Time flies when you’re on the adventure of a lifetime!
It seems like just yesterday I was ticking things off my list of 20 Trips to Take in Your 20s. Today, I’m a little older, maybe even a little wiser, but one thing stays the same: the wanderlust never fades.
Before you get too deep into nesting mode, let’s create those escapades that’ll define our 30s.
1. Wellness Trip
Where it’s a solo adventure or a girlfriends’ getaway, take the time for a reset. I had an unforgettable wellness weekend hiking with my girls in Moab and would jump at the chance to do it again.
The quirky little California town of Ojai is a dream retreat destination as well. With poolside yoga, pristine hiking paths, and a thriving arts community, this place was made for a digital detox.
2. Bordeaux & Provence
During my 20s, I visited France a few times and got to see all of the best of Paris. While I adored every moment of it, I was always on a shoestring budget (yep, you really can travel Paris on the cheap!) and it held me back from doing a few things.
Once you’re no longer a broke college student, explore Bordeaux and the South of France. From the lush lavender fields of Provence to the posh coastline, France is so much more than its capital city.
I had an incredible solo adventure around France when I could finally treat myself to the finer things. After all, it’s the wine, food, spas, and little everyday luxury that France is famous for.
3. Valle de Guadalupe
I celebrated the big 3-0 in the wine region of Mexico. Just south of the border, we found some of the best vineyards on the planet.
Even after exploring countless vineyards, Wine Tasting in Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico blew me away. Trust me, Mexican wine is a must.
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4. TBA Escapes
Spend a few days bonding with women from every corner of the planet. The ladies I’ve been lucky enough to meet on our past TBA Escapes have been truly incredible.
From Morocco to South Africa to the Galapagos, grab your gal pals or come solo and meet like-minded adventurers.
- Highlights From the TBA Escapes Morocco Adventure Tour
- Highlights from TBA Escapes Jordan Ancient Wonders Tour
- Highlights From My South Africa Beach to Bush Photography Tour
- Highlights from TBA Escapes Galápagos Luxury Yacht Eco Expedition
Find more info about joining TBA Escapes here!
5. Greece
Greece is one of those places that you can keep coming back to and have a different experience every time. Live it up at the non-stop parties during your teens and 20s.
In your 30s, come back again and treat yourself to the luxurious side of Greece.
Tip: Spoiled for choice? Check out my guide to choosing the best Greek island for you right now.
6. Croatia
A favorite amongst European travelers, Croatia is often passed over by international travelers. During your 30s, explore the Istria region.
Known for its world-class food, wine, and sailing, this is the ultimate Mediterranean escape.
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7. Japan
While Tokyo is an incredible city, you can dive deeper into Japanese culture outside of the capital. Explore the countryside and take the train to explore different regions.
Spend at least three days in Kyoto and find a local foodie tour. Take your time traveling at a slower pace to fully soak in and savor the experience.
8. Morocco
The rich architecture and dramatic colors of Morocco make it a photographer’s dream (just look at these shots I took in Chefchaouen).
Take your time to see as much of the country as possible. Sample different foods, explore the mountains, travel the deserts, and take in the powerful beauty.
9. Summit a Mountain
Take your pick. From Everest to Oregon, there are countless peaks just waiting to be submitted. Before your knees get too sore, challenge yourself!
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10. New York City
Like France, I found that traveling back to NYC with a bit more cash in my pocket transformed the experience.
You don’t have to break the bank to travel to NYC here (check out my cash-saving tips), but it’s a great place to treat yourself.
Spend the night in a fancy hotel. Indulge in five-star restaurants. Rather than try to check things off your must-see list, put your feet up and simply enjoy the city.
11. Charter a Sailboat
While I loved partying it up during Yacht Week in my 20s, I opt for a more chill experience these days. Rather than raging to dawn, I’d rather charter a catamaran through the Caribbean for snorkeling and siestas.
Get your sea legs in your 30s with a refined, laidback sailing excursion.
12. Road Trip Through the Countryside
Leave London behind, and take a UK road trip through the hidden gems of England and Scotland.
Take your time getting around and stay in a quaint bed and breakfast.
Go for an afternoon bike ride around the countryside and sample the local delights in a place where farm-to-table is the standard.
13. Hike through Switzerland or Ireland
I had an unforgettable adventure during my two-week road trip through Ireland and fell in love with Switzerland traveling from peak to peak.
Hike the lush countryside of either one of these. And consider doing a homestay to really sink your teeth into the local culture.
14. El Camino de Santiago in Spain
While you might not make it the entire 770 km/ 480 miles down the iconic El Camino de Santiago, you’ll love trying to.
Also known as the Way of St. James, this pilgrimage path has been a rite of passage for generations.
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15. Take a Solo Trip
Solo travel has sincerely changed my life. It’s transformed the way that I look at the world and exist within it. Learning how to get by on my own and savor my alone time is one of the best things that I have ever done for myself.
But, I get it. It’s an intimidating leap.
To get started, head over to my guide to solo travel for a few tricks that I’ve learned along the way.
16. California Coast
Sure, hotspots like Los Angeles and San Francisco are great, but the true beauty of California lies off the beaten path.
To get to see the real California, drive the Pacific Coast Highway and take your time getting to know the lesser-known spots. Sip wine from local vineyards, explore San Luis Obispo County, and take it slow.
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17. Take a Trip through Europe
Ditch the backpack and take a grown-up through Europe. From Portugal to Romania, the diversity of this country is truly amazing.
Explore all of your options for a European excursion and upgrade from hostels to Airbnbs. Trust me, everything looks different when you don’t have a backpack half the size of your body strapped to your back.
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18. Road Trip New Zealand
As beautiful as they may be, the photos of New Zealand simply can’t do it justice. You have to see the magician beautify this country with your own two eyes to truly understand it.
Plan the ultimate New Zealand road trip for a drive that you will never forget.
19. African Safari
During my years living in Cape Town, I was fortunate enough to see some of the best of Africa. From safaris in the African bush to gorilla trekking in Uganda, this is a true bucket list experience.
20. Holiday River Cruise
Ever come back from vacation feeling like you need a vacation? Let me introduce you to the world of river cruising. The slower pace of a river cruise gives you the chance to refresh and unwind.
Go with your significant other or your parents for a chance to connect and chill together. Sailing through Central Europe gave me the opportunity to see the sights I would have otherwise missed.
I’d note that the age group skews a bit older so don’t expect nightlife but it’s perfect for times when you want a good night’s sleep.
21. Amalfi Coast
Italy is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, it’s a dream destination.
Exploring the Amalfi Coast took my breath away. While I’d highly recommend tracking a road trip through the entire area, you can also have a great time just based in Positano.
22. Greater Indonesia
Leave the party scene in Bali to the young ‘uns and explore deeper. Indonesia is filled with postcard-perfect destinations that aren’t Bali.
Explore Uluwatu or Nusa Penida. See Raja Ampat and Komodo. Take a cooking class. There are so many options and you definitely missed out if you only stick to the party circuit of Bali.
23. Iceland
Easily one of my favorite countries on the planet, traveling Iceland is the ultimate adventure. See the Northern Lights. Soak in the natural hot springs.
Even just standing in a parking lot will leave you in awe in a country this beautiful.
Explore the profound beauty and check out the cool boutique hotels. Treat yourself in the incredible spas. And, yes, Iceland is an expensive destination, but you can see it on a budget.
24. New Orleans
Forget Mardi Gras and explore the rich cultural heritage of this one-of-a-kind city.
Sample the local food (which is some of the best on the planet, IMO!), take a voodoo tour, and really sink your teeth into the truly unique way of life here.
25. Fall Foliage in the US
Grab my guide to the Best Destinations in the United States for Leaf Peeping and start planning your next adventure.
26. Learn to Cook a Traditional Dish
After eating my way around the world for years, I’ve forever on a mission to collect the best recipes from grandmas’ around the globe.
Whether you take a cooking class abroad or learn from your own home kitchen, take the time to master a traditional dish.
27. Go Somewhere on “Points”
One of the best travel secrets I’ve learned is using travel credit cards. Spend the money that you were going to spend anyway and actually get something for it.
Over time, you can earn a *free* trip using your travel rewards credit card.
Once you’ve earned it, actually use it! Those points don’t last forever and you deserve a break.
28. Go Scuba Diving
Getting my PADI Open Water Scuba Diving Certification changed the way that I travel.
Since learning to dive, I have discovered that some of the most beautiful places on the planet are well below sea level.
29. Treat Yourself to a First Class Flight
Sure, paying for first-class flights can be pricey…so don’t pay!
I upgraded to Emirates First Class using points and it turned what would have been a long drudgerous flight into a relaxing day.
30. Go Glamping
Explore the great outdoors without the hassles of actually rough it. Check out my guide to the Amazing Glamping Destinations in the USA and plan your next adventure.
How many of these things have you done? Let me know in the comments below!
Well, let’s say it’s 50/50 for me 😉 Will try to accomplish it in my 40-ties 😉
No matter your age — there’s always room for more adventure 😉
Ah I love this! It’s definitely true that in your 20’s your doing everything on a shoestring budget and seeing a lot fo capital cities. But in your 30’s you have a bit more money behind you to do things slower and more off the beaten track.
Also LOVE how you said to skip London and explore the countryside 🙂 That’s the real beauty!
Hey Natalie! That was definitely how I viewed this article when creating the list 🙂 Obviously you can still choose to do things on budget — and I still do, but it is nice to have a little more “cushion” when traveling to enjoy some finer delights!