Travel Diaries: Where I've Been So Far...

I'm getting more and more into this whole travel thing...

Ever since I turned about nineteen I've had this itching wanderlust that I can't seem to shake off. I love going on holidays and exploring new places either abroad or closer to home - that's why travel has become a larger part of my blog more recently. So I thought I'd put a post together and tell you about all of the countries I've been to so far (except England - stay tuned for a list of my favourite staycations coming soon!).

Now, I wouldn't say I am a seasoned travel or a veteran backpacker. I'm just a regular girl who saves up her paycheck to go and see more of the world. So if you're looking for a round-the-world blog post this isn't the one. However, in all fairness, I think I've done pretty well for someone who didn't take any gap years to travel! And who knows, maybe one day I'll be able to do a around the world post.

1. Australia

I have to admit I absolutely adore Australia, particularly Melbourne which I think is such an amazing city. If you're ever in Australia Melbourne is must. I could be slightly bias on this point however, mainly because it is the city where majority of my mother's family live. Nonetheless it is still very beautiful and there are a tonne of things to do here. On my last trip there I remember going to Victoria market which was full of pretty much everything. There was fresh produce, clothes, jewelry, trinkets and takeaway joints - literally anything to suit any mood. Another place I'd seriously recommend there is a little way out of Melbourne - St Kilda, which is a beautiful beach. I remember going there many times when I was younger and playing in the sea all day long. I'm pretty sure this also used to be home to Luna Park, one of Australia's theme parks that I believe has sadly closed down now *broken heart*. 

2. New York City

I first went to New York when I was sixteen years old and I remember how excited I felt. From experience, the phrase that it's the city that never sleeps, rings true for me. My first night there I stayed up well into the early hours of the morning eating pizza and listening to the hustle and bustle down on the street well beneath my hotel room. I did all the things you're supposed to in New York - I saw the Empire State building, walked through central park, took the subway and of course went shopping along fifth avenue. The first time I went to New York was the first time I had ever tried Bubba Gumps too. Ever since I have been smitten with this seafood chain, especially their mushroom burger and homemade lemonade. I must admit there's still probably so much more for me to explore in New York because it's such a vast city and constantly changing. Maybe someday soon I shall return and visit all the things I may have missed. 

3. France

I've been to France a handful of times. It's pretty close to London (thanks Eurostar!) so it's often a rather cheap yet exciting venture to go on. I don't know if everyone does this but I revolve most of my adventures around food and let me tell you France has some of the best food in the world. If you're a true foodie - go to France! I promise you that you won't be disappointed. The pastries, the cheese, the wine, everything is just so delectable. The sights and historical landmarks in France are equally as brilliant too. After all, did you even go to Paris if you didn't visit the Eiffel Tower and take a selfie? Exactly! Also don't forget to see the wondrous Notre Dame, the Louvre (to see the original Mona Lisa!) and the Arc de Triomph. 

4. Orlando, Florida

As cliche as it sounds Orlando, Florida is literally my favourite place in the whole entire world. And yes this is mainly because it is home to the happiest place on earth - Disney World. This is where I guiltily admit that I have actually been to Florida four times. My family and I absolutly love going and I mean who wouldn't? As I said it's the happiest place on earth. Not to mention it's full of awesome rides, crazy good food and endless good times. When I visit Florida I always stay at the Disney World resorts, mainly because you get extra Disney guest benefits for your entire stay and all the parks are only around ten minutes away. Don't get me wrong whenever I visit Orlando I also go to Universal Studios and take myself for some retail therapy in their numerous outlets too. 

5. Greece

Greece is one of those places that many British folk venture to for some sun, sea and alcohol. However when I went this certainly wasn't the case. I'm not much of a party girl and I always get sun burnt but I still enjoy long days at the beach, warm summer sun and discovering new places. I went with Elliott and some of our friends from school. We visited the seaside town of Rafina where there is a large port, numerous beaches and restaurants as far as the eye can see. Majority of our time was spent snorkeling, exploring and getting well acquainted with the extremely hot sun. No matter what time of year you go I'd recommend carrying a whole load of suncream.     

6. India

After it being on my bucket list for a while I finally visited India this year. This is probably the most interesting holiday I've ever been on - not only because this was my first time visiting Asia but it was also my first time visiting a country that wasn't heavily influenced by western culture. I think visiting a country where their culture is so vastly different from you own is extremely important when you want to become more knowledgeable about the world. India is extremely beautiful with more opportunities to explore nature than you think. While I was there I went on an island snorkeling excursion, visited a national park and jumped into a pool of freezing fresh water. If you ever go I suggest you hire a moped - it gives you the chance to really get to know India and see a few things you otherwise wouldn't if you took regular transit.    

7. Germany

Last month I went to Germany for the very first time so there is still so much for me to see. If you haven't already make sure you take a look at my first ever German travel post and vlog to see exactly what I got up to while I was there. From my experience I've seen that Germany has a lot to offer in terms of culture, food and history. When I was last there I happened to be visiting the at the same time as a cultural music festival and the local onion festival (yes I did just say onion festival!). However now that I undertake a lot of business trips to Germany I'm sure you'll see a lot more of it on the travel pages of my blog soon.

Where have you been in the world? And which destination on my list would you like to visit the most?