I'm a Travel Writer - These Are the 12 Top Places I've Been To (Part I)

As a travel writer, I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to many fascinating destinations. Traveling is an important part of life for me. It allows us to experience new cultures, visit places with great historical significance, and do things we’d only ever dreamed of doing.

Therefore, I want to inspire your next vacation destination. To do that, I’ve decided to share the top 12 places I’ve been to. It takes a special place to make someone want to go back, but I’d happily return to any of the entries on this list in a heartbeat. They offer rich culture, beautiful landscapes, exciting attractions, and more.

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Summer Destinations in Europe in July Amalfi, Italy

Italy 1/5

24 Tropical Destinations To Add To Your Bucket List Phuket, Thailand

Thailand, Phuket 2/5

Iconic Movie Locations You Can Actually Visit Petra, Jordan - Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade

Jordan 3/5

12 Top Places Ive Been as a Travel Writer Morocco © Siraphol Adobe Stock 78102002 - I'm a Travel Writer - These Are the 12 Top Places I've Been To (Part I)

Morocco 4/5

Avoid These 12 Tourist Traps in Spain for an Authentic Experience

Spain 5/5

Results

Italy

6 1

Thailand, Phuket

6 1

Jordan

4 3

Morocco

4 3

Spain

5 2

Thailand, Phuket

Phuket is a vibrant city on Phuket Island, the capital of Thailand’s Phuket Province. The younger generations might know Phuket best as one of Thailand’s most popular party hubs. However, beyond the hustle and bustle of the lively nightclubs and bars lies a unique city with a diverse mix of cultures, beautiful temples, and glorious white sand beaches.

If you want to learn more about the city and explore its most famous sights, head straight to Old Town on Thalang Road. You’ll find colorful 19th-century Sino-Portuguese buildings, shops, and beautiful mansions here. Notable attractions include Phuket Walking Street, Soi Romanee, Thai Hua Museum, and Chinpracha House. Once you’ve explored the Old Town, enjoy the sunshine at Patong Beach.

Chinpracha House Entry: Take a tour of Chinpracha House
, a well-preserved Sino-Portuguese mansion. The entry fee is 150 THB (4.50 USD), and the house is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:0 PM. It’s a short visit but offers fascinating insights into Phuket’s historical architecture.
Patong Beach Sunbed Rentals: At Patong Beach
, you can rent a sunbed for 100–200 THB (3–6 USD) per day. It’s a cost-effective way to relax by the shore, and nearby stalls and restaurants provide snacks, beverages, and even fresh fruit! Head there between 9:00-10:00 AM for the best spots.

Italy

We spent almost two months traveling through Italy and loved every second. Italy has everything from world-famous historic landmarks in Rome to vibrant beach towns like Positano. Of course, the Italian cuisine also stole my heart with delicious pasta dishes, authentic pizzas, and tasty desserts.

If you only have a few days to spend in Italy, visit the capital, Rome. This historic city is jam-packed with fascinating sights, beautiful plazas, local eateries, and things to do. Don’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain, or the Pantheon. If you’d prefer beaches and sunshine, I recommend visiting the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. Alternatively, head to Cagliari for a combination of big city, history, and beach town vibes.

Colosseum Entry Tickets: Purchase your Colosseum tickets online
in advance to save time and skip long queues. A standard ticket costs 52.06 EUR (56.58 USD) and includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. I recommend booking the early morning or late afternoon time slots to avoid crowds.
Be Aware of Tourist Fees: Many restaurants in tourist areas charge a “coperto” (cover charge) for dining in. If you want to avoid this, opt for takeout or look for smaller, family-run trattorias outside the main tourist zones.

Jordan

If you love impressive landscapes, historic landmarks, and unique cultures, like me, Jordan is a place you must tick off your bucket list. One of the most spectacular countries in the Middle East, Jordan is famed for its impressive archaeological sites, beautiful scenery, and delicious cuisine.

One of my favorite places in Jordan is Petra. Built as early as the 5th century, this wonder of the world, world-famous archaeological site, and ancient city is a sight to behold. It features mesmerizing temples, tombs, and houses carved into pink sandstone cliffs, Al-Khazneh being the most iconic sight. In Jordan, I also thoroughly enjoyed swimming in the Dead Sea, which is famous for its medicinal properties, and sleeping under the stars in a Wadi Rum tent.

Petra Entry Tickets: Buy your Petra tickets through the Jordan Pass, which includes your entry fee and a visa waiver if you stay for at least three nights. A one-day entry is 50 JOD (70 USD), but you’ll save money if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
Float in the Dead Sea: The salty waters make floating effortless, and the mineral-rich mud is known for its healing properties. Just be sure not to get water in your eyes—it stings!

Spain

Another country we’ve spent a large chunk of time in is Spain, where we spent about a month moving around. While places like Barcelona and Madrid are lovely, offering tourists everything they need from a Spanish city break, it’s Cádiz I fell in love with. This southwestern Spanish city has to be one of Spain’s most underrated beach destinations.

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Cádiz features several pristine beaches, a historic port, and a cobblestone Old Town bursting with gorgeous landmarks. Significant points of interest in the city include Playa de la Cortadura, Playa de la Victoria, Torre Tavira, Castillo de Santa Catalina, and Catedral de la Santa Cruz de Cádiz. One of my favorite pastimes was to grab a refreshing drink and bite to eat by the sea.

Café by the Sea: Try El Faro de Cádiz, a restaurant near the sea, where you can taste authentic Spanish dishes like tapas and fresh seafood. Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially in peak tourist seasons. Meals typically cost around 20–40 EUR (22–44 USD) per person.
Relax on Cádiz’s Beautiful Beaches: Spend a day at Playa de la Victoria for sunbathing and swimming, or visit the picturesque Playa de la Caleta, nestled between two historic castles.

Morocco

Morocco is a beautiful North African country known for its rich history, strong culture, food diversity, and scenic landscapes. Two places in Morocco stole my heart: Marrakech and Essaouira. These two places offer a unique insight into Moroccan culture and many things to see and do.

In Marrakech, a much-loved summer vacation destination, enjoy exploring the busy souks (traditional markets), visit the iconic Bahia Palace, and stroll through Le Jardin Secret, a lush botanical garden. If you want to enjoy the best beach near Marrakech, head to Essaouira, where you’ll find a gorgeous stretch of coastline and a long sandy beach (Plage d’Essaouira). I also loved the 18th-century Medina of Essaouira (Old Town), Sqala du Port d’Essaouira, and the city walls.

Bahia Palace Entry: When in Marrakech, don’t miss the Bahia Palace, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. The entry fee is 316.50 MAD (195.34 USD), and the palace is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Visit Essaouira’s Scenic Coastline: Enjoy a relaxing day at Plage d’Essaouira, walk along the city walls, and take in the stunning Atlantic Ocean views.

Southern France

The next destination on my list is Southern France. Again, limiting the region down to one place is hard, so I’ll give you three. The three places I love most in Southern France are Antibes, Saint Tropez, and Cannes. Each place offers authentic French charm, picturesque beaches, and vibrant Old Towns packed with history.

Having said that, each place also has its individual perks. For example, Cannes wins when it comes to outdoor adventure, offering rolling hills perfect for hiking. Meanwhile, Saint Tropez is one of Southern France’s most luxurious and glamorous seaside locations. Antibes is generally quieter and more relaxed than Cannes and Saint Tropez, making it a better option for travelers who want to escape the crowds.

Hike the Scenic Trails of Cannes: Explore the rolling hills and coastal landscapes for breathtaking views of the French Riviera.
Antibes Picasso Museum: If you’re in Antibes, visit the Musée Picasso, housed in a historic castle where Picasso once lived. The entry fee is 12 EUR (13.14 USD). The museum features a collection of Picasso’s works alongside stunning views of the Mediterranean from the terrace.

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Dominican Republic

As much as I love seeing and doing as much as possible, sometimes it’s nice to take things slower, relax, and unwind. One of my all-time favorite places to do that is the Dominican Republic. However, the great thing about this Caribbean island nation is that there are still plenty of things to do besides sunbathing.

The Dominican Republic offers a beautiful tropical climate, stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and historic locations. Significant points of interest include Punta Cana Beach, Bávaro Beach, Cabarete, Santo Domingo (the oldest city in the Americas), Juanillo Beach, and Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve. The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua and Puerto Plata Cable Car are two of my favorites as well. Do not miss a day trip to Isla Saona; the beaches there are absolutely gorgeous.

Isla Saona Day Trip: For a stunning tropical getaway, book a day trip to Isla Saona. Tours typically cost 85.22 USD per person, including lunch and transport from Punta Cana.
La Yola Restaurant at Puntacana Resort: Located near Juanillo Beach, La Yola is a stylish over-water seafood restaurant offering both Dominican and Mediterranean cuisine with stunning ocean views.

Greek Islands

The Greek islands are famed for their incredible natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. As a result, they are loved by most travelers, myself included. As a Greek, I’ve been to several of our beautiful islands, like Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Rhodes, and Crete—and many more that are not as famous.

However, one island has a deeper meaning for me as my dad comes from there. As such, I’ve spent many a summer exploring the heavenly landscapes and swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Lefkada.

One of the great things about Lefkada is how quiet it is. Compared to other Greek islands, such as Santorini, Lefkada is much less touristy, so you can find a peaceful slice of paradise. Beachgoers enjoy spending time at Porto Katsiki, Kathisma, and Egremni beaches. Other than beaches, explore the beautiful Lefkada Old Town, the 14th-century Agia Mavra Fort, and seafront villages like Agios Nikitas and Vassiliki.

Lefkada Old Town Nightlife: Stroll through Lefkada Old Town in the evening for relaxed nightlife. Try the local specialty, savoro fish, at Rachi Restaurant, a hilltop spot with breathtaking sunset views over the Ionian Sea.
Santorini’s Caldera Views: Witness the breathtaking sunsets over the whitewashed villages of Oia and Fira, offering one of the most iconic views in Greece.

Switzerland

Switzerland is another exciting destination I can’t pin down to one location. The entire country is dotted with picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming hillside towns. However, I particularly love Lauterbrunnen, the surrounding villages, and Zermatt. Lauterbrunnen is a breathtaking Swiss village brimming with snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and tall waterfalls.

Popular things to do include hiking, adventure sports, mountain climbing, and picnicking. As for the towns and villages near Lauterbrunnen, don’t miss Mürren, Isenfluh, and Wengen.

Then, there’s Zermatt, a mountain resort village renowned for skiing, hiking, and climbing. It’s from Zermatt you can catch a glimpse of the iconic Matterhorn Mountain. Meanwhile, Bahnhofstrasse (the main street) is lined with boutique shops and restaurants.

Lauterbrunnen & Surrounding Villages: Discover breathtaking waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and charming villages like Mürren and Wengen, perfect for hiking and adventure.
Hiking Staubbach Falls (Lauterbrunnen): Visit Staubbach Falls, one of Switzerland’s tallest free-falling waterfalls, located just outside Lauterbrunnen village. It’s accessible by foot for free, but a short hike up the viewing path offers incredible panoramas.

Denmark, Copenhagen

Denmark is a beautiful country that has something to offer every traveler. However, the capital, Copenhagen, is the best place to visit. This vibrant city is filled with fascinating attractions, famous landmarks, and exciting things to see and do. Better yet, it has a delicious food scene coupled with great design.

My favorite things to see in Copenhagen include Amalienborg Palace, Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid Statue, Reffen Street Market, and Nyhavn. Besides Copenhagen, we’re partial to visiting the Lego House with our children. Located in Billund, where Lego originates, this is a fun building filled with over 25 million Lego bricks. It has an entertaining Lego design and is filled to the rafters with Lego exhibits, games, and play areas.

Reffen Street Food Market: At Reffen, Copenhagen’s largest street food market, you can taste cuisines from around the globe while enjoying views of the harbor.
Lego House Tickets (Billund): If you’re heading to Billund with kids, visit the Lego House, the ultimate Lego experience. Entry costs 229 DKK (34.82 USD) for adults and children aged three and above, and it’s recommended to book in advance through Lego House’s official site.

Indonesia, Bali

Dubbed the “Island of the Gods” due to its close ties with Hinduism and the countless temples and religious sites that cover the island, Bali is a breathtaking island with much to see and do. Belonging to Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands, Bali is a haven for picturesque sandy beaches, turquoise waters, powerful waterfalls, and rich culture.

When you’re not soaking up the sun on one of the many beaches or exploring a famous temple, tuck into local cuisine overlooking a rice terrace, explore the quaint handicraft markets, and race through the rainforest on an ATV. Some of my favorite things to do in Bali include releasing sea turtles in Kuta, exploring the markets in Ubud, hiking in Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and relaxing at Finn’s Beach Club.

Respect Local Customs: Bali has a strong Hindu culture, so dress modestly when visiting temples and always remove your shoes before entering.
Avoid Tap Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to prevent Bali Belly (traveler’s stomach issues).
Ubud Art Market: Explore the Ubud Art Market for handmade crafts like woven baskets, jewelry, sarongs, and art. Negotiating prices is expected—start at 50% below the first offer.

Belgium

Belgium has a special place in my heart for many reasons, starting with the fact that my family and I currently live in the capital, Brussels. Brussels is renowned for its beautiful architecture, historic Old Town, awesome food, and administrative center of the European Union.

You’ll likely spend most of your time in the city eating your way through the streets, admiring the architecture, and visiting the most iconic attractions. Places you don’t want to miss include the Grand Palace, Parc du Cinquantenaire, and Atomium. Other places in Belgium I love include Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Dinant. Admittedly, Bruges is quite touristy, but it’s still a beautiful place to visit.

Try Local Specialties: Don’t leave Belgium without tasting its famous waffles, fries, and chocolates. Pair them with a Belgian beer for the full experience.
Use Public Transport: Belgium has an excellent train system connecting cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, making it easy to explore without needing a car.