Where Will I Go First?
I was recently asked where I would travel to first when things start to open up from the COVID-19 pandemic. It didn't take me long to answer, as I think about this all the time! It is sad to see all my accumulated miles sitting in my American Airlines app, along with many airline credits from trips that were canceled. I often wonder when I'll get to use them and where I'll go. While I’m less sure of when I'll be boarding a plane next, I do know my top three travel destinations for when I do feel safe and ready to travel:
First on my list is to head west, to California, Arizona, or both! These are places I've been to many times before, and they are regular destinations for me because my friends and family live there. And let’s face it - both are pretty great places to visit. I have been going to southern California at least once a year since I was young for family vacations. In the past decade or so, conferences and other work travel took me there frequently, and I'd always add on time for visits and fun stuff like hiking and spa days. Arizona has always been one of my favorite places. I love the desert! I love the cactus-lined trails, the dry air, and the heat. Bring on the 90+ degree days! My family has a house along Lake Havasu, and I'm dying to bring my paddleboard out there and paddle in such a great location for water sports. I am all for making my first trip one that is low key and relaxing.
My second destination has to be Key West. I have never been there and have tried going twice over the last year, but it never worked out. I have toyed around with whether I want to fly directly there or land in Miami and drive across the keys. That drive looks pretty nice, and it would add to the experience, as long as I have the extra time to do it and want to take that time.
And finally, I can't have a travel list without including international travel. I realize this one may be a little further out but my passport is feeling neglected and collecting dust! It would be so great to have a trip abroad to look forward to. I am thinking of London. Again, I've never been there, and it has been over 6 years since I've been to Europe. That’s way too long.
Do you have your travel plans thought through and ready too? Where do you plan to go?