 As a travel enthusiast, I often get asked a big question: "What's your favorite destination?" My typical response? "The last place I visited!" It's genuinely difficult for me to pinpoint one favorite spot because each destination holds its unique flavors and charm. However, it recently hit me that I can use my analytical past life to peel back this question with a bit of data.
I’ve always been a list-maker, especially when it comes to my culinary adventures abroad. Whenever I travel, I create a list of must-visit spots on Google Maps, and unsurprisingly, these lists often center on restaurants. Glancing through these drool-worthy longlists might just reveal something after all! So, let's dive into my top 3 destinations to eat, according to my culinary chronicles stored in Google Maps: 1. Rome - 56 Places Ah, Rome! It's not just a city; it's an epicurean haven. I spent an unforgettable three months here last year, and during this time, I discovered 56 incredible places that beckoned me to return. From authentic pizzerias to hidden trattorias serving classic Carbonara, every meal is an affair to remember. Rome’s culinary charm is timeless - it leaves you craving its vibrant plates long after you’ve left! 2. Oahu - 52 Places Living on Oahu for about five months gave me the unique opportunity to dive into its delightful food scene. Whether it’s enjoying poke bowls by the seaside, relishing a sweet malasada, or exploring quirky food trucks, each bite captures the island’s vibrant spirit and the Aloha way of life. My list reflects just how easy it is to get lost in the endless array of flavors here! 3. Paris - 50 Places Paris - the city of lights and, oh, the pastries! With 50 delectable destinations on my list, Paris is an experience for the senses. Engage in grand culinary traditions at quaint bistros or discover the artistic flair of modern French cuisine. Every street corner offers a unique whisper of culinary history and innovation. Honorable Mention: Kauai I can’t leave out Kauai! While it didn’t make the top three in my numerical analysis, Kauai holds a top spot in my heart. There’s an enchanting consistency to the flavors here; it's the only place where I’ve never experienced a bad meal. Each culinary experience feels like a warm embrace from the island itself. Embarking on a culinary journey is, for me, one of the most rewarding parts of travel. Wherever you decide to go next, let your palette guide you, and remember... "If not now, when?" Happy travels and even happier tastings! Ready to get inspired for your next getaway? Here at Matt Travel, we’re all about helping you turn those travel dreams into reality. This month, we’ve got some amazing trip ideas that we know you’ll love. Drift Away on a Luxury Barge
Hunt for the Northern Lights
Experience Japan’s Cherry Blossoms
by Matt Wahlgren:Travel Advisor, Agency Owner, and Avid Traveler...  Matt and his tribe at the invite-only GTM conference for top Travel Advisors - June 2024 Are you a planner or do you prefer spontaneity? Do you make to-do lists to tackle each day or do you take things as they come? Does having a color-coded calendar system bring you joy or make you anxious? Many of us rely on itineraries and plans to bring order to our daily lives. Others see planning as too much work and not enough fun.
When it comes to travel, a little planning goes a long way. That’s why the professional expertise and experience of a Travel Advisor is a must. I’ve worked with both types of clients, the planners and the spontaneous types. They both want a vacation that checks all of their boxes, and it usually starts with what’s on their bucket list. Speaking of which, when was the last time you revisited your travel bucket list? If it’s been a while or you don’t yet have a bucket list, ask yourself these questions to get started:
Your bucket list can be as long as you want. Once you’ve put all your ideas down, go back and star or circle the top three to five items on it that are your top priorities. Then, set a goal for when you’d like to cross off that experience! Click here for a handy worksheet to help you create your bucket list! I’d love to see what you come up with. Maybe you’ve always wanted to do a sunset horseback ride along the beach in Puerto Vallarta. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to take a river cruise through Burgundy & Provence and taste local wines. The options are endless and as a certified travel advisor, I’m here to help make them happen. Let’s start planning now, so you can make it a reality in the future! I’m currently planning trips for 2022 and 2023! Not sure which of your bucket list items are doable right now, or when you want to travel? I can help you understand your options so that you can feel safe, comfortable and prepared with your future travel plans. Here’s to shortening your bucket list so you can add even more to it later!  Matt wth his family dining at a local's home in Madrid Jason and I recently returned from a road trip around Spain and Portugal with my parents. I drove while Jason navigated. Some highlights were...
It got me thinking of some of my favorite things to do when traveling. Here's some of mine and Nathalie's favorite kinds of experiences...
When you plan your next trip with us, we'll be sure to recommend experiences tailored to your desires. |
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California Seller of Travel Registration # 2089491-50. Registration as a seller of travel in California does not constitute the state's approval. Agent is not a participant in the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. Florida Seller of Travel Registration # ST37113. Hawaii Seller of Travel License # TAR 7231. Washington Seller of Travel UBI # 602 775122.
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