My top 5

The most common question I get as a travel advisor is, “Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled?” It’s not, “How do I get the best deals?”—because most clients are (rightfully) more concerned with having a curated, unique, and memorable experience. Travel is an investment in their well-being and growth, and honestly, it’s a wonderful question to ask! While I love this question, it is, in the same breath, one of the hardest to answer. Each place has its own unique quirks, good and bad. But I’ll do my best to break it down for you.

Torres del Paine, Chile

Patagonia, Chile/Argentina

Patagonia is a land of extremes. For example, it’s one of the windiest places on earth, and when I was there, it snowed on their summer solstice. But don’t get spooked by the crazy weather—because while the conditions and flora may be extreme, the landscape is one of the most awe-inspiring I’ve ever seen. Gatorade-blue glacial waters, spongy tundra foliage, guanacos (Patagonian llamas), penguins, calving glaciers, insanely delicious food, and unique, environmentally conscious hotels with views that make you never want to leave. Since the release of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Iceland’s tourism has nearly quadrupled since 2010—and with good reason. It’s incredible (I’ve been twice and will go as many times as I can). That being said, I think Patagonia is slept on and severely underrated. Mark my words: it will be the next Iceland.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Amalfi Coast, Italy

If you’re looking for romantic vibes, insanely delicious food, crystal-clear Mediterranean water, lemon tree–filled hillsides, unique architecture, and views for days, then the Amalfi Coast is it. When I visited in May 2018, the lemon trees were in full bloom, and the whole region smelled like sweet lemons. We chartered a dinghy to take us to a cave where the light hits just right, illuminating it with an intense blue glow. Just outside the cave, dolphins were breaching out of the water. I can’t recommend this place enough.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia

What a hidden gem! From Ljubljana to Lake Bled, this country is dreamy. In the capital city, you can stroll along the Ljubljanica River and grab a bite or a drink while overlooking the Ljubljana Castle perched above the city. If you’re lucky, you may even catch the best drag show I’ve ever attended. Once you’ve had your fill of the city, head up to Lake Bled, a quintessential Slovenian destination. There, you can take a boat rowed by a handsome local across the lake to the island, where the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary stands like a beacon in the valley. Make sure to ring the “wishing bell”—it’s believed that your heartfelt wish will come true if you ring the bell. Surrounding Lake Bled are some of the most awe-inspiring mountains and quaint villages I’ve ever seen. Slovenia is a worthy addition to your bucket list.

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Ireland

It would be a crime not to mention our friend John when talking about Ireland. John was the owner of the home we rented in central Ireland, and he embodies the Irish spirit: kind, generous, funny, and good-natured. He hooked us up with a private tour of a haunted castle and even took us on a fox hunt with his hounds on horseback. One day driving through the green hillsides and overlooking the Cliffs of Moher will have you yearning to become a character in a PBS Masterpiece series. While there’s no shortage of things to do here, make sure you visit a pub in a small town and chat with the locals. It’ll change your life.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia

If you want a 5-star experience on a 3-star budget, Bali is your place! It’s the perfect mix of culture, adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re walking the rice terraces, visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest, relaxing on the beach with a drink, exploring Hindu temples, shopping for handmade crafts, snorkeling world-renowned reefs, or cruising around the island on a Vespa, Bali will leave its mark on you. I could write so much more, but for the sake of brevity, I’ll leave it there.

If you—or someone you know—wants to visit one of these amazing places (or another spot on your bucket list), or even if you’re just road-tripping to a nearby national park, reach out. Let’s plan something together and make your dream trip a reality!

Happy travels,
Clark