We are about one month into 2021 and travel around the world is still at a relative standstill. I find it hard to believe that one year ago next week I was in Amsterdam and London. February 2020 feels like it was forever ago. The world has changed so much.
As we step into 2021, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Some vaccines are becoming available. Now we just have to wait. As a 32 year old, I more than likely won’t be able to get my vaccination until the middle of the year. I am not going to let that however deter me from making a travel list of places I hope to get to.
I am guessing that if I have the ability to travel, most of it will be domestically. Since I am based in the United States, I have three destinations in mind that top my list.
Destination 1: The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic national parks in the Western United States. Although it is only about a two hour plane ride away form me, I’ve never been there. I’d like to be able to hike the rim of the canyon and potentially even ride a mule down to the Colorado River’s edge. Since this is an outdoor location, I’m hopeful that I can make the trek down to Arizona in late spring.
Destination 2: Hawaii
My family has deep roots in the Hawaiian islands dating back to the early 20th century. I’d love the ability to visit my family, but with the strict quarantine, that may not be a reality. My list of things I would like to see and do include a visit to Volcano National Park, looking for Humpback whales, hiking to the top of Haleakala and perhaps a round of golf. The dream is early fall.
Destination 3: Glacier National Park
Montana’s Glacier National Park is shrinking each and every year due to climate change. I would love to hike and enjoy the quiet and almost ice age like trails. This is the least likely destination for me to be able to visit, but I wouldn’t mind going down in summer.
The Likely Not Going to Happen List
Destination 4: Australia
Australia was on the docket for this year. I had tickets purchased and a hotel booked, but sadly I had to scrap all my plans. I had wanted to see Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. I was hoping to be able to sneak in a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef too. Australia has long held a special place in my heart for the wonderful wildlife that resides there. Wombats, echidna, platypus, koalas, wallabies, the list goes on and on.
Destination 5: Sicily
I’ll end my 2021 wish list my mentioning Sicily. The Greek temples of Agrigento have been calling my name for years. If I could only visit one sight, that would be it. Sicily has so many beautiful Roman ruins, wineries, beaches and the imposing Mt. Etna. I have a guidebook I need to read, but my heart is also set on this beautiful island.
Wrapping Up
What are your hopes and goals for 2021? It never hurts to dream and have goals. You never know when travel will be possible again. Do you like posts like this? Let me know what you think. For this blog, I’m hoping to do more bloggy type posts and grow our Youtube channel this year. Stay safe.