quick shortcut that’ll shave minutes off my travel time. These all provided such beautiful interactions with strangers but I now, as a traveller over 30, find other ways to do that. And yes, I will live to a riper old age with many more stories to show for it.

4. You make your own travel memories

For me and many others, the fear of leaving the pack to follow your own path is an anxiety-sparking issue in your 20s – especially when you’re travelling with best friends or significant others. But when travelling in my 30s and 40s, I’ve realised that while having someone else to do something with is lovely, you don’t need anyone else to make the memory – just the confidence and happiness to blaze your own path.

If you’ve always wanted to explore the sights and delights of Japan or Peru but you don’t have anyone ready to join you on the adventure, then it shouldn’t stop you from doing it anyway. Especially when companies, like Flash Pack , which specialise in group travel for 30-40-year-olds , exist and are ready and willing to pair you up with other like-minded people equally as excited to explore.

5. The people you meet are more interesting

Not only did I find it easier to connect with others the older I got, but – shhh, whisper, and definitely don’t tell the best friend you’ve had since primary school – the people I’ve met on my trips are usually infinitely more interesting. When travelling in your 30s and 40s, everyone’s lived a life. Everyone has a backstory (or ten) and multiple reasons for joining the trip in the first place. While the ‘I’m just out of uni’ conversation starters I endured when I was younger were all well and good, as a traveller in my 30s I’m now more likely to meet people with fascinating jobs, eyebrow-raising life situations or Pulitzer-worthy travelling tales of their own.

Because of travelling in my 30s and 40s, I can now count the owner of a billionaire member’s club, an ex-yogi to the Hollywood stars and an ultra-marathon runner as friends – something I never saw coming. But they are all relationships that have brought a lot of laughter, happiness and opportunity into my life as a result.

How to embrace solo travel in your 30s and 40s

There’s no doubt that solo travel in your 30s and 40s is enriching – but there are still several ways to approach it depending on the experience you’re looking for. Here are the two most common routes you could take.

Go it alone

Committing to ‘ going it alone ’ entails planning the whole of your trip (flights, accommodation, excursions, the itinerary – everything) by yourself. Truly putting the ‘solo’ in solo travel. This means you can enjoy the freedom of not having to please anyone else, but it may also be a daunting prospect if you’re travelling alone for the first time.

Join a guided solo travel group

Another way to experience solo travel in your 30s and 40s is by joining a solo group with Flash Pack, where the hassle is taken out of travel planning, giving you access to unique experiences that are difficult to arrange on your own. You’ll also be paired with a small group of like-minded adventurers so you can make lasting friendships .

Explore our adventure trips .

Experience the freedom of travelling in your 30s and 40s

Thinking of taking your next solo trip in your 30s or 40s? Join Flash Pack today to go on an adventure with other like-minded travellers.

Got a story or adventure that could inspire a solo traveller like you? Tag @flashpack on social or email [email protected] to be featured.

Images: Flash Pack

Big joy: how to light up your life with “micro-acts” of kindness and connection

By Anna Brech

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Travel in Your 30s: Tales From 31 Awesome Travel Bloggers

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In just a few short weeks, I’ll be joining Nathan in the next exciting decade: I’m turning 30.  I’m really looking forward to bidding adieu to the 20s, not because they weren’t awesome, but because I love looking forward to new adventures. (I suppose you could guess that since we are travel bloggers!) I’m not fearing 30 at all, but rather am intrigued to see how the new decade changes me. In honor of celebrating this milestone birthday, I asked 31 (30 + 1 for good luck!!) adventurous travel bloggers to tell me about how travel in your 30s gets better or what they’ve learned after hitting the big 3-0. Read on to hear what they had to say!

Discovering Travel in Your 30s with 31 Travel Bloggers

For the last 6 years I have been continually traveling the Earth, in search for I know not what. Maybe something enlightening, or maybe just some damn good times. What ever the reason, I have haphazardly wandered to 80 countries on 6 continents so far, and the stories and memories are endless. In my 20’s I was known to get bored in say, Estonia, walk outside, stick out my thumb for a ride not caring where it was going, and end up in another part of the world. The rush of adrenaline from the unknown was unreal. My future, responsibilities, caution or ambition was a far off thought. I was living in the moment, and even the hard times ended up as fun stories.

This year I turned 30. That sounded old to me. All of the sudden I wanted even more. Not only did I want to maintain my crazy lifestyle, but I wanted to accomplish big things, create great things, and make it all sustainable long into my future. Scuba diving is my passion, so I gave myself the huge task of experiencing the best diving in the world . So I made the list and headed out to do so. I also wanted to get more out of my journey then before, so I taught myself underwater photography and hope to document each one. I also started writing a book about all my travels, remembering all my crazy times, from prison in Egypt to escaping the mafia in Thailand and more. Much more. The point is, in my 30’s, I am still crazy and not going to stop, but I am more focused on sharing these experiences with people and building this thing into a sustainable lifestyle. I am privileged to be able to explore the world, so just maybe its my responsibility to show it to those who aren’t.

When I was just a teenager I was convinced that in my 20’s I would have had the best of my life. I couldn’t have been more wrong! I actually started really living the life I wanted at 30, when I finally moved from Italy to England to learn English from scratch and I started traveling a bit more. I’m about to reach the next decade and I can now say that my thirties have been more than awesome. The craziest thing I did? (other than hanging to the edge of the Victoria Falls?!) What about quitting my well-paid job at the “tender” age of 35 to travel the world indefinitely ? That was the biggest & scarier decision of my life but I’m so glad I did it. I can now travel wherever I want, I set my base in front of a beach for months in the Philippines, discovered all SE Asia, southern Africa and I’m now about to move to Mexico. Yes, the thirties for me have been a hell of a ride! In my 20’s I was just tasting what travel was all about, now I know exactly what it is, and it’s amazing.

Heather & Peter, 35

Hubbie and I love travelling in our 30’s because we’ve now worked out exactly what our travel style is. Having spent our 20’s pretending to be backpackers (because it seemed like the thing to do), we now realise that isn’t us at all. We love a bit (ok a lot!) of luxury, and are no longer ashamed to admit it. We still do crazy stuff. We’ve been microlighting over canyons in South Africa; ploughed rice paddy fields with water buffalo in Laos ; and once got caught in a gun fight on a remote mountain pass in Lesotho. However now we have somewhere indulgent to spend the night afterwards. Private plunge pools, four poster beds and champagne for breakfast? Don’t mind if we do!

In our 20’s, we were firm believers of never visiting the same place twice. We wanted to see the rest of the world before going back somewhere we’d already been. Yet now we’re well into our 30’s (and have become pretty good at this travel lark), we have actually started returning to places we travelled to in our 20’s, because we know that now we can do it even better! Both thanks to another decade of experience, and yes, healthier finances. We’ve learnt that you can go back to the same place but still have a new experience. Morocco is a bit of an obsession for us, and we’re about to head back for the 8th time(!), yet we’re just as excited as we were on the first trip. Because we know what’s coming, and we know it’s going to be amazing! This time as well as trekking in the Atlas Mountains and haggling in the souks, we’ll also be checking out opulent riads, sleeping in 5* hilltop fortresses and even staying in a converted church by the sea.

Travelling in our 30’s rocks and we wouldn’t return to our 20’s for anything! Except maybe a little more hair and a few less wrinkles! 

I traveled a lot in my 20s and somehow had it in my mind that the way forward upon reaching my 30s was to quiet down and follow the path most people follow: career, mortgage, wedding, family, the whole shebang. I did settle down and made a great life for myself– in the conformist deluded sense of things – filled with shiny expensive things, a big apartment, a career I had worked hard for, a loving partner I was clinging onto for dear life as an externally derived sense of self, many unhappy people around me and the permanent feeling of running after something. Seeing time as the solution, thinking for the most part that happiness lived in the future. Desiring and acquiring things that never seemed to be able to fill an elusive gaping hole I could never quite pinpoint. But clearly, that didn’t do it for me, so two and a half years ago, I sold everything and left with a one-way ticket to Bangkok , knowing nothing of what the future would hold. Since then, I have lived in South East Asia nearly two years, crossed the Balkans by bicycle in the winter and recently settled in Berlin. There is no age to do what you love and happiness lives in the present.

Gemma, 31 & Craig, 32

30 is sooo the new 20! I was always a bit gutted that I didn’t do gap year travel after university but the beauty of waiting to take this epic career trip to travel the Americas and Europe in my 30s is that I am less interested hitting the bars, we had a pretty sweet combined income which helped us save, and I get to do it with my partner in crime, Craig! Name something crazy and we’ve done it! Cycled ‘the world’s most dangerous road’ in Bolivia, boarded down an active volcano in Nicaragua, got engaged in Vancouver AND married in Austin . The only downside? I am actually going grey! This career break is supposed to be relaxing…

I’m kind of new to the 30s travelling game, so I can’t comment vastly on how things have changed. I think the beauty of it is that my travels are remaining exactly the same. I’m not slowing down, I’m determined more than ever to achieve what I want and yes, I’m still staying in those 12 bed hostel rooms. Admittedly, I will have to treat myself more than I used to though: sometimes a girl just needs her space in a big bed! One thing I can say is I know who I am now: what I need, want and am aiming for in life. Age has given me clarity, determination and bucket loads of confidence. I’m driving from the UK to Mongolia in 50 days across 21 countries with four women this year to document and promote women’s rights. How about that? I’d say that’s a pretty cool adventure for your thirties!

Stefan & Sebastien, 35

I’ve never been one to consider age an issue, so when I turned 30 I didn’t think much about how this would suddenly change my traveling habits. I mean sure, I can’t deny that I’m starting to slow down a little on the party side of travel, but after a decade of giving it a decent crack, I’m ok with that. Other than spending every second or third morning hungover there really hasn’t been much difference between now and my first trip as an eager 21 year old.

One thing that is great about being a traveler in my 30s is being more confident with the life I’ve decided to live , as well as the partner I’ve chosen to live it with. In my 20s I had a lot of fun, but I was reckless and paid little attention to responsibility. Now, as my life starts to take a little more shape, I have goals and ambitions that I want out of a life of travel. But who knows, I could also say the same things when I get to 40!

Alouise, 31

The biggest change I’ve noticed about traveling in my 30s is I’m more selective in how I spend my time when I travel. In my 20s I’d try to “see and do everything” when I traveled, but that’s impossible, would leave me feeling stressed out. Now I just focus more on doing the things I want to do when I travel, instead of just doing something because it’s on some “must do” list somewhere. Travel is better in my 30s because I have a better understanding of who I am and I feel a lot more centred (as opposed to be scattered) when I travel.

Three friends and I decided to kick off our 30s right by celebrating on collective birthdays in New York City, and after I went to Las Vegas with another friend. Within my home country of Canada exploring Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Last year I went to Europe and visited Madrid, Spain and Helsinki, Finland. I also went to Asia spending a few days in Hong Kong and then a week in Tokyo, Japan (on my own as well) in March.

In August I’ll be moving to Ireland for two years on a working holiday visa. I’ve wanted to work and live abroad for a long time , but I never took that leap of faith until now. Who says adventure has to end when you’re 30?

Lina & David, 33 & 32

Well, I guess you could say travel in our 30’s has been epic. When I, Lina, turned 30 we decided to sell everything we owned , quit our jobs and set off traveling for a few years. It has been extremely liberating to break free from the societal norm and follow our hearts. People think we are crazy for doing this, that we should have done it when we were 18, etc, but honestly, I think traveling in your 30’s is just a better time. You’re more mature and having our background, can really appreciate the chance to have personal freedom after living the American dream so intensely for so many years.

Since entering my 30s, my travels now focus on photography and writing for my travel blog . This means that I’m not just traveling to play, I’m traveling to work. Of course, that kind of work is fun for me! It does require a lot more time and effort than the kinds of trips I took in my 20s though. I have to lug around heavy camera gear and a laptop now, and I have to stay in places where I feel that my equipment is safe enough. I have to take time to work, which sometimes means sacrificing leisure and social time. It’s all worth it to me now that I have the discipline to work while traveling.

Besides working while I travel, now that I’m older I definitely require certain creature comforts… at least some of the time. I want my privacy and alone time, which means I find it harder to stay in hostels now. I have a much lower tolerance for young, annoying travelers than I used to! I make sure that I plan for more than enough food and sleep during particularly long flights or bus rides. It’s probably just experience rather than age, but these things are important!

Traveling in my 30s feels much the same as it always has, despite the specific ways in which I choose to do so. I’m still in awe of the world and I still want to see and experience as much of it as I can in this life. I will continue to travel for the love of it, long after I am old and gray!

I started my travel adventures when I was on my mid 20s traveling every week to a different country across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. When I hit 30 I realised I no longer needed to hide my age, I was officially an adult. I also felt more secure, had a lot of experience on my back to get around any place and, most importantly the financial independence to get lost anywhere, to go anywhere without having to worry about money and the self-esteem and self-confidence to face any challenge. No mountain is too high, no valley too low that I cannot tackle them.

I would first like to thank my twenties self. At 26 I finally made the decision to move abroad. I was miserable and grumpy back then because my life was going nowhere, I hated my jobs, and I was overworked. Really? Miserable in your twenties?! I loved travel and learning about the world since I was little so I had to make this constant dream finally come true. The world kept calling my name . I knew I was meant go abroad! (Cheesy, but hey, it’s true!)

I just turned 31 and I can honestly tell you the last five years on the road have been the most challenging, rewarding, incredible, and the happiest of my life. Traveling in your 30s means you’re traveling even wiser than you once were. You start to realize how important it is that you’re doing something that you love and enjoy. You learned from all those silly mistakes you made in your twenty. You take things in more, enjoy and truly cherish those moments.

I feel younger than I did before I stepped on that one way flight when I was 26. I have no plans on stopping, in fact, my plans are only getting crazier and more challenging. I’m still living and traveling abroad and I’ll be doing it in my forties too!

It wasn’t till I turned 30 that I ditched my previous job adventures to pursue blogging full time. I had always been traveling like crazy already so that didn’t change but nowadays the focus is slightly different as I aim to document and share my explorations with our social media followers and blog readers. As a result, I was able to attempt stuff like parasailing in Indonesia and Malaysia, jumping off a stadium in South Africa, and trying out many other cool flight experiences around the world everyone should try at least once.

I couldn’t tell which changed my traveling more: turning 30 or getting married. I was 30 first, though, so we’ll start with that.

Right around 30, I began to feel a bit more value in planning ahead, in knowing how far away something was or in figuring out the best way to route my travels. ‘Going with the flow’ was still fine, but at some point I began to choose a more conscious time and place to go somewhere.

I also re-focused on quality over quantity. Give me 2-3 excellent, weird choices over 4-5 lukewarm places any day. That was already what I was doing, it just became a more strongly felt choice.

Getting married to a fellow thirtysomething meant we began to seek out a bit more comfort for a few more bucks. We might still stay at a hostel, but it’ll be a private room instead of a bunkbed.

Finally, your mileage will vary, but I didn’t feel the need to prove anything to myself. Travel is already enough of a challenge that creating extra challenge just for the sake of having it wasn’t necessary. If I want to reach the top of that mountain, I’ll get there – I’ll be taking the short, direct route instead of the longer, more circuitous one =)

It appears the older I get the more I enjoy traveling. That’s partly due to our better financial situation which allows us to treat ourselves more while on the road. It buys us cocktails in spectacular bars, helicopter rides over stunning landscapes, and luxury cruises in the Mediterranean. But I also appreciate the fact that with age travel has become more meaningful. I love to explore places and look into every aspect of a destination. I have the feeling that with maturity I am better equipped to grasp connections and understand backgrounds. At the same time I am still mobile and agile and able to climb and snorkel and do all the things that are fun. It’s the perfect age to travel the world!

Kim-Ling, 32

I have loved travelling in every decade of my life , but I certainly feel like our travels in our 30s has been the best! I think it’s because my husband and I have a better sense of ourselves and what we want to achieve from of our travels. We are more confident to do whatever we want to do and set our own itineraries. If I felt like taking off for the weekend to see a band on my own, I did it without hesitation. If I wanted to visit Game of Thrones filming locations, I made it happen! We are also in a better position financially to indulge in trips that we may not have been able to afford before. Last year, we saved up our money to live in Spain for eight months and travel constantly throughout Europe during that time, staying in unique accommodation ranging from castles to glass igloos.

Personally, I’m braver and more confident now than I was when I was in my teens and twenties. I even did the Finnish tradition of a naked sauna followed by a nudie run in the snow (something I don’t think I could have done when I was younger!)

When I was in my mid-twenties, I spent a good deal of my time in denial about edging closer to the big three-zero. As a matter of fact, once I hit 25 I told myself I was that very age for 5 years straight, until I hit 30. I spent a lot of time traveling and exploring all sorts of different varieties of travel. I visited both the tropics, and much cooler in temperature destinations. I stayed in a mix of hotels and visited different destinations, really getting a feel for travel and my preferences. By the time I hit the magic number of thirty not only did it not seem as large as before, but I had acquired an appreciation for a more refined sense of travel style, all my own. I’m sure as I approach the “big” four-zero it may change, and that’s fine by me. Life keeps moving on, and I don’t want it to pass me by at any age.

Brianne, 39

I spent most of my 20s focused on getting a master’s degree and carefully mapping out my career path. And although I did squeeze in some big trips – I spent a summer volunteering in Nepal during graduate school – I had student loans to pay off.

In my early 30s, I moved from Washington, D.C., to Boston in search of a better work-life balance. Soon after, a friend called me and said I had 24 hours to decide if I wanted to join her on a sailing trip in Croatia. I said yes, and that decision kicked off not only a new adventure but also a new attitude. Inspired by all of the laid-back, hard-partying Europeans I met – who held down careers back home – I realized I wanted to start prioritizing traveling over chasing achievements and promotions.

It took a lot of research and planning, but three years ago, I left a full-time job to become a consultant in order to have more time and flexibility to travel. Self-employment hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve since backpacked solo throughout Southeast Asia, spent two months working for a travel company in India, and made numerous trips to Europe, South America and around the U.S.

No I don’t make as much money as some of my friends do, and I live in a condo in the city instead of a big house in the suburbs, but I’m living life on my terms, and I’ve never been happier .

Matt and Alana, 33

Just before our 32nd birthdays we quit our jobs, sold our house and everything in it and set out on an 18 month around-the-world trip. Traveling in our 30s has been a better experience than our 20s, as we are doing exactly what we want to do, instead of what we ‘thought’ we should be doing. Our confidence and interests have grown and changed, and we don’t waste our time or energy anymore. When we want to do something, we do it. And if we think something is a waste of time, we avoid it. We’ve actually found ourselves being more adventurous now than ever before , as we are spending our money on experiences instead of partying/alcohol! From sand boarding to bungee jumping, we want to live life to the fullest, because nothing is guaranteed.

Jeanette, 30

As the 12th month of my 30th year is fastly approaching I’ve come to accept that traveling as a 30 year old has been the best travel year of my life . It all started off with a single trip to Mongolia to celebrate Nadaam and my 30th birthday. It soon included trips to – Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand. London, Denmark, Finland, Myanmar, Raja Ampat (Indonesia), Philippines and as a last farewell to 30, an upcoming trip to New Zealand. Unlike travel in my 20’s I now have a lot more emotional and financial freedom. I can choose to stay in a backpackers or I can choose to stay 5 star! Though in all honesty I now choose to stay in backpackers as you get to meet so many more fun people.

There’s so much less fear in the travel that I do now. Traveling in your 30s is so much more care free. There’s less expectations for you to have that one final, last hurrah and amazing adventure that seems to be attached with travelling in your 20s.

I have always thought that your age is just a number. However, the first couple of years into my thirties, I really believe that this has helped transform the way I travel. Long gone are the days of thinking about partying or worrying about studying for the next exam. Now I am able to focus on exploring the world and appreciating the inherent beauty that surrounds everything we experience.

How has my travel philosophy changed since I turned 30? As I mentioned, I think as you get older you gain a greater appreciation of what you explore. Moving to the States from England when I was in my early 20s was certainly an eye-opening experience, but today I think we frequently take our home countries for granted. You don’t realize what you have surrounding you until it’s gone…it’s an old adage for sure, but one that I think is very appropriate! I consider myself to be a much more culturally aware traveler but perhaps that is just from having different expectations and experiences over the last few years.

The ability to travel more has also happened since I turned 30. I am very fortunate to work at a university and have great benefits such as vacation time, not to mention earning a decent enough salary to pay for the travels around the world .

What do I love about being in my thirties? Everything! I really believe that being in this decade has opened up so many more doors than previous decades. Obviously I can’t comment on the future but what I can do is share my experiences on the road over the last couple of years. Heather will be turning 30 in a few months and I couldn’t have done any of my travels without having her by my side.

Rob & Nat, 35 & 32

We didn’t turn 30 on the road. We hit the road when we both were on the 30’s mark. Our love for travels started a couple of years back. Nat was 23 and I was 26, we traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina and fell in love (for each other and for travelling ). Then we moved to Ireland and explored Europe. Back then our travels were party oriented, hostels were our primary accommodation, and on the menu sandwiches and cheap booze.

Now things changed! We keep a balance between party and sports destinations, good hotels and private apartments, and we drink better quality wine and cocktails. Can say that we are more picky with destinations, hotels and activities. We don’t waste time and money on places that we don’t believe it’s really worth the shot.

Growing up does not mean become boring. In fact it’s all about choices and how you feel! We got married in 2013 (in our 30’s) and our honeymoon was a bit different, 14 days in an electronic music festival in Ukraine. And we don’t believe we gonna stop hitting the dancefloors around the globe soon. We are getting wise (never say old) but our dance moves are still good! It’s all about balance, after months of madness in Bangkok followed by a detox period in Singapore, now it’s time to plan a season in Brazil, and then back to underground clubs in Europe and some really nice dine & wine.

John & Heather, 34

We are Heather and John from Roaming Around the World and have spent these past few years of our early 30’s on a nonstop trip around the world. We feel that your 30’s may just be the best years for travel, although we’re admittedly biased, both currently 34 years old.

For us, probably the most notable change of travel in our 30’s is the fact that we do much more of it! In our early twenties, travel was often limited by a lack of funds. In our late twenties, the funds developed, but travel was often restricted by lack of time due to our careers, which were a means to earn money for travel. Our thirties is when we finally developed the knowledge, experience, resources, and time to be able to sustain the freedom of fulltime travel. Meanwhile we still have the youth & drive to execute such a crazy plan.

Another change that has come with age and experience has been a progression of becoming more savvy travelers, having figured out many travel hacks & deals. This often enables us to travel like a wealthy retiree, using the budget of a broke college student.

Also in our 30’s, travel has evolved from seeking out exciting destinations to instead pursuing incredible experiences. In our twenties, we loved traveling to places like NYC, Bonnaroo Music Festival, Caribbean Islands, and Amsterdam. That was so 20’s John & Heather. In our thirties, we now relish authentic experiences such as navigating the Borneo jungle amidst native people, staying with local families while backpacking across Cuba, and crossing the Sahara desert on camel with nomadic Berber families.

A final change to our travel style is how staying out late no longer exists. Doing so now completely ruins our subsequent day. We still party though. We just start early! 😉

Amy Hartle   is the author of Do You Love Me? How To Stop Seeking Reassurance in Relationships , a book on reassurance seeking and relationship anxiety. Both her book and this blog are born of personal experience; Amy shares expert relationship advice from the lessons learned during her own 10+ years with her husband, as well as couples travel tips and romantic getaway recommendations, all gleaned while traveling the world together.

30 Day Europe Itinerary

This 30-day Europe itinerary is based on a 90-day trip we took in Autumn 2022. This itinerary prioritises train and ferry travel in an effort to minimise carbon impact. You can easily extend the itinerary by adding a day or two at your preferred locations if you have more travel days available.

We have also included an optional extra which consists of a Norwegian coastal cruise and a flight to the most northern town in the world. If you take this trip in the winter, then the addition is highly recommended as it affords an excellent opportunity to see the Northern Lights.

This post contains affiliate links which means we will be compensated when you make a purchase after you click on the links. We only recommend products and services which we have used and support. You can read our full disclosure for more information.

30-Day Europe Itinerary Visa Requirements

Be sure to check the requirements for entry into both the UK and the Schengen area specific to your citizenship.

British and American citizens can spend 90 days in the Schengen area in a rolling 180-day period without the need to apply for a visa.

In 2024, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be activated, and visitors must submit a short application before travelling into the Schengen area. This will cost about £6 and will last for three years.

30-Day Europe Itinerary Transport Options

The whole itinerary can be completed using trains and ferries from London to Norway and back again, unless you add the optional Hurtigruten coastal cruise and the flights to Svalbard.

Non-residents of Europe can obtain a Eurail pass which could help you save money on trains and ferries across Europe. Have a look at an earlier post which compares the cost of Eurail against buying individual tickets .

Packing for a 30-Day Itinerary

Packing light is the key with an itinerary like this. Follow these tips to help keep your luggage as light as possible.

• Only pack outfits for 4-5 days and plan to stay in an apartment once or twice a week so you can do your laundry. Washer sheets like Earth Breeze add minimal weight and volume to your bag.
• Ideally your bag or case should be able to fit in the overhead storage on trains so you can keep it close by. Airline carry-on sizes are a good guide, although overhead storage does vary on trains across Europe.
• Use packing cubes to save time and effort when packing and unpacking every couple of days.

For more tips, take a look at our Travel and Nomad Living category where you will find information about luggage, packing, e-sims and more.

Day 1 – London

24 hours is not long enough to see everything that London has to offer. But this circular itinerary ends up back in London, so you have the opportunity to do anything you have missed at the end of the trip.

A self-guided walking tour on the Southbank is a great way to see some of London’s best parts in a short time frame. Look at Alternative things to do in London for details of this tour and other suggestions.

London Accommodation

We recommend a last-minute search on Booking.com where you will find a central London hotel room for about £100, even on a weekend in August – we checked!

Use these filters to reduce the available London hotel options to a manageable quantity:

• Private bathroom
• Rating of 7 or above
• Neighbourhood – Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster, Camden, Central London and West End.

If you prefer a hostel option, leave out the hotel and private bathroom filters and you will be able to find a bed for as little as £60 a night.

Day 2 – Brighton

Brighton is location 2 because it is a fantastic city by the sea, but also because it is easy to get to the ferry terminal in Newhaven for onward travel to Dieppe.

Must-do activities in Brighton include:

• Visit the Palace Pier for fried doughnuts.
• Wander around the jewellery shops in the Laines. Carter and Follows is our favourite.
• Pop into one (or two) local pubs. We recommend The Basketmakers and The Cricketers .

Brighton Accommodation

We recommend checking prices at the chain hotels by the station. You’ll be busy exploring Brighton all day so won’t spend much time in your room, you will also appreciate being near the station to catch your early train the following day. The Ibis is a decent option, and last time we were there we got free croissants in the morning!

Days 3 and 4 – Dieppe

On the morning of Day 3, take a train from Brighton to Newhaven Town and board the ferry to Dieppe in France. Check out this post for more information about the ferry journey (Coming Soon).

In just four hours you will be in a fabulous French fishing village. Highlights include: wide sweeping beaches, a famous Saturday market, churches, stunning architecture and more.

Upon arrival in Dieppe, it is possible to walk from the ferry terminal to the town, and the train station is easily accessible for onward travel.

There is no shortage of places to eat and drink, but we recommend a visit to Le Bistrot des Barrières .

Dieppe Accommodation

You are spoiled for choice – hotels by the seafront or apartments overlooking the harbour. Apartments on Airbnb start at around £60 a night.

Days 5, 6 and 7 – Paris

Trains from Dieppe to Paris St-Lazare take 2 hours and 19 minutes including a change at Rouen. Seat reservations are not needed.

Three days in Paris is long enough to get a taste of what the city has to offer, but you will need to pick your excursions wisely to make the most of your time.

The Paris Metro is easy to navigate and provides a convenient way to get around the city.

Days 8, 9 and 10 – Brussels

Paris to Brussels by train takes just 1 hour and 22 minutes direct. If you can, it is worth booking the tickets in advance to save a little on the price. Read this post for more tips on train travel in Europe .

With three days based in Brussels, you have time to take a day trip or two to see more of what Belgium has to offer. Direct trains to Ghent, Brugge and Antwerp take less than an hour from Brussels.

Days 11 and 12 – Amsterdam

Trains from Bruxelles-Midi to Amsterdam-Centraal vary in both duration and price. They start at about 2 hours and £25, although that is quite early in the morning. Trainline.com offer recommendations based on price and duration, they also show the lowest-priced trains for upcoming dates.

Check out Must Visit Places in Amsterdam for entertainment and food recommendations.

We don’t have a favourite hotel to recommend in Amsterdam as we tend to choose whatever is reasonably priced for our dates, and a short walk from the train station.

Walk, hire a bike or take a canal boat cruise to get around and see the city.

Days 13 and 14 – Bremen

The journey between Amsterdam and Bremen with a change in Osnabrück takes about 4 hours, but there are trains throughout the day.

Bergen Highlights Include:

• Bürgerpark animal park and cafés.
• Handwerkerhof or craftsmen’s courtyard where you can find handcrafted goods in a unique setting.
• Museums, market squares, churches, architecture and more.

The history and architecture of Bremen was the inspiration for Liz’s first travel fiction story. Click here for more information and to register for more details.

Days 15 and 16 – Hamburg

The journey between Bremen and Hamburg takes just an hour by train. One of the best parts of this itinerary is being able to spend time in so many of Europe’s amazing cities, with minimal time spent

Hamburg Highlights:

• Hamburg hosts one of Germany’s major ports so it is easy to spend lots of time by the water. Think rooftop bars with fabulous views, floating restaurants and lakeside cafés.
• We recommend booking a table at Ristorante Fari nelli da Franco where the pizza is so good that the restaurant made it onto our Best Pizza Outside Italy list .

Days 17, 18 and 19 – Berlin

Another short train journey, this one less than 2 hours, takes you east to Germany’s capital. Berlin is steeped in history and is one of our favourite European cities.

Two weeks into the itinerary, you may find yourself becoming budget conscious. There are many free and cheap ways to soak up the history and culture in Berlin:

• Walk. It sounds simple, but you can save money, beat the traffic and see so much more by exploring the city on foot.
• There is a very informative display at the junction of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße by Checkpoint Charlie.
• A short walk away is Topography of Terror, a free-to-enter exhibition at the site of a preserved section of the Berlin Wall.
• The Jewish Memorial is a site that you shouldn’t miss. It is difficult to describe but plan to spend some time walking through and reflecting.
• Look out for lunchtime offers in local restaurants. Service is quick, portions are large and the prices are low. We chose the place with the biggest queue and were seated and eating within 15 minutes.

Days 20 and 21 – Warsaw

The direct trains from Berlin to Warsaw take a little under six hours. Ticket prices include a seat reservation. There are several major train stations in Warsaw besides Warszawa Centralna, and they are linked by the public transport system which is easy to navigate.

We spent a week in Warsaw in October 2022 and loved it so much that we’re going back for three months in September 2023.

Days 22 and 23 – Gdansk

Gdansk is one of several seaside towns in northern Poland. The area is popular with locals and tourists alike and you will see families, couples, groups, young, old – basically anyone. Train times start at 2.5 hours but the longer train times can be significantly cheaper.

If you decide to buy individual tickets and not a Eurail pass, then all of the journeys mentioned so far can be booked via the Tainline app. For trains within Poland, use polishtrains.eu .

Gdansk train station and the old town are several kilometres inland, but can be reached in about 30 minutes by tram.

Even in the winter months, Gdansk is a lovely destination. There are some fantastic museums and memorials including Westerplatte which you can divert to on your way to the ferry terminal.

On the evening of day 23, head to the ferry terminal to the north of Gdansk and take the overnight ferry to Stockholm. Our post: Poland to Sweeden by Ferry will tell you everything you need to know before, during and after the journey.

Days 24 and 25 – Stockholm

It is a quick journey by train from the ferry port in Neysham to the centre of Stockholm.

Everyone we met in Stockholm told us that the city comes alive in the summer and we’re planning a return trip so we can experience it. However, we visited at the start of November and it was lovely.

A Unique Experience in Stockholm

Långholmen Hotell is a converted prison on an island in Stockholm. They have both hotel and hostel rooms available, a bar and resturaunt and a ‘prison break’ experience. Sleeping in bunkbeds in a converted prison cell was surprisingly comfortable and the service we experienced was excellent.

Days 26 and 27 – Oslo

Train times between Stockholm and Oslo start at about 5 hours during the week, up to 7 hours on the weekend. Check both Norwegian train company VY and Swedish SJ to make sure you are getting the best price.

Unfortunately we didn’t get to spend as much time in Oslo as we had hoped, so our recommendations are limited to a few bars and restaurants. If you are interested in these recommendations, drop us a line . Otherwise, use the link below for suggested activities in Oslo.

On the afternoon of day 27, head to the Color Line ferry terminal . This is walkable from the centre of Oslo, or you can jump on a local bus or tram.

You can read more about the Oslo to Kiel Ferry including tickets, terminals and facilities onboard.

Optional Northern Lights Adventure (Dependant on the time of year)

At this stage in the itinerary, you have a few options:

• Take the overnight ferry from Oslo direct to Kiel in Germany and start the return part of the itinerary. See ‘Day 27’ above.
• Take a train to Bergen to join a Hurtigruten 12-day roundtrip voyage to Kirkenes in northern Norway.
• End the Hurtigruten voyage on day 5 in Tromso, fly to Svalbard then return directly to Oslo. RECOMMENDED

Option 2: Hurtigruten Roundtrip Voyage – Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen – Additional 13 days

• Day 1 – Take the train from Oslo to Burgen (7 hours). Plan to arrive the day before your departure to account for potential delays.
• Day 2 – Board your cruise at Burgen Port.
• Day 13 – Return to Burgen at approximately 3 pm. Take the overnight train to Oslo.
• Day 14 – Arrive in Oslo at 6:30 am. Depart on the Color Line ferry to Kiel at 2 pm. (See ‘Day 27’ above).

Option 3: Hurtigruten Coastal Crusie – Bergen to Tromso – Additional 11 days

• Day 6 – Arrive in Tromso port. We personally recommend that you stay in Tromso for as long as you can to maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights. Otherwise, a couple of days is long enough to see the immediate local sights and go on an excursion.
• Day 8 – Fly from Tromso to Longyearbyen, Svalbard (95 minutes). When you’re on top of the world you may as well stay a while
• Day 11 – Fly from Longyearbyen to Oslo
• Day 12 – Depart on the Color Line ferry to Kiel at 2 pm. (See ‘Day 27’ above).

Cruising is not a form of travel that appeals to us personally, but we thoroughly enjoyed our Hurtigruten trip and highly recommend it. We saw the northern lights twice whilst on board and visited some stunning locations along the way.

You can read more about visiting Svalbard in the winter and more content about our time in Norway, including Tromso and Svalbard is coming soon. Use the form below to sign up for our newsletter and be the first to know when the posts are published.

Day 28 – Kiel and Hamburg

It is possible to travel from Kiel to Amsterdam by train so you could spend day and night 28 in Kiel and travel directly to Amsterdam on day 29.

Option 1 – Night 28 in Kiel: The quickest train we have found from Kiel to Amsterdam takes 6 hours and 23 minutes with two changes (Hamburg and Osnabruck). This train gets to Amsterdam at 7pm so you would still have time to enjoy your last night in Europe.

Option 2 – Night 28 in Hamburg: The quickest option from Hamburg to Amsterdam takes 5 hours and 15 minutes with one change at Osnabruck. There are several of these trains throughout the day.

We recommend checking the available trains for both options once you have confirmed your travel dates. Make your decision based on train time, duration and cost.

Day 29 – Amsterdam

Whichever option you choose, a large part of day 29 will be spent travelling from Germany to the Netherlands, arriving at Amsterdam Centraal station.

The final leg of the itinerary involves taking the Eurostar back to London, also from the central station. If you book centrally located accommodation and plan activities in the centre of the city, you can make the most of your last hours on the continent.

Day 30 – London

This 30-day tour of northern Europe ends at Kings Cross St. Pancras in the heart of London. From here your options are unlimited.

Trains from Amsterdam to London take just four hours and run throughout the day. We do recommend booking this final train in advance as ticket prices range from as much as £200 last minute to £55 if booked several weeks before travelling.

This 30-day Europe itinerary offers a great way to experience some of Europe’s amazing cities. It also helps you to minimise your carbon impact by prioritising train and ferry travel.

Sign up for our newsletter using the form below for more guides, itineraries and travel info.

As a bonus, you can download our free london underground how to guide., similar posts.

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13 Ways Travelling the World in your 30s is Different than in your 20s

As much as we might feel young at heart forever, there are apparent differences between travelling in your 20s and your 30s. While many of these changes aren’t necessarily bad, if anything, I’ve met travellers in the 60s who endlessly inspired and excited me; everyone grows old. And how your travelling experiences change are interesting to document and think about as you grow. I love learning from other travellers, especially those older than me.

When I turned 30, it was a like a switch got flicked. Things took me longer; I was more tired and suddenly didn’t feel like I could do everything. Other travellers who went through a similar change were super helpful in setting new goals and changing my expectations. So I wanted to document this for myself here so others can learn from me and my experiences with travel as I got older.

Accommodations get an upgrade

Travelling in my 20s meant searching for the cheapest hotel or hostel. Often these would be in not-so-good locations, far out from the centre of town. And while I still managed to find some great deals and pretty decent hotels, for the most part, they weren’t always the stuff of dreams. In Australia, I will never forget walking into our hostel and seeing a dead mouse in the centre of the room and knowing we had no choice but to stay there. So we cleaned up the mouse ourselves and just tried to pretend that it never happened.

In my 30s, especially now that I travel almost always with my partner, our hotel choices are much more appealing. There are no dead animals on the floor, and most of the time, these accommodations are in prime locations in the city, close to the action without being overbearingly touristy. Airbnb has also changed the game in terms of places to stay.

Bn’Bs over Bunkbeds

Now I can find quirkily themed apartments for rent that feels more like staying in a secret playhouse than they do a sterile hotel. In my 30s, I’ve travelled enough to know the truth from the BS and how to read a listing or review of a hotel for those key signals that this isn’t a great place to stay. Proof positive of this was on my last trip to Mexico City. We had initially booked a fantastic hotel for a GREAT price in a popular neighbourhood.

But the more and more I read about the area of town and dug deeper into the reviews, the more I realized that despite it being such an awesome price and having 5-star reviews, it was located in a super touristy and busy area that completely shut down at night. We opted to cancel that reservation (thank you, free cancellations on Expedia!) and rebooked a different hotel in a smaller bohemian neighbourhood which felt safe, quaint and picturesque. I’m glad I went with my gut as I recalled when I had stayed in a similar area, and it just wasn’t for me. For others, this might be the perfect place for you, but for me, I knew it wouldn’t be a good fit.

You take your time

In my 20s, my friend and I would book a two-week vacation in Europe to see 4-5 different cities. We would be up at dawn to get to the next town in time to still fit in some sightseeing before everything closed. Then onto the next location. We carefully planned what we ABSOLUTELY had to see and made sure to make that a priority, but there wasn’t much time left to explore and meander. We would have loved to spend more time in each city, but our budget didn’t allow it back then. It seemed like a waste of an expensive international flight not to try and see as many cities as we could while on this new continent.

These days, although my time for leisure travel has been reduced, I choose to spend my week’s vacation in one place instead of rushing from country to country. I list a few AREAS to explore instead of a list of singular sights. This means I can spend an entire day just in one spot, discovering things I never found online, and therein I get to share that with all of you, readers!

I have NOTHING against jam-packed travel itineraries since they allowed me to discover which countries I liked most and didn’t like when I was younger, but now that I’m older, I merely prefer this kind of slow-travelling.ein I get to share that with all of you readers! I have NOTHING against jam-packed travel itinerary since it indeed allowed me to discover which countries I liked most and didn’t like when I was younger, but now that I’m older I merely prefer this kind of slow-travelling.

Visiting those costly cities isn’t out of the questions

When travelling in your 20s, you’ll often research “the cheapest cities in Europe to visit.” These traditional, less expensive cities mean you can have a fantastic time but still pinch those pennies. As you age, cities like New York, Paris and Singapore suddenly become viable options. It wasn’t until I turned 30 that I could FINALLY afford to travel to Japan; it was a life-changing trip! Cities with a cheaper cost of living are often well-suited to being younger. Places like Thailand, Mexico and Greece all feel more adventurous and perfect for younger travellers. While the more expensive destinations usually have a more refined and mature atmosphere, making them a comfortable place to go as you age.

Free time is harder to come by

I had this idea when I was young that when I grew up, I could afford all these amazing trips where I’d travel for months on end! But the problem with ageing is that your responsibilities at work and in your personal life seem to get in the way of just up and leaving to travel the world. Work barely enabled me to take two weeks off for my honeymoon, and when I got back, I felt the full force of being away. The idea of a “sabbatical” isn’t the norm anymore as more and more people aren’t staying with companies for years.

In your 20s, you have the time to take off for a few months between school semesters as long as you’ve worked your butt off during the school year making money. Or better yet, you might have the chance to do a year abroad and see more of the world that way. But when you get into your 30s, you have a career, not just a job. There is no longer a “summer break” unless you’re lucky enough to be a teacher. Those few weeks of vacation you get (if you get any paid leave at all!) are very precious, and you really learn to appreciate every second of your travels. It’s perhaps for this reason that you’ll find yourself spending more money to stay in a more central area hotel, lessening the amount of commuting you’ll have to do.

You have more confidence

I have learned A LOT about travelling since my first trip overseas. My dad was going there on business and traded in a first-class ticket for two economies and took me with him. What I didn’t know what that when we got there, he would be busy the entire time (although I probably should have assumed this), and I would be all on my own. I clutched the notes and directions he made for me like they were my lifeline and ended up making many mistakes but falling in love with the experience of travelling. Nothing prepares you for the pitfalls of severe jet lag like living through it. No dry runs or hypothetical conversations can give you insight into what to do when you lose your passport.

I remember not trusting my gut and being roped into a scam or tourist trap. Or I knew it was a trap and was too shy to speak up. Although I always feel like I’m learning, I’m definitely braver and more confident as a traveller than when I was 20. I speak up when I feel like something is wrong, or I know well enough not even to venture into something which feels too good to be true. I’ll call a waiter on his added “tourist taxes” or go out of my way to get a uber instead of a sketchy taxi that is bound to rip me off.

Travelling Alone

The other thing which I feel more confident about is travelling alone. Sometimes you and your partner or friends just can’t get your schedules to match up. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still head out on an adventure by yourself. Dining alone doesn’t have to be scary; it can be an opportunity to meet new people. You get to do exactly what YOU want to without any compromises. Being alone when travelling is a chance for you to reconnect with yourself in ways you don’t have the opportunity to do otherwise.

You know who your real friends are

I have travelled with many different groups of friends and partners throughout my life. And nothing tests a relationship like travelling. Travel is truly incredible, but it also involves lots of stress, compromise, exhaustion, problem-solving and more which can weigh on those relationships. When you’re in your 20s, I feel like you’re more optimistic. You feel like you go on those trips with the best intentions and optimism. New friendships feel fresh and exciting and travelling with new friends can be the best idea.

You think you don’t have a history, so you don’t have the chance of negativity from the past influencing the trip. But it also means you don’t know their personality, travel style, or financial constraints. I travelled all over the world with one good friend, who I’m still proud to call my best friend today. We never fought, always understood each other’s likes and dislikes and also learned that sometimes that means having a day apart instead of dragging the other to do things they don’t want to.

Other travel companions fell by the wayside, either due to us drifting apart or often just because we didn’t get along as travellers. In my 30s, quality time with my partner or friends is some of the best advantages of travelling together. When you get older, you have less and less time to spend with your friends, and this intimate occasion is a great way to reconnect.

You appreciate travelling with your family

Speaking of time to reconnect, let’s talk about family. When you’re in your 20s, there is nothing worse than being forced into a family trip. Maybe you’re itching to be independent and feel like this is holding you back. Perhaps you just want to have a romantic trip with your new partner, or maybe you want to let loose and party! For me, it was probably the independence that I appreciated most about travelling without my family. I felt so grown up and independent when I turned 2, even though, looking back, I totally wasn’t.

I still lived with my family in my 20s, and being away from them felt like freedom. Now, in my 30s, this couldn’t be further from the truth. I adore spending so much time with my parents and siblings, even my in-laws. As an adult (or as close to one as I can get), I get to spend time with them on a different level. Travelling helps you learn about people you might not otherwise discover.

I had such a great time travelling with my aunt, whom I’d otherwise not see outside of the holidays. Seeing her in this environment was so cool, and I feel like I got to know her more as a person rather than just a family member. The older you get, the less and less time you realize you have left with your parents, and I know I want to try and make those moments count for me.

You eat incredibly well

I’ve always been a pretty savvy traveller and found local cuisine at low prices, so I’ve never found myself eating at McDonald’s for three days straight just to save money. There are always little pubs, cafes and restaurants which serve amazing meals for low prices if you know where to look. But there is no way that when I was 20, I’d have been able to afford to eat at the various Michelin Star restaurants I’ve been so lucky to have been able to dine at now that I’m in my 30s. I’ve eaten some of my most exquisite, transcendent meals in my 30s. But even outside those “one-in-a-lifetime meals,” eating in your 30s means you might not have to be as rigorously diligent about checking menu prices.

Chances are your budget might not be so rigid, and you can generally find places to suit your tastes and budget anywhere you are. I don’t want to make this sound like I’m super rich and can eat expensive meals daily; that’s far from the truth. I’m one of the biggest cheapskates when it comes to eating out, and I still gasp at cocktails which cost $25. But in my 30s, I’ve learned to appreciate fine dining a little bit more and can afford to indulge in that from time to time.

You have a better idea of what kind of travel you like

In my 20s, I wanted to travel to all the most famous travel cities without ever thinking about if they were somewhere I’d enjoy or not. I wanted to tick those “top 10 destinations” off my bucket list (at least the ones I could afford).

And while I think I learned a lot about places I didn’t like as much as I did, I would if I could go back and change a few plans. I think I would have thought more about what I wanted and less about where people told me I NEEDED to visit. Bohemian artsy cities drew my gaze instead of glass metropolises. I also noticed that some European cities felt very similar, and I now go out of my way to visit places markedly different than other cities.

In your 30s, you are more steadfast in your likes and dislikes, and this greatly impacts where you want to travel. Everyone was so surprised when I visited Mexico City last year, but honestly, it was one of the best trips of my life. There is nowhere as bright and colourful as Mexico City, and despite everyone’s scare tactics about Mexico, we felt perfectly safe everywhere we went.

Time to relax is more important than seeing it all

When you’re 20, there aren’t too many enormous, unavoidable stresses or time vacuums in your life. School and relationships might have their ups and downs, but nothing compared to careers or, even more than that, kids. Vacations, especially those without kids, become your only opportunity to relax and unwind with your partner or perhaps with your friends. Those precious vacation days mean more than just a chance to travel somewhere new; it means a moment to catch your breath.

You might find that you can’t and don’t even want to go-go-go; you want to take things slow, to enjoy a coffee in peace and quiet for once. Maybe the kind of travelling you do changes. I’ve never been one for all-inclusive resorts, but I found myself considering one for the first time in 33 years just to get away somewhere warm where I didn’t even need to think about my schedule every day. While I still opted not to do this, I, for the first time, really did understand why people are drawn to those types of vacations.

You realize you can’t keep up with your younger self

When I took my first trip at 30, I went about it much like I always did. I got up at the crack of dawn and went as hard as possible to fit as much into my day before night. Very quickly into that first day, I realized that wouldn’t work for me anymore. For the first time in my life, I let someone convince me to take it easy, to go back to the hotel for a nap before heading out again in the evening.

And let me tell you, that nap felt impossibly amazing. I woke up feeling refreshed, not worried about the things I didn’t see or missed out on, but with a renewed sense of adventure for the rest of the evening. I definitely wear out more easily these days. That means not ticking off all the boxes on the bucket list. But feeling healthy and happy is more important than seeing it all. As you grow, you realize that it’s not about how many things you see but how you see them. How you let even those few memories and sights itch themselves into your heart and your mind.

Technology has changed

I remember when I was in my 20s, the first thing we’d do when we’d arrive in a new city was hit up the tourist information for a town map. We carried these paper maps with us everywhere we went, and by the end of the trip, they were half disintegrated from being overly used. Now and again, we’d print off a few Mapquest directions to and from different pre-planned destinations. If we got lost, there was nothing to do other than ask for direction or backtrack as best we could.

Nowadays, most big cities have free wifi all over the place, roaming is getting cheaper and cheaper on most phone plans, and there are even portable wifi devices where you can bring the internet with you. There is almost no chance of getting lost or needing to read a map. This saves a lot of time and confusion, but it’s also a little sad. I feel like staring into my phone to get the perfect route to my destination is a bit disconnected. I always challenge myself to use those old paper maps from time to time and still ask locals for directions when I get lost instead of immediately reaching for my phone.

Sleep isn’t optional

When I was young, I loved saving money by travelling when I should be sleeping. This meant overnight trains, buses and flights. I loved planning around these overnight journeys since it felt like winning free money I’d otherwise have had to spend on a hostel or hotel. I didn’t care how tired or uncomfortable I was. I’d chug down a few cups of coffee and be able to ride out the rest of the day with no problem. These days, I’m lucky even to get eight hours and not feel the sting of exhaustion by mid-afternoon. I still miss the money-saving opportunities of the overnight trains, but I don’t miss the fatigue.

While I might miss certain aspects of being young, I love getting older. I feel more connected to myself and, therefore, to my travels. I feel like I travel better, deeper and more comfortable physically and emotionally. What shifts did you see in your travels as you got older? If you’re still in your 20s, what other questions do you have for this ol’ “senior” about travel in your 30s? Let me know in the comments!

Happy travels, Adventurers!

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Such an awesome reflection! Some great things to keep in mind

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11 Reasons Travelling in Your 30s is Better than Your 20s

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on October 1, 2014 |

How is travelling in your 30s different from travel in your 20s? Find out in our 11-point guide to being a thirty-something backpacker…

When you’re 22, it feels like you’ll be young forever. Sadly, you won’t. You’ll get old. It sucks. But being older doesn’t mean you have to give in to Sandals holidays; you can still be about the cool hostels, local buses, street food and the whole independent backpacker thing. But things will be different. Here’s how…

1. Your travelling windows are way, way shorter

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2. You finally figure out how to pack properly

Most first-time twentysomething backpackers take tons of unnecessary stuff. You see them bulking out their bag with 18 kilos of towels, toiletries and t-shirts; emptying an entire aisle of Boots over their dorm bed.

Over time, you learn how to pack smart . It probably helps that your mum isn’t around to insist you fit an entire A&E department in your First Aid Kit.

3. Boutique hostels suddenly seem preferable to 18-bed dorms

Party hostels are a great idea in your 20s. Sleeping’s for losers, right? Well, it turns out that when you’re older, sleep is actually pretty damn awesome. Hostels are still a great option for travelling in your 30s, but all-nighters have all but lost their appeal. Do we really need Avicii blasting out at 4am? Can’t we all just have a chilled beer and get an early night?!

4. You can’t hit the backpacker bar scene as hard as you used to

Exchange rates can be a wonderful thing. Especially when you’re a westerner bar-hopping in some exotic destination. But when you get older, hangovers get worse. Way worse.

Responsible drinking at Retox Party Hostel Budapest

So remember: just because a pint is 20p it doesn’t mean you have to drink the bar dry. Because waking up feeling nauseous in a tropical climate is not fun. At all.

5. You develop a surprisingly hardcore interest in museums

And galleries. And Cathedrals. And basically any other place where really interesting old stuff is kept. Why? Maybe it’s because you’re getting older and more interesting.

Or maybe there’s just a gene that kicks in at 30 that makes you appreciate this stuff – similar to the one that kicks in at 50 that makes you care about theatre and the National Trust.

6. A full-on day completely wipes you out

It might feel like your body will never wear out, but by 30 it’s already happening; the wheels haven’t fallen off yet, but the nuts and bolts are definitely coming loose. This means that an intense day of cramming in must-sees takes its toll. In your 20s you can do this stuff and then stay out all night.

In your 30s, you start thinking of days as either going-for-it-and-writing-off-the-evening days or chilling-out-and-saving-yourself-for-the-evening days. Which is kind of sad. But practical.

7. You’re less tolerant of backpacking bores

When you’re younger, you’re more open-minded when it comes to other travellers. You’ll probably talk to everyone. Make friends with anyone. But as you get older you can spot the annoying, bragging and competitive travel types from across the room.

This skill will help you avoid literally hours of being bored by someone who wants you to vicariously experience their amazing journey.

8. You feel more comfortable travelling solo

Most travellers are pretty terrified about going it alone when they’re young. Travel buddies. Travel mates. Whatever you want to call them, you usually feel a lot happier planning a trip if a friend’s coming along for the ride.

But once you’ve been around the globe a few times over a decade you realise that no matter how introverted you are, you’ve got what it takes to make it on your own. You’re more confident travelling in your 30s, you don’t always need people around you, and there are few situations you can’t handle.

9. You have to fight the urge not to compare stuff

There’s nothing like experiencing something mind-blowing for the first time. But once you starting experiencing your second wonder of the world, your third safari, your fourth continent, your fifth must-see monument, it’s hard to not compare them to something you saw 10 years ago.

But you know what? Don’t. Try to approach everything with fresh eyes. Don’t compare. And definitely don’t start comparing out loud. People will not like you.

10. You don’t freak out about not seeing everything

Most backpackers start their travelling careers with lists of all the things they want to see. Whether it’s a tick-box mentality or a genuine desire to experience everything, people can get obsessive over this stuff.

I have, at times. But when you get older, you realise you can’t see everything. You can’t go everywhere. So relax. Appreciate the stuff you do experience. Enjoy the ride.

11. Your wife/husband insists on travelling with you

Oh, yeah. You got married. Remember?

Andrew Tipp is a writer and editor working in digital publishing. He’s spent more than a year backpacking and volunteering around the world, and has previously worked as a content producer for a travel website. He writes on behalf of Original Volunteers , the UK’s leading independent volunteering organisation.

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I regret spending 2 weeks in Europe traveling to 6 different places. Next time, I'm choosing quality over quantity.

• I spent two weeks backpacking through four European countries for the first time.
• I visited six different cities for short stays: Berlin, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Milan, and Zurich.
• I didn't have enough time in each place, so I regretted packing so many destinations into one trip.

Berlin, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Milan, and Zurich. Is two weeks in Europe enough time to explore all of these places? 

I found out for myself in October 2022 when I went backpacking in Europe for the first time, visiting four countries and six cities. 

Back then, I wanted to see as much of the continent as possible. Since I was going for two weeks, I thought one or two nights in each city would help me make the most of my trip by allowing me to see a variety of places.

But once I was there, I realized I only got a sampling of what each destination had to offer.

48 hours isn't enough time to explore a city

I longed for more memories in Berlin — my first stop on the trip — as soon as I boarded my train to Vienna . And when I was headed from Austria to Italy, I felt I had barely gotten a taste of Vienna's art scene .

I spent a week in Italy, but splitting my time between three different cities — Venice, Rome, and Milan — left me craving more.

This was especially true in Rome — one of the most popular tourist destinations for the summer of 2024, according to a recent study of trending searches by Delta .

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The ancient city blended old and new. I strolled down cobblestone streets with ruins on one side and modern buildings on the other. Seeing the dramatic exteriors of Renaissance museums had me longing for enough time to go inside. And seeing ruins from a distance made me wish I had the chance to see them up close.

My last stop in Switzerland had my favorite landscapes of the whole trip, and after just two nights, I flew home wishing I'd made time for an epic mountain hike.

From stunning architecture and rich histories to striking landscapes, these cities impressed me upon arrival.

But with less than 48 hours to explore each destination, I could only hit the top tourist highlights, like the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, the Colosseum in Rome , and the canals in Venice . 

I didn't have a chance to dive deeper into what life in each city was really like. If I had more time, I would have cruised on Lake Zurich, shopped in Milan, or stayed in the neighborhood of Kreuzberg in Berlin . Each day in every city, I walked past remarkable buildings and massive museums that intrigued me and thought, "Next time."

So, no — two weeks is not enough time to explore six European cities, and I learned the hard way.

Visit fewer places and take your time

If you're planning a trip to Europe, don't find yourself saying "next time" every day, like me.

Instead, I recommend focusing on one or two cities or towns and taking the time to immerse yourself in their art scenes, neighborhoods, and history. That way, you'll leave with a deeper sense of the destinations you carefully selected.

On my flight back to New York City, I'd already started mentally planning to visit Zurich, Berlin, Rome, and Vienna again.

So, on the way home, if you still wonder about a destination you didn't get to, make sure there's a next time.

Watch: Garbage and floodwater fill up streets in Italy, disrupting tourist season

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Luggage and Living (English)

Eurotrip on a Dime: 11 Tips for the Most Affordable Routes From the U.S. To Europe

Posted: May 5, 2024 | Last updated: May 5, 2024

Everybody wants to travel the world, but most people would rather save a few bucks while doing so! Traveling from the United States to Europe on a budget is feasible if you use a few essential tips and tricks to keep your travel expenses low. Recently, savvy travelers met in an online discussion to reveal the best ways to score the most affordable flights en route to your next European adventure.

1. Fly Budget Airlines

The most common and popular tip for making your trans-Atlantic flight more affordable is to seek out flights from budget carriers. For example, Norse Airlines consistently garners rave reviews for its increasingly affordable flights from the East Coast of the U.S. to major hubs in Europe. Although you'll miss out on many amenities by flying budget carriers, your wallet will thank you for it in the long run!

2. Hunt for Cheap Flights Constantly

Let me say this clearly: Never stop scouring for cheap flights. It doesn't matter if you have a full-time job that takes up most of your time or a family that needs attention; when planning a European adventure, your top priority is constantly searching for the most affordable flights! Your relationships will suffer, and your mental health will go down the drain, but in the end, you will save money on your trip. Thank me later.

3. Don't Bring a Checked Bag

It's becoming prohibitively expensive to bring a checked bag with you on your travels in 2023, so take the initiative and keep your large luggage at home! With the right travel baggage, you won't miss lugging along a checked bag. "Get yourself an Osprey Farpoint bag that zips in half," advises one frequent traveler . "Use both as a carry-on and personal item. That's my go-to for no-luggage traveling."

4. Fly Out of New York

While many travelers assume large airports in cities like Chicago, Orlando, and Atlanta are the best places to fly out of, they're sorely mistaken. Flying out of any of the major airports in the New York City area is the best course of action if saving money is your goal! I've found that flying out of Newark, New Jersey, is the most cost-efficient way of traveling to Europe for my most recent trips.

5. Fly Into Western Europe

It makes sense that location matters when deciding where to fly into Europe. Coastal cities like Lisbon, Portugal, and London, England, are no-brainer destinations when booking your travel since they're the closest major cities to the U.S. coast. As a bonus, many of these cities are European travel hubs in their own right, offering subsequent flights to countless cities at a fraction of the price of a full trans-Atlantic ticket.

6. Find a Reputable Website That Tracks Cheap Airfare

Although the general airline industry looks down upon websites specializing in keeping tabs on inexpensive, cheap airfare, they can still be invaluable tools for anyone looking to save money. Countless websites make it easy to search for the cheapest flights from any origin location (and destination) worldwide. Utilizing travel sites like these can yield impressive results for people who are simply looking for the most affordable way to get to Europe.

7. Don't Overthink Things

Depending on where you live, it can be tempting to travel to a cheaper origin airport to take advantage of a cheaper flight. Many experts think that's not how you should go about it. "If you're not on the East Coast, don't focus on getting the cheapest overseas flight," advises one woman. For example, I'm in Seattle, and I would rather pay an extra $100 to fly from Seattle to Europe than pay $300 to get from here to New York before I've even boarded the overseas flight.

8. Use a Credit Card Sign-Up Bonus

Opening a credit card is one of the savviest ways to make your European trip more affordable. Assuming you are responsible with your money, opening up a new credit card from companies like American Airlines or United means you can take advantage of sign-up bonuses. I recently signed up for an American Airlines Mastercard that awarded me enough frequent flier points for two roundtrip flights from Newark to Lisbon! The deals are out there; you just have to know where to look.

9. Choose the Most Basic Economy Fare Available

One of the most straightforward ways to save money on your way to Europe is to purchase the cheapest, most basic airfare available, usually called "Basic Economy." Remember that by employing this strategy, you will most likely not be able to sit next to your travel buddy on the plane. However, for solo travelers, there's no downside to purchasing the most bare-bones flight ticket available.

10. Consider a Travel Agent

Believe it or not, many frugal travelers confess that their local travel agent got them a much better deal for a European vacation than they could have done alone. I would never think to enlist the services of a travel agent, but when it comes to easing the load on the wallet when Europe is concerned, I'll take any savings I can get.

11. Travel During Off-Peak Months

There are many advantages to traveling to Europe during off-peak months. By avoiding travel during the busy summer seasons, you'll save a lot of money on your flights and enjoy a far less congested experience once you arrive. Think about it: Doesn't the prospect of seeing the Eiffel Tower without thousands of tourists fighting over the perfect photo speak to you? Nothing's more stressful than being around countless tourists at the more popular tourist attractions.

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15 Times Ignoring Travel Advice Led to Falling in Love with a City

Everyone has different opinions about traveling, and they experience various cities uniquely. People tend to bandwagon about destinations, saying some places are phenomenal while others are a waste of time. But when you ignore what other people say and follow your own path, it can lead to profound experiences. Check out 15 times people visited undervalued cities and had a glorious time despite what people told them.

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Looking To Liven Up Your Days? Here Are Ways You Can Turn Mundane Tasks into Extraordinary Experiences

Whether it’s trying out a new hobby, exploring a different route to work, or experimenting with unique recipes, embracing creativity can spark joy and inspire you to think outside the box. By infusing your daily activities with a dash of creativity, you can break free from the monotony and inject excitement into your life.

12 Jobs That People With ADHD Confess To Loving and Not Tiring Of

People with ADHD require stimulation and exciting tasks to keep them occupied, which applies to their careers. Sometimes, a 9-5 doesn’t cut it, and they can find the daily humdrum of life wearing them down. There’s always the question of how long the next job will last before the repetitive work becomes understimulating. Answering exactly this question are millions of successful ADHDers who have cracked the code below.

10 Historical Moments People Wish They Could Time Travel To

Whether it’s at the first cry that ends a long-running baby fever or the last hug of a departing beloved, everyone’s got those special moments they’ll trade most other things to see again. And if Barry Allen’s cosmic treadmill were an actual invention, many would, without a second thought, strap on their seatbelt to again walk under the simmering sun of a long lost past. History is filled with such moments of heightened significance, and when a community of history-buffs was asked which time they’d love to revisit, these timelines were their prime choices.

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How to taste your way through Tuscany

Italy is known for its vibrant and varied cuisine. Discover it at its best in the region of Tuscany, where an assortment of inviting culinary experiences offer a true taste of the country.

Located in west-central Italy, the region of Tuscany is rich in natural beauty. Its striking landscapes vary from the chiselled Tuscan-Emilian Apennines in the north and the rugged Apuan Alps in the north-west, to the gentle green hills of Val d’Orcia in the south.

The region’s capital, Florence, is a destination renowned for its art and architecture. Its most iconic sight is the eminent Duomo, a stunning 400ft-tall masterpiece of the Renaissance. During its 100-year build, architect Filippo Brunelleschi is said to have introduced a pulley system to speed up lunch breaks, feeding the workers on the cathedral’s roof with peposo , a black pepper and beef stew.

Today, food remains an important part of Tuscany’s culture, and visitors are encouraged to slow down and savour the wide variety of culinary experiences on offer across the region — from truffle hunting and cheese tasting to sampling fine wine and sipping fresh coffee — here's how to get a taste.

1. Join a truffle hunt

Truffles are deeply rooted in Tuscan history, found throughout the region in all shapes and sizes and revered for their distinctive aromas and flavours. Learn about the timeworn traditions and distinct hunting practices of those seeking these subterranean delicacies at Italy’s first museum dedicated to truffles — the Museo del Tartufo e Centro di Documentazione — housed in an old castle in San Giovanni d’Asso. At Cucina Giuseppina , near the town of Certaldo, forage for your own truffles with the help of a guide and trained truffle-hunting dogs, before indulging in a truffle-based Tuscan lunch. In summer, you'll search for the elusive black truffle, while in the fall, the white truffle is the prize.

2. Try tasty cheeses

Tuscany is best known for pecorino, a sheep’s milk cheese — and especially treasured by Tuscans is the bold-flavoured pecorino cheese produced in Pienza, the aptly named pecorino di Pienza . Elsewhere in the region, the exuberant Palio dei Caci event draws crowds to the town of Volterra each October, where ‘runners’ compete to skilfully guide wheels of pecorino down a cobbled street. Many working farms in Tuscany are open to visitors, too, so you can learn how the cheese is made. Fattoria Corzano e Paterno just south-west of Florence produces cheese, wine and olive oil and also has guesthouses, a farm shop and a restaurant, with tasting sessions available year-round.

3. Make pasta from scratch

Handrolled pici is a popular pasta in Tuscany, often served with tomato, garlic and breadcrumbs. Pappardelle pasta is also a local favourite, generally served with rich and meaty sauces. Join a class to learn how to make your own pasta at wineries such as Magida in Brunello, which also offers accommodation packages. Private cooking lessons are also an option, where you can learn the art of the perfect pasta dish from professional chefs such as Antonella La Macchia .

4. Sample a variety of wines

Tuscany is well known for its geographically protected wines such as Chianti, Montepulciano and Brunello. Stop by the Enoteca la Fortezza wine bar inside the Fortezza di Montalcino and sample Montalcino's intense and complex Brunello wines. Enjoy tart and spicy Chianti wines at Pietraserena Azienda Agricola Arrigoni in San Gimignano, as you admire the impressive views across the hills and vineyards. Although Tuscany’s established viticulture scene is revered, there are also a growing number of organic, natural and biodynamic wines being developed, helping the region stay at the forefront of Italian wine production. Antinori nel Chianti Classico has been making wine since 1385 and now has an ultra-modern winery attached, which is open to visitors. Or find one of the unique buchette del vino (wine holes) hidden around Florence — at restaurants such as Babae , Belle Donne and Il Latini , to name a few — where wine is served through a tiny window, a tradition that dates back to 1559.

5. Experience a traditional trattoria

With charming hilltop towns seemingly around every bend, it’s easy to fall in love with a new local trattoria every evening in Tuscany. On the edge of Panzano-in-Chianti, head to the terrace at Il Vescovino to enjoy homemade ravioli stuffed with leeks and taleggio cheese, served in a simple tomato sauce. Along Tuscany’s western coastline, restaurants such as Il Romito in Livorno serve up a homely fish stew called cacciucco — a 500-year-old dish traditionally made using five or more types of fish in a red wine and tomato broth.

6. Sip freshly roasted coffee

Italy has an affinity for coffee and on almost every corner in Florence you’ll find coffee ‘bars’ in which you can quietly perch to people watch. The city is also home to the Accademia del Caffè Espresso , which features a coffee museum and an indoor coffee plantation, and also offers a selection of educational tasting sessions. Away from the city, learn more about Tuscan artisanal coffee and the finer details of the roasting and blending processes with a tour of Pienza Coffee in Val d’Orcia.

7. Peruse local markets

Intense and aromatic, Tuscany’s local food markets are sure to delight — piled high with humble but delicious ingredients, from bread and cheese to tomatoes and beans. While some markets such as Florence’s Mercato Centrale are open daily, smaller towns in the region host their weekly markets on varying days. In the city of Lucca, head to the MercoledìBio on Wednesdays — for organic fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil, cold cuts, wine, bread and baked goods, as well as sheep’s, cow’s and goat’s cheese — or the Campagna Amica market on Thursdays — for fresh fish and seasonal vegetables, cheese, plants and flowers.

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• FOOD TOURISM

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20th anniversary of EU’s biggest enlargement: nine out of the ten countries that joined are now in Schengen

On 1 May, 20 years ago, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia joined the European Union. Today, nine out of these ten Member States, are part of the Schengen area, guaranteeing free movement and promoting safe travel within Europe.  

The Schengen area has evolved into the world's largest free travel area, guaranteeing smooth and secure travel to a population of almost 450 million people and bolstering the EU's competitiveness. Free movement of persons enables every EU citizen to travel, work and live in any EU country of their choice without special formalities. Today, the Schengen Area encompasses most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. Bulgaria and Romania became the newest Member States to join the Schengen area as of 31 March 2024. As a result, any person crossing the internal air and sea borders will no longer be subject to checks.  

The EU enlargement of 2004 has also strengthened European security, spanning from greater police cooperation to external border controls. It has enhanced peace, stability, and expanded the area of liberty, security and the rule of law, enabling EU to better combat cross-border crime, including drug trafficking, money laundering and online criminality.  

Find out more

Schengen Area  

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