If Robin Williams’s Genie sauntered up to you and said you have one wish: you can travel to any city in the world this weekend. Where would you go? Is there somewhere in the States you’ve always been longing to see? Or would you like to walk amidst the Celtic gods in Ireland, England, or Scotland?
How about a Parisian delight, a la Emily In Paris? Or, maybe, as you prepare to embrace the holiday season, you’d like to go to one of the European Christmas markets? Together, let’s take a tour up and down the East Coast of America, dip into the Wild Wild West, and then head further abroad to a handful of European delights.
New York, NY
Let’s start with the place where Frank Sinatra said, “If I can make it there, I can make it anywhere.” That means anyone who visits this bustling metropolis can make it, too. If it’s your first time, your best bet is to stick to Midtown. Take the train into Grand Central. Exit out the 49th Street doors and make your way to Fifth Avenue. Here, you’ll find the New York Public Library, Rockefeller Center, The Plaza Hotel (perhaps for a little afternoon tea), Central Park, and plenty of high-end stores to window shop – or shop – in.
Philadelphia, PA
If you have a knack for American history, why not visit the place where the Declaration of Independence was signed? Those hallowed halls are right across the street from the Liberty Bell. But Philly, as a whole, is filled with charming history. Walk down the cobbled lane of Elfreth’s Alley to see the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited street. And, when you’re ready for a savory meal, head over to Parc on Rittenhouse Square for some of the most sumptuous French cuisine.
Boston, MA
If it’s history we’re speaking of, then we must head to Boston next. For another glorious stroll down an ancient cobbled lane, head to Acorn Street to see some of the most beautiful colonial architecture. Then, of course, you simply must walk The Freedom Trail to see all kinds of historical sites, from King’s Chapel to Paul Revere’s house. And, when all is said and done, you have a sea of fine dining options at your disposal, or you could fill up your market bag at Faneuil Hall Marketplace for any number of glorious local finds, from meats to cheeses to eclectic wines.
Savannah, GA
Sticking with the theme of glorious lanes, we simply must add Savannah to the list. Swap out Acorn Street for Jones Street to see some wonderful Antebellum architecture. Then, since you’re in the historic district, head over to Collins Quarter to savor their delicious brunch menu. When you’re fully satisfied, you can walk those culinary delights off on Broughton Street as you indulge in a little retail therapy. Finally, round out your day on River Street while dipping in and out of those shops, as well. Come sunset, just be sure to make your way to the rooftop bar at The Bohemian Hotel to toast those glowing rays.
St. Petersburg, FL
We’ll finish up our tour of the East Coast with a lovely little city not too far from the hustle and bustle of Tampa. St. Petersburg has it all – a brewing coffee shop culture, fantastic restaurants, harbor views, museums, and locally-owned shops. Best of all, you’re a quick click away from the beach. Of course, you can head to the party at St. Pete Beach. Or, for something a little more relaxing, plug Sunset Beach into your GPS for one of the most magical displays of color during the Golden Hour.
If you like tooling up and down the East Coast, you might enjoy this list of the 30 most charming spots to visit on the East Coast.
Seattle, WA
Before we head further abroad, let’s head west for a moment. All the way across the nation, you have the misty streets of Seattle just waiting to embrace you. Their coffee shop culture is one of the best in the nation. And it would have to be, since it’s the birthplace of Starbucks. They, too, have a market to rival the likes of Faneuil Hall. At Pike Place Market, you can stock up on all manner of local goods, including lotions and soaps. In Seattle, all you have to do is pick up a book from any number of the local shops, choose a cafe that strikes your fancy, and stroll the streets without a care in the world.
Breckenridge, CO
Since we’re approaching the winter season, let’s discuss the slopes. Of course, Colorado is home to some of the finest ski towns, with Aspen and Vail on its roster. But don’t overlook Breckendrige. It’s smaller, quainter, and, dare we say, even a little friendlier. If you can swing it, try to stay at the Grand Colorado on Peak 8. You’ll have everything you need right there – easy access to the slopes, on-site restaurants, and spa services. Then, a quick walk down Main Street will reveal a host of fantastic restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and boutiques to explore on an off-ski day.
Donegal, Ireland
Alright, let’s sail across the ocean and land on the first island we see – a magical land full of open-hearted poets and musicians who are more than happy to welcome you home. Up north, you have Donegal – a county full of majesty, as well as the city itself. Zooming out on the county as a whole, you simply must drive to the most northernly part, Malin Head, to see what it feels like to stand at the edge of the earth. But, since we’re discussing cities and towns, it’s down to Donegal Town we go. All you need to do is park somewhere in the square to find authentic, homegrown pubs with delicious food and fresh pints. Come evening light, the live Irish music, or trad, floats through the air like a weightless bird, luring you in to sit by the peat fire and indulge all your wildest dreams.
For a more revealing list, here are 25 must-visit destinations in Ireland.
London, England
Are you a royal watcher? If so, here are 20 of the best royal attractions in London. If it’s your first time, then, like New York, simply stick to the main attractions: The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, etc. You can also stroll the beautiful gardens at Kensington Palace or take the short train ride to the king of all the castles: Windsor. The town of Windsor is spectacular, all in its own right. To help you plan your stay and stick to the safest part of the city, here are 20 of the best hotels in London.
Edinburgh, Scotland
We’ll round out our Celtic adventures with the Scots. It’s a tough call when forced to choose between Edinburgh and a city in The Highlands. But we’ll stick with the misty streets of this enchanting metropolis. You’ve probably seen pictures of colorful Victoria Street. Certainly, that’s worth a stroll. Edinburgh Castle has a fascinating history as well and, after you’ve taken a tour, you can walk down the Royal Mile to The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official seat of the King whenever he’s in Scotland (even though he loves his family home of Balmoral Castle further north). To help you plan your trip, here are 20 additional things to do in Edinburgh.
Paris, France
Indeed, everyone needs to visit Paris at least once in their life. There are two great hotels to kickstart your stay: the Hôtel du Collectionneur up by the Arc de Triomphe. Or, for a quieter cafe-style getaway, you might opt for Hotel Des Deux-Iles on Île Saint-Louis. It’s a small boutique hotel on the smaller island where you can stroll the streets in a little more peace and savor a vin chaud at Cafe Saint Régis before you hit the big streets of the Latin Quarter, St. Germain, or La Marais. Be sure to watch Woody Allen’s Midnight In Paris before you go, as well as Netflix’s smash hit, Emily In Paris. It will be so fun to relive those scenes when you’re there for yourself.
Colmar, France
And, again, with the winter season just around the corner, we need to discuss a city that looks like it belongs in a snow globe. Colmar, France, truly comes to life when Christmas is around the corner. Although it’s beautiful all year round with its half-timber medieval structures lining the canal, it glistens and shines when Christmas is in full swing. Be sure to spend some time in Little Venice and enjoy the French-German culinary delights. St. Martin’s Church is equally stunning and well worth a visit. All in all, you’ll be treated well in this charming little town as it sparkles and shines for the season of joy.
To round out your stay, here are 15 fabulous things to do in Colmar.
Where Will You Go?
If you knew everything was about to come to an end and you could only choose one city to visit, which would it be? If it’s any of the above, we hope this list has inspired you to pack a bag, board a plane, and make all your dreams come true.
Whether it’s a city on this list or somewhere further abroad, take a look at our destination guides before you pull out your carry-on. It’s likely we have something in there to help you craft the perfect itinerary. And until then, here’s hoping we get to share a bottle of wine with you at Cafe Saint Régis someday!