Travel Bucket List for 2023

If there is one thing I've learned over the past couple of years, it's that you never know what the year will bring. This year I am focusing on creating special experiences than just marking another place off my list. No matter, if you are staying close to home or making the international trip, these bucket list items are about the experience - rather than the destination.

Here is my Travel Bucket List for 2023

Take a Solo Trip

Since 2019, I have taken at least one solo trip every year. I believe solo traveling can truly get you out of your comfort zone all while seeing the world in a whole new way. I cannot recommend solo travel enough and if you're looking to make the trip, these are my favorite places to travel alone to within the U.S.

Travel to a Destination from a Movie or TV Show

For the film and TV fanatics out there, have you ever considered traveling to the location of one of your favorite shows or movies?

• One Tree Hill (Wilmington, NC): One Tree Hill is a fictional town but almost every scene is filmed in Wilmington, North Carolina. You can take yourself on a self-guided tour to see some of your favorite characters houses, iconic landmarks, and famous scenes from the TV series.

• Shameless (Chicago, IL): While many interior scenes where shot in a Warner Brothers Studio lot, many scenes were filmed in residential and industrial areas on the South Side of Chicago. Please be kind and courteous when visiting these locations and tip if asked too.

• Outer Banks (Charleston, SC): Whether you are Team Pogue or Team Kook, a trip to Charleston would be one for the books. If you cannot get enough of the show and want to fully immerse yourself, taking a stroll around the real life filming locations is a must.

• Stranger Things (Atlanta, Georgia): Filming of the popular sci-fi show took place in and around the Atlanta metro area. There is even a location in Atlanta called Stranger Things: The Experience that allows guests to immerse themselves into a different storyline of the show, 80's themed Mix-Tape Medley, special merchandise, as well as photo ops.

Use Points to Fly for Free

I'm a huge believer in getting a credit card to build up points. Over the past few years, I cannot count how many times I have been able to fly for free by just using the points I have accumulated. I have even been able to book week-long rental cars with points that have saved me hundreds. Here’s my beginner’s guide to using points and miles.

Visit a National Park

The amount of National Parks that we have in North America is incredible. From Rocky Mountain National Park to Zion or even Haleakala, you could spent your lifetime exploring these impressive parks and still not get around to seeing each one. I have been fortunate to travel to eight and each one is so special. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone who appreciates the simplicity of nature, there's a national park out there just for you.

Take a Girls' Trip

There is no better way to bond with your girlfriends than by recharging and taking a girls' trip. You'll have time to catch up and make new memories that will last a lifetime. From exploring new destinations to trying new activities or indulging in a healthy retreat, there's something for everyone on a girls' trip. Here is my list for the best girlfriend getaways around the U.S.

Go Shark Diving

I have been incredibly lucky to be able to experience so many adventures at the young age of 28. However, one item on my bucket list that has not been checked off yet is going shark diving. Some may think I am crazy by wanting to free dive with sharks and not be caged, but I believe that it will create the ultimate experience.

Be a Tourist in my own City/State

It is very easy to get a stuck in a rut where you are doing the same thing day in and day out. Getting out of your usual routine and seeing the cultural and historical spots of your city and state is a great way to fall in love all over again. Remember it is completely okay to be a tourist in your own city. Take yourself out on a date and see everything the area has to offer. You don't need to spend loads of money or travel halfway across the world to have an epic day.

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