Here at HYDAWAY, we’ve got a serious travel bug basically all of the time. One reason why we love the beginning of a new year is the ability to create new travel plans for the next 12 months and get some destinations checked off our list! We polled our employees and ambassadors about where they would love to travel. Here’s what they said and why you should add these places to your travel bucket list:
Portugal
Zelphia: “I am hoping to go to Portugal on my honeymoon in October!” There are so many things to do and see in Portugal depending on the time of year and where you go. Check out this article for the 25 Best Things to Do in Portugal. You’ll find us at all the incredible historical sites! And maybe sunbathing on the beach..
Cyprus
Jiross: “Germany or Cyprus for a conference!” Speaking of beaches, we’re totally adding Cyprus to our list. The island has generally great weather year-round, especially in May – September, with warm water temperatures in the Summer. Here is a thorough list of all the best things to do while in Cyprus, whichever city you might be visiting.
Boundary Waters, Minnesota
Sara: “Definitely the cabin… hoping on planning a Boundary Waters weekend to hike Eagle Mountain with my son… and hopefully a weekend away with my husband 🤞🏻 we haven’t been away together for a few years.” We love Sara’s game plan for travel this year! A trip to the Boundary Waters is sure to be a once in a life time experience, whether you find yourself carrying a canoe or just exploring for the day. Also consider short staycations with individual family members, like your spouse or children. You’ll be so happy you invested in one-on-one time with each other, and you may even learn some new things about your family!
Chicago, Illinois
Meaghan: “Chicago in March for MommyCon/DaddyCon, trips to the cabin, maybe some camping if we are feeling adventurous.” Chicago is one of those cities that’s beautiful and fun any time of the year. Whether you find a conference, concert, or other event that you plan to attend or just go to explore the Windy City, you’re sure to have a good time. Go shopping on Michigan Ave, take in the views at the top of the John Hancock Building, hit up Lou Malnati’s for some deep dish, and don’t forget to visit the iconic Bean in Millennial Park before you head home.
Maui, Hawaii
Gwen: “Duluth for Grandma’s Marathon in June, South Padre Island for a family reunion in July, and hoping to go to either St.Kitts or Maui in the fall.” One thing’s for sure this is a top bucket list location. Maui is an especially excellent choice. There are so many things to experience on the island besides beaches, sunsets, hiking, and shave ice. Read about a few of them here.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Anya: “I’m planning on going to Wisconsin 🧀 this summer or fall to visit my family and friends. I’m also hoping to do a quick trip down the Oregon coast in the spring.” Vacations don’t have to be far – if you don’t have as much time or cash to spend, consider exploring your own state! You won’t have to worry about coordinating flights, and you’ll be able to see your own backyard through the eyes of a tourist. Win-win! Milwaukee is also a top-notch, slightly underrated, city you totally should add to your list. Visit the stunning art museum (pictured above) before taking in Lake Michigan and visiting one of the many music & cultural festivals throughout the summer. Here’s a great list of some other fun things to make sure you do while you’re there.
Switzerland
Niki: “Tofino, BC, Canada – Engelberg, Switzerland – Chang Mai, Thailand.” He’s got quite the list, and we’re jealous! Anywhere you go in Switzerland is bound to be stunning, but Engelberg is a resort town nestled in the alps that boast incredible downhill skiing. It also is home to hiking, glacial caves, rock climbing, spas, history, and cheese. So basically all the best things in one small town! Learn more about Engelberg here.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Chris: “I’m hoping to get to New Orleans this year. Never been to the south much and hoping for a culture blast.” Venturing to a different region of your country is possible the best way to experience a new culture without traveling abroad! Us northerners love the south for its warmer temperatures, but New Orleans in particular is a great location to take in abundant culture in the form of music, history, and food. Before you head to the Jazz capital, take a peek at this article to figure out what else to add to your travel plans.
Oof, all that travel talk has us wanting to head to the airport right now! Did it get you inspired too? Let us know what your travel plans are for this year, and as always, stay hydrated! We hope this inspires you to see your favorite travel bucketlist items too.