The Best Places to Travel in 2016

How many of you put "travel more" on your resolutions this year? I'm willing to bet that most of us are yearning for a year full of adventure and travel, full of new experiences. We resolve to visit new places (a friend of mine's new resolution is to go to a new country every year), we resolve to step out of our comfort zone (another awesome friend of mine is quitting her job to travel Southeast Asia for the Spring), we resolve to make time, and put aside money, for the reward of travel. We resolve to prioritize new experiences over the drudgery of the everyday. We resolve that THIS is finally the year we get out there and see the world. I'm writing this list because I truly think this should be the year, that we should all quit putting off our bucket lists and start planning our best adventures yet.
There is something about travel that compels us all to it. Sometimes, it's the thrill of the unknown. In other cases, it's a need to to relax. For some, it's a cultural experience, filled with absorbing a new place, for others, it's a physical experience, like hiking a mountain or kayaking through new oceans, for some, it's a chance to let loose, and for others, a chance to bond with loved ones. Travel has something for everyone, but in order to fully experience it, you have to step out of your comfort zone. I think John Steinbeck put it best when he said, "people don't take trips... trips take people." So here's to having our breath taken away by new places in 2016! These are my very favorite spots this year.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

If there is a heaven on earth, the reflecting desert of the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia is most certainly it. This divine destination is high on my list of places I need to see, as soon as possible. Bolivia has one of the most beautiful, most unique landscapes in the world. Traveling throughout the country you will see everything from hot pink lagoons filled with flamingos, sparkling lakes, active and inactive volcanoes, enormous deadly geysers, surreal rock formations and the world's largest salt desert. People are flocking to Bolivia because not only is it one of the most beautiful countries on earth, it's budget-friendly, and boasts a a culture as vibrant and lively as it's landscape. There is even a largely undiscovered wine country that rivals its global wine-producing counterparts in Argentina and Chile. So, just know, if I go missing, you can find me here, a glass of Bolivian malbec in hand.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires and its tango-dancing, empanada-frying, soccer-celebrating, malbec-drinking culture have had me compelled to experience it for years. Not to mention access to the absolutely unbelievable Iguazu Falls, which make Niagara Falls look like child's play... And the beautiful mountainous Patagonia, which makes my precious Tahoe look utterly forgettable. Argentina is the 8th largest country in the world, and Buenos Aires is its bustling European-like gate to enter the beautiful South American gem. BA, along with Patagonia and the Iguazu Falls (pictured below), are high up on my list this year.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has been ranked Travel & Leisure's Best City in North America for 3 years running by its readers, and there are no doubts why. If you're looking for Southern charm, beautiful homes, a gorgeous coast, and a whole lotta biscuits, Charleston is your place.  The best times to visit Charleston are Spring and Fall, when the weather is warm but not too hot, allowing for lots of outdoor activities (like riding your bike on the sand of the beach or golfing on Kiawah island). For all of my Charleston restaurant recs, hotel tips, and more see my separate post here.  Charleston is one of my very favorite cities and I am dying to get back there this year.

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is blowing up in the travel circles!!! I can't tell you the amount of times people have asked me about Tulum in the past year. What used to be an unheard-of beachy suburb of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, is now a top travel spot for beachcombers from all over the world. Why? Tulum is no-frills Mexico. Think Cabo or Puerto Vallarta 25 years ago. There are hotels, sure, and lots of great authentic restaurants. But there are not resorts, huge hotel chains, and the build-up that has happened in other areas of Mexico. Even the travelers here have a more laid back vibe. Not to mention ancient mayan ruins and an incredible natural eco-water park that you have to see to believe called Xel-Ha.  If you're looking for a hammock-laying, margarita-sipping getaway, Tulum is the place to go. 

Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is high up on my list this year because I am craving snorkeling, sunshine, and some stingrays. Grand Cayman, nestled among unbelievably aqua-blue waters and seven mile stretches of white sand beaches, has been a caribbean hot-spot for decades. But why I love it is the once-in-a-lifetime experience of Sting Ray City, a sand bar filled with (friendly) wild stingrays that you can snorkel with and touch... I'll be going back here in February and I. just. can't. wait. 

Lagos, Portugal

Portugal is hot right now. And, if you need proof, just look at these pictures. Portugal, which used to be considered Spain's younger and poorer brother, is now becoming a destination in its own right. With the beauty of the city of Lisbon, to the gorgeous sunny coast, Portugal has it all. I personally am putting Lagos at the top of my list this year.

Croatia

With approximately 1,200 islands, sparkling azure water, a beautiful wine country and picturesque medieval villages full of history and charm, Croatia is pretty tough to beat for 2016 travel.  I recommend the island of Hvar, the medieval city of Dubrovnik, and the stunningly beautiful Krka National Park. This was my favorite trip of 2015 which you can read all about here. 

Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii is always one of my go-to destinations, and I usually get there once a year, but this year, I am all about Kauai. After first visiting this unbelievably beautiful isle just a couple years ago, it’s lush mountains, stunning waterfalls, and unbelievable sunsets, have become stuck in my mind. I mean. Come on. This isn’t even fair to the other islands. 

What are your must-see destinations for 2016?! 

Happy new year! I have a feeling this is going to be the best travel year yet. 

xo,

Crazy about Croatia

With approximately 1,200 islands, sparkling azure water, and picturesque medieval villages full of history and charm, it's no wonder Croatia is on every traveler's bucket list. 

The stunning view from the fortress of Hvar

In fact, Croatia was recently named as the Mediterranean's fastest growing tourist destination, as more and more people each year flock to its pristine national parks, beautiful beaches, and the medieval Old Town of Dubrovnik. The immense popularity of HBO's hit TV series, Game of Thrones, has boosted this country's tourism as well, as the show highlights the majestic beauty of old town Dubrovnik, the shooting location for Game Of Thrones's King's Landing. 

So, if this country mixes the historical charm of Italy with the beautiful beaches of Greece, why is it the world is just starting to hear about this gem on the Dalmatian Coast? 

Well, here's a quick crash course in Croatian history: After a rich history dating as far back as 11 B.C. (as part of the Roman Empire), Croatia became its own kingdom in 925 A.D., after which it went through many mergers and acquisitions, ending in 1918, after the end of World War I and the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, resulting in Croatia joining Serbia in the forming of Yugoslavia. Yugoslavia, however, began to fall apart in uprising and civil war resulting from the country's adoption of communism in the mid to late 20th Century. With a weak economy, cracks in the Yugoslav system began to grow, and Yugoslavia became severely divided. 

When Croatia finally declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, Serbs living in Croatia declared their own independence from Croatia, making civil war inevitable. The war that followed lasted until 1995 and was a territorial battle among Serbs, Croats, and Bosnians - characterized as the bloodiest and most horrific event in Europe since WWII. Today, almost 2 decades later, the strength of this country is seen in its miraculous ability to bounce back from this dark period of its history. Most of the Croatian coastline remained amazingly untouched during the war, and the aged, multicolor brick roofs seen in the seaside towns tell a beautiful story of having survived centuries of invading powers. In Dubrovnik, however, the noticeably brighter orange roofs tell a different story, having been replaced after the Dubrovnik bombings in 1991. Today, the country's history just adds to its allure, and the war damage is completely unseen, leaving behind stunning coastlines, charming towns, and a wonderfully unique european culture. 

So, you're into history, beautiful sparkling blue water and medieval architecture mixed with some wine country and delicious food? Let's plan your next trip. 

Where should I go?
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must see. Jutting out on a chunk of Dalmatian coastline, the city walls of Dubrovnik are nothing short of spectacular. The bad news? Dubrovnik is no longer anyone's best-kept-secret, as the Old Town is gridlocked with tourists during the summer. The good news? Travel in the spring or fall to miss the tourists, or simply walk the city walls first thing in the morning (they open at 8am), when you can beat the crowds.

Hvar
Wow, wow, wow was all any of us could think about this place, which ended up impressing us so much that we all unanimously called it the best destination we visited this summer. Hvar is a beachy town, with gorgeous islands a 5 minute water taxi ride away. But beaches aren't the only thing this town has to offer. Have you seen the view from the fortress?? If you're going to Croatia, do not miss out on Hvar.

Fortress-ing high above Hvar

Palmizana

Alert the masses. Add it to your travel list. Tell everyone you know.... I found heaven on earth. Palmizana island, a short water taxi away from Hvar port, is a yachter's paradise. Palmizana not only has picture-perfect seaside beach chairs lining it's unbelievably turquoise blue water, but also delicious fresh mediterranean eateries and Veuve-Cliquot-branded VIP lounges scattering the island... Boom. You're Beyonce on the beach.

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls You'll Ever See: 

Krka National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park

Thanks to a jagged coastline and mountains rich with rivers, waterfalls thrive in this beautiful country.  Plitvice Lakes National Park in particular is world-famous for it's pinterest-worthy waterfalls, making it indisputably one of the top attractions in the country. Krka is just as wanderlust-worthy with its stunning falls. Take your pick, you can't go wrong.  

Arena Pula

Into history? You can't miss this one. The Arena in Pula, Croatia is the only remaining Roman amphitheater to have four side towers and all three Roman architectural orders entirely preserved. It was constrcuted in 27 BC-68 AD and is among the six largest surviving Roman arenas in the world. It is also the most popular (and arguably most beautiful) ancient monument in Croatia.

Things to do in Dubrovnik

Walk the city walls

Have you ever seen views like this anywhere else in the world? The old town of Dubrovnik is something out of a storybook, and walking the walls you are presented with gorgeous views of both the town and the Adriatic. The walk takes about 1.5 hours and you won't want to forget your camera. 

Have dinner in the square

You've never seen a weekday night like they do in Dubrovnik. With masses of locals eating (late!) dinners in the square of old town, it's hard not to wish our society was a little less work obsessed and a little more on-permanent-vacation like the Croatians are. It is so much fun to people watch, as the square is clearly THE place to be at night. The food is delicious and fresh pretty much anywhere, so just walk around, pick a good spot, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. 

Have a Drink... On the Rocks

Cafe Buza, continuously ranked as one of the most scenic bars in the world, is hard to find, but well worth it for the best sunset view in town. The best way to get there is to go behind the Church of St. Blaise and to keep walking past Hemingway bar, past the Cathedral, then pick a little side street and walk towards the wall facing the Adriatic sea and Italy. When you hit the wall keep walking along it until you reach a door. At this point, you can go left or right, and either way will take you to one of the two Buza bars- slightly different spots, I preferred the one further down, so keep going after you see the first spot. Great views either way. 

Go to Wine Country

Peljesac peninsula is the place where some of Croatia's finest wines are cultivated and there are many tour companies who will take you there on a day, or weekend trip to visit many family-owned Croatian wineries. It is about 1 hour outside of Dubrovnik. Fun fact: one of my very favorite wineries in Napa, Grgich Hills, is made by the famous winemaker Mike Grgich, who hails from Croatia. 

See the City from Above on the Cable Car

There is a cable car, a short 10 minute walk from the old town, that will take you straight up the hillside to a beautiful vantage point overlooking the entire city. Highly recommend doing this.

Kayak around Dubrovnik

This was one of my favorite things we did while in Dubrovnik, as the water is just gorgeous and the coastline so amazing. Take a tour or rent your own Kayak, either way, you'll love your day on the Adriatic. 

Have any of you been to Croatia? What are your must-sees? I would love to hear about it in the comments! 

xo,

Christina

Follow along my travels on instagram @jetsetchristina 

Montenegro: Europe's Next Big Hotspot

If you have been following my instagram, you know I just got back from a two week European cruise to Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Greece. One of my very favorite spots was Montenegro. This small Balkan country has everything! Medieval villages, rugged mountains, and a picturesque coastline spotted with gorgeous beaches that rival any of its mediterranean neighbors. I fell in love with this captivating country in just one day, and I have no doubts that you will too. So, here is my go-to guide to your perfect day in Montenegro.

Step 1: Arrive By Sea

One of the most jaw-dropping things you will see on your trip to the Dalmatian Coast is the fjords of Montenegro. If you're thinking Fjords? I thought those were only in Norway and Iceland? , you're not alone. I thought the same thing before visiting Montenegro, but was quickly corrected that in fact the Bay of Kotor, a stunning maze of sea inlets, is Europe's southernmost Fjord, and home to the beautiful city of Kotor.

Step 2: Explore the medieval town of Kotor & Hike to the top of the Castle of San Giovani

As you sail through the Bay of Kotor, you'll reach the end of the bay, home to arguably Montenegro's most famous town, Kotor. It looks like a typical coastal town until you see up close that it's surrounded by medieval city walls, built by the Venetians to protect it from invaders. If you're up for the climb, these five kilometer long stone walls run right into the steep hillside above the town, offering incredible panoramic views across the entire Bay of Kotor. The hike is pretty treacherous-- you'll be climbing approximately 1,350 stairs to a height of 4000 feet!! It will take you around two hours to get up and back, and is a fantastic workout to start off your day. Don't forget to bring your camera! 

After your hike, walk the town! It's a walled city that feels as if you're stepping back in time, and there are lots of cafes and shops to explore. 

The view from the steep hike to the top of the Castle San Giovani

Step 3: Hop in a cab to Budva

Getting the right cab driver here is key. The right driver will know all of the gorgeous spots to stop at as you're driving the coast of this beautiful country, and they'll fill you in on all of the rich culture and history in Montenegro on the way. For example, did you know that the Montenegrans are the 2nd tallest people in the world? After the dutch. They also play a LOT of water polo (and they're very good at it) and will often play right in the ocean instead of in a swimming pool, since there are very few waves and the salt water provides extra buoyancy. Having grown up a swimmer/water polo player myself I thought that was very cool. 

Here are some of the views we saw on the way to Budva of the town and beaches. 

Budva is a seaside town on the other side of the mountain from Kotor, and it's at most a 40 minute drive from each town to the other. In Budva, you'll find gorgeous beaches and restaurants and shops, making it a perfect spot to swim and relax for a couple hours in the middle of the day. We stopped here on our way to Sveti Stefan and are so glad that we did.

Step 4: Eat lunch at the Olive Cafe on Sveti Stefan

Aman Sveti Stefan is a luxurious coastal resort that takes over a small island off the coast of Montenegro. Look at this island. How can you not be completely captivated by it?

 Researching where to go in Montenegro, I just KNEW I had to see it. Only one problem. This resort has 24/7 guards guarding the bridge and only allowing the guests onto the resort. And by guests, it means the people paying upwards of 2k a night. Oh, and famous tennis player Novak Djokovic, who, in between holding world records in tennis and often being ranked #1 singles mens tennis player worldwide by ATP, held his wedding at this beautiful resort. So, what are the rest of us to do when we are just dying to see it? Well, there is a beach that is accessible to the rest of us who aren't athletes or celebrities, and it, my friends, is SO beautiful. However, if you want to lay on this beach, it's going to cost you. 75 euro per person. That's a lot for a beach! Worth it? 
Not in my opinion. So what do you do? Eat at the stunning restaurant on the beach overlooking the resort.

The Olive restaurant directly overlooks the island with a prime view of the beach, the resort, and the sea. It's extensive outdoor seating, luxurious restaurant decor and its amazing staff will provide the perfect setting for a delectable mediterranean meal by the sea. I had told the restaurant we'd be visiting for the first time and we were greeted by the wonderful manager, Misko, who was an amazing representation of the friendly Montenegran culture. From the moment we sat down, so much attention to detail was given to the entire experience of the meal. From the perfect positioning of every outdoor table to have a gorgeous view of the island, to the highly trained waiter anticipating our every need. The food was quite possibly the best I had on my entire trip to Europe, and was very reasonably priced. The melt-in-my-mouth fresh fish was the highlight of the meal. We also had shrimp that was to die for, bread with tzaziki, farm-fresh greek salads and, of course, a delicious chilled bottle of summery Montenegran white wine. It was a perfect meal. I cannot recommend this restaurant (and its staff) highly enough. 

Step 5: Enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking Sveti Stefan

The Olive restaurant also has the BEST sunset view in all of Montenegro.. With plenty of outdoor tables & delicious drinks to enjoy it. I mean, look at this picture taken at Olive. Does it get any prettier?

There you go. A PERFECT day in Montenegro! I hope you'll visit this beautiful country soon, because it is so wonderfully off-the-beaten tourist track right now but most definitely won't be for long!!! Just look at the immense growth in popularity of tourism in Croatia and I can tell you that Montenegro is definitely Europe's next big thing. 

When in Rome ...

Pizza, gelato and well-dressed Italian men... what more do you need?

Well, how about 2800 years of history, masterpieces of art, magnificent architecture, and countless cobblestone roads filled with romance, wine, and vespas??? Let's go to Rome. 

            

for the tourist
Vatican City

Located entirely within Rome, the headquarters of the Catholic Church is actually also the smallest country in the world, at only .2 square miles. Don't miss this masterpiece-packed sight during your trip.

St. Peter's Basilica. The most famous sight in the Vatican. This dazzling church is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Stunning doesn't even begin to describe the 500 year-old largest church in the world. Around 20,000 visitors go through what many consider to be the "Center of Christianity" on a busy day. If you're planning on being one of them, don't forget to dress appropriately! No bare knees or shoulders.  

Sistine Chapel. You also won't want to miss Michelangelo's famous masterpiece on the ceiling of Sistine Chapel. It is one of the most treasured works of art in the world and will leave you in absolute awe.  

The Colosseum

Of course, how can you go to Rome without visiting the icon of the ancient city. The amphitheater, once used for gladiator contests, was constructed in... wait for it... drumroll please.... 70 AD.  You read that right. The history in this city is absolutely incredible, and you won't want to miss the tour of the Colosseum. Take either a self-guided audio tour or one accompanied by a tour guide, so you can hear the rich stories that the Roman Colosseum has to offer. 

The Pantheon

Along with the Colosseum, the Pantheon is another one of Rome's iconic sights to see. Currently a catholic church, it's located in the center of a cute square lined with outdoor dining restaurants. Lots of romantic spots and gorgeous city settings. 

The Trevi Fountain

No trip to Rome is complete without tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain. Legend has it that, if you toss one in, you will be back to visit the city again. Toss your coin, make a wish, and witness the magic of the city. 

Roman Forum

Full of history, the Roman Forum was the ancient center of the Roman Empire, and parts of it still stand today. If you're a history buff, you'll love seeing the remains of the heart of the fallen Roman Empire. 

Piazza di Spagna

Less of a sight and more of a destination, the Spanish Steps serve as a central meeting place in Rome. Every day and especially at sunset, people gather to meet up or just sit and watch the crowds go by. It's been a magnet for visitors and locals alike in Rome since the 1700's.  Definitely a great spot, with lots of shopping, dining, and hotels all around.  

Out with friends this Summer in Roma!

for the girls

Okay, so I have to admit that I've shopped my way around the world. And Rome, mis amicis, is some of the best shopping I have ever experienced. First of all, it's so easily walkable. There are streets and streets of all your favorite department stores, boutiques, and italian designers you've never even heard of. The most famous is Via Del Corso, as well as the streets that radiate from it. Take an afternoon, burn off that gelato and shop until you drop into that glass of italian wine at dinner. On Via Del Corso, you'll find so much variety. With the well-known top designers, the huge amazing H&M's and Zaras, and the hole in the wall Italian leather shops, you can't go wrong. Also check out the street Via del Boschetto, full of less chain stores and more boutiques and artisan stores. For men, no matter where you shop in Rome, you're going to want to splurge on an Italian suit. It'll be half the price of what you would pay for one of that quality in the states, so go for it. For the women, been dreaming of that perfect leather jacket? An awesome colored leather wallet? Italy has some of the finest leather in the world. Take advantage, and come home with some killer gifts for your loved ones.. or yourself. After all, why get a magnet for your refrigerator of the Colosseum when you can get some new Prada shoes and call them your Italian souvenir. 

Me on the Spanish Steps before the crowds

Where to stay

It won't take you long to get your grounds in Rome. By the second time I visited the city, I knew it backwards and forwards. With so many iconic landmarks, it's hard to get lost, so have fun exploring the city and walking everywhere. There are so many hotels in Rome, and most popular places to stay if you're in a hotel or hostel are close to the center of the city, so it's easy to get around. Personally, I recommend being by the Spanish Steps, as it's a great area of the city, close to everything, and right next to one of the main train stations to get you anywhere you want to go.  The Hotel Esquilino comes highly recommended by my best friend who stayed there for her honeymoon recently and had a blast. She says it is a great value, has charming service, fresh breakfasts and a prime location in the center of the city!!

Check out these hotels: 
Hotel Esquilino

Intercontinental De La VilleRome 

Inn at the Spanish Steps 

Albergodel Senato at the Pantheon 

Where to have a drink

The Hassler
The famous luxury 5-Star Hassler Hotel rests on the top of the Spanish Steps and boasts one of the most romantic settings in Rome. Go there for a drink on the upper patio and enjoy the panoramic view of the city that will leave you breathless. The Hassler. Piazza della Trinita dei Monti 00187 Rome, Italy

Go to a Wine Bar 

Wine bars abound the streets of Rome. Glasses of impeccable Italian wine with dinner are not a luxury in Rome, it's the standard.  Check out Trimani, in the city center near Termini train station, as it's one of the best known wine bars in town, with all the labels you winos will be looking for. 

Roscioli, also near the center of the city, is also famous for it's food and is super trendy. Definitely worth checking out for a great night out! 

The Albert

Check out the Albert pub for a beer by the Trevi Fountain. This traditional British Pub is a great place to stop and grab a drink. Via del Traforo 132

Campo de Fiori

Tossed a coin in the Trevi with my brother.. and yes, I've been back!

Check out this picturesque piazza, lined with bars & pubs. Gets pretty crazy on summer nights. Need somewhere to start? Check out The Drunken Ship, or La Vineria!

Via della Pace

More upscale than Campo de Fiori.. This street is just a couple blocks West from Piazza Navona and is a great spot to grab a drink or go out at night. 

Go on a tourist bar crawl!
This is what we did this summer! A group of 10 girls and I were hanging out by the Spanish steps and got approached by a rep from one of the tour companies that run nightly bar crawls in the city. It was awesome because they took us to so many bars that we would have never have known about- we even went to a party on a yacht as part of the night!!! At only about $20 a person, this is definitely a great idea for a night out with friends, and a great way to meet people while traveling! 

for the foodies

Gabriele Bonci's Pizzarium
With the chef being dubbed the "Michelangelo of pizza", you're not going to want to miss this place. Prices are reasonable and I know you're already craving some Roman pizza, so you better put this gem on your itinerary!

Pizzarium. Via della Meloria 43, The famous chef also gives pizza making lessons, what a fun idea for your trip!

Fortunato al Pantheon

frequented by diplomats and celebrities alike, this classic Italian eatery is a perfect place to have your typical Italian meal, complete with menu items such as the tagliolini, fresh fish, ravioli, artichoke meatballs, and a fantastic wine list. Fortunato. Via del Pantheon 55

Il Passetto

This cute restaurant is located right on Piazza Navona. A gorgeous setting. Try the white truffle fettucine, and, of course, limoncello for dessert. It's been around for awhile and was actually where my dad asked my mom to marry him so many years ago!! A perfect romantic Italian meal, and, in the summer, beautiful outdoor seating. 

What a city. 

If you're planning a trip to Europe or Italy, do not miss out on this iconic paradise that manages to combine it's magnificent history with it's bustling city life. Get out there and roam Rome! 

Don't forget to take time to relax, sip on a glass of Italian wine, watch the city crowds go by, and enjoy la dolce vita like only the Italians can. 

Ciao & xoxo

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