5. Paris
Let me start by saying that my first Paris trip wasn’t a great experience. We worked with a travel concierge that wasn’t as awesome as the others we typically work with and it really put a damper on our entire trip. Plus, it was our first ever trip to Europe so we were likely more timid travelers than we are now. Still, even given the lackluster concierge, how could you not love Paris?! I fell in love with the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the many flagship boutiques, and just the overall Parisian experience so much so that I’m giving Paris a re-do this year for my 25th birthday. Maybe it will move up on the list!
Paris, France – Summer, 2012
4. Rome
History, history, and more history! I will admit, usually, on a city vacation, I’m asking the concierge to point me in the direction of the best shopping and tastiest food – but not in Rome. There are so many amazing sights to see in Rome that the shopping and food almost don’t even matter (but don’t worry, they have those things too). From the Pantheon to Vatican City to the Coliseum and the Forum, I was so impressed with how beautiful the city’s rich history truly is and it was absolutely amazing to see first hand places that you read about in history books and see in movies. Plus, the city is easy to walk and navigate making getting around extremely easy.
Rome, Italy – Winter, 2015
3. Dubai
Go big or go home is the mantra in Dubai. Just being in the city makes you automatically feel like a high roller. I have never seen so many Rolls Royces and Bentleys in one place and Mercedes Benzes take the place of Toyotas and Infinities as mid priced vehicles. Dubai is another one of those places that has everything. The shopping is beyond amazing (especially if you go during their yearly sales), the food is good, the beach is beautiful, and the culture is so different from American culture but really interesting and fun to witness first hand. Plus the city is among the safest in the world and there are a million excursions to go on and sights to see between Dubai and neighboring cities in the UAE, such as Abu Dahbi, which is only a short drive away.
Dubai, UAE – Winter, 2014
2. Singapore
Singapore is a hipster’s paradise. To be such a small city-state, it has so much to offer and is still growing. With it’s rooftop restaurants and bars, lively casinos, and beautiful beach clubs, Singapore is the most fun place I’ve ever visited. Plus, I’m a self proclaimed foodie, and after every single meal I had in Singapore, I turned to my mom and said, “that was the best meal I’ve ever had in my life!” Not only is the food great, but the shopping is incredible and there is no brand who does not have a retail store between the many luxurious (and humungous) malls. On top of all that, Singapore has excellent (hot) weather all year and is extremely safe. Often as travelers we don’t realize how much feeling safe and secure impact how we feel about a city. I felt totally secure in Singapore so much so that I would consider traveling there alone (although with my mom as my travel buddy, I doubt I’ll ever have to).
Singapore – Spring, 2015
1. London
I knew that London was my favorite city in the world (at least out of the places I’ve been so far) when I started comparing every other place to it. Seriously, there is absolutely no feeling like landing at Heathrow. Before you even leave the airport, you see so much of what the city has to offer (especially in terms of food and fashion). London literally has it all: great food, incredible shopping, interesting history and culture, happening night life, and an awesome theatre district where I was lucky enough to see the musical version of The Bodyguard (one of my favorite childhood movies quickly became my favorite musical). Plus, British people are among the nicest I’ve ever met and the lack of a language barrier makes for an easy, stress free travel experience. If I could have it my way, I would visit London at least once a year…and I have since my first visit in 2012.
London, England, United Kingdom – Summer, 2012
Honorable Mentions: Barcelona, Istanbul, Milan, Bangkok, and Venice – although these cities didn’t make my top 5, I would still recommend them for a visit because they are all awesome cities with a ton to offer.
Want more information about my favorite cities? Check back soon! I will be doing a spotlight on each city (as well as more destinations) and sharing information on my favorite places to stay, dine, shop, and play.
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