As a traveler, we’re always wanting to explore new places and see new things. The prospect of having to go back to the same city isn’t always the most exciting. That being said, there are a few gems in the places I’ve been to so far that I can never say no to.
Read more about these amazing places!
- 3 reasons to go to Barcelona
- Top 5 things to do from Queenstown, New Zealand
- Utah and Arizona 10 day Itinerary
- Where to stay in Tokyo
- 5 Day Bali Itinerary in Indonesia
How can you save money on travel?
- Hottest deals – Bookmark the travel deals page.
- Car rentals – stop getting ripped off and learn about car rental coupon codes.
- Hotels – Use corporate codes or get Genius 2 tier with Booking.
- Flights – Have you ever heard of the “Everywhere” feature?
- Insurance – Make sure you’re covered and learn more about where to buy the best travel insurance.
1. Barcelona, Spain
How can you not love this city full of life, culture, amazing food and Gaudi? I’ve always been here THREE times and hope to add a few more trips here down the road. Next time I go back, I better see more progress with the La Sagrada Familia!
2. Queenstown, New Zealand
This little adventure city in the south island of New Zealand is set amidst the dramatic mountainous back drop. Although only here for a few days, I absolutely loved the laid back life style here. It reminded me in many ways of being a small ski/snowboard town like Whistler. Here, adventure sports takes front and center. I didn’t quite have the guts to do bungee jumping here but did do the Shotover Jet ride and that was a total thrill.
3. Salt Lake City, USA
I’m probably one of the few that would peg Salt Lake City as a go-to-place but having spent a lot of time here in my previous life as a consultant, I’ve really come to enjoy this city and the mountains that surround out. For 3 years in a row, I organized group trips to Park City just outside of Salt Lake City for a little bit of snowboarding and Sundance Film Festival – the best time to go.
4. Tokyo, Japan
Just thinking about that fresh FRESH sushi makes my mouth water. Aside from all the oishi food there is out there, this vibrant city really does have something for everyone. I’d love to explore this city even more beyond the 12 days we spent last time in Japan. Anyone want to make reservations for Jiro’s?
5. Bali, Indonesia
During my 4 month trip to Asia in 2012. Indonesia really stood out above everywhere else I went to. My 5 day itinerary in Bali was one of the highlights of the trip really because of how well balanced things were. I’d love to go back to Bali to do some surfing now that I’m *a little* better and to explore the northern parts of the island which is even more untouched than the areas we explored last time around. I’d also love to do that sunrise trek up to Mt. Batur. Lots of unfinished business here!
Which cities do you consistently go back to?
I’d love to hear from you. Which cities do you love and why? Just comment below!
What you should read next
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.
Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.
Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.
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eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.
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Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.
Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.
Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).
Tours and Activities: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.
Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.
- HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 5% discount!
- RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
- SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
- Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
Barcelonaaaa! I never get bored of it. I feel I arrived home whenever I land on Barcelona International Airport.
You and me both!
Amsterdam is historic, beautiful, people are great, easy to get around and I find something new to do every time. Jakson Hole is breathtakingingly beautiful. Rothenburg because of its medieval feel and beautiful setting. Budapest, the architecture is awe inspiring, the history is rich and the food is delicious. Cinque Terre(specifically Riomaggiore) because it gives you a real sense of place and food is amazing!
Love Queenstown! But I could also go back to Stockholm again and again and again…
Having studied in Sweden, I totally love Stockholm. How much time did you get to spend in the country?
Nice list! Now you got me thinking about my own 5… Ugh, how to choose?!
AHhhhh I know! Too many amazing places right? I’m sure Myanmar is one of em?