The Blonde Abroad

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17 Unforgettable Trips to Take in 2017

17 Unforgettable Trips to Take in 2017

I always feel a bit nostalgic after the new year. Thinking back over 2016, I’ve had some extraordinary adventures. It was an incredible year that took me from South America to South Africa and beyond.

Searching for some 2017 travel inspiration? Check out some of my favorite trips of all time and a few destinations I can’t wait to check off my bucket list.

Here are 17 unforgettable trips to take in 2017!

Backpacking off the grid in Yosemite

Visit the USA National Parks

The national parks of the United States are underrated. From Alaska to Maine, the US is full of must-see natural attractions. One of my favorite National Parks is Yosemite in California.

Other greats include the Hawai’i Volcanoes, Hawaii; Olympic, Washington; Zion, Utah; and Yellowstone, Wyoming. Even if you can’t see them all, why not try to see one new national park every year?

More on USA Travel:

Exploring Fernandina Island

Cruise The Galápagos

Sure, it’s far, but it’s so worth it! With striking natural beauty, a fascinating history, and some of the world’s best diving, The Galápagos Islands deserve a spot at the top of every traveler’s bucket list.

Visiting the Galápagos is also a great excuse to explore Colombia, Ecuador, and some of the other treasures of South America.

More on Galápagos Travel:

Flying over the Blue Hole

Fly Over the Blue Hole

The Blue Hole is definitely one of the most amazing things that I’ve ever seen. It is the world’s largest underwater sinkhole, and the only way that you can really experience it is from above.

After you’ve flown over it, dive in to check out the underwater caves along the Blue Hole, and then head back to the mainland. Beyond gorgeous, Belize is a beach lover’s dream.

More on Belize Travel:

Blogging Retreat in Bali With The Blonde Abroad

Blogging Retreat in Bali

I’m excited to announce an incredible all-inclusive blog mentorship retreat in Bali! Have a blog but looking to grow your audience and social media following? Learn the fundamentals of WordPress blogging and social media strategy so that you can gain the skills and confidence to grow.

Working one-on-one daily with a team of experts will ensure you have a deep understanding of blogging, a clear strategy on how to effectively tell your story and a plan on how to better connect with your audience.

Learn more about my Blogging Retreat in Bali!

Chinese Traditional Dress

Take a Trip to China

China is such a diverse and unique country. From taking a selfie with the Terracotta Army to climbing Mt. Huashan to trying legit Chinese food, you could spend years exploring China.

I’ve visited the Shaanxi province as well as Qinghai, and have many more places on my list. With a rich history and culture, this place is ripe for exploration!

More on China Travel:

Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch

Go Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch

Exploring Africa is at the top of my to-do list, and I’m so glad that I got the chance to experience South Africa last year. One of the highlights of my experience there was exploring Stellenbosch.

While very underrated, South Africa could easily be called one of the best wine regions on the planet. Discover all that Cape Town has to offer, and then make your way to this beautiful region. And come thirsty!

Join me on my Photography Tour in South Africa!

More on South Africa Travel:

Apres Ski at The Ski Week

Head to The Ski Week

Between skiing, snow shoeing, mountainside yoga, and the Snocuzzi, The Ski Week is an action-packed adventure.

With so much to do and such a fun and diverse group of people to hang out with, this is something I would seriously consider making into an annual tradition. If you have never been before, it’s time to see why people from all over the world block this week off on their calendar.

More on The Ski Week:

Elephant Safari in Northern Sri Lanka

See Elephants in Sri Lanka

Far too many travelers visit India and miss out on all that its vibrant neighbor to the south has to offer. I went on a safari in Sri Lanka last year, I got to see everything that I’ve been missing all these years. Get over there in 2017 to take in all of the sights, sounds, colors, and tastes that make Sri Lanka unforgettable.

More on Sri Lanka Travel:

Camel at Bab Al Shams Resort Discover the Deserts of Dubai

Take in the glitz and glam of Dubai, and then get out to see another side of the United Arab Emirates. Travel by camel into the desert and see what life was like in the surprisingly recent past. Take in the local culture and have some fun playing in the sand.

Tip: The summers in Dubai are so hot you could literally die. With temps breaking 110 degrees, this is not a place for the faint hearted. If you need a mid-winter escape, however, Dubai is the place to be!

More on Dubai Travel:

Camper Van on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Drive the Ring Road in Iceland

There’s no better place to get back to nature than in Iceland. One of Europe’s top spots for road trips, Iceland is remarkable. There are just so many natural wonders that you’ve got to circle the entire island to take it all in.

More on Iceland Travel:

Overlooking Padar Island

Dive Komodo National Park, Indonesia

You guys already know how much I love diving. One of my favorite parts of exploring is seeing the world below the surface. While I’ve dived some epic locations, Komodo National Park was the best diving of 2016 for me, and it’s a must-see for any diver.

More on Komodo National Park Travel:

Waterfall chasing in Tahiti

Explore French Polynesia

Another beach lover’s dream come true! While you’ve probably already heard of Bora Bora, there is so much more to see in French Polynesia. Get out there and experience Taha’a and Moorea for a dream tropical escape.

More on French Polynesia Travel:

Shibuya Crossing at night

Plan a Girls’ Trip to Tokyo

Tokyo is absolutely crazy, and it’s even better when experienced with your bestie. This place was on my bucket list for way too long, and trust me, it did not disappoint. Make 2017 the year that you grab your girl and experience all that is Tokyo.

More on Tokyo Travel:

Helicopter ride over Mont Tremblant

Spend the Winter in Canada

From Vancouver to Montreal, show a little love for our neighbors to the north. Learn the art of dogsledding or go on a ski break in some of North America’s most impressive locales.

If you are a skier, you have got to get to Canada this winter and see why Montreal is one of North America’s top cities. Hop on the slopes of Whistler and Banff, and then make your way to Quebec where you can take on Mont Tremblant.

More on Canada Travel:

Relaxing in hammocks in Isla Holbox

Relax in Isla Holbox

Forget Cancún! Isla Holbox is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. Get off the beaten path for friendly people, fab beaches, and a bit of authentic cultura Mexicana. While I’d love to keep this place all for myself, Isla Holbox is a secret just too good to hold onto.

More on Isla Holbox Travel:

The Beginner's Guide to Burning Man

Go to AfrikaBurn

I’ve been going to Burning Man for the past few years, and every year is better than the last. If you love this Nevada extravaganza as much as I do, it’s time to upgrade to AfrikaBurn. South Africa’s answer to the world-famous American Burning Man… this is a totally surreal experience that you can’t miss.

More on AfrikaBurn:

Walking through Rio's Botanical Garden

Spend New Year’s Eve in Brazil

Have you kicked off the celebration in Australia and seen the ball drop in New York? It’s time to experience celebrating the New Year Brazilian style!

These guys are serious about New Years and they party for ten days straight. Get down to the island of Florianópolis just off Brazil’s southern coast for a once-in-a-lifetime party.

More on Brazil Travel:

 

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    1. Abbie

      We REALLY want to go to Dubai for New years, although we aren’t sure we’ll be able to afford it. Thank you for this post!!

      January 31, 2017 at 4:08 pm · Reply
    2. Emily Denise

      These are all such great destinations! I LOVE your photo from your trip to China and Isla Holbox is calling my name right now during all this cold, winter weather! I really appreciate how you highlighted experiences instead of just locations – I’m putting several of these on my bucket list!

      Thanks for the inspiration, Kiersten!

      XO, Emily
      Epicurean Emily

      January 31, 2017 at 5:14 pm · Reply
      • Kiersten Rich

        Thanks Emily! Can’t wait to see where 2017 takes you!

        February 1, 2017 at 8:57 am · Reply

    Instagram

    It’s time to add the “Kanc” to your bucket list! 🪣🗒️
    ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
    The “Kanc” aka The Kancamagus Scenic Byway is a 34.5-mile-long state highway that winds through the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. This might just be one of the most scenic drives in the US—especially if you’re coming during Fall foliage season.

    You can drive the byway without stopping in about 45 minutes, but you’ll wanna plan for at least half a day, if not a full day, to explore it to the fullest.

    Because we were with a toddler, we limited our stops to the Albany Covered Bridge, Sabbaday Falls, and the Panoramic Overlook. But, consider adding these stops as well:

    - Lower Falls
    - Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
    - Sugar Hill Scenic Vista
    - Hancock Overlook

    TIP: We started at 7 am (toddler life) and I highly recommend starting your day early! This is a super famous destination for leaf peeping in the fall so we were shocked that we had most of these areas to ourselves until about noon.

    The Albany Bridge is a super scenic stop—the foliage is so beautiful along the riverbank and the wooden bridge makes for amazing photos.

    Sabbaday Falls is the perfect kid-friendly hike, minimal crowds, and such a great view of the scenery through the thicket of colorful foliage and cascading waterfalls.

    And the Panoramic Overlook is on the far west end of the byway and has some of the best sweeping views.

    You can stop for lunch in Lincoln or North Woodstock, NH.

    TIP: All of the little towns in NH and VT are short-staffed during foliage season because there is SO much tourism. You’ll need to pre-book reservations at restaurants or be prepared to wait 1+ hrs (or longer).

    Then is was off to Vermont! After a long drive (and car nap for Ollie), we checked into the famous @woodstock.inn in Woodstock, VT. We wandered through town and enjoyed the Farmer’s Market on the Green (Wednesdays) before calling it a night!

    Check back for Vlog 5 as we kick off our time in Vermont—farms, apple picking, and the best spots for foliage!
    ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
    @visitnh @vermonttourism #newengland #newhampshire #kancamagushighway #foliage #roadtrip #familytravel

    274 9
    Open
    It’s time to add the “Kanc” to your bucket list! 🪣🗒️ •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• The “Kanc” aka The Kancamagus Scenic Byway is a 34.5-mile-long state highway that winds through the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. This might just be one of the most scenic drives in the US—especially if you’re coming during Fall foliage season. You can drive the byway without stopping in about 45 minutes, but you’ll wanna plan for at least half a day, if not a full day, to explore it to the fullest. Because we were with a toddler, we limited our stops to the Albany Covered Bridge, Sabbaday Falls, and the Panoramic Overlook. But, consider adding these stops as well: - Lower Falls - Rocky Gorge Scenic Area - Sugar Hill Scenic Vista - Hancock Overlook TIP: We started at 7 am (toddler life) and I highly recommend starting your day early! This is a super famous destination for leaf peeping in the fall so we were shocked that we had most of these areas to ourselves until about noon. The Albany Bridge is a super scenic stop—the foliage is so beautiful along the riverbank and the wooden bridge makes for amazing photos. Sabbaday Falls is the perfect kid-friendly hike, minimal crowds, and such a great view of the scenery through the thicket of colorful foliage and cascading waterfalls. And the Panoramic Overlook is on the far west end of the byway and has some of the best sweeping views. You can stop for lunch in Lincoln or North Woodstock, NH. TIP: All of the little towns in NH and VT are short-staffed during foliage season because there is SO much tourism. You’ll need to pre-book reservations at restaurants or be prepared to wait 1+ hrs (or longer). Then is was off to Vermont! After a long drive (and car nap for Ollie), we checked into the famous @woodstock.inn in Woodstock, VT. We wandered through town and enjoyed the Farmer’s Market on the Green (Wednesdays) before calling it a night! Check back for Vlog 5 as we kick off our time in Vermont—farms, apple picking, and the best spots for foliage! •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• @visitnh @vermonttourism #newengland #newhampshire #kancamagushighway #foliage #roadtrip #familytravel

    Dia de Los Muertos in Oaxaca 🇲🇽💀🪅
    •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
    I’ve wanted to visit Oaxaca for as long as I can remember, and it was so special getting to be there for the days leading up to Dia de Los Muertos (celebrating my boo @kpande)!

    Dia de Los Muertos is celebrated in different parts of Mexico, to pay respects and remember friends and family members who have passed on.

    The festivities are colorful, joyful, and often humorous. Coming from a culture where the deceased are so quickly forgotten, I think this tradition is so beautiful.

    Oaxaca is such a vibrant city with endless street art and incredible food. I can’t wait to return!
    •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
    #oaxaca #mexico #diadelosmuertos #diademuertos

    1697 50
    Open
    Dia de Los Muertos in Oaxaca 🇲🇽💀🪅 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• I’ve wanted to visit Oaxaca for as long as I can remember, and it was so special getting to be there for the days leading up to Dia de Los Muertos (celebrating my boo @kpande)! Dia de Los Muertos is celebrated in different parts of Mexico, to pay respects and remember friends and family members who have passed on. The festivities are colorful, joyful, and often humorous. Coming from a culture where the deceased are so quickly forgotten, I think this tradition is so beautiful. Oaxaca is such a vibrant city with endless street art and incredible food. I can’t wait to return! ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• #oaxaca #mexico #diadelosmuertos #diademuertos

    If you’re finding yourself here for the first time, welcome! I’m sharing my New England Road Trip (with a Toddler) series, and it’s Day 3 of our adventure! 🍂🍁
    ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
    I’m sharing some insider info on hiking the legendary Flume Gorge in New Hampshire.

    We opted to stay in North Conway, NH and used it as a base to explore the White Mountains. We stayed at Kearsarge Inn and @oldvillagebakerynh was literally next door.

    We grabbed some pastries and bagels for the road and drove about an hour to Flume Gorge– a 2.2-mile self-guided hike with covered bridges, amazing waterfalls, and gorgeous mountain views.

    TIP: You need to book tickets with a dedicated time slot for entry to hike Flume Gorge. I did this about 2 months in advance given how busy the foliage season is here. So BOOK EARLY and ARRIVE EARLY.

    Most people can do the hike in about 1.5 hrs, but I’d add an hour with young kids. We did lots of nature exploring and resting along the way.

TIP FOR YOUNG KIDDOS: Bring a baby carrier or hiking backpack! While this is rated a family-friendly hike, it wasn’t without some challenges with a toddler. I ended up carrying him on my shoulders for over a mile which was an adventure in itself.

    I had bookmarked Artist’s Bluff Lookout and Polly’s Pancake Parlor to do after, but like with all plans with kids, they change as need. We opted to call it a day after the first hike but you can definitely add Artist’s Bluff to your day (it’s just a few minutes up the highway).

We did drive to Polly’s because pancakes sounded amazing, but the wait was 2.5 HOURS at 11am. So we passed.

We had a relaxed afternoon back in North Conway and went to @conwayscenicrailroad to watch the trains come into the depot. You can book a scenic ride too!

    If you’re planning a similar road trip, you’re not gonna wanna miss Day 4 for arguably the MOST famous scenic byway in all of New England during the foliage season!
    ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
    @visitnh #fallroadtrip #fallfoliage #portlandmaine #newengland #autumn #visitnh #visitnewhampshire

    762 17
    Open
    If you’re finding yourself here for the first time, welcome! I’m sharing my New England Road Trip (with a Toddler) series, and it’s Day 3 of our adventure! 🍂🍁 •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• I’m sharing some insider info on hiking the legendary Flume Gorge in New Hampshire. We opted to stay in North Conway, NH and used it as a base to explore the White Mountains. We stayed at Kearsarge Inn and @oldvillagebakerynh was literally next door. We grabbed some pastries and bagels for the road and drove about an hour to Flume Gorge– a 2.2-mile self-guided hike with covered bridges, amazing waterfalls, and gorgeous mountain views. TIP: You need to book tickets with a dedicated time slot for entry to hike Flume Gorge. I did this about 2 months in advance given how busy the foliage season is here. So BOOK EARLY and ARRIVE EARLY. Most people can do the hike in about 1.5 hrs, but I’d add an hour with young kids. We did lots of nature exploring and resting along the way.

TIP FOR YOUNG KIDDOS: Bring a baby carrier or hiking backpack! While this is rated a family-friendly hike, it wasn’t without some challenges with a toddler. I ended up carrying him on my shoulders for over a mile which was an adventure in itself. I had bookmarked Artist’s Bluff Lookout and Polly’s Pancake Parlor to do after, but like with all plans with kids, they change as need. We opted to call it a day after the first hike but you can definitely add Artist’s Bluff to your day (it’s just a few minutes up the highway).

We did drive to Polly’s because pancakes sounded amazing, but the wait was 2.5 HOURS at 11am. So we passed.

We had a relaxed afternoon back in North Conway and went to @conwayscenicrailroad to watch the trains come into the depot. You can book a scenic ride too! If you’re planning a similar road trip, you’re not gonna wanna miss Day 4 for arguably the MOST famous scenic byway in all of New England during the foliage season! •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• @visitnh #fallroadtrip #fallfoliage #portlandmaine #newengland #autumn #visitnh #visitnewhampshire
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