Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life.
Yeah, ok we get it. Our friends quote this to us after bad breakups, therapists line their office walls with poster versions, and parents pin it to their Pinspiration boards the world over.
But deep down, it's all a lie. Everyone knows the first day of the rest of your life is New Year's Day.
Sure, it doesn't really make sense. After all, man is the one who invented dates in the first place. We all know we can try to change on any given day of any given year -- it's just that waiting until the New Year has become a psychological thing. It's a symbolic fresh slate. An acceptable time to start over. Lists, goals, and resolutions have been paused in limbo for months, eagerly waiting to come out of the woodworks the moment the final ball drops.
Sitting up there with spending more time with family, quitting smoking, and ditching the donuts is... traveling more.
These wanderlust revelations always head down the same road towards the inevitable final question of So, where should I go? After attempting to answer this multiple times over, I reflected back on my 9 years of travel and compiled a list of my favorite destinations coupled with my favorite time to visit.
I found that when you go is often just as important as where you go as the time of year you visit can make or break your trip. So from Verona to Budapest, Fraser Island to Maine, Reykjavik to the Douro Valley and beyond, below is a list of some of my favorite time and place combinations - a travel destination for every month.
January - London, England, United Kingdom
With layer upon layer of history intricately woven round the bends of the renowned River Thames, London has manifested itself into one of the foremost culturally significant destinations since the Romans first laid the foundation some 2000 years ago.
City Highlights:
Free museums and galleries around every corner.
London's plethora of green parks and spaces make it the greenest city of its size in Europe.
Its multiculturalism results in incredible ethnic cuisine (especially when it comes to Indian food).
The English social scene revolves around cozy pubs - some of which date back to the 1500's.
The shopping is not only exquisite but so are the buildings they're housed in.
It's the premier theater destination in the world rivaled only by New York City.
Its underground music and nightlife scene.
Why Go in January:
Most sites remain open year round.
There are far fewer tourists so you can enjoy the sites without massive crowds.
Accommodation is at its cheapest.
There's a quiet beauty along the Thames River in areas like Hammersmith, Chiswick, and Richmond when the trees are bare and the sun reflects off the cold waters.
Know Before You Go: The weather can be wet or monochromatic with its fog. Dress warmly as there will be a chill in the air.
February - Verona, Italy
Being the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet isn't the only reason Verona's known as the city of love. It's as romantic as any city can possibly be with 2,000 years of architectural history on display around the curvatures of the Adige river. A Roman arch bridge connects the riverbanks, piazzas sprawl out from narrow alleyways, bell towers kiss the sky, Romanesque and Gothic churches abound, and there's no shortage of elegant building facades to gaze upon.
City Highlights:
Its 2000 year old Roman amphitheater that's now one of the premier opera venues in the world.
Its old Roman forum where modern Veronans continue to gather.
Refreshing alcoholic spritzes.
Its compact size makes it easily navigable by foot.
Postcard-perfect views along the river.
Its plethora of pedestrian-only cobblestone streets.
Delicious risotto and polenta dishes.
Why Go in February:
When the snow falls in a city as old and beautiful as Verona, it's like being in the world's most charming snow globe.
The Verona in Love! Festival near Valentine's Day - heart streamers hang upon street lanterns; market stall vendors arrange their booths to line around the edge of a giant red heart; Verona in Love is projected on building facades; tourist sites are discounted for couples; and there's a huge celebration that ends with a countdown culminating with Italians screaming Baci! Baci! (kiss! kiss!) - that's when the cannons start shooting out heart-shaped confetti to rain around the hundreds of couples making out in the center of the piazza.
You can stay at a five star hotel for the price of a 2 star.
Extremely few tourists.
Know Before You Go: Plan for minor transportation delays and changes. Due to snow patterns, my train was rerouted through a different station on the way from Florence and my flight on the way out of Verona was also delayed 3 hours.
March - Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland's total population caps at around 330,000 and the capital city of Reykjavik holds approximately 40% of it. Despite its compact size, this coastal city is remarkably cosmopolitan with a multitude of museums, a rich literary history, a past that reaches back to the Viking age, a modern day art and sculpture scene, and a lively nightlife culture. Sitting amidst a country that's still in the process of its own creation, the capital is within easy reach of glaciers, volcanoes, national parks, black sand beaches, geysers, and geothermal pools.
City Highlights:
Reykjavik can easily be traversed via foot, bus, or bike.
Icelanders are among the friendliest people in the world.
One of the most eco-conscious cities in the world - 100% of its electricity comes from renewable sources.
Icelandic water is the best water ever. Seriously - The. Best.
An outdoorsmen's paradise with its close proximity of places to go trekking, horseback riding, snorkeling, glacier hiking, and more.
The majority of the population speaks English. The majority also believe in elves.
Its energetic nightlife scene.
Why Go in March:
Northern Lights! Northern Lights! Northern Lights! It was the most spectacular display I've ever seen. Dancing pink, green, and purple lights covered the whole sky only 20 minutes outside the city center and lasted for over an hour.
There's enough daylight for exploring, yet the sun won't keep you up all night like in the summer months.
While chilly, the weather is milder than you would think for this time of year.
It's still considered the 'shoulder season' so prices are cheaper.
Know Before You Go: Keep an eye out for the Easter holiday - many restaurants and bars in the capital close down over these dates. Also, most items in Iceland are imported which means they're crazy expensive so buy any gear (boots, sweaters, hiking pants, jackets, etc.) you may need before leaving home.
April - Fraser Island, Australia
The world's largest sand island, Fraser Island is a host of diversity where one minute you're in the rainforest and the next you're swimming in gin-clear lakes. Foray out a bit further and you'll find mounds of sand dunes, natural water-filled rock pools, colored cliffs, shipwrecks, and miles upon miles of coastline.
Island Highlights:
Roaming, wild dingoes mean lots of opportunities for the dingo at my baby jokes.
Isolated stretches of beach.
40 of the clearest lakes you've ever seen.
One of the best places for pitching a tent and sleeping beneath the stars.
Activities for all ages - both for the adventurous and the less-adventurous spirits.
Its eco-friendliness.
Why Go in April:
Cruise its 75 miles of coastline without another car in sight.
Tour buses are few and far between.
Unbeatable weather with endless sunny days and clear nights. Never was I cold nor did I break a sweat.
As I'm not a huge planner, I found I was able to do everything I wanted to without booking in advance. I was even able to secure my jeep rental the night before.
Know Before You Go: If you plan on renting a jeep make sure you have a confident driver. The interior roads can be treacherous and bumpy with cars coming from both directions. There were also times when we had to drive through waves that butted against the car and there are narrow stretches between the sea and big piles of rocks that can at times be dangerous. Never drive during nightfall or through certain stretches during high tide.
May - The Douro Valley, Portugal
Tucked away in the distant reaches of northern Portugal, this historic and lesser-known wine region rests upon a dramatic landscape wrought with sloping valleys, slanting hills and pared by the Douro River that sinuously drifts between them. With a history of wine production spanning 2000 years, this once remote area continues to preserve and sustain its authentic character. Discovering the traditions of the sleepy hilltop towns of the Douro Valley is an unparalleled experience.
Valley Highlights:
The river-hugging train ride from the city of Porto to the towns in the Douro Valley is one of the most scenic in the world.
For that matter, taking a boat up the Douro River is one of the most scenic boat rides in the world.
Port wine tasting at one of the many quintas dotting the valley.
The sheer beauty and greenness of the vineyards.
Each quaint train depot you pass will leave you charmed by its characteristically Portuguese blue-and-white-tiled decorative mosaics.
Why Go in May:
The weather is unbeatable with the gleaming sun and cloudless skies. It's warm yet not sweltering.
It's still before the busy season which means less tourists. The largest group I toured a vineyard with capped out at 3 people.
Hotel prices - though not at their lowest - are still marginally cheaper than in the summer months.
Know Before You Go: Look into renting a car (if you don't want to spend a load of money on private taxis). I found myself restricted to certain vineyards due to being sans vehicle - though it was still an incredible trip and can be done without one.
June - The Pacific Coast Highway, USA
One of America's most beloved drives, the Pacific Coast Highway stretches along California's central coast and allows for a variety of interesting stop-offs from state parks to golden mountains; eclectic roadside attractions to mansions in the sky; fairytale towns to surfer hotspots; and much more.
PCH Road Trip Highlights (route from LA to San Francisco):
Hiking, camping, lookouts, and basically any and everything in Big Sur.
Hearst Castle.
The wine tasting rooms of Santa Barbara.
The artisan shops and independent galleries in the cute town that's so charmingly named Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Dramatic cliffs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean.
The birds and sea lions of Point Lobos State Reserve.
Why Go in June:
Far less traffic with long stretches of nothing but the open road.
Less tourists at all the attractions along the way.
You don't have to book accommodation or buy tickets for any sites in advance. After all, aren't road trips supposed to be about freedom and spontaneous whims?
Know Before You Go: This month is infamous for it's "June Gloom". The mornings can be laden with dense fog. It's best to have lazy mornings in whichever town you're visiting and hit the road around 1 or 2pm as this is when the haze will start to lift.
July - Surry, Maine, USA
Characterized by miles of coastline, pebbled beaches, fresh lobster shacks, thick forests, and sheltered inlets - the small New England town of Surry, Maine is an idyllic haven for those wishing to escape city life.
Area Highlights:
Hiking and outdoor activities in nearby Acadia National Park.
Fresh lobster straight off the boat at Perry's
Whale-watching excursions.
Less than an hour's drive from the bustling summer village of Bar Harbor.
Watersports from boating, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, jet-skiing, and more.
The beauty of nature, the great outdoors, and unrivaled sunsets.
Friendliness of the heavily-accented locals.
Whoopie pie.
Why Go in July:
The 4th of July holidays are always best celebrated in the Northeastern United States and Maine is no exception.
Maine can be chilly year round but July offers the best of both worlds as it's warm enough to sunbathe yet the nights are cool enough for a sweater and a bonfire.
Blueberry season opens up which means blueberry pies everywhere.
Know Before You Go: Always bring a sweater and jeans - there's never been a night in Maine when I haven't needed them. The summits of the mountains also can get quite nippy so a light athletic jacket will come in handy if hiking.
August - Dublin, Ireland
Nowhere is personality on display more than in the city of Dublin with its many colorful Georgian doors, its pubs filled with charismatic and convivial locals, its generations of creative musicians and literary types, and 1000 years of history lying on its sleeve.
City Highlights:
Its impressive library inside Trinity College.
The infectious congeniality of the Irish.
Pubs, pubs, and more pubs.
Its imposing medieval architecture.
Its rich literary heritage.
Easy access to a variety of day trips including Blarney Castle, Bunratty, the town of Cork, the Wicklow Mountains, etc.
Why Go in August:
Being one of the busiest times of year means you'll meet people from all over the world.
Bars and pubs are at their liveliest and continue the party well on into the early morning.
The weather hovers around the mid-60's.
All attractions are open.
The Liffey Swim - watch the swimmers take to the water in this historic race which first commenced in 1920.
Know Before You Go: August is in the middle of tourist season and attractions can become quite crowded. It's best to go first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. I often found that many sites were less crowded when I went 30 minutes prior to closing. Most places only close the doors at closing time but will let you wander for a while if you're already inside.
Photo: Pixabay
September - Monaco
Glitz and glam are the themes of this tiny principality. Nestled along the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco is a place people go to see and be seen - the glitterati sip cocktails onboard their megayachts, the wealthy shop the prestigious labels of the Cercle d'Or, and celebrities dine at the most exquisite Michelin Star restaurants.
Country Highlights:
Ample opportunities for celeb spotting.
Its sweeping views of the blue waters of the western Mediterranean Sea.
As the country is built up on cliffs, escalators have been added so you're calves don't die from too many steep hills and stairs.
Its fresh seafood is a gastronomical delight.
Doubling your money at the fashionable Monte-Carlo Casino (if you're lucky).
The succulents at the Jardin Exotique de Monaco.
Why Go in September:
With the Monaco Yacht Show taking place this month, the harbors are filled with the world's largest yachts.
Its at its liveliest as visitors enjoy the last remains of the summer season.
Temperatures hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit allowing for perfect swimming conditions.
Know Before You Go: Watch out for the Monaco Yacht Show which is held in September. Accommodation prices skyrocket and you must book months in advance. Don't count on being able to hit up the superyacht show without parting with a couple hundred Euros.
October - New York, New York, USA
New York City is where every contradiction seamlessly merges together in an almost unnatural sync that's echoed in its protean neighborhoods, culturally varied residents, and its evolution and acceptance of new norms. It's so much more than a check-off list comprised of Times Square, Grand Central, art museums, Broadway shows, and trendy restaurants. It's an ever-changing place that no one can ever truly know - but it sure is a hell of a lot of fun to try.
City Highlights:
Its melting pot of cultures.
One of the world's best foodie scenes and a nightlife that doesn't stop.
Cheap taxis, ease of public transportation, and an overall flat city that makes for easy walking.
Its world-class art collections and museums.
Its cultural and hip outer borough neighborhoods.
Riverwalks and strolls through green parks.
Iconic skyscrapers mingle with historic buildings.
Why Go in October:
Mild, pleasant weather and mostly sunny skies.
Many tourists come in August and September for the final days of summer and then a new flock will arrive for the holiday season in November and December - this means October is fairly light when it comes to crowds.
The changing color of the leaves in Central Park.
The Thompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is the cutest thing you'll ever witness as hundreds of dogs parade around in the most creative costumes you've ever seen.
Know Before You Go: Check the weather. 90% of the time it's absolutely stunning but 3 years ago there was one day in October when a freak snowstorm hit. It's rare but it could still happen so it's better to be prepared.
November - Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
Located in central Scotland, the region of Stirling has a dense historical past that's seen everything from Stone Age settlements to Scottish wars to established monarchies. The area holds an enchanting mix of old medieval villages and castles, natural lochs and rivers, Renaissance architecture, and cobblestone streets - all of which are set within a striking landscape where the rolling hills of the Lowlands rise to meet the mountains of the Highlands.
Region Highlights:
Cheap, regular, and efficient bus service makes it easy to get from one village to the next without a car.
Various trekking and hiking paths are within a stone's throw of every town in the region.
The Scottish hospitality is unmatched and it's very easy to meet locals in Stirling.
The area includes Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
The walks between the villages are among the most beautiful in the world.
Pretending to be Mel Gibson in Braveheart.
Castles, castles, and more castles.
Why Go in November:
Peace and solitude - this is one of the least busiest months to be in the Stirling region with little to no tourists around.
You can wander castles alone. Seriously I had two medieval castles all to myself.
You'll see Scotland the way it was meant to be seen - all moody and atmospheric.
The one distillery tour I went on only had two other people on it.
If you want to get to know the locals, this is the easiest time to do it. Mostly because they all want to stop to ask you "What the hell are you doing here in November?"
Know Before You Go: Visiting in November requires a bit of research - especially when it comes to accommodation. A lot of the smaller village hotels close on October 31st though you should be fine in bigger towns like Stirling City. If there's a certain attraction you want to see, make sure it's open as a lot of them are closed for the season. November can also be wet so bring a light rain coat.
December - Budapest, Hungary
Rising from the ashes of a complex and conflict-ridden history, Budapest has transformed into the Paris of the East with its concert halls and theaters, cultural museums, emerging foodie scene, and a treasure trove of architectural elements that are riddled throughout the city.
City Highlights:
Hungarian red wine is among some of the best in the world.
It's efficient public transportation system.
One of the cheapest European cities thanks to the weakened forint.
Hungarians love to drink - clubs and ruin bars stay open 'til the wee hours of dawn.
The beauty of the Old Town up on Castle Hill.
Reflecting on the city's war torn history at the WWII memorial - The Shoes of the Danube - along the banks of the river.
Langos - a tasty street food consisting of dough topped with sour cream and shredded cheese.
Art Nouveau architecture with its intricately decorated tiled roofs.
Its thermal bath culture.
Why Go in December:
Its Christmas markets seem never-ending as they continue on block after block. They are also much less crowded than the ones in other European capitals.
Less tourists.
Holiday lights are strung throughout the city making it quite the festive destination.
You can make a game of trying to spot the Christmas tram - a tram whose exterior is completely covered in lights.
It's easy to dine at most restaurants without a reservation.
Know Before You Go: December can be quite gloomy during the day. Don't expect any postcard-perfect daytime shots of the riverbank - though you can get some cool vintage-esque shots with the right filter.
The full version of this article first appeared on the travel blog, I'm Not A Tourist, I Swear! Like the site's facebook page here.
Photos by Kristen Sarra,
What's your favorite time and place combination? Let me know in the comments below!
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