I hope this article get you in the mood to pack your bag and tour USA!
The world is such an amazingly beautiful place. There is so much to see, do, learn about, people to meet, sites to see, foods to try, and the list goes on. Ever since I can remember, I’ve had a deep interest in people, different cultures and seeing the world. Around the age of 13, I began to play on a traveling competitive softball team, which introduced me to some of my first travel experiences.
Last year, I turned 31, and out of all the places I’ve had the opportunity to visit, I have compiled a list of the 10 places you must visit before the age of 30! Oh, and by the way…. if you are over 30… this list is still a MUST DO!
Let the countdown begin!
- New York City-
Ahhhhh… The Big Apple. It took me a while to get to visit NYC. I didn’t go until I was about 28 years old. At this point, I had traveled all over the world and people would give me a hard time that I hadn’t seen NYC yet!!! I’m the type of person who travels based on opportunity… and this particular trip was sparked by my sales job. Of course, I had to spend an extra couple days there to visit and experience New York City. Of course, I saw the big apple, Times Square, and visited Chinatown. I had a slice of NY pizza, walked through Little Italy, and across the Brooklyn Bridge. As much as I’m not a fan of “touristy” vacations and trips…. New York City has made the list!!!
- A Short, Inexpensive Cruise-
For me, this was a cruise from Tampa, Florida to Cancun, Mexico. I think the 4 day, 3 night trip was around $200. Based on where you live, the location may differ on what is offered inexpensively. The point of short inexpensive cruise is that it’s a great way to get away for a long weekend, see some beautiful islands, hang out with friends or family, and I strongly recommend that everyone experiences a cruise at least once in their life.
- All Inclusive to the Dominican Republic-
This is one of my most memorable trips during my early 20’s. At the time, I was living in Ohio, (and this was around 2005), I was able to find a trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic for less than $1000- ALL IN. This included room, food, FLIGHT, and transportation. Okay, okay, I know that now a days, to be able to find an all inclusive for that price may be a stretch…. but regardless… going on an all inclusive trip is definitely WORTH it. Dominicans are fun because they bring the fun and excitement with great music and dancing!!!
- Sedona, Arizona-
Ahhhhhhhh, Sedona. A few years ago, I flew into Phoenix, and had intentions of traveling up to the Grand Canyon to visit before heading over to Vegas for a Convention. We really didn’t plan what we’d do on the way to Flagstaff, we just committed to figuring it out on the way. We were relatively surprised by Sedona! We spent a few hours there and were awestruck by the beauty, the energy, and the calmness of the environment. It was at that time, I vowed I’d travel back to Sedona to spend more time- which is coming up this September!!! (3 years later!!!)
California Coast –
My trip down the California Coast was a 6 day excursion filled with hiking, adventure as we traveled from San Francisco down to San Diego. The coastal views and the hiking with the views were ABSOLUTELY amazing and breathtaking. This is one of my favorite trips of my late 20s. The California Coast is a MUST SEE before the age of 30!
- Hawaii-
I’m extremely grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to travel to Hawaii three times before the age of 30. The first two times were at the ages of 17 and 18 with my traveling softball team to the Island of Oahu. This last time was at the age of 30 to the Big Island of Hawaii. I will say, that while every trip to Hawaii has been special, but I recommend this trip be in mid-late twenties if possible. Hawaii has perfect weather, breathtaking views and such a relaxing environment that it’s worth saving up your money to go visit!!
- Grand Canyon-
The Grand Canyon has a very dear place in my heart. I know you may be thinking, how is Hawaii not the #1 place to visit? Simple. I recommend everyone see the Grand Canyon before they leave this Earth. When you go to visit the Grand Canyon, it puts your life and worries in perspective. You are able to pause and realize that this World, Mother Nature is so much bigger than our day to day worries and problems. You can’t help but see the history in the Grand Canyon and that the Canyon has witnessed many many lives, human and animals, for thousands of years. I can’t put words to what is felt when you first see the Grand Canyon- in person with your own eyes.
How many of these 7 have you visited? When will you be planning your next trips to these amazing places?
Jenny O is a world traveler, life transformation specialist, and an author. She works with female
entrepreneurs by showing them how to live a life filled with authenticity, inner peace and
TRAVEL! She hosts powerful destination retreats focused on life transformation, creating a
community, outdoor exploration and healthy living. Check out her blog here!
