My Bucket List Vacations
Well, unfortunately for us wanderlusters, the last few months have been...challenging on several levels to say the least. Of course, we are in the midst of a global pandemic among other issues, but travel has always been a way for me and my family to escape, to grow and to learn.
As soon as the world returns to some semblance of “normal,” this is my Bucket List for where we want to go and why. I hope it inspires you to plan a trip and have something to look forward to!
A RANCH IN MONTANA
I’ve always been a country girl at heart and given the current pandemic, I see holidays in nature being the first getaway we take as a family. I have been slowing down and reconnecting to nature throughout this ordeal, and I think a dude ranch holiday is just what my family needs! Montana is a place of pure beauty and pretty easy to get to from most spots in the US and Canada. The best time of year to visit a dude ranch is summer, early fall or late spring. You can expect a range of activities such as horseback riding, skeet shooting, hiking, stargazing, fly fishing, yoga, and at some resorts even a full spa. Some are best for adults and older children, but a handful have programming for young kids so make sure to check before you book!
Here are a few of my favorites. Keep in mind, their price points vary depending on the season.
The Ranch at Rock Creek - this resort is family friendly and has amazing year round activities for family members of all ages.
The Resort at Paws Up - Also a family friendly resort, this features an incredible spa and unique accommodations and offers special packages depending on the season.
Lone Mountain Ranch - Another family friendly option and lower price point without compromising the true dude ranch experience.
AN ISLAND IN HAWAII
Hawaii is a trek to get to, but once you get there you are catapulted into true paradise. These islands have so much to offer and each island is unique and worthy of a visit.
Whether you love hiking, surfing, lazy beach days or learning about Hawaiin culture, island life has something for everyone! Here are some of my favorite spots to check out in paradise.
Four Seasons Wailea in Maui - this is one of my favorite getaways I just keep going back to. This resort has everything. The best kids club, ever. Tennis courts on the property, several pools and restaurants and an iconic beachfront. You literally never have to leave. That is, unless you want to take surf lessons from the best, just minutes away.
Disney’s Aulani in Honolulu - a must-do if you have kiddos traveling along. This is a hotel and water park all in one. Disney characters dressed in their hawaiin best wander the property. You can dine with characters and the kids club is included in your stay. There’s endless programming for the little ones and with a backdrop of one of the most stunning beaches I’ve ever seen.
A LAKE IN CALIFORNIA OR CANADA
As a Canadian, I might be impartial to Canadian lake country, but there truly is nothing like it. Your best option is to fly to Toronto, Ontario and rent a house in Muskoka, one of northern Ontario’s prettiest places ever. If Canada is a little out of reach, my next favorite spot is Lake Arrowhead or Big Bear in California. These are both short drives from Los Angeles.
I suggest renting a lakeview home in either location and enjoy what these towns have to offer. You can hike, bike ride, fish, boat and enjoy lake life and all it has to offer.
AN RV ROAD TRIP
I love the idea of renting an RV and trekking across the country. Wherever you live, you can look up RV parks and campsites to park in for the night. RVs offer you ultimate freedom because you can travel for as long as you like. RV life allows you to visit some of the most beautiful national parks and be one with nature for however long you choose. Some spots I heard that are noteworthy near Los Angeles where I live are Lake Havasau, The Grand Canyon and Carmel just to name a few. There are a couple options for renting an RV - either RVshare.com or Cruise America.
A SPIRITUAL GETAWAY IN ARIZONA
I’ve been wanting to visit Sedona for ages. They have a resort called Enchantment that has a spa, tons of activities, and so many chances to unplug all with the backdrop of the red Arizona mountains. Sedona is supposed to be a place charged with energy and spirituality - something we could all use a little of right now. This is definitely a destination to reset and recharge.
I’ve been wanting to visit Sedona for ages. They have a resort called Enchantment that has a spa, tons of activities, and so many chances to unplug all with the backdrop of the red Arizona mountains. Sedona is supposed to be a place charged with energy and spirituality - something we could all use a little of right now. This is definitely a destination to reset and recharge.
A EUROPEAN MEDITERANEAN TRIP OF A LIFETIME
A trip I’ve been dreaming about is a holiday in Greece and Croatia. This is a bigger commitment pricewise and timewise and most likely an adults only trip but one I definitely want to take.
I suggest doing your research when travelling to foreign countries. Either work with a trusted travel agent or company that is local near you or crowdsource from friends who have travelled to those destinations. When travelling abroad you will want to know where to stay, day trips to experience and excursions and sights that are a must, where to eat and any safety tips that pertain to the destination.
AN ADVENTURES BY DISNEY HOLIDAY
Adventures by Disney are curated holidays all around the globe that are perfect for the whole family. Everything from A-Z is planned for you so you can turn off your brain and just relax! We recently took a trip to Ireland with ABD and it was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken. We learned so much from our local guide about Irish Culture and the trip had the perfect amount of Disney for our little one. You can explore anything from an African Safari, to Japan to a River cruise in France.
HIKING IN PERU
My friends just embarked on this adventure last year and said it was unbelievable. I recommend going with a company like Backroads if you want to incorporate hiking and activity. They plan adventurous, safe daily hikes mixed with historical sightseeing. Once again, a nature dream I will be doing one day soon.
THANKS AS ALWAYS FOR STOPPING BY SAMSOMUCH!
Xx,
Sam