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The Best U.S. Destinations to Visit in Your 30s

Explore your own backyard.

I am a full-fledged, certified, accredited late bloomer — at least when it comes to travel.  Sure, as a kid, my family traveled a bit, but usually to and from the same familiar places. We lived in Rhode Island, and every winter made our way back and forth between Stowe, Vermont, to ski nearly every weekend (and some weekdays when my parents were feeling particularly generous about skipping school to shred). We made the occasional trips to Florida and even took a cruise or two to the Caribbean. But it really wasn't until I started writing here at Travel + Leisure that my airline miles started racking up.  In 2017, at the age of 32, I wrote my first story for Travel + Leisure , and since then, I've crisscrossed the globe, accruing passport stamps from some 40 countries in my passport. However, over the last five years, I've learned that you don't need to skip over the international dateline to have a life-changing journey. 

If this job has taught me anything, it's that adventures can be big or small, but no matter the size, it's crucial to have them because they shape who you are — especially in your 30s. 

Your 30s are a time of explosive personal growth. You know more about who you are and what you want than you did in the decade before. If you're fortunate, you now have a career (freelance, full-time, or otherwise) that allows you to have a little spare change in your back pocket and at least a few vacation days to burn. But, if you don't know where to go, I've got you. Here are 11 destinations that made their mark on me in my 30s and spots I think everyone in their 30s should travel to. 

Badlands National Park, South Dakota 

Badlands National Park is criminally underrated. Somehow this spot doesn't get the hype of more well-known national parks but packs just as much of an awe-inspiring punch as places like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. It's rugged and serene, quiet and striking, and absolutely massive. Badlands clocks in with more than 240,000 acres, making it an ideal place for solitude and contemplation. Come camp in the unique geologic formations, and if you visit in summer, head to the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater in the evening for a ranger-led stargazing class, so you know what you're looking up at each night. 

Vail, Colorado

Your 30s are the ideal time to either learn to ski or level up your game, and there's no better spot to do just that than Vail. The mountain town is both a chic destination and home to some of the most pristine skiing (on-piste and off) in North America. Come here to test your mettle on the slopes, or do as I did and take a lesson to hone in on your ski and snowboard game. You may think you know it all in your 30s, but it's never too late to learn something new. Just make sure to book a hotel with a spa (like The Sebastian Vail ) to indulge in a massage après-ski. 

Joshua Tree, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Sometimes in your 30s, you just feel like you need to escape this planet for a day or two. That's exactly what you can do by visiting Joshua Tree, California. Home to the national park by the same name, this town is otherworldly with martian landscapes dotted with puffed Joshua Trees, and thanks to its eclectic and eccentric local scene that places value on finding inner peace over anything else. This can be experienced firsthand with a simple hike through the park or by visiting local destinations like The Integratron , which regularly hosts public sound baths and mediation events. Again, it's a stellar spot to camp but is also home to some intergalactic-ready Airbnbs . 

The Overseas Highway, Florida 

Taking a road trip in your 30s is a must. While there are stretches of road across the nation that can do the trick, none are as beautiful as the Overseas Highway. The 113-mile highway runs from mainland Florida down through the Florida Keys, taking drivers over 42 bridges hovering over crystalline waters. Though not wildly long, the route should take you at least an entire day, if not more, because you absolutely should stop and linger along the way. Don't miss Bahia Honda State Park , located on mile marker 37. The largely uninhabited island is untouched and is a perfect place to take a dip in the gin-clear waters to try and spot a fish or two. Then, continue on your journey to Key West , where you'll find great food, stunning hotels, and even better company. 

New York, New York 

A city escape should be high up on your travel list in your 30s, so why not do it in style by booking a getaway to the city that never sleeps? New York City is a tried and true classic when it comes to urban adventures, and now's the time to just lean in and let yourself be a tourist. Go ahead, tour the Empire State Building. Take a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty. Walk through Central Park. Hell, get a Magnolia Cupcake if you want. These things are all popular for a reason. Want to lean all the way in? Book a room at one of the city's hot new hotels ( The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad , perhaps?).

Sedona, Arizona

Friendly reminder: It's ok to recharge a little in this decade. Whether you need some time off from your job or your family duties, or just some time to reconnect with yourself, your 30s are a great time to plan a trip to Sedona. It's a destination of immense beauty thanks to its famed red rock formations (make your way up either Bell Rock or Cathedral Rock for some of the best views this side of the Mississippi), as well as plenty of hotels and retreats that will cater to your desire to find the balance. Find peace at The Wilde Resort and Spa , which is home to a full-service spa that promotes spiritual growth, or the L'Auberge de Sedona , which offers immersive wellness classes and workshops like Introduction to Crystals and Meditation.

Kauai, Hawaii 

Hawaii is a perennial favorite destination no matter your age, but rather than follow the crowds to the Big Island or Oahu, in your 30s, it's Kauai or bust. As the archipelago's fourth largest island, Kauai still provides plenty of space to roam, but with fewer crowds. It's also known as the "garden isle" due to its lush vegetation, which you'll likely recognize from movies like the entire Jurassic Park franchise . Come sit by the beach and dip your toes in the crystalline waters, hike through the forest, and if your budget allows, splurge on sailing the dramatic Na Pali Coast . Then, rest your head at a resort like Timbers Kauai at Hokuala's or grab a vacation rental.

Healdsburg, California 

Congratulations, you're old enough to drink — and then some. If you're going to imbibe, make sure it's the best stuff in the country, which can be found tucked away in the Sonoma wine country enclave of Healdsburg. The quaint town doesn't draw the same crowds as Napa, which is exactly the point. It's a spot where you can head out to taste wines from smaller producers, including Vérité Winery , which specializes in European-style wines, and DaVero Farms and Winery , a leader in biodynamic production. Or, roll right out of bed at hotels like Montage Healdsburg , which sits on 258 acres, including vineyards (the grapes grown on-site go into wine produced at Aperture Cellars , just down the road).

Big Sky, Montana 

If you need an all-seasons escape destination to add to your decade of travel, look no further than Big Sky . In the summer and fall, visitors can take to the trails for hiking and biking adventures, seeking out vistas that will be burned into their memories forever as they watch the leaves change. In the winter and well into spring, it's a skiing destination with impressively soft powder. It's also a place where unique opportunities abound, including night skiing by headlamp and dining by candlelight in the 100-year-old Lone Mountain Ranch . It even has a brand-new hotel, the Montage Big Sky , in case you're looking for a luxury stay.

New Orleans, Louisiana 

There are good times, then there are great times, and New Orleans more than delivers on the latter. New Orleans is a destination that surrounds you, hugs you, and burrows into your soul, even if you stay for just a day or two. It's a place rife with culinary adventures, musical offerings, and just the right smattering of witchcraft to keep things interesting. Come for the party to end all parties, Mardi Gras, or truly any other day of the year to experience a similar level of revelry. Find tons of charm at The Chloe , a boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century mansion that also has a private pool for when you need a solo dip. 

Your hometown 

Last, but certainly not least, is your hometown. Going home in your 30s is a lovely choice because it shows you how much you've grown and allows you to experience the place you grew up in a whole new light. It's a time to reconnect with old friends, family, and places that mean a great deal to you then, now, and forever. For me, this means a trip home to southern Rhode Island to dig into delicious seafood at the Matunuck Oyster Bar and surf at some stellar breaks in Narragansett (sorry, but the surfer and Rhode Island code say I can't tell you anything more about the specific locations of great surf breaks, but if you ask around, a local may be willing to help). And it means staying overnight at my parents'. And when that becomes too much, book a stay at either The Shore House in Narragansett for a boutique getaway or Ocean House in Westerly for the five-star treatment.

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• 1 Costa Rica
• 2 Lanserhof Tegernsee, Bavaria
• 3 Stockholm, Sweden
• 4 Amalfi Coast
• 5 Sri Lanka
• 8 Seville, Spain
• 9 Shanghai, China
• 10 Douro Valley, Portugal
• 11 Newfoundland
• 12 Sydney, Australia
• 14 Vancouver
• 16 New Orleans, Louisiana
• 17 Blue Lagoon, Iceland
• 18 Portland, Oregon
• 20 New York City, NY
• 21 Kyoto, Japan
• 22 South African Safari
• 23 Loire Valley, France
• 24 Budapest, Hungary
• 25 Montana Dude Ranch
• 27 Fez, Morocco
• 29 Mexico City, Mexico
• 30 Santorini, Greece

30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

You're older and wiser. Where to travel now that you've got your sh*t together? (Relatively-speaking, of course.) Here are 30 trips that deliver the perfect mix of excitement, intrigue, adventure, luxury, and most importantly—fun!—from an off-the-grid getaway in Alaska to a bucket-list safari in Africa. Start planning 'em for when we can travel again.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Cheap booze and world-class swells brought you to Costa Rica in your twenties. Now, experience some of the country’s more grown-up pleasures—namely, its jaw-dropping natural scenery, inspired cuisine, and wellness-focused attractions—at the adults-only Oxygen Jungle Villas . The boutique hotel is nestled within a plot of protected Costa Rican rainforest and perched above the Pacific Ocean, so you truly feel like you’re living in the wild. You’ll spend your days lounging in your Balinese-style villa, going on countless outdoor excursions (hiking, whale watching, scuba diving), and exploring the restaurants and storefronts of neighboring town Ojochal.

Lanserhof Tegernsee, Bavaria

Vacation days—and we mean real vacation days, sans work and family commitments—are hard to come by in your thirties. Which is why it’s important to truly relax, re-center, and recharge when you do get a few days to yourself. Enter the legendary Lanserhof Tegernsee detox resort in the Bavarian Alps. Here, spa-goers are retaught how to chew and sleep, forced to cut sugar and alcohol from their diets, and if the specialists deem it necessary, subjected to futuristic medical evaluations including sleep assessments. The amenities make up for the rigors of the program: we’re talking an 18-course golf course, a saltwater swimming pool, nightly classical music concerts, and a monastically beautiful setting (all glass and stone and embowered by the forest).

Stockholm, Sweden

Your thirties are all about cultivating a distinctive sense of taste and style. And in Stockholm, you’ll have world-class museums, galleries, design stores, and concept boutiques at your fingertips. A few must-stops: Sven Harrys-Art Museum , a slick art space that houses the private collection of collector Sven-Harry Karlsson; Malmstenbutiken , a storied Swedish brand known for its furniture and textile designs; and hotel At Six , a boutique high-rise with an art collection that includes big names like Sol Le Witt and Jaume Plensa.

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Amalfi Coast

You’ve dreamt about Amalfi’s pastel-hued villages, cobbled streets, and cerulean waters for as long as you can remember. Now that you have disposable income to spend and (hopefully) more vacation days, it’s time to make those dreams a reality. Stay in Amalfi at the five-star  Hotel Santa Caterina , set in a 19th-century, liberty-style villa above the sea. When you’re not lounging by the private pool or the beach club, explore the town’s charming maze of narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, precipitous steps, and bustling piazza.

If you’re celebrating a big anniversary or birthday, there’s no better place to do so than Sri Lanka. The exotic island offers out-of-this-world Indian Ocean coastlines, lush tropical vegetation, elephant-filled national parks, and plenty of luxury resorts like the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort , spread across a 21-acre former coconut plantation on the southernmost coast of Sri Lanka. Splurge on a private villa—which comes with a private plunge pool, expansive deck, butler pantry, tiled rainfall shower—and you may never want to leave your guest room. But we’d recommend peeling yourself away for at least a few hours to indulge in an authentic Ayurvedic treatment at the spa, learn the ropes of Sri Lankan cooking at Anatara’s popular Spice Spoons Cooking school, or take part in a traditional high-tea service.

With age comes wisdom—plus, an affinity for the finer things in life. And at Chile’s Vik Hotel , a design-forward retreat and wine spa located two hours from Santiago, in Chile’s Millahue Valley, you’ll find plenty of amenities that will appeal to your refined tastes. We’re talking a vino-centered spa, infinity pool, two restaurants, and high-design guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, original artwork, and curvilinear furniture (an homage to the property’s undulating titanium rooftop). Want to get outside and take in some of that jaw-dropping scenery? There are seven horses on standby that can whisk you around the property’s vineyard.

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There will come a time in your thirties when you just need to get away from it all (the job, the bills, the responsibilities) with a back-to-nature trip. And for this kind of escapist getaway, we’d recommend Alaska—a land of impenetrable forests, vast tundras, towering glaciers, and some of the world’s most awe-inspiring animals. To see the region’s wildlife up close and personal, hop on a guided glacier or wildlife walk with Salmon Berry Tours , where you might spot Dall sheep, mountain goats, and caribou as you explore the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. Then it’s on to the Kenai Fjords National Park , the smallest national park in Alaska, to see The Harding Icefield (almost 714 square miles of ice up to a mile thick) and Resurrection Bay . Make your home base The Hotel Alyeska , a rustic mountain lodge with direct access to hiking and biking trails.

Seville, Spain

Spain is known for its 10 p.m. dinners and a go-all-night nightlife. But you don’t need the stamina you had in your twenties to have an unforgettable trip there in your thirties. Consider Seville, in the southern part of the country, where there are delicious tapas, afternoon siestas, cortados at sidewalk café, and the relaxed lifestyle emblematic of Spanish culture. Don’t miss a meal at the resplendent San Fernando Restaurante at the Hotel Alfonso XIII , where you’ll feast on Andalusian fare like Iberian pork cheek with paprika and garlic, and strolling around the 16th-century Alameda de Hercules , which has a fresh market, jazz bars, and al alfresco cafes. Bed down at the Hotel Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza , an exquisite 18th-century townhouse, with sun-drenched courtyards and a rooftop terrace with a pool.

Shanghai, China

It can be easy to fall into a bit of a vacation rut in your thirties, returning to the same hotels and destinations over and over again. To rediscover your love of travel—and immerse yourself in an intoxicating foreign environment—pack your bags for Shanghai. The cosmopolitan city has it all: sleek skyscrapers, high-end shopping, innovative restaurants, and cultural landmarks, from the French Concession and Nanshi to the riverfront Bund. Check into The Puli Hotel and Spa , a serene urban hideaway with a central address in city’s Jing’An district and Zen vibe.

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Douro Valley, Portugal

You did Lisbon and Porto in your twenties. Now, it’s time to see a different side of Portugal by spending some time in Douro Valley—a landscape of sun-drenched vineyards that blanket steep mountainsides, with the majestic Douro River as the centerpiece. Wine is at the heart of it all at the historic Six Senses , a 19th-century manor house restored for the 21st century by New York-based firm Clodagh Design. Guests can unwind with wine-focused treatments in the spa, attend wine tastings in the library, and sample regional varieties at the on-site restaurant. Take a break from your education in viniculture at the property’s magnificent infinity-edge pool, which looks out over the winding river.

Newfoundland

If you’ve been to Canada, chances are it wasn’t to Newfoundland. The sleepy Atlantic Canadian province doesn’t exactly have the uh, international appeal as cities like Montreal or Toronto. What it does have? Quaint fishing villages, arctic wildlife, jaw-droppingly beautiful national parks, and plenty of Maritime charm—all things you likely have more of an appreciation for now that’s you’re older. Start your adventure in the capital city of St. John’s, a colorful little town with steep streets, clapboard houses, and Irish pubs (hit up George Street for the city’s best), then hit the road in the direction of Fogo Island. The tiny, salt-tanged isle offers fewer than a dozen restaurants and cafés, but makes up for it with a burgeoning art scene and plenty of design-forward accommodations—like the 29-room Fogo Island Inn .

Sydney, Australia

Australia is the ultimate adventure playground, which is probably why so many twentysomethings flock there for their gap-years and study abroads. But there’s more to the country than surfing and off-road adventures—especially if you set your sights on Sydney. With its hip, lively neighborhoods, iconic harbor, top drawer dining, gorgeous beaches, and legendary coffee culture, the city offers all the excitement of a world-class city with all the relaxation of a beach break. Book a stay at the Park Hyatt Sydney , an 155-room sleep with minimalist rooms—the best of which feature dead-on views of the Opera House—a heated rooftop pool (ditto about those views), two waterfront restaurants, and a spa that incorporates ingredients sourced from the Blue Mountains.

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You can do Hawaii on the cheap, but in our opinion The Aloha State is best experienced while traveling with deep pockets. (Hence why it’s a destination best visited in your thirties.) If you’re traveling with the kiddos, go to Maui—specifically, the glitzy, family-friendly enclave of Wailea; if not, there’s no better place than Kauai to escape from real life and lose yourself in the beauty and serenity of your tropical surroundings. For the ultimate in luxury accommodations, bed down at the St. Regis Princeville , perched on a cliff overlooking Hanalei Bay and the famous Na Pali Coast and featuring an 11,000-square-foot spa and a Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant.

You did the superstar cities in your twenties: New York, Paris, London, Tokyo. Now that you’re a little older, you don’t have the same patience to put up with all that big city living entails—crowds, traffic, pollution, and all. But in Vancouver, British Columbia, you’ll get the big city feels without any of the inconvenience (or headache). That’s because the West Coast locale is consistently rated as being one of the most livable cities in the world, thanks to its abundance of parks, ease in getting around, laidback Californian-esque vibe, and thriving creative scene. The city’s ever-evolving culinary scene means there’s a cool, global-inspired restaurant to check out on almost every corner. Our faves? Torafuku , a pan-Asian restaurant with a clean, stripped-down aesthetic and to-die-for bites (like the “Rye So Messy” chicken wings, marinated in gochukang (a Korean fermented condiment), and Vij’s , an buzzy Indian restaurant that has played host to everyone from ex-Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau to Harrison Ford.

This under-the-radar Middle Eastern country is one for your bucket list. Boasting Hawaiian-style tropical beaches, deserts dotted with mirage-like swimming wadise, and the soaring, 10,000-foot peaks of Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar mountain range, it’s home to stunningly beautiful terrain—and a crop of new luxury resorts that put the scenery front and center. We love the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort , built on the edge of the rocky Saiq Plateau and one of the best cliffside hotels in the world (in our opinion). When not taking a dip or chowing down on Omani and international cuisine at own of the resort’s six restaurants, head to the spa for decadent treatments, to the kitchen for a cooking class, or to the Hajar mountain range for a heart-pumping climb.

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New Orleans, Louisiana

Sure, you might have already been to NOLA on a long gone spring break or with a rowdy bachelor or bachelorette party, but we’re suggesting this trip extend beyond Bourbon Street’s 13 blocks. Taking a more grown up approach to the southern city first means skipping over the budget-friendly but less than chic accommodations you went for in your younger years (see: La Quintas and Best Westerns) in favor of the Ace Hotel New Orleans —a buzzed-about Arts District boutique with retro-inspired furniture, a two-story music venue, and onsite restaurant helmed by James Beard-nominated chefs.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Save those overpriced luxury spa packages for when you’re 50, and opt for something a bit more adventurous. We’re well aware of this geothermal spring’s popularity with tourists, but it’s a must-do nonetheless. Famed for its turquoise-colored waters, it’s pooled within a lava-field basin rich in minerals like silica and sulfur. Expect to step out of the natural hot tub feeling fully pruned and pampered.

Portland, Oregon

No matter your age—or *aesthetic*— PDX’s counterculture-loving, free-as-a-wild-horse spirit is attractive. Drop by the Pacific Northwest to spend laid-back days hiking Mount Hood, browsing more than two million titles at Powell’s City of Books, and indulging in requisite daily cold-brews. While you’re in town, tuck away at the The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel . The urban chic stay has a rooftop perfect for socializing and two stellar restaurants: the ultra-sleek Departure (serving Asian fare from a 15th-floor dining room), and Urban Farmer, a sustainable steakhouse with reclaimed design.

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By now you’ve likely been to heavy-hitting Euro destinations like England, France, Germany, and Italy, but have you ever ventured out east? Oft-overlooked by study abroad programs and the slapped-together backpacking itineraries that defined our twenties travel, Croatia is a feast for the eyes—from the early renaissance architecture and romantic alleys in Dubrovnik, to the seductive, glittering coasts of Vis, Hvar, Split, and Korcula. Start your getaway in Dubrovnik (it’s walled-in Old Town doubled as King’s Landing in HBO’s Game of Thrones ), avoiding crowds by checking into Villa Argentina , a cliffside dame overlooking the Adriatic.

New York City, NY

NYC is an everyman’s destination—what with trendy restaurants, buzzed-about bars, game-changing Broadway shows, unparalleled art and history museums, and every type of stay. Though dive bars and bottomless brunches in Williamsburg and the LES will always have our hearts (having played host to many a quarter-life-crisis chat with friends), once life sorts itself out, weekends are for culture kicks. Hit Manhattan’s Museum Mile and knockout exhibitions at The Guggenheim , The Jewish Museum , The Neue Galerie , and The Met —but don’t forget about uptown and downtown options like the MoMA or Whitney either.

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Kyoto, Japan

Leave backpacking Southeast Asia (and bedding down in seedy hostels) to the twenty-somethings—it’s time to take on Japan. Ornate Buddhist temples, Zen gardens, teahouses, and geishas are what you’ll find in Kyoto, the country’s ancient capital. Trek halfway up Mt. Otowa for panoramic views of the city from the ancient Kiyomizu-dera temple; stroll through an otherworldly sea of green at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove; or snake through the torri (shrine gates) at the iconic Fushimi-Inari-Taisha—you really can’t go wrong.

South African Safari

Unless you’ve come into an inheritance or won the lottery, an African safari is probably something you’re still aspiring to afford regardless of whether you’re 22 or 32. But, if you have managed to wile away some savings, be prepared to drop it all on a stay at Lion Sands Sabi Sand —a glam bush lodge overlooking Kruger National Park—for pillowy beds draped in romantic netting, enormous freestanding soaking tubs, and sightings of the Big Five right from your room.

Loire Valley, France

First-timer trips to France usually consist of the iconic sites in Paris, but once you’ve covered that, it’s time to head south to the sprawling Loire Valley. Just a 2-hour ride out of the city, the vineyard-cloaked Valley lures travelers with rolling countryside, opulent feudal chateaux, and teensy, tiny cafés serving up the best in regional French specialties. Splash out on a sexy rental car (a convertible, preferably), and set out on a self-guided tour of the region’s cathedrals and castles; the Château de Meung sur Loire , Château de Villandry , Chateau de Chenonceau , and Chartres Cathedral are among our top picks.

Photos Courtesy of Budapest Spas

Budapest, Hungary

The Budapest jaunts of your younger years may have leaned heavily on nights spent at romkocsma aka “ruin bars”—derelict buildings that have been transformed into all-but-secret clubs—but round two, ditch the drinks and plan for pampering. As the City of Spas, Hungary’s capital has plenty of R&R options. Go for a mineral-enriched dip at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath , a massive, circa-1913 Neo-baroque-style complex with 21 pools. You’ll likely find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with locals and other visitors, but the OG baths are popular for a reason.

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Montana Dude Ranch

Set that OOO email and get to feeling like a kid again with a trip to a 19th-century homestead. Clear your mind of any roughing-it notions, though—all-inclusive stays at the Ranch at Rock Creek (in Philipsburg) expertly mix typical ranching activities like horseback riding and fly-fishing with chic mountain-meets-modern interiors and gourmet farm-style meals.

The Land of the Thunder Dragon harbors some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes (glacial mountain peaks, alpine valleys, dense primeval forests, snow-fed rivers) as well as stunning cliffside temples, monasteries, and sacred sites—so why do only 100,000 people visit each year? The stats can be chalked up to daunting pre-trip paperwork, but now that you’ve been an official adult for more than a decade, you should be able to get your sh*t together in order to bliss out among the snowcapped Himalayan peaks at Taj Tashi .

Fez, Morocco

While Marrakech’s seducing streets overflow with international tourists, Fez—the country’s calmed-down, culture capital enchants with its own labyrinthine souks, traditional tanneries, upscale hammams, and exotically spiced dishes. Drop your bags at Hotel Sahrai , an ultra-luxe boutique tucked between the main medieval medina and Ville Nouvelle—the city’s modern section. Once you’ve admired your light-filled room, take a taxi to Bab Bou Jeloud. The ornate Moorish gate serves as the city’s main entrance, and if you stand far enough back, you’ll find that it perfectly frames the minaret of the Madrasa Bou Inania.

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Leave the party-hardy shores of Jamaica, the Bahamas, and the DR to the spring breaker crowds and go for Barbuda, a 62-square-mile isle that flies relatively under the radar. Antigua’s sleepier sister—once a favorite of Princess Diana—is all secluded pink-sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and swaying palms. For the ultimate R&R—we’re talking rustic-chic accommodations with peaked bamboo ceilings, four-poster beds and wicker furnishings—check in at Barbuda Belle on the uninhabited northern tip of the island.

Mexico City, Mexico

With a hip art scene, white-hot restaurants, and chic boutiques, Mexico City is a top choice when you’ve graduated from booze-filled getaways in Cancun and Cozumel. Make Hotel Carlota —in the central Cuauhtémoc neighborhood, just north of Paseo de la Reforma (MC’s main artery)—your home base. Contemporary Mexican decor, a farm-fresh restaurant, a boutique design store, and a glass-edged plunge pool easily make it one of the coolest sleeps in the city. For a mouthwatering meal, head off to Pujol where chef Enrique Olvera (you may recognize him from Netflix’s Chef’s Table ) whips up innovative takes on street food to form a gourmet six-course tasting menu.

Santorini, Greece

Jetting off to Santorini isn’t in the cards for most post-grads. But once you’ve found your way out of the weeds (read: mountains of student loan debt), it’s a prime treat yo’self destination. The San Antonio presents absolute peace and quiet with a cliffside locale heavy on caldera views and volcanic spa treatments.

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• Travelling in your 30s and 40s is best – here’s why

Matt Risley 24th Nov 2023 7 min read

When I was younger, I made many, many mistakes. From the mullet that launched a thousand Facebook Memories, to the hours I spent obsessively learning the lyrics to Sir Mix-a-Lot’s Greatest Hits, we all have our own personal eye-rolling sins to bear. But with age comes wisdom (or so they tell me) and hindsight that makes you appreciate the value in those oft-facepalming learning curves.

I hadn’t realised this quite as much as when noticing the difference between travelling in my 20s and then in my 30s and 40s. Youth may be wasted on the young, but adventure, experience and travelling only gets better with age. Here’s why I believe that travelling in your 30s and 40s is better than in your 20s.

5 reasons to travel solo in your 30s and 40s

1. You don’t rely on a drink to find your comfort zone

I imagine most of us who drink alcohol can relate to the cringe-worthy morning after, and the attempt to piece together a litany of embarrassing escapades from the night before. The combination of social anxiety, backpacker booze culture and thrifty living meant that boozy nights at 7-for-1 bars were a common occurrence during my 20-something travels.

But as an older, wiser traveller in my 30s, with a decidedly more delicate liver, I don’t feel the need to rely on a drink to find my comfort zone anymore. Walking into a group of strangers is nowhere near as worrisome when you know you’re all there for the same shared experience. Even better, when you’re travelling in your 30s sober, you can soak up each new place undiluted, allowing for a more ‘in the moment’ holiday and memories you can actually remember.

2. Solo travel is a form of self care

Something I’ve learnt with age is that it’s important to treat yourself every now and again. Travelling in my 20s, I didn’t have cash to spare. But travelling in my 30s and 40s there was a little fiscal wiggle room – something I wholeheartedly embraced. In ten years’ time, I guarantee I won’t remember what I spent on that hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia , private boat trip and local hammam in Turkey . I’ll only remember the happy, joyful feeling of what it was like to live it.

I’ve found that taking a breather from the madness and monotony of a professional and personal life becomes ever more important the older (and more responsible) you get. Which means that when I travel to a new location and soak up all the new sights, smells and sounds, I appreciate every second all the more. Contentment is about balance, perspective and living in the moment, and travelling in your 30s and 40s allows you to experience each and every one of those in surprising harmony.

3. You are more assertive

It doesn’t matter how high your IQ is, there are some common sense life lessons you only learn through trial and error. That innate sixth sense for knowing when ‘going with the flow’ has slowly morphed into ‘oh whoops, what have I done and how do I get out of this predicament’. I’ve found that it factors into your travelling experience on a daily basis and becomes a finessed self-preservation instinct the older you get.

Next time, I won’t follow a complete stranger to a bar purely because they’re offering a margarita BOGOF deal. Next time, I won’t hitchhike with an overly smiley stranger because they reckon they know a quick shortcut that’ll shave minutes off my travel time. These all provided such beautiful interactions with strangers but I now, as a traveller over 30, find other ways to do that. And yes, I will live to a riper old age with many more stories to show for it.

4. You make your own travel memories

For me and many others, the fear of leaving the pack to follow your own path is an anxiety-sparking issue in your 20s – especially when you’re travelling with best friends or significant others. But when travelling in my 30s and 40s, I’ve realised that while having someone else to do something with is lovely, you don’t need anyone else to make the memory – just the confidence and happiness to blaze your own path.

If you’ve always wanted to explore the sights and delights of Japan or Peru but you don’t have anyone ready to join you on the adventure, then it shouldn’t stop you from doing it anyway. Especially when companies, like Flash Pack , which specialise in group travel for 30-40-year-olds , exist and are ready and willing to pair you up with other like-minded people equally as excited to explore.

5. The people you meet are more interesting

Not only did I find it easier to connect with others the older I got, but – shhh, whisper, and definitely don’t tell the best friend you’ve had since primary school – the people I’ve met on my trips are usually infinitely more interesting. When travelling in your 30s and 40s, everyone’s lived a life. Everyone has a backstory (or ten) and multiple reasons for joining the trip in the first place. While the ‘I’m just out of uni’ conversation starters I endured when I was younger were all well and good, as a traveller in my 30s I’m now more likely to meet people with fascinating jobs, eyebrow-raising life situations or Pulitzer-worthy travelling tales of their own.

Because of travelling in my 30s and 40s, I can now count the owner of a billionaire member’s club, an ex-yogi to the Hollywood stars and an ultra-marathon runner as friends – something I never saw coming. But they are all relationships that have brought a lot of laughter, happiness and opportunity into my life as a result.

How to embrace solo travel in your 30s and 40s

There’s no doubt that solo travel in your 30s and 40s is enriching – but there are still several ways to approach it depending on the experience you’re looking for. Here are the two most common routes you could take.

Go it alone

Committing to ‘ going it alone ’ entails planning the whole of your trip (flights, accommodation, excursions, the itinerary – everything) by yourself. Truly putting the ‘solo’ in solo travel. This means you can enjoy the freedom of not having to please anyone else, but it may also be a daunting prospect if you’re travelling alone for the first time.

Join a guided solo travel group

Another way to experience solo travel in your 30s and 40s is by joining a solo group with Flash Pack, where the hassle is taken out of travel planning, giving you access to unique experiences that are difficult to arrange on your own. You’ll also be paired with a small group of like-minded adventurers so you can make lasting friendships .

Explore our adventure trips .

Experience the freedom of travelling in your 30s and 40s

Thinking of taking your next solo trip in your 30s or 40s? Join Flash Pack today to go on an adventure with other like-minded travellers.

Got a story or adventure that could inspire a solo traveller like you? Tag @flashpack on social or email [email protected] to be featured.

Images: Flash Pack

Big joy: how to light up your life with “micro-acts” of kindness and connection

By Anna Brech

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30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Home » 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Welcome to your 30s, a decade that promises adventure, self-discovery, and unforgettable travel experiences. As you step into this new chapter of life, the world becomes your playground, and there’s no better way to embrace it than by exploring these 30 trips to take in your 30s. 

From ancient wonders to tropical paradises, from thrilling adventures to serene spiritual sojourns, each continent has something unique to offer. So, pack your bags, set your wanderlust free, and get ready to embark on Framey’s journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of the world. Your 30s are your time to shine, and these top 30 destinations will make this decade one to remember.

Table of Contents

A. South & Western Europe: History, Culture, and Mediterranean Splendor

• Paris, France: Wander the romantic streets and indulge in world-class art and cuisine.
• Barcelona, Spain: Experience the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of Gaudi.
• Florence, Italy: Renaissance art and marvelous architecture.

1. Paris: The City of Love and Lights – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre

Paris, the capital of romance, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking love and enchantment. The Eiffel Tower stands tall as a symbol of the city’s charm, inviting you to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Seine River. Louvre Museum, home to timeless masterpieces like the Mona Lisa invites you to explore. And let’s not forget that Paris is a synonym for delectable pastries in quaint cafés, strolls through Montmartre’s artistic streets, and the artsy vibe of the Seine River.

2. Barcelona: The Architectural Marvel – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Gothic Quarter, Barcelona 📸 _ksu_erm_

The colorful, youthful, and artistic spirit of Barcelona makes the city of the best travel destinations in your 30s. Admire the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudi, including the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Wander through the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, filled with history and charm. Enjoy tapas and sangria at lively local bars, and soak in the Mediterranean sun at Barceloneta Beach. Barcelona’s unique blend of culture, art, and beachside bliss makes it a top choice for travelers of all ages.

3. Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Museum of Illusions Florence 📸 miry_clay_

Immerse in the artistic wonders of Florence, Italy’s Renaissance jewel. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David and admire the intricate facade of the Florence Cathedral. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Wander through the charming streets, stopping at cozy cafes for a cappuccino. Florence’s cultural heritage and artistic treasures create a captivating journey through Western Europe’s rich history.

B. Central and Eastern Europe: Hidden Gems & Old Charm – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Transylvania, Romania: Explore fairytale landscapes and legends of Dracula.
• Krakow, Poland: Wander through historic streets and experience Polish charm.

4. Transylvania, Romania – A fairytale of folklore and myths

Bran Castle, Transylvania 📸 thetravellingfrenchy

Venture into the enchanting landscapes of Transylvania, a region steeped in folklore and myths. Discover fairytale castles, including Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. Explore the medieval streets of Brasov and Sibiu, picturesque towns frozen in time. Immerse in the Carpathian Mountains’ beauty, dotted with charming villages and stunning vistas. Transylvania’s hidden gems and rich history create a captivating journey through the heart of Eastern Europe.

5. Krakow, Poland – The city with a rich past and bright future

Piec Piekarnia Bakery, Krakow 📸 piekarnia.piec

Wander through the historic streets of Krakow, Poland’s cultural capital, where history comes alive. Visit the magnificent Wawel Castle, home to centuries of royal history and legends. Explore the haunting remnants of the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, and pay tribute at Auschwitz-Birkenau, a poignant reminder of humanity’s past. Krakow’s architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere offer a journey into the heart of Eastern Europe’s rich cultural heritage.

C. Western and Northern Europe: Art, Architecture and Majestic Fjords

• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Explore world-class museums and historic canals.
• Tromsø, Norway: Witness the magical dance of the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Q uirky architecture and lively nightlife

Damrak, Amsterdam 📸  @jessicachaw

Discover Amsterdam, a cultural capital teeming with world-class museums and historic charm. Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Explore the iconic Anne Frank House and learn about the city’s rich history. Cruise along the picturesque canals, admiring the elegant canal houses. Amsterdam’s artistic heritage and vibrant atmosphere offer a cultural journey like no other.

7. Tromso, Norway – Aurora Borealis Extravaganza – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Embark on a journey to Tromsø, Norway, where the magical dance of the Northern Lights illuminates the winter skies. Join a Northern Lights safari, chasing the celestial spectacle across snow-covered landscapes. Experience dog sledding or reindeer sleigh rides, connecting with the Arctic wilderness. Tromsø’s remote location and stunning natural phenomena make it a top destination for travelers seeking an otherworldly experience.

D. South Asia: Home of oldest civilizations and tallest mountains – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Varanasi, India: Experience the spiritual energy along the sacred Ganges River.
• Bhutan: Discover the land of happiness and explore ancient monasteries.
• Maldives: Indulge in the ultimate romantic escape in luxurious overwater bungalows.

8. Varanasi, India: Spiritual Awakening 

Journey to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, where life and death intersect along the banks of the Ganges River. Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunrise and sunset, filling the air with divine energy. Take a boat ride on the sacred river, observing the rituals and ceremonies that play a central role in Hindu traditions. Varanasi’s mystical aura and spiritual significance will leave you with a profound sense of self-discovery and enlightenment.

9. Bhutan: The Land of Happiness

Tiger’s Nest, Paro, Bhutan 📸 angelydub

Uncover the secrets of happiness in Bhutan, a kingdom nestled in the Himalayas. Embrace the country’s unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness, where the well-being of its people takes precedence. Explore ancient monasteries perched on cliffs, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest. Immerse in traditional Bhutanese culture and witness colorful festivals that celebrate the nation’s rich heritage. Bhutan’s untouched beauty and spiritual ambiance offer a transformative experience for travelers in their 30s.

10. Maldives: Paradise on Earth – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Escape to the paradise of the Maldives, a haven of luxury and tranquility. Stay in opulent overwater bungalows, waking up to the sound of gentle waves. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, encountering colorful coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, under the starlit sky. The Maldives’ secluded beauty and world-class hospitality create a dreamy escape for travelers seeking a luxurious retreat.

E. East Asia: Island Hopping in one of the earliest cradles of civilization

• Kyoto, Japan: Find inner peace among serene temples and traditional tea houses.
• Bali, Indonesia: Discover the island’s spiritual essence and lush rice terraces.

11. Kyoto, Japan – Serenity and Tradition

In Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, find tranquility amidst traditional wooden temples, immaculate gardens, and the grace of geishas. Experience the meditative Zen culture by participating in a tea ceremony or practicing meditation in serene surroundings. Witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and the vivid colors of fall foliage. Kyoto’s profound spirituality and cultural richness offer a unique and reflective experience for travelers in their 30s.

12. Bali – The Island of Gods

Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida 📸⁠ mariefeandjakesnow

Discover the spiritual essence of Bali, where ancient temples and lush rice terraces await. Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Experience the cultural heart of Ubud, attending traditional dance performances and exploring art galleries. Unwind in luxury resorts surrounded by lush jungles or rice paddies. Bali’s unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty creates a soulful island-hopping experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.

F. Western Asia – Best Cultural Exploration in the Middle East 

• Petra, Jordan: Explore the ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs.
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Experience the opulence of futuristic architecture and luxury shopping.

13. Petra, Jordan: The Rose-Red City – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Petra, Wadi Musa, Jordan – 📸 thewayfaress

Step back in time and explore the ancient city of Petra, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Wander through the narrow Siq, a natural gorge that leads to the Treasury, Petra’s most famous monument. Discover ancient tombs, temples, and theaters carved into the rose-red cliffs. Petra’s archaeological wonders and rich history offer a cultural journey like no other, where you can imagine the lives of the Nabateans who once thrived in this desert oasis.

14. Dubai, UAE – A Modern Marvel 

Experience the futuristic marvel of Dubai, where innovation and opulence converge in a desert metropolis. Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and take in the breathtaking city views from the observation deck. Indulge in luxury shopping at Dubai Mall and experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional souks. Dubai’s modernity and traditional charm create a cultural fusion that captivates travelers seeking unique experiences.

G. North America: Unparalleled mountain scenery and exquisite diving 

• Banff National Park, Canada: Hike through pristine wilderness and spot majestic wildlife.
• Yosemite National Park, USA: Marvel at breathtaking waterfalls and granite cliffs.
• Bahamas: Snorkel in the clear waters of the Exumas and explore the vibrant marine life.

15. Banff National Park, Canada – Nature’s Playground

Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Canada adventuringeyes

In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies Banff National Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along scenic trails, surrounded by towering peaks and turquoise lakes. Witness the stunning Moraine Lake, its pristine waters reflecting the beauty of the mountains. Encounter wildlife, from elks to grizzly bears, in their natural habitat. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Banff’s rugged landscapes and boundless adventures make it a top destination for adrenaline junkies in their 30s.

16. Yosemite National Park, USA – Majestic Wilderness

Yosemite National Park 📸 @codyconk

Explore the iconic Yosemite National Park in California, a land of awe-inspiring natural wonders. Stand in awe of the mighty Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Marvel at the grandeur of El Capitan and Half Dome, iconic granite cliffs that attract climbers from around the world. Hike through ancient sequoia groves, where massive trees have stood for centuries. Yosemite’s breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes offer an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to reconnect with nature.

17. Bahamas: Tropical Bliss 

Discover the tropical paradise of the Bahamas, where picture-perfect beaches and turquoise waters await. Snorkel in the clear waters of the Exumas, swimming alongside friendly nurse sharks and pigs. Experience the vibrant culture of Nassau, with its lively markets and historic sites. Indulge in fresh seafood and tropical cocktails while watching the sunset over the ocean. The Bahamas’ warm hospitality and idyllic setting make it a top choice for beach lovers.

H. South America: A myriad of cultures and natural wonders

• Patagonia, Argentina, or Chile: Discover the breathtaking landscapes of glaciers and mountains.
• Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Witness unique wildlife species in their natural habitat.
• Machu Picchu, Peru: Trek to the ancient Incan city and savor its mystical charm.
• Aruba: Lounge on white sands and swim in the turquoise waters of Palm Beach.

18. Patagonia: Untamed Wilderness – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Nahuel Huapi Lake, Patagonia, Argentina 📸 lasmorillashuemul

Venture into the wild landscapes of Patagonia, where untamed beauty and dramatic scenery await. Witness the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, with its blue ice towering over the lake. Trek through Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, surrounded by rugged mountains and turquoise lakes. Patagonia’s vast wilderness is great for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting. Embrace the raw power of nature and the sense of freedom that  comes with exploring one of the world’s last wilderness areas.

19. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – A Living Laboratory 

Embark on a journey of discovery in the Galapagos Islands, a unique paradise teeming with rare and diverse wildlife. Encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and playful sea lions in their natural habitat. Snorkel with marine iguanas and colorful fish in the crystal-clear waters. The Galapagos’ isolated ecosystem inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and continues to captivate travelers with its natural wonders. A visit to the Galapagos Islands is a journey of exploration and conservation that will leave you with a deep appreciation for our planet’s biodiversity.

20. Machu Picchu, Peru – Ancient Wonder of the Andes 

Trek to the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu, hidden among the lush mountains of Peru’s Andes. Follow the Inca Trail, witnessing stunning vistas of valleys and cloud forests along the way. Marvel at the precision and ingenuity of Incan architecture as you explore the ruins of this ancient city. Machu Picchu’s enigmatic charm and spiritual ambiance make it a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking to connect with the mysteries of the past.

21. Aruba, ABC Islands (Leeward Antilles): One Happy Caribbean Island

Underwater expedition in Aruba

Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino, a Marriott Luxury and Lifestyle Hotel, Oranjestad, Aruba

Escape to Aruba, known as “One Happy Island” for its year-round sunshine and warm hospitality. Lounge on the white sands of Palm Beach, savoring the cooling breeze and the sound of waves. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, encountering colorful fish and coral formations. Explore the vibrant nightlife of Oranjestad, with its casinos, bars, and lively atmosphere. Aruba’s laid-back charm and natural beauty create the perfect beach getaway for travelers in their 30s.

I. Central America: High-adrenaline Escapades and Great Coral Reefs – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Costa Rica: Discover lush rainforests, wildlife, and thrilling adventures.
• Belize: Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Blue Hole and explore ancient Mayan ruins.

22. Costa Rica: Pura Vida 

Adventure In Costa Rica, the land of “pura vida,” embark on an adventure-filled journey through lush rainforests and along pristine coastlines. Zip-line through the jungle canopy, spotting exotic wildlife like sloths and toucans. Surf the Pacific waves in Tamarindo or Nosara, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Immerse in the rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio National Park, where monkeys and colorful birds roam freely. Costa Rica’s vibrant nature and exhilarating activities create an ideal playground for thrill-seekers in their 30s.

23. Belize: The Jewel of the Caribbean

Secret Beach Belize, San Pedro, Belize

Dive into the underwater paradise of Belize’s Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snorkel among coral formations and swim alongside nurse sharks and giant rays. Explore ancient Mayan ruins, like Caracol and Xunantunich, that reveal the mysteries of a fascinating civilization. Hike through lush jungles, where Howler monkeys and jaguars roam. Belize’s mix of natural wonders and cultural heritage offers an immersive ecotourism experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

J. East Africa: Best Wildlife Safaris to ever witness – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Witness the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras.
• Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Encounter the “Big Five” in their natural habitat.

24. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – The Great Migration 

Embark on a wildlife safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti, where nature’s greatest spectacle, the Great Migration, unfolds. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the vast plains in search of greener pastures. Spot the predators, including lions and cheetahs, as they follow the herds. The Serengeti’s rich biodiversity and dramatic landscapes create a safari experience that will leave you in awe of the animal kingdom.

25. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya – Wildlife Haven

Hot air ballooning at Maasai Mara National Reserve, Narok County, Kenya

Lions at Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Discover the abundant wildlife of Kenya’s Maasai Mara, home to the iconic “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Witness the thrilling sight of a lioness hunting her prey or a herd of elephants bathing in the river. Experience the Maasai culture by visiting a traditional village and learning about their ancient way of life. The Maasai Mara’s unparalleled wildlife sightings and cultural experiences create a safari adventure like no other.

North & NorthEast Africa: Unforgettable Ancient Ruins and Civilizations

• Marrakech, Morocco: Wander through bustling bazaars and serene gardens.
• Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Explore the iconic ancient wonders and Sphinx.

26. Marrakech, Morocco – An Enchanting Oasis

A day at the Medina Beach 📸 riadsakkan

Immerse in the vibrant ambiance of Marrakech, where ancient traditions and modern life intertwine. Wander through bustling souks, haggling for treasures like colorful carpets and intricate lanterns. Visit the serene gardens of Majorelle and experience the tranquility of the Bahia Palace. Enjoy the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, from tagines to sweet pastries. Marrakech’s enchanting charm and rich history create an immersive journey through North Africa’s cultural heritage.

27. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt – Ancient Marvels – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Step back in time and explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza, an ancient wonder that has stood for millennia. Marvel at the majestic Great Pyramid, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Admire the enigmatic Sphinx, guarding the pyramids with its mysterious gaze. Learn about ancient Egyptian civilization at the nearby Egyptian Museum. The Pyramids of Giza’s timeless beauty and historical significance offer a journey into the heart of ancient history.

F. Australia/Oceania: Marine life at its finest – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Tahiti, French Polynesia: Discover lush landscapes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches.

28. Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Underwater Wonderland

The Great Barrier Reef from above – Daintree Rainforest, Australia

Incredible fish shot while exploring the Great Barrier Reef, Australia by 📸  @dive_down_under via leestorrow

Dive into the underwater wonderland of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Snorkel among coral formations teeming with marine life, from colorful fish to graceful turtles. Witness the annual migration of humpback whales, a majestic spectacle of nature. Take a scenic flight over the reef, appreciating its vastness and beauty from above. The Great Barrier Reef’s rich biodiversity and natural wonders make it a top destination for eco-conscious travelers.

29. Tahiti – A Tropical Haven 

Escape to the tropical haven of Tahiti, where lush landscapes and turquoise lagoons await. Discover hidden waterfalls and hike to scenic viewpoints with panoramic views of the island. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of black sand beaches, experiencing the unique volcanic beauty of the island. Savor traditional Polynesian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Tahiti’s remote allure and untouched nature offer a paradise for travelers seeking a peaceful and authentic escape.

G. Antarctica: The very best expedition of a lifetime – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• South Shetland Islands: Explore research stations and enjoy up-close wildlife encounters.

30. South Shetland Islands: Gateway to Antarctica 

A leopard seal hunting a young Adélie Penguin. Pictures taken near Brown Bluff, Antarctica hemmi90

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica hemmi90

Explore the South Shetland Islands, the gateway to the Antarctic Peninsula. Visit research stations and learn about ongoing scientific studies in this extreme environment. Encounter curious penguins and brave the icy waters for a polar plunge. Experience the unique sense of camaraderie among fellow adventurers as you navigate this remote and pristine wilderness. The South Shetland Islands offer a glimpse into life at the edge of the world, making your Antarctic expedition even more extraordinary.

30 After 30 Final Thoughts – Top 30 Best Travel Destinations in Your 30s

With the world at your fingertips and these top 30 destinations awaiting your exploration, your 30s will be a decade of adventure, growth, and unforgettable memories. Embrace the diversity of our planet, connect with new cultures, and cherish the moments that will shape your life. So, download Framey , the ultimate travel companion, and let it capture your journey through your 30s, making every moment a cherished memory. Happy travels, wanderer!

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While we have a slight different style than when we'd travel in our 20s , we're still looking for affordable trips so we can make travel a priority in our lives. Most of our travelers in their 30s and 40s come solo, but others come with friends, as a couple, but always leave the kids at home. Meet like-hearted folks, who want to be active, and know life doesn't end when you turn 30!

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Didn’t travel in your 20s? No problem, here’s why it’s better in your 30s

I thought ditching work and going travelling was something you did when you were straight out of university. If you didn’t do it then, you didn’t do it.

With that in mind I was both lucky and unlucky to get a job I loved soon after graduating. While my friends were beginning their travels I was beginning a career.

The job was great. It was at a desirable company doing work I was passionate about… but I was still in dreary old England.

My friends were living their adventures in places like Costa Rica, New York and Italy, but I was far too focused on my career to take any big breaks.

I didn’t do any serious travel for years, until a good friend of mine was dumped and decided to hire a car and take us both on a road trip around Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Germany.

Loving life in Vienna

I realised that I didn’t miss out. My best traveling days are still to come.

Travel is just better as you get older.

A decade or so of settling into yourself turns you into a better traveler.

On my last solo trip, Lisbon, I stumbled upon a group of solo travelers in a bar in Cais do Sodre and we ended up drinking buddies for the evening. Perhaps because I am older and happier in my own company I find it much easier to make new friends. When I was younger I’m sure my awkwardness would have got in the way of meeting people and stopped me from enjoying being alone.

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On a tram in Lisbon

You probably have a bit more money

There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking the cheap option. Hostels and campsites are great places to meet like-minded travelers, but when I was on a camping tour in Botswana it really helped that I could occasionally splash out and upgrade to a hotel room with air-con. In Toulouse I could thank my host by taking her and her partner out to dinner and buying a decent wine. Money isn’t everything, but there is no denying it makes travel easier and just that little bit more pleasant.

READ MORE ABOUT MY EPIC BOTSWANA TOUR

You can make your job work for you

Once you have put a bit of a career behind you and proven your worth then a lot of companies are open to career breaks, and flexible working is becoming more fashionable. With solid experience you could go freelance, or maybe it’s time to just quit and start something new when you come back!

I know lawyers who took a year out from their work. A good friend of mine works in bio-engineering, partly from an office but partly from a laptop wherever he happens to be in the world. I’ve met nurses on career break overlanding across South America.

The Amazon Jungle awaits

I make it work because my current job is shift-based so I can earn more annual leave and tend to have bigger gaps between runs of shifts. There are loads of ways to fit proper adventures around your career. If you’re reading this thinking you can’t because of work… well you can, you just haven’t figured out how yet.

READ MORE: HOW TO TRAVEL THE WORLD, EVEN WITH A 9-5 JOB

You know your limits

Perhaps this is because my hangovers are worse now but I am far less likely to waste a day in bed after a 5am finish than I used to be. I still drink more than I should when I’m traveling (you have to try the local booze right?) but I know how to pace it out.

That doesn’t mean I don’t party… but I’ve learned the hard way that nothing good happens after 2am. Besides, hammered tourists making locals uncomfortable is not cool.

Toulouse: a city so beautiful you don’t need beer goggles to appreciate

LIFE IS SHORT. THIS STORY IS A REMINDER TO LIVE IT TO THE FULLEST.

You’ve know who your real friends are

If you choose to travel with someone then that travel partner can make or break an experience, but by the time you’ve made it to your thirties you have a pretty good idea of who you can tolerate for extended periods of time.

The party friends are ditched; you’ve stopped bothering with that one person who is really funny but always flakes on plans. You have a few, important people who you know and trust to take you to the ends of the earth.

And those new friends you meet in the bar? You figure out pretty quickly whether they’re worth keeping in touch with.

Kayaking with company in BC, Canada

Since my European road trip I have camped in the Okavango Delta, kayaked with seals off the coast of British Columbia and seen a quartet play Mozart in Vienna. I’ve traveled solo and with a partner. I haven’t had to quit my job and I’m not rich. But I am planning a really big adventure for this  year.

Now I’m glad I came to travel late, the only downside is that I have to pack a bigger suitcase because I have more stuff.

Ready to take the plunge and see the incredible world for yourself? Check out Intrepid’s range of top trips and destinations.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel, Jay Cockburn x2, Intrepid Travel, Jay Cockburn x2.)

Feeling inspired?

Jay Cockburn

Jay’s home is in London but his heart is in the British Lake District. He’s obsessed with rainy wilderness, tall trees and sci-fi, so you’ll often find him hiking up mountains, in forests or on another planet. When he’s not doing that, Jay directs radio programmes for the BBC.

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Over 30s travel: Short-but-sweet trips for the time-conscious traveller

In your 30s? You don’t have to put your career on hold to go globetrotting. These annual leave-friendly tours include African safaris, Icelandic treks, Middle East desert wanders, and more…

1. Trek Iceland’s iconic Laugavegur Trail

Hiking through Laugavegur (Shutterstock)

Hike Iceland’s famous, dramatic trek and be back in time for Monday’s conference call on this iconic walking holiday with Exodus.

You’ll walk the famous Laugavegur Trail, a trek through an epic landscape of glaciers and volcanoes, created over millennia. Starting in the colourful Landmannalaugar Mountains, you’ll head through the dramatic Thorsmork region, skirting craters formed during the 2010 eruption.

Few trekking routes can match the striking vistas you’ll find here. And if you choose one of the late August departures, you may *just* be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Trip: Iceland’s Laugavegur Trek

Who: Exodus

Type: Small group

When: Jun to Aug

How long: Eight days

How much: From £2,349 (exc. flights)

2. Sail and hike through the Cyclades

Sailing through the Cyclades (Shutterstock)

The perfect mix of active adventure and chilled relaxation time, this one-week walking and sailing holiday through the Cyclades with KE Adventure is the ideal way to recharge your batteries after a busy year.

Sailing out of the port of Lavrio, and under the guidance of a qualified skipper and local walking guide, you’ll sail between four of the region’s most idyllic islands: Kea, Kythnos, Syros and Serifos. Your days will be filled with walking, sailing, swimming and stand up paddleboarding.

Your evenings will see you exploring the picturesque ports and dining in traditional Greek tavernas, bursting with character and serving hearty Grecian fare, fresh sea food and plenty of Ouzo!

At sea, your friendly skipper will be happy to impart their vast knowledge of sailing, but like everything on this tour, its purely optional. Your holiday can be as active or relaxed as you want.

Trip: Greek Island Odyssey

Who: KE Adventure Travel

When: May, Sep & Oct

How much: £1,045 (exc. flights)

3. Take a cheeky one week safari in Tanzania

A game drive in the Serengeti (Shutterstock)

Bursting with wildlife, the national parks of Tanzania offer a once-in-a-lifetime animal adventure. This one-week Serengeti safari with Intrepid is designed to give you it in spades, and have you back in the office before anyone notices you’ve been away.

Travelling across the undulating plains of the Serengeti, you’ll go in search of the iconic Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes.

Then you’ll lose yourself in vast herds of zebra and wildebeest in the Ngorongoro Crater, before experiencing the thrill of sleeping ‘Under Canvas’, drifting off to sleep to the sounds of the African night. You’ll head home invigorated by this perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.

Trip: Tanzania Safari Under Canvas

Who: Intrepid

When: Jan, Jul to Nov

How long: 8 days

How much: From £2,442 (exc. flights)

4. Spend a long weekend in rural Georgia

The village Mestia in rural Georgia (Shutterstock)

The small Caucasian country of Georgia is one of the hot destinations of 2019. This small but perfectly formed itinerary with TravelLocal will show you the highlights of its rural north – and still get you home before the week is out.

Flying in and out of Kutaisi, you’ll experience everything this intriguing region has to offer. You’ll trek through remote mountain villages like historic Becho and scenic Mestia, and take cooking classes with locals to learn how to make delicious Georgian cuisine.

You’ll spend your evenings in cosy homestays, enjoying the typical Georgian hospitality. Exploring this remote and charming region has never been easier.

Trip: Long Weekend In Svaneti

Who: TravelLocal

Type: Private

When: May, Jun & Sep

How long: Five days

How much: From £710 (exc. flights)

5. Become Lawrence of Arabia for a week

Bedouin and camels in Wadi Rum (Shutterstock)

Be more Lawrence of Arabia than Lawrence of Accounts, on this short and sweet adventure through the desert kingdom of Jordan with Exodus.

Bursting with things to see and do, Jordan is ideal destination for a one-week adventure. You will have two full days to explore the ’rose-red city’ of Petra and to take a guided visit around Jerash, one of the best preserved Roman cities in the Middle East.

You’ll have plenty of time to ’float’ in the salty waters of the Dead Sea and snorkel over the beautiful coral reefs of the Red Sea, before heading out to Wadi Rum in a 4WD, camping out under the stars like the Bedouin.

Trip: A Week In Jordan

When: Regular departures throughout the year

How long: Nine days

How much: From £949 (exc. flights)

6. Cycle the Kasbah in Morocco

Kasbah in Dades Valley (Shutterstock)

Looking for a ride that will challenge and excite you – but still have you back with your cycling buddies at home the next Sunday? Then saddle up for this classic adventure cycling holiday in Morocco’s arid Jebel Sahro region with KE Adventure.

The climate of the Jebel Sahro in southern Morocco is the perfect place for cycling outside the summer months. You’ll begin biking in the magnificent Todra Gorge. Its towering walls attract rock climbers from all over the world.

You’ll ascend on tarmac and then on hard-pack jeep roads, cycling to a remote mountain area that is home to nomadic Berber shepherds and has excellent views of the Atlas peaks.

Crossing the Tamtattouchte Pass, you’ll drop down into the beautiful Dades Valley, the so-called ‘Valley of the 1,000 Kasbahs’, before following a newly-introduced dirt road ride that takes you directly across country to the oasis town of Zagora on the very edge of the Sahara.

Trip: Morocco – Ride The Kasbah

When: Feb to Mar & Oct to Dec

How much: From £749 (exc. flights)

7. Walk through history in the Pyrenees

Hiker in the Pyrenees (Shutterstock)

Enjoy a short and challenging trekking holiday in the Pyrenees over four days, followed by a day of relaxation in the French spa town of Luchon, on this walk along the historic Chemin de la Liberté with KE Adventures.

Running from Saint-Girons in the Ariege district of France to near the village of Isil in Spain, the Chemin de la Liberté follows the ‘walk to freedom’ escape route desperate refugees took from France during World War II.

It’s a challenging walk, and along the way you will encounter safe houses and barns used as hiding places by the escapees – as well as rocky cirques, mountain lakes, boulder fields, possibly snow-filled gullies, and some of the finest mountain views the Pyrenees can offer.

Trip: Walk To Freedom Across The Pyrenees

Who: KE Adventure Travels

When: Jul to Sep

How long: Seven days

How much: From £975 (exc. flights)

8. Find sun and fun in Mediterranean Turkey

Sea kayaking in Kekova Bay (Explore)

Give your dreary, wet commute a miss for a week on this active holiday on Turkey’s sunny coast with Explore.

Offering the perfect balance of sun, adrenaline and relaxation, this trip is a great way to experience Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, charming villages and impressive mountains.

You’ll sea kayak to the sunken city of Kekova and the village of Kaleköy, overlooked by a medieval castle in Kekova Bay, before visiting the ancient capital of Lycia and canoe down the river to Patara Beach.

Staying in family-run hotels, you’ll also get the chance to cycle through the Taurus Mountains.

Trip: Active Turkey

Who: Explore

When: Apr to Jun & Aug to Oct

How much: From £395 (exc. flights)

9. Journey through untouched Ethiopia

Hamar ceremony in Ethiopia (Shutterstock)

Here’s one for people who want to really pack an adventure into their annual holidays – a week-long sojourn through one of the most remote corners of Ethiopia with Intrepid.

You’re off to visit the remote tribes in the Omo Valley, visiting the Dorze people, famous for their unique bee-hive houses, and the Hamar people, largely cut off from the world and renowned for their bull jumping initiation ceremonies.

You’ll take a boat trip on Lake Chamo, home to hippos, Nile crocodiles and rich birdlife. Finally, you’ll spend a night in the town of Konso, visiting a mora: a central communal building used by men and boys. Enough adventure for you?

Trip: Ethiopia Untouched

When: Jan to Apr & Oct to Dec

How much: From £1.098 (exc. flights)

More trips throughout the ages:

Over 50s travel: the best tours and trips to tick off your bucket list, over 60s travel: the best trips for those with nothing but time, over 70s travel: the best trips for adventure without the hard edges.

The best places to see wildlife in Ecuador

World Ocean Day 2024: How travel can champion marine conservation

Uzbekistan’s seven most incredible natural wonders   

Explore more.

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The Ultimate List of 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

quickwhittravel

Everyone talks about travel in your 20s like it’s the prime time, right? People talk (and bloggers write) like it’s the only time travel is possible or something, you know? But let me tell you, that’s 100% not true! Instead of hostels and taking the slow transportation to save money, your 30s is the time when you can afford to stay in a nice hotel, take the hour-long flight to Santorini instead of the 6.5-hour ferry, eat street food because you want to , not because you can’t afford anything else. 

Your life situation will almost certainly be different in your 30s than it was in your 20s, and so should your travels be. One of my most popular posts ever is 20 Trips to Take in Your 20s , so I thought it was high time to take it up a notch! In case you need some inspiration, here are the top 30 trips everyone should take in their 30s. Pick three, and commit to accomplishing them in the next year. Then pick three more! What’s first on your list?

1. An Event Trip

This is that concert you couldn’t afford in your 20s. This is that opera at the Sydney Opera House you were too afraid to go to on your own. This is the running of the bulls in Spain. This is tickets to Wimbledon! Whatever huge, previously unattainable thing you want to do, your 30s is the time in your life to do it. 

Start here: Travel Splurges Worth the Money

2. a hobby trip.

Are you a runner? Pick a new race anywhere in the world—my husband and I met at the Prague Marathon! Are you a Titanic enthusiast? Visit the Titanic Museum in Belfast , where it was built. Are you a bird watcher? Choose one of the best bird watching destinations in the world, and go there. Whatever formerly uncool, very niche, much-beloved hobby you have (maybe one you hid in your 20s), make it your travel inspiration in your 30s!

For my fellow runners: How to Run Anywhere in the World

3. a nature trip.

In your 30s, you probably spend a little more time at the office—or at home—than you realize. When was the last time you went for a hike, went camping, spent the day at the beach, or went skiing in the shadow of a majestic mountain? Probably a while, right? Sounds like it’s time to book a glamping trip in the Moroccan Sahara. Or maybe a Safari in Kenya. Or an epic adventure in the Galapagos to see unique animals who don’t have to be afraid of people. Get back to nature, even if just for a short trip, and see what you’ve been missing. 

My favorite way to appreciate nature: The Best Hikes in All of Hawaii

4. gift a trip.

This is one kind of trip you probably didn’t have in your 20s-style budget. In your 30s, however, you’ve had some time to save, time to climb the occupational ladder, or maybe just time to learn how to loosen your purse strings a little. This is the perfect time to give your parents, siblings, or another important person in your life the trip they’ve always dreamed of, but never took for one reason or the other. Trust me, even if it’s not a place that’s on the top of your travel list, you’ll love seeing them enjoy it—and enjoy it with them. 

Fun ideas here: How to Surprise Someone With Travel

5. a heritage trip.

Where did you come from? Can you pin-point the country? The region? The city? Try to find out, and then go there to see what your distant relatives saw, experience their experiences, eat what they ate, and find out a little bit about your background. You might just gain an understanding about yourself and your family you never realized you were missing. 

Not sure where to start? What to Know about Working with a Travel Agent

6. a luxury trip .

You earned it! If you spent your 20s in hostels and shady Air BnBs, you really need to book a luxury hotel somewhere special. There are major deals out there, even on luxury hotel brands, so you really have no excuse! But don’t stop at the hotel room. Treat yourself to a spa day, ask the concierge to make an impossible-to-get dinner reservation for you, order room service, and if you’re feeling especially fancy, upgrade your flights to business class! Whether you use cash or cash in on credit card points, just make that luxury trip happen.

My favorites: The Ultimate Hotel Luxuries Around the World

7. a staycation.

Hear me out! Sometimes we don’t appreciate the good things that are right in front of us. And sometimes, you need an efficient vacation that won’t leave you jet lagged, or break the bank! A staycation is the perfect compromise. Treat it just like you would a trip to an exotic land: Book a hotel, make dinner reservations, plan to visit museums and famous sites you take for granted (even if they’re just famous in your town!), and remind yourself of why you live where you do. Bring a friend, take your family, or go solo!

More here: How to Love Your Staycation

8. a one-on-one trip.

If your 20s were all about finding yourself, your 30s are about connecting with others. This can be achieved in many different ways, but I believe the best way is one-on-one. Maybe you and your spouse need some alone time together to reconnect. Maybe you and the parent you didn’t relate to as a child need an opportunity to learn how to be friends. Maybe you had kids early, and your oldest is ready to see a little more of the country or the world with you. Maybe your best friend is getting divorced and needs some time away from it all with someone they can trust. Whatever the reason, a one-on-one trip could be just the right thing. 

Save some heartache: What to Know about Your Travel Buddy

9. an island getaway.

There’s nothing better than an island, hot or cold. Islands are generally secluded, there’s only so far to go, there are only so many things to do, and whether you’re visiting Iceland or Tahiti, there’s something inherently slower about life on an island—in a good way! Every island is unique, even within the same island chain, so there’s an island out there for you, no matter your travel preferences. Trust me, you need an island getaway for happiness, mental well-being, and a reminder to slow yourself down! 

Looking for something special? How to Choose the Right Hawaiian Island for You

10. a foodie trip.

Love coffee? You need to visit some coffee farms! Are you a key lime pie enthusiast? Head to the Florida Keys! Always wanted to try French pastries in France? Now’s your chance. Want to taste real Thai food in Thailand? What are you waiting for? I know several people who want to eat their way through Italy. I, myself, had a dream of going to afternoon tea at the Savoy in London—so my husband made sure we got to do it! Whatever your foodie dreams, make them a reality.

Can’t find someone to go with you? How to Enjoy Dining Solo

11. step outside your comfort zone.

No, really. Do something you thought you’d never want to do, and see how you like it. I’ll be the first to say I hate the cold, but seeing snow-covered mountains in person, hiking in the snow, bundling up to see the Northern Lights—it’s kind of magical! Do something a little uncomfortable in your 30s. Maybe it’s skydiving, scuba diving, or not at all diving-related. The point is to do that thing you were afraid of. Do that thing you never thought you could. You’re in your 30s: You know what you like, you know what’s comfortable. Challenge yourself in a new way now. 

Need some ideas? 6 Solo Travel Experiences Everyone Needs to Have

12. a trip you didn’t pick.

Some of my favorite trips are the ones I didn’t even have on my radar! When my friend Andrea wanted to go to Turkey, I tagged along even though it had never been on my “to travel” list. When Steve wanted to go to the Baltics, my first thought was “Didn’t that used to be Russia? Are we allowed to go there?” But that trip remains one of my favorites ever ! My younger brother wanted to go to Belfast, Northern Ireland, to visit the Titanic Museum there. I had no idea I would love Belfast and its people until I went myself! Find a new destination by asking a friend or family member where they want to go. Then, go! No complaints, all open mind. 

One of my most popular posts: The World’s Most Underrated Travel Destinations

13. explore a new-to-you country.

Even the most adventurous travelers have “that place” where they go back to again and again, and that’s perfectly fine! (My husband’s and mine is Hawaii.) However, when you find yourself booking the same vacation multiple times, that’s the perfect moment to remind yourself try somewhere new. Maybe you need someone to tell you that you need to branch out (I’m here to do that for you!), or maybe you need someone to give you permission to go somewhere new (I’m here to do that for you, too!). Either way, make sure you visit a new country in your 30s. You might just find it’s a new favorite!

Also helpful: 5 Things You Need to Know for International Travel

14. a road trip.

Okay, so, personally, road trips are not my favorite. But some destinations are worth it . The Road to Hana can only be done… On the road! The best way to explore the Florida Keys is by car. California’s Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Load up your family, or simply yourself, grab your favorite car snacks, and plan to hit up every local coffee shop you come across on the journey. Make that road trip happen! 

More here: Tips for the Ultimate Road Trip

15. a tropical vacation.

Island breezes, limitless sunshine, sandy beaches, scenic hikes, adventures on land and sea… What could be better?! A tropical trip, whether to an island or a coast, is the dream for most people, right. But when was the last time you went somewhere like that? My husband and I visit an island for our anniversary each year, because we want one trip where there’s only so far to go and only so much to see. It helps us relax and reset while we get our vitamin D and vitamin “sea.” Where’s your next tropical trip? 

Also this: 5 Trips for Positive Vibes

16. a wellness trip.

I don’t mean an hour at your local spa. I mean a trip that’s fully focused on recharging yourself. Don’t just visit the spa. Stay at a spa hotel . Do the yoga you never have time to do. Go on a whole yoga retreat if you feel like it! Go to Italy for a food tour, and take a cooking class if that’s the kind of thing that makes you happy. Go to Iceland to visit every hot spring! Visit Sedona and see what it’s all about. However you’ve always wanted to spend your “self care” time, find a place where you can do that, and go. 

Need ideas? How to Practice Self-care on Travel

17. a truly romantic trip.

This may not be for everyone. But if you’re married or have a significant other, you’ll want to make this a priority at least once a decade! Whatever is romantic to you, whether that’s spending Valentine’s Day in Verona , skinny dipping in your own private plunge pool in Bali, creating your own perfume on St. Martin , or dining at the restaurant in the Eiffel Tower, plan a trip to go and expereince it together!

Inspo: The Top 10 Romantic Experiences in the World

18. a girls’ trip (or a boys’ trip).

Just like you need some exclusive time with your loved one, you also need some time with your friends, too! Take a weekend in New York City with the girls, a hunting trip to Ni’ihau with the guys, or pick a place you’ve always wanted to go and convince your friends they’ve always wanted to go there, too! It’s all about balance. Your 30s is the time to lean toward the serious side and make responsible life choices, but it’s a disservice to yourself to forget you also have a fun side! Give yourself an excuse to have a little fun.

Also helpful: How to Plan Travel with a Group (and Still Like Each Other When You Return!)

19. a trip you earned entirely on points.

You’re old enough now that you don’t need to play the “what’s the cheapest thing” game. If you haven’t already, your 30s is the time of your life when you need to start playing the points game . With the right travel credit card , you can earn enough points to fly where you want, how you want; stay where you want, when you want. While you have to stay on top of your finances (which you should be doing anyway!) to make this work correctly, the reward of travel is worth the little bit of effort to harness the cash you’re already spending on your regular life. You may as well get rewarded!

Here’s how: The Beginner’s Guide to Using Points to Travel

20. a business class flight.

One red-eye flight in a lay-flat seat, with a proper meal or two in your belly, and you’ll see what all the fuss is about. Treat yourself! Use those points you earn from either flying or using your credit card to upgrade yourself, or simply buy the seat you want outright. Sometimes the price difference isn’t so much more! Everyone flying more than six hours needs to experience a lay-flat, business class seats at least once in their life, preferably overnight so you can enjoy some sleep, too.

More worth it than you think: Hidden Benefits of Business Class

21. a parent payback trip.

I don’t know what your relationship with you parents is like, but like my husband says, “By the time you’re 30, it’s no longer your parents’ fault.” In my 30s, I started appreciating my parents more, even though they still didn’t understand my need to move and travel and see the world . I started seeing them as people instead of only as my parents, and I wanted to use my travel experience as a gift to them.

I’ve taken my mom to Prince Edward Island, Canada; Waco, Texas; and soon I’ll take her to St. John’s Newfoundland to see puffins and icebergs! Steve and I took my dad on trips to Gettysburg and Annapolis, and we plan to take him to Iceland when he retires. We took both my parents on an anniversary trip to Key West last year for their 40th anniversary! Where can you take your parents as friends?

Start here: How to Plan a Trip (A Step-by-step Guide)

22. a carry-on only trip.

No, this doesn’t mean you’re traveling like you did in your 20s; this means you’re traveling efficiently . Take it as a challenge! If you’re used to checking an oversized bag (or two), you’ll be amazed at how freeing it is not to worry about all that and just go . No waiting at baggage claim, no worrying whether or not your bag made that tight connection, none of that. Give it a try. 

Read this next: The Pros and Cons of Traveling Carry-on Only

23. a long-term trip.

Okay, I realize a month-long (or longer) trip all at once is not in the cards for everyone in their 30s. However, if you can swing it, you won’t regret doing it. If you’re between jobs, take that six weeks of vacation time you’re owed, and take a true vacation before you start the new job. My doctor did that (and went solo—her husband stayed home!) and said it was one of the best things she ever did. Maybe you can take a sabbatical. Maybe you can transfer to an international office within your company for a year or two. My husband spent two years working in France in his 30s. Where there’s a will, there’s a way! 

More here: How to Plan Long-term Travel in Europe

24. a euro-trip.

Everyone needs to take a Euro-trip once in their life. Most of Europe is on the Euro, borders are largely open, the train system is fantastic, and the historic cities were all created to be walkable. You can cover a lot of ground, experience many different cultures, and eat a massive variety of food for the price of just one plane ticket, y’all! You don’t have to backpack it like people in their teens and 20s do (thank goodness!), but you do have to experience Europe as an adult with an appreciation of more than just night clubs and bars. Take the Euro-trip!

Keep reading: 8 Things You Forgot to Pack for Europe

25. explore a new continent.

Have you been to all seven continents yet? If not, find a new one and head that direction! I was so excited for my first-ever trip to Africa. My husband had been to Kenya and Uganda before we started dating, and his experience wasn’t stellar, so he wasn’t too keen to go anywhere else in the entire continent. But I wanted to check off my sixth continent!

Luckily, we have an agreement that on alternating years, one of us gets to choose a “trip of a lifetime” location, and the other doesn’t get to veto or complain! In 2019, we went to Morocco and visited seven cities—SEVEN! Which continent are you dreaming of visiting?

Read on: 7 Travel Rules You Don’t Know Until Someone Tells You

26. take a deep dive into your favorite season.

I think everyone has a favorite season. It’s the time of year when you come alive, feel most like yourself, smile the most, have the most fun. It’s your favorite. For me, it’s summer. I could live the summer girl life all year long. For others, it’s all about pumpkin spice and the colors of fall. For someone else, it’s the idealistic snow, skiing, and cozy nights that make up winter. Still others live for the new life and renewed energy that comes with spring (these are the people without allergies). 

So go for it! See the tulips at Keukenhoff Gardens in April for a spring fling! Visit French Polynesia for an endless summer experience any time of year. Go to New England for the ultimate leaf peeping trip in October. Or for the snow bunnies out there, head to Switzerland for epic snowscapes, iconic mountain peaks, and the ultimate in winter sports! Take one big, seasonal trip, and embrace everything you love about your favorite season.

Some of my favorites: The Ultimate Endless Summer Bucket List

27. a home country trip.

This is different from a “staycation” because, depending on how big your country is, it doesn’t have to be anywhere near your hometown! Go somewhere in your own country that’s completely different from where you live. Check out a different climate, a different part of the culture, a different cuisine. There are so many options to have an adventure in your own country!

Also helpful: How to Plan a Road Trip

28. a truly relaxing vacation.

Anyone who knows me is laughing right now at the fact that I put this one the list! This is one I’m definitely still working on. Your 30s is kind of like “go-time” right? You have the experience, so now you’re working hard to climb the ladder to your business goals. Or your kids are coming into that super-busy, non-stop, early swimming practice, late hockey game phase of life, and you’re barely treading water.

You need a vacation! Whether you’re dreaming of laying on the beach, or laying awake at night thinking about that Alaskan cruise you always wanted to take, stop waiting and start planning. However you need to be able to relax, make it happen.

More here: 10 Trips Every Traveler Should Take

29. a solo trip.

If you’ve made it into your 30s without even one solo trip, it’s high time! Leave your insecurities and fears behind. People less capable than you literally do this every day—trust me, I’ve met people in my travels who seem to have no business doing anything on their own! Believe me, you can do this.

You can find the time to make it happen, too. It doesn’t have to be a three-month sabbatical. It can be a long weekend, an overnight excursion, or just a day trip. You’ll be amazed at just how capable you are, and maybe just how fun you are to be around!

Get all the info on my dedicated Solo Travel Page !

30. a dream trip.

What are you waiting for? If it’s been your dream for over a decade to stay in an overwater bungalow, book your room and do it! If all your life you’ve wanted to see real castles in Europe, go! If you’ve always wanted to see lions, elephants, and zebras up-close, take that African safari, and don’t look back.

Even if you can’t find anyone else to go with you, even if you think it needs to wait, even if you think other people will think it’s weird, make your dream part of your real life. We’re not promised tomorrow, so make your life happen today. 

Keep reading: 10 Life-changing Trips

Which one will you cross off the list first?! Comment below, then take a look at my Travel Tips Page for destination ideas, travel hacks, and tips to make your travels seamless!

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Travel in Your 30s: Tales From 31 Awesome Travel Bloggers

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In just a few short weeks, I’ll be joining Nathan in the next exciting decade: I’m turning 30.  I’m really looking forward to bidding adieu to the 20s, not because they weren’t awesome, but because I love looking forward to new adventures. (I suppose you could guess that since we are travel bloggers!) I’m not fearing 30 at all, but rather am intrigued to see how the new decade changes me. In honor of celebrating this milestone birthday, I asked 31 (30 + 1 for good luck!!) adventurous travel bloggers to tell me about how travel in your 30s gets better or what they’ve learned after hitting the big 3-0. Read on to hear what they had to say!

Discovering Travel in Your 30s with 31 Travel Bloggers

For the last 6 years I have been continually traveling the Earth, in search for I know not what. Maybe something enlightening, or maybe just some damn good times. What ever the reason, I have haphazardly wandered to 80 countries on 6 continents so far, and the stories and memories are endless. In my 20’s I was known to get bored in say, Estonia, walk outside, stick out my thumb for a ride not caring where it was going, and end up in another part of the world. The rush of adrenaline from the unknown was unreal. My future, responsibilities, caution or ambition was a far off thought. I was living in the moment, and even the hard times ended up as fun stories.

This year I turned 30. That sounded old to me. All of the sudden I wanted even more. Not only did I want to maintain my crazy lifestyle, but I wanted to accomplish big things, create great things, and make it all sustainable long into my future. Scuba diving is my passion, so I gave myself the huge task of experiencing the best diving in the world . So I made the list and headed out to do so. I also wanted to get more out of my journey then before, so I taught myself underwater photography and hope to document each one. I also started writing a book about all my travels, remembering all my crazy times, from prison in Egypt to escaping the mafia in Thailand and more. Much more. The point is, in my 30’s, I am still crazy and not going to stop, but I am more focused on sharing these experiences with people and building this thing into a sustainable lifestyle. I am privileged to be able to explore the world, so just maybe its my responsibility to show it to those who aren’t.

When I was just a teenager I was convinced that in my 20’s I would have had the best of my life. I couldn’t have been more wrong! I actually started really living the life I wanted at 30, when I finally moved from Italy to England to learn English from scratch and I started traveling a bit more. I’m about to reach the next decade and I can now say that my thirties have been more than awesome. The craziest thing I did? (other than hanging to the edge of the Victoria Falls?!) What about quitting my well-paid job at the “tender” age of 35 to travel the world indefinitely ? That was the biggest & scarier decision of my life but I’m so glad I did it. I can now travel wherever I want, I set my base in front of a beach for months in the Philippines, discovered all SE Asia, southern Africa and I’m now about to move to Mexico. Yes, the thirties for me have been a hell of a ride! In my 20’s I was just tasting what travel was all about, now I know exactly what it is, and it’s amazing.

Heather & Peter, 35

Hubbie and I love travelling in our 30’s because we’ve now worked out exactly what our travel style is. Having spent our 20’s pretending to be backpackers (because it seemed like the thing to do), we now realise that isn’t us at all. We love a bit (ok a lot!) of luxury, and are no longer ashamed to admit it. We still do crazy stuff. We’ve been microlighting over canyons in South Africa; ploughed rice paddy fields with water buffalo in Laos ; and once got caught in a gun fight on a remote mountain pass in Lesotho. However now we have somewhere indulgent to spend the night afterwards. Private plunge pools, four poster beds and champagne for breakfast? Don’t mind if we do!

In our 20’s, we were firm believers of never visiting the same place twice. We wanted to see the rest of the world before going back somewhere we’d already been. Yet now we’re well into our 30’s (and have become pretty good at this travel lark), we have actually started returning to places we travelled to in our 20’s, because we know that now we can do it even better! Both thanks to another decade of experience, and yes, healthier finances. We’ve learnt that you can go back to the same place but still have a new experience. Morocco is a bit of an obsession for us, and we’re about to head back for the 8th time(!), yet we’re just as excited as we were on the first trip. Because we know what’s coming, and we know it’s going to be amazing! This time as well as trekking in the Atlas Mountains and haggling in the souks, we’ll also be checking out opulent riads, sleeping in 5* hilltop fortresses and even staying in a converted church by the sea.

Travelling in our 30’s rocks and we wouldn’t return to our 20’s for anything! Except maybe a little more hair and a few less wrinkles! 

I traveled a lot in my 20s and somehow had it in my mind that the way forward upon reaching my 30s was to quiet down and follow the path most people follow: career, mortgage, wedding, family, the whole shebang. I did settle down and made a great life for myself– in the conformist deluded sense of things – filled with shiny expensive things, a big apartment, a career I had worked hard for, a loving partner I was clinging onto for dear life as an externally derived sense of self, many unhappy people around me and the permanent feeling of running after something. Seeing time as the solution, thinking for the most part that happiness lived in the future. Desiring and acquiring things that never seemed to be able to fill an elusive gaping hole I could never quite pinpoint. But clearly, that didn’t do it for me, so two and a half years ago, I sold everything and left with a one-way ticket to Bangkok , knowing nothing of what the future would hold. Since then, I have lived in South East Asia nearly two years, crossed the Balkans by bicycle in the winter and recently settled in Berlin. There is no age to do what you love and happiness lives in the present.

Gemma, 31 & Craig, 32

30 is sooo the new 20! I was always a bit gutted that I didn’t do gap year travel after university but the beauty of waiting to take this epic career trip to travel the Americas and Europe in my 30s is that I am less interested hitting the bars, we had a pretty sweet combined income which helped us save, and I get to do it with my partner in crime, Craig! Name something crazy and we’ve done it! Cycled ‘the world’s most dangerous road’ in Bolivia, boarded down an active volcano in Nicaragua, got engaged in Vancouver AND married in Austin . The only downside? I am actually going grey! This career break is supposed to be relaxing…

I’m kind of new to the 30s travelling game, so I can’t comment vastly on how things have changed. I think the beauty of it is that my travels are remaining exactly the same. I’m not slowing down, I’m determined more than ever to achieve what I want and yes, I’m still staying in those 12 bed hostel rooms. Admittedly, I will have to treat myself more than I used to though: sometimes a girl just needs her space in a big bed! One thing I can say is I know who I am now: what I need, want and am aiming for in life. Age has given me clarity, determination and bucket loads of confidence. I’m driving from the UK to Mongolia in 50 days across 21 countries with four women this year to document and promote women’s rights. How about that? I’d say that’s a pretty cool adventure for your thirties!

Stefan & Sebastien, 35

I’ve never been one to consider age an issue, so when I turned 30 I didn’t think much about how this would suddenly change my traveling habits. I mean sure, I can’t deny that I’m starting to slow down a little on the party side of travel, but after a decade of giving it a decent crack, I’m ok with that. Other than spending every second or third morning hungover there really hasn’t been much difference between now and my first trip as an eager 21 year old.

One thing that is great about being a traveler in my 30s is being more confident with the life I’ve decided to live , as well as the partner I’ve chosen to live it with. In my 20s I had a lot of fun, but I was reckless and paid little attention to responsibility. Now, as my life starts to take a little more shape, I have goals and ambitions that I want out of a life of travel. But who knows, I could also say the same things when I get to 40!

Alouise, 31

The biggest change I’ve noticed about traveling in my 30s is I’m more selective in how I spend my time when I travel. In my 20s I’d try to “see and do everything” when I traveled, but that’s impossible, would leave me feeling stressed out. Now I just focus more on doing the things I want to do when I travel, instead of just doing something because it’s on some “must do” list somewhere. Travel is better in my 30s because I have a better understanding of who I am and I feel a lot more centred (as opposed to be scattered) when I travel.

Three friends and I decided to kick off our 30s right by celebrating on collective birthdays in New York City, and after I went to Las Vegas with another friend. Within my home country of Canada exploring Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Last year I went to Europe and visited Madrid, Spain and Helsinki, Finland. I also went to Asia spending a few days in Hong Kong and then a week in Tokyo, Japan (on my own as well) in March.

In August I’ll be moving to Ireland for two years on a working holiday visa. I’ve wanted to work and live abroad for a long time , but I never took that leap of faith until now. Who says adventure has to end when you’re 30?

Lina & David, 33 & 32

Well, I guess you could say travel in our 30’s has been epic. When I, Lina, turned 30 we decided to sell everything we owned , quit our jobs and set off traveling for a few years. It has been extremely liberating to break free from the societal norm and follow our hearts. People think we are crazy for doing this, that we should have done it when we were 18, etc, but honestly, I think traveling in your 30’s is just a better time. You’re more mature and having our background, can really appreciate the chance to have personal freedom after living the American dream so intensely for so many years.

Since entering my 30s, my travels now focus on photography and writing for my travel blog . This means that I’m not just traveling to play, I’m traveling to work. Of course, that kind of work is fun for me! It does require a lot more time and effort than the kinds of trips I took in my 20s though. I have to lug around heavy camera gear and a laptop now, and I have to stay in places where I feel that my equipment is safe enough. I have to take time to work, which sometimes means sacrificing leisure and social time. It’s all worth it to me now that I have the discipline to work while traveling.

Besides working while I travel, now that I’m older I definitely require certain creature comforts… at least some of the time. I want my privacy and alone time, which means I find it harder to stay in hostels now. I have a much lower tolerance for young, annoying travelers than I used to! I make sure that I plan for more than enough food and sleep during particularly long flights or bus rides. It’s probably just experience rather than age, but these things are important!

Traveling in my 30s feels much the same as it always has, despite the specific ways in which I choose to do so. I’m still in awe of the world and I still want to see and experience as much of it as I can in this life. I will continue to travel for the love of it, long after I am old and gray!

I started my travel adventures when I was on my mid 20s traveling every week to a different country across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. When I hit 30 I realised I no longer needed to hide my age, I was officially an adult. I also felt more secure, had a lot of experience on my back to get around any place and, most importantly the financial independence to get lost anywhere, to go anywhere without having to worry about money and the self-esteem and self-confidence to face any challenge. No mountain is too high, no valley too low that I cannot tackle them.

I would first like to thank my twenties self. At 26 I finally made the decision to move abroad. I was miserable and grumpy back then because my life was going nowhere, I hated my jobs, and I was overworked. Really? Miserable in your twenties?! I loved travel and learning about the world since I was little so I had to make this constant dream finally come true. The world kept calling my name . I knew I was meant go abroad! (Cheesy, but hey, it’s true!)

I just turned 31 and I can honestly tell you the last five years on the road have been the most challenging, rewarding, incredible, and the happiest of my life. Traveling in your 30s means you’re traveling even wiser than you once were. You start to realize how important it is that you’re doing something that you love and enjoy. You learned from all those silly mistakes you made in your twenty. You take things in more, enjoy and truly cherish those moments.

I feel younger than I did before I stepped on that one way flight when I was 26. I have no plans on stopping, in fact, my plans are only getting crazier and more challenging. I’m still living and traveling abroad and I’ll be doing it in my forties too!

It wasn’t till I turned 30 that I ditched my previous job adventures to pursue blogging full time. I had always been traveling like crazy already so that didn’t change but nowadays the focus is slightly different as I aim to document and share my explorations with our social media followers and blog readers. As a result, I was able to attempt stuff like parasailing in Indonesia and Malaysia, jumping off a stadium in South Africa, and trying out many other cool flight experiences around the world everyone should try at least once.

I couldn’t tell which changed my traveling more: turning 30 or getting married. I was 30 first, though, so we’ll start with that.

Right around 30, I began to feel a bit more value in planning ahead, in knowing how far away something was or in figuring out the best way to route my travels. ‘Going with the flow’ was still fine, but at some point I began to choose a more conscious time and place to go somewhere.

I also re-focused on quality over quantity. Give me 2-3 excellent, weird choices over 4-5 lukewarm places any day. That was already what I was doing, it just became a more strongly felt choice.

Getting married to a fellow thirtysomething meant we began to seek out a bit more comfort for a few more bucks. We might still stay at a hostel, but it’ll be a private room instead of a bunkbed.

Finally, your mileage will vary, but I didn’t feel the need to prove anything to myself. Travel is already enough of a challenge that creating extra challenge just for the sake of having it wasn’t necessary. If I want to reach the top of that mountain, I’ll get there – I’ll be taking the short, direct route instead of the longer, more circuitous one =)

It appears the older I get the more I enjoy traveling. That’s partly due to our better financial situation which allows us to treat ourselves more while on the road. It buys us cocktails in spectacular bars, helicopter rides over stunning landscapes, and luxury cruises in the Mediterranean. But I also appreciate the fact that with age travel has become more meaningful. I love to explore places and look into every aspect of a destination. I have the feeling that with maturity I am better equipped to grasp connections and understand backgrounds. At the same time I am still mobile and agile and able to climb and snorkel and do all the things that are fun. It’s the perfect age to travel the world!

Kim-Ling, 32

I have loved travelling in every decade of my life , but I certainly feel like our travels in our 30s has been the best! I think it’s because my husband and I have a better sense of ourselves and what we want to achieve from of our travels. We are more confident to do whatever we want to do and set our own itineraries. If I felt like taking off for the weekend to see a band on my own, I did it without hesitation. If I wanted to visit Game of Thrones filming locations, I made it happen! We are also in a better position financially to indulge in trips that we may not have been able to afford before. Last year, we saved up our money to live in Spain for eight months and travel constantly throughout Europe during that time, staying in unique accommodation ranging from castles to glass igloos.

Personally, I’m braver and more confident now than I was when I was in my teens and twenties. I even did the Finnish tradition of a naked sauna followed by a nudie run in the snow (something I don’t think I could have done when I was younger!)

When I was in my mid-twenties, I spent a good deal of my time in denial about edging closer to the big three-zero. As a matter of fact, once I hit 25 I told myself I was that very age for 5 years straight, until I hit 30. I spent a lot of time traveling and exploring all sorts of different varieties of travel. I visited both the tropics, and much cooler in temperature destinations. I stayed in a mix of hotels and visited different destinations, really getting a feel for travel and my preferences. By the time I hit the magic number of thirty not only did it not seem as large as before, but I had acquired an appreciation for a more refined sense of travel style, all my own. I’m sure as I approach the “big” four-zero it may change, and that’s fine by me. Life keeps moving on, and I don’t want it to pass me by at any age.

Brianne, 39

I spent most of my 20s focused on getting a master’s degree and carefully mapping out my career path. And although I did squeeze in some big trips – I spent a summer volunteering in Nepal during graduate school – I had student loans to pay off.

In my early 30s, I moved from Washington, D.C., to Boston in search of a better work-life balance. Soon after, a friend called me and said I had 24 hours to decide if I wanted to join her on a sailing trip in Croatia. I said yes, and that decision kicked off not only a new adventure but also a new attitude. Inspired by all of the laid-back, hard-partying Europeans I met – who held down careers back home – I realized I wanted to start prioritizing traveling over chasing achievements and promotions.

It took a lot of research and planning, but three years ago, I left a full-time job to become a consultant in order to have more time and flexibility to travel. Self-employment hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve since backpacked solo throughout Southeast Asia, spent two months working for a travel company in India, and made numerous trips to Europe, South America and around the U.S.

No I don’t make as much money as some of my friends do, and I live in a condo in the city instead of a big house in the suburbs, but I’m living life on my terms, and I’ve never been happier .

Matt and Alana, 33

Just before our 32nd birthdays we quit our jobs, sold our house and everything in it and set out on an 18 month around-the-world trip. Traveling in our 30s has been a better experience than our 20s, as we are doing exactly what we want to do, instead of what we ‘thought’ we should be doing. Our confidence and interests have grown and changed, and we don’t waste our time or energy anymore. When we want to do something, we do it. And if we think something is a waste of time, we avoid it. We’ve actually found ourselves being more adventurous now than ever before , as we are spending our money on experiences instead of partying/alcohol! From sand boarding to bungee jumping, we want to live life to the fullest, because nothing is guaranteed.

Jeanette, 30

As the 12th month of my 30th year is fastly approaching I’ve come to accept that traveling as a 30 year old has been the best travel year of my life . It all started off with a single trip to Mongolia to celebrate Nadaam and my 30th birthday. It soon included trips to – Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand. London, Denmark, Finland, Myanmar, Raja Ampat (Indonesia), Philippines and as a last farewell to 30, an upcoming trip to New Zealand. Unlike travel in my 20’s I now have a lot more emotional and financial freedom. I can choose to stay in a backpackers or I can choose to stay 5 star! Though in all honesty I now choose to stay in backpackers as you get to meet so many more fun people.

There’s so much less fear in the travel that I do now. Traveling in your 30s is so much more care free. There’s less expectations for you to have that one final, last hurrah and amazing adventure that seems to be attached with travelling in your 20s.

I have always thought that your age is just a number. However, the first couple of years into my thirties, I really believe that this has helped transform the way I travel. Long gone are the days of thinking about partying or worrying about studying for the next exam. Now I am able to focus on exploring the world and appreciating the inherent beauty that surrounds everything we experience.

How has my travel philosophy changed since I turned 30? As I mentioned, I think as you get older you gain a greater appreciation of what you explore. Moving to the States from England when I was in my early 20s was certainly an eye-opening experience, but today I think we frequently take our home countries for granted. You don’t realize what you have surrounding you until it’s gone…it’s an old adage for sure, but one that I think is very appropriate! I consider myself to be a much more culturally aware traveler but perhaps that is just from having different expectations and experiences over the last few years.

The ability to travel more has also happened since I turned 30. I am very fortunate to work at a university and have great benefits such as vacation time, not to mention earning a decent enough salary to pay for the travels around the world .

What do I love about being in my thirties? Everything! I really believe that being in this decade has opened up so many more doors than previous decades. Obviously I can’t comment on the future but what I can do is share my experiences on the road over the last couple of years. Heather will be turning 30 in a few months and I couldn’t have done any of my travels without having her by my side.

Rob & Nat, 35 & 32

We didn’t turn 30 on the road. We hit the road when we both were on the 30’s mark. Our love for travels started a couple of years back. Nat was 23 and I was 26, we traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina and fell in love (for each other and for travelling ). Then we moved to Ireland and explored Europe. Back then our travels were party oriented, hostels were our primary accommodation, and on the menu sandwiches and cheap booze.

Now things changed! We keep a balance between party and sports destinations, good hotels and private apartments, and we drink better quality wine and cocktails. Can say that we are more picky with destinations, hotels and activities. We don’t waste time and money on places that we don’t believe it’s really worth the shot.

Growing up does not mean become boring. In fact it’s all about choices and how you feel! We got married in 2013 (in our 30’s) and our honeymoon was a bit different, 14 days in an electronic music festival in Ukraine. And we don’t believe we gonna stop hitting the dancefloors around the globe soon. We are getting wise (never say old) but our dance moves are still good! It’s all about balance, after months of madness in Bangkok followed by a detox period in Singapore, now it’s time to plan a season in Brazil, and then back to underground clubs in Europe and some really nice dine & wine.

John & Heather, 34

We are Heather and John from Roaming Around the World and have spent these past few years of our early 30’s on a nonstop trip around the world. We feel that your 30’s may just be the best years for travel, although we’re admittedly biased, both currently 34 years old.

For us, probably the most notable change of travel in our 30’s is the fact that we do much more of it! In our early twenties, travel was often limited by a lack of funds. In our late twenties, the funds developed, but travel was often restricted by lack of time due to our careers, which were a means to earn money for travel. Our thirties is when we finally developed the knowledge, experience, resources, and time to be able to sustain the freedom of fulltime travel. Meanwhile we still have the youth & drive to execute such a crazy plan.

Another change that has come with age and experience has been a progression of becoming more savvy travelers, having figured out many travel hacks & deals. This often enables us to travel like a wealthy retiree, using the budget of a broke college student.

Also in our 30’s, travel has evolved from seeking out exciting destinations to instead pursuing incredible experiences. In our twenties, we loved traveling to places like NYC, Bonnaroo Music Festival, Caribbean Islands, and Amsterdam. That was so 20’s John & Heather. In our thirties, we now relish authentic experiences such as navigating the Borneo jungle amidst native people, staying with local families while backpacking across Cuba, and crossing the Sahara desert on camel with nomadic Berber families.

A final change to our travel style is how staying out late no longer exists. Doing so now completely ruins our subsequent day. We still party though. We just start early! 😉

Amy Hartle   is the author of Do You Love Me? How To Stop Seeking Reassurance in Relationships , a book on reassurance seeking and relationship anxiety. Both her book and this blog are born of personal experience; Amy shares expert relationship advice from the lessons learned during her own 10+ years with her husband, as well as couples travel tips and romantic getaway recommendations, all gleaned while traveling the world together.

Solo Travel In Your 30s – here’s 5 alternatives to staying home

by Steven Dillon | Apr 26, 2019

This post was written by Steve Dillon, founder of   Other Way Round , a group travel company specialising in adventure trips for 25-45 year olds. He’s passionate about encouraging fellow 30 somethings to give solo travel a try, and he shares 5 ways to go about it.

(or “vacations” for my North American friends).

If you’re anything like most people it’s what gets you through the day-to-day grind.

Looking forward to that next trip – the opportunity to relax, to disconnect, to experience something completely different.

It doesn’t get much better.

“Where are you going this year”?

If you would have asked me that when I was in my 20s I would have reeled off a list of upcoming trips with friends.

There was always something going on and the main challenge was finding the cash to get involved.

But the first time it happened to me I had just turned 30…

I had resigned from my job and had managed to wangle a 1 week break before starting my next role.

I was in need of a break.

Desperate actually .

And I knew I would be useless at my next company without recharging my batteries first.

The problem – I couldn’t find anyone to go with.

At such short notice neither my girlfriend or friends could get the time from work and I was faced with the daunting prospect:

GO ALONE, OR DON’T GO AT ALL.

Solo Travel in My 30s

As I’ve progressed through my 30s I’ve realised that this was just the start of things to come.

People get married, have kids, get saddled with huge mortgages.

It becomes near impossible to align schedules and finances with those closest friends.

If this sounds all too familiar, the good news is that you are not alone.

It is way more common than you think and many of us are facing the same challenge.

So what do you do?

You could decide to stay home and miss out (and sadly many people do).

But honestly, in this day and age it’s SO unnecessary.

“Solo Travel” is absolutely booming, especially for people in their 30s, and there are endless possibilities out there.

In this post I’m going to share with you 5 alternatives to staying home if you find yourself in a similar situation.

(See also:   Group Holidays for Solos Over 30 )

1. Hardcore Solo Travel

By this I mean really go all in and fully embrace the solo aspect of “solo travel”.

Plan out your own trip in full, based entirely on what YOU want to do.

There are SO MANY resources available online to help.

(some good places to start are Nomadic Matt , Adventurous Kate , Lonely Planet , Conde Nast Traveler but really if you just type your destination into Google you’ll find there’s a ridiculous wealth of information available). 

Go where you want, when you want.

Don’t worry about pleasing anyone else.

Enjoy the time alone to think, get perspective on life, and renew your sense of purpose (sounds a bit cheesy I know, but it often happens).

Embrace the flexibility and freedom that comes with this option and after a while you may just wonder why you’ve never done it before.

It’s definitely character building stuff and you will likely emerge from such a trip with a new found level of resilience and independence which you can carry forth on into your daily life.

2. The Hybrid Approach to Travelling Alone

This combines the best of both worlds.

Again, plan your trip independently – book your own flights, accommodation, plan a rough itinerary etc… but put yourself in places where you are likely to meet other people along the way.

You could stay at a hostel where there’s likely to be a bunch of other travellers in their 30s sharing a similar mindset.

You could also book yourself onto day tours so you still get to go visit places with other people, but leave plenty of ‘alone time’ with the flexibility to venture off and do your own thing.

Or you could even hook yourself up with a local and really get to know the place you’re visiting on a deeper level.

Platforms like Couchsurfing and Airbnb Experiences are great for connecting you with such locals for a more ‘authentic experience’.

The great thing with this approach is that you don’t have to plan too much in advance.

Most Hostels / Hotels / Airbnbs will have relationships with the local tour operators and you can typically just land, see what’s available and book something at the last minute.

3. Join an Online Travel Group 

The internet is full of online communities (or travel groups) specifically catering to people in this very position – single people looking to travel solo.

They typically provide an abundance of useful information, in-depth resources and helpful tips for those thinking to travel alone.

And better still, some even organise trips which members can join.

Some great examples of such groups are:-

• Solo Travel Society
• Girls Gone International
• Travelettes
• Girls Love Travel

(these groups all also have huge social media followings)

Go search for something in your particular area of interest and you’re bound to find something that resonates with you.

(there are many which will specialise in bringing together singles in their 30s)

4. Get Social

This is a bit more of a long game with regard to solo travel but in my opinion it’s one of the absolute best things you can do.

Here it is…

JOIN A SOCIAL CLUB IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

If you’re struggling to find friends to go on holiday with then chances are you’re also facing a similar challenge in your day-to-day life (and we all need someone to go grab a beer with on the weekend).

And yet the perfect solution is available to most of us within our local communities which typically have ‘social clubs’ for almost every interest out there.

For example, in recent years I’ve been a member of the following clubs:-

• RBS Football (London – football team)
• One Element (London – outdoor fitness club)
• Y Tri (Washington DC – triathlon club)
• La Ruta Outdoor (Medellin – hiking club)

(yeah, I’ve gotten around a little)!

And without exception, in each of these communities I have met great friends, found people to hang out with on weekends and – most relevant to this blog – ended up going on HOLIDAY with other solo travellers from the group.

Sometimes it was part of an organised group trip (most social clubs do them) and other times just directly with friends I have met through these clubs.

And although these particular groups lean more towards the active side, you can bet there’s a group somewhere that covers you own personal area of interest whether that be music, dance, languages or whatever.

Go check out Meetup which is a great resource for finding such groups.

5. Go With a Tour Group

Last but not least is the option to join a tour group.

Now, I know that some people have the image of tour groups being a bit stuffy or rigid but these days there are definitely some WAY more modern versions out there.

(in fact check out this blog: Debunking 9 Myths About Small Group Tours )

Going back to the story I talked about in the intro – where none of my friends were available to holiday with me – I ended up ‘traveling solo’ for a week of ‘Spanish and Surf’ in Fuerteventura.

It was a fantastic trip, I met a bunch of fun people, and I got that much needed time to disconnect.

Fast forward a couple of years and I joined another tour group called Medsailors for a week of ‘Sun and Sailing’ in Croatia (it was so good I went with them again to Greece the following year)!

Inspired so much by these awesome trips I then went on to create my very own tour company – Other Way Round – specialising in group tours for 30 and 40 somethings solo travellers.

These days there are tour groups for absolutely everything .

Whether you’re into yoga , skiing , meditation, dancing, hiking, biking, literature, museums, adventure or just want to party for two weeks – there’s an option out there for you.

Just type your interest and desired destination into Google and you’ll be spoilt with a bucket load of choices.

(Read also:   Why I Started a Group Travel Company for 30 Somethings ) 

The “Right Way” to Do Travelling Solo in Your 30s

SPOILER ALERT – there is no “right way” to do solo travel in your 30s.

There is no one size fits all.

For some people the thought of Option 1 (Hardcore Solo Travel) will fill them with dread while for others it will sound like paradise.

At the other end of the scale I know people who could think of nothing worse than going on a 2 week group tour with a bunch of “strangers” while for others it’s what they enjoy most.

It all comes down to what you’re more comfortable with as an individual and what better suits your personality.

I tend to lean more towards Option 4 (Social Clubs) and Option 5 (Tour groups).

I like meeting new people and sharing experiences together.

It always takes me a bit of time to get to know new people so I prefer spending a longer period with the same group rather than meeting new people every day.

I like the bond it creates within the group and usually find that on such trips the banter is the best part.

But that’s just me and everyone is different.

The most important takeaway here is that if you’re a solo traveller in your 30s there’s definitely an option out there for you. There’s no need to miss out.

With that in mind…

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE – Don’t Miss Out !

If I can get only one thin g across in this blog it is to tell you not to hold yourself back.

I’m extremely passionate about this subject because I see so many single travellers in their 30s missing out because they don’t take that initial first step .

Yes, it can be tricky.

Often awkward.

Eating at a restaurant alone.

Trying to make friends in a hostel when it feels like everyone else is travelling together.

Meeting up with a new tour group or social group for the first time when you don’t know anyone.

But if you push yourself through those initial moments of pain (torture for some I know) then you will open yourself up to a whole new world of possibilities.

Go on, give it a try!

(Read also:   What You Need to Know About Group Travel In Your 30s & 40s )

Like the Idea of Travelling Solo With Other 30 Somethings?

If you are open to the idea of ‘travelling solo’ as part of a group then it’s worth checking our itineraries at Other Way Round.

You will travel some of the world’s most exotic destinations, meet other solo travellers in their 30s, and we have a way more immersive approach to travel than traditional tour groups.

Below are some of our most popular itineraries.

11 Days in Mexico. Breathe in the pulsating Mexico city, roam the charming streets of traditional Oaxaca, and hit the beach in sun-drenched Tulum.  See Itinerary

15 Days in Colombia. Dance salsa. Meet coffee farmers. Sail tropical islands. Hike lush jungles. Taste the finest Caribbean rum.  See Itinerary

12 Days in Peru. Cook ceviche in Lima, sail the Amazon, hike to Machu Picchu and become awestruck by the Sacred Valley.  See Itinerary

Im very interested in joining your trips Please could you keep me posted

That’s great to hear, we’d love to have you!

The easiest way to keep up to date on our trips is to sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of our home page: https://www.otherwayround.travel/

It’s also worth following our socials.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/otherwayroundtravel

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/otherwayroundtravel/

Thanks Steve

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20 Places to Travel in Your 30s | Best Cities To Visit In USA

20 places to travel in the us in your 30s.

If you’re looking for the best  places to travel in the US  in your 30’s, you’re in luck. This list will give you guidance and insight about some of the top US-based travel destinations that you just can’t miss. I personally didn’t realize how important traveling was to me until I hit my 30s…boy do I wish I had traveled when I was in my 20s and with very little responsibility! When I was 33 I finally made my way to Israel , and I have been bitten by the travel bug ever since!

It’s hard to put into words what travel means to me, I may not be able to leave at the drop of a dime but I try to take every opportunity I can to explore a new country or city.

When you reach your 30s and start being settled in your career and life, you tend to want more for yourself. The internet and being able to find low fares to dream destinations make it that more easier to find the best places to travel in your 30s.

Traveling in your thirties is special. You’ve reached that point in your life when you no longer really care about seeing all the hip and happening spots and are genuinely curious about the wonders of the Earth.

Don’t get me wrong…Traveling in your twenties can be great, but there’s something special about the big 3-0. It’s a milestone for reaching a point in your adult life that commands attention. When you combine that confidence with the ability to travel, great things can and will happen.

What is a fun place to travel in the US?

That’s the beauty of traveling in your thirties. The states are seriously your blank canvas. If you have the time and ability, explore as many locations as you possibly can. Think of something that you enjoy doing and then research on where you can find that in the US. Think Florida for their beaches, the Midwest for their mountains or even the South for the ambiance and food!

Where are the cheapest places to fly in the US?

The cost can be a big factor when it comes to travel. If you want to fly somewhere for a vacation, you better know just how much that plane ticket is going to cost you! Flight prices can vary depending on the time of year and day of the week, but these locations are known for being consistently cheap to fly to:

• Los Angeles, CA
• Detroit, MI
• Washington, D.C.

All offer something fun and unique to explore without breaking the bank.

How much does a road trip cost across America?

Maybe you’re having a hard time even figuring out where to start on your trip. Don’t fret…there’s a lot of think about and decide. If you aren’t quite certain about where you want to go, consider taking an epic road trip across the US. Plan on saving up anywhere between $3,000-$5,000 to drive from coast to coast. (gas is expensive!) You’ll then need to also figure out lodging and food costs as well.

Now that we know there are awesome places to travel in the US, let’s dive in and get familiar with the ones that you need to visit!

Must Visit Places in the USA

Now that you know that traveling and vacationing in your thirties is a must, let’s dive in and highlight some of the must-visit places that need to be on your radar. The time is now to explore everything that the US has to offer!

Grand Canyon

If you’ve never viewed the Grand Canyon and taken in all its beauty, it’s time to make it happen. Standing on the edge and looking out into the world shows you just how beautiful and precious life is. While you can visit this landmark at any age, doing so in your thirties is certain to change your mindset on life.

New York City

There’s nothing like touring The Big Apple . From the lights to the tall buildings, everything about it is just fast-paced and modern. Many people make it a family-friendly trip, but exploring it on your own will have it take on a whole other form. Tour the buildings, take in the shopping district and dance to the disco music just waiting to be discovered. There’s so much for a thirty-year-old to see and do in NYC. I live here and I haven’t even come CLOSE to scratching the surface on all New York City has to offer!

It’s called Sin City for a reason, but visiting there in your 20’s versus your 30’s is totally different. People go there in their 20’s to gamble and experience the nightlife while people visit in their 30’s to take in the shows and the ambiance. If you’re ready to see Vegas with a brand new set of eyes, vacationing there now needs to happen. See Las Vegas through the eyes of someone who is out of that party phase and into the phase of confidence and exploration. For some inspiration, check out part one and part two of my 35th birthday trip!

See how simple it can be to find places to travel in the US and view them in a whole new light? Even if you’ve been to the above places before, you need to experience them again when you’re in another decade of your life.

While those places listed above need to be on your USA travel bucket list, here are a few other places that are a must for traveling in your thirties!

Even More Places to Travel in the US in Your 30’s

• San Franciso, CA
• Chicago, IL
• Seattle, WA
• Yellowstone National Park
• Pikes Peak in Colorado
• St. Louis, MO
• Branson, MO
• Asheville, NC
• Ocean City, NJ
• Palm Beach, FL
• Utah City, UT
• Charleston, SC

If you’re looking for some amazing places to travel in your 30s, add all these locations to your over-thirty travel bucket list!

Check out these travel posts before you go!

Day Trip Travel Itinerary – Free Printable To Keep You Organized

5 Must Have Travel Apps For Family Vacations

Free Road Trip Activities Pack To Keep Kids Busy On The Drive

Do you have any other suggestions for places to travel in the US?

Hi! I’m Nellie. I am an entrepreneur, a busy mama of 3 and a wife to my high school sweetheart. I have been sharing content for over 12 years about how to cook easy recipes, workout tips and free printables that make life a little bit easier. I have been featured in places like Yahoo , Buzzfeed , What To Expect , Mediavine , Niche Pursuits , HuffPost , BabyCenter , Mom 2.0 , Mommy Nearest , Parade , Care.com , and more!

Read my full story here!

Get comfortable and be sure to come hang out with me on social. Don’t forget to grab your free fitness journal before you go!

Sunday 2nd of June 2019

I totally agree that travel is different when you're in your 30's. I feel that I travel deeper compared to my 20's. And being able to share my passion for travel with my family gives it a new dimension. Plenty of inspiration in this post to keep up the travel pace!

Christine Z

One of the great things about traveling to Washington DC is that many of the museums and attractions are free! So, this is a great family vacation. Lots to do, but you aren't paying high museum admission tickets.

Hey Nellie,

That's true Grand Canyon is the must visit place in the USA. I wanna visit there when my age will be 30+++. I heard lots of stories about Grand Canyon from my friends :) I know its a beauty!!

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Budget Travel Ideas

13 perfect budget travel destinations to visit in your 30’s.

We all know what it’s like … ok maybe not all of us, but quite a few of us know what it’s like to still be budget travelling in your 30’s.

Yes, jobless, homeless and pretty much penniless after the age of 30? It does happen.

And yes, it’s happened to me. Probably due to my refusal to simply use a monthly budget template for my finances , but mostly because of that pesky and insatiable desire I still have to trot around the world barefoot and fancy-free like I’m 19!

But I’m not 19, I’m 32 and that means that while somethings have stayed the same, others have definitely shifted, not least in the way I go about travel …

Yes I still like wild adventures costed on a shoestring, but I also quite like a bit of my own space from time to time.

Yes I still like a good chat and a socialise, but I also enjoy an early night and a tea, rather than a late night and a hangover.

And yes, I still like to sit in a hammock and hang out, but equally I want to visit museums, sightsee in cities and explore some of the world’s iconic attractions too (rather than turning my nose up at them!)

Perhaps you can relate?

If so, check out these 13 destinations I’ve picked out as the perfect places to head in your 30’s.

If you’re still a keen budget traveller like me, then they could be right up your street!

Related Posts

• 17 Incredible Budget Travel Destinations Still on My List
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• Budget Travel :  The 6 Reasons Why I Love and You Should Too!

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If travelling in your 30’s has led you to seek a little more purpose in your global wanderings, then combining your chill time with seeing some of the world’s most incredible sights is a key way to balance things up.

And when it comes to budget spectacles, there’s still few harder to look past than the amazing Machu Picchu.

Ok, it may be very popular and you’ll likely be jostling with the crowds to see it, but who doesn’t want to tick this brilliance off their bucket list?

Also, now you’re a bit older, you’ll probably be a bit more up for the hike to get there, rather than semi-begrudging the early mornings and time away from the bar!

Check out the best budget places to stay in Arequipa, Peru here

Again, another great option if joining the 30+ budget travel club has led you to becoming a bit more active and motivated!

Yes, Nepal is still a wonderfully cheap place to head to, but is filled with so many amazing hikes that at least of them is bound to get your fired up!

The Annapurna circuit is of course the best known, but there’s stacks of others to choose from as well, depending on your timeframe and … well, fitness really!

There’s also lots of yummy meditation courses and temples to visit in Nepal, which may well be your thing these days too.

#3 Botswana

When it comes to Africa, it really is all about hitting Southern Africa if you’re on a budget.

While partying in Cape Town may still have some appeal, it’s also perhaps quite possible, that joining a safari tour to see some of this continent’s more adventurous side may be calling you now too … it definitely is me.

Botswana is one of the cheapest countries to safari in Africa, with both the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park providing world-class wildlife spotting opportunities.

Neither of these reserves are possible as self-drive opportunities, but a number of budget overland tours will take you there for not much more. And the stuff you’ll get to see with an experienced guide will more than make up for the small price difference.

Learn more in my posts The Top 5 Places for an African Wildlife Safari on a Budget a nd Chobe River National Park

#4 Ethiopia

Another African beauty, Ethiopia is another budget travel destination perfect for those who are a little bit older than your average gap-year student …. (no disrespect, I’ve been there too and I get it!)

I know this because I’m planning a trip myself there soon, and am wholly fascinated by this culturally rich country that few of us know little about.

A place of ancient civilisations and the birthplace of modern humans, the idea of exploring all of Ethiopia’s history and its many world heritage sites really excites me these days.

And then, of course, there’s the coffee …

Check out why I think Ethiopia’s Danakil Depression is the Most Dramatic Destination on Earth!

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From one diverse country to another, Ecuador still sits up there as one of my favourite countries worldwide when I visited in in my late 20’s.

For starters, its changing landscapes are mind-blowing with jungle, mountains, coast and colonial cities all rubbing shoulders closely together.

There’s also lots of hiking opportunities in this small South American country, as well as tons of adventure activities such as diving in the Galapagos (read about how to visit the Galapagos on a budget here) or rock climbing in Banos.

On top of all this, there’s also some fascinating cultural experiences to have in Ecuador, with local homestay experiences very possible and a strong, indigenous culture still very present in everyday life here.

Read about my Top 5 Recommended Hikes in Ecuador here

#6 Guatemala

And so to another a fabulous country with a strong indigenous culture, Guatemala is known to have stolen many a traveller’s heart.

It’s generally an older crowd that tend to budget travel in Central America, so you certainly won’t feel out of place here if you are a bit older and can easily slip into a Spanish class in Antigua or a yoga class at Lago Atitlan without feeling out of place.

I also recommend making the trek to Tikal in the north of the country. This spell-binding religious and historical site is unbelievably cheap to visit and utterly amazing!

Read more about Tikal, plus the other top destinations I recommend visiting in Guatemala here

#7 Costa Rica

Another Central American country I think is perfect for budget travellers in their 30’s is Costa Rica.

While this Pura Vida nation is a little more expensive to travel in compared to some of its neighbours, it’s still a heck of a lot cheaper than many of the countries in South America and definitely North America.

What sets Costa Rica apart however, and what makes it worthwhile, is the level of biodiversity contained within this small nation.

Filled to the brim with national parks, amazing and accessible wildlife and some of the most beautiful scenery on earth, this country packs in the Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean coast, rainforest, cloud forest, mountains and lakes in between!

Read My Top Tips When it Comes to the Most Incredible Things to Do in Costa Rica on a Budget

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Sitting at the top of the African continent, Morocco is a jewel for many travellers, but appreciated more by those who have a bit more worldly-knowledge behind them.

From the mountainous splendour of the Atlas, to the souks of Fez and the Sahara Desert, Morocco is a sensory spectacle at every turn.

I think travelling to Morocco in your 30’s allows you to appreciate this country more, to enjoy it and to relish in it!

There’s also so many beautiful fabrics, patterns, colours and textures to see, and to buy, I’d definitely make full use of that aspect now I’m a bit older!

The holy grail for many budget travellers and the mecca for spiritual searchers everywhere, there’s not much I can say about India that hasn’t been elucidated already.

I guess all I can say is … go!

And now you’re over 30, getting beyond the beaches of Goa to explore more of the richness and diversity India has to offer is an invitation you shouldn’t refuse.

I’m desperate to get to Bhutan. That’s mostly entirely why it’s made this list.

In order to preserve its very unique culture, you do have to take a guided tour in order to visit Bhutan.

This can make things a little more expensive, but in the grand scheme of things it certainly still qualifies as a worthy country to visit given this entirely unique view you’ll get to glimpse.

Daily tour prices include all accommodation, food, transport and guide. The cheapest months to visit are January, February, June, July, August, and December, when the rates are $50USD less per person per day.

For more information, check out the Tourism Council of Bhutan .

#11 Albania

Trending right now, Albania is the hot new spot to hit up … and I’m not just talking about for all the Euro Rail summer students.

No, Albania is rapidly filling up with more discerning budget travellers that want to get off the beaten track and discover ancient archaeological sites, forgotten Medieval towns and some stunning isolated beaches.

Read all about why I’m so glad I visited Albania here and start booking your flights before the crowds asap!

#12 Romania

Another beauty in Eastern Europe that’s still easy on the wallet is Romania – also rapidly attracting more travellers due to its beautiful cities and dramatic landscapes.

It’s likely in your 20’s you’ve covered many of Europe’s more popular tourist countries like France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands, so now’s the time to branch out a bit … and Romania is an excellent place to start!

Learn more in my posts The 6 Best Places to Visit in Romania a nd The 10 Best Things to Do in Romania for Backpackers

#13 Portugal

And last, but not least, is Portugal – a land of dramatic coastline, quaint crumbling cities and tons of traditional villages.

Becoming big on the wwoofing scene, Portugal is a great place to try some work exchange, if you haven’t already.  This is a superb way to keep your travels cheap and throughout Portugal there’s loads of places you can help work on the land and stay/eat for free.

There’s also quite a bit nomadic / alternative living culture in Portugal, with many 30-year old Europeans descending on the country in their campervans to enjoy the solitude, sunshine and surf that the Atlantic coast of this country offers.

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So there you have it, the 13 budget destinations I reckon are perfect for visiting in your 30’s.

Please let me know if you’ve visited any of these great countries and agree!

Or perhaps you have some more suggestions to add to the list too?

I’d love to hear from you in the comments below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

3 thoughts on “ 13 Perfect Budget Travel Destinations to Visit in Your 30’s ”

Thailand. Wow

Thanks for the ideas! I had been leaning towards Ecuador for my next trip, but now I’ve got Nepal on the brain. They both sound like fantastic destinations!

Absolutely – both well worth excited about!

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Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

10 Bucket List Trips to Take in Your 30s

By Jennifer Dombrowski 31 Comments

I have celebrated my faux 29th birthday again and again…and again. When I officially entered my mid-thirties, it was time to just embrace it. If you’re like me with your 20s undeniably in the rear view mirror, you probably have more money in your bank account, a better sense of who you are, and more importantly, you’ve discovered your travel style . I know I have, so I’ve put together a list of 10 bucket list trips to take in your 30s for adventurers who love a little bit of luxury at the end of the day:

1. Go on an African Safari in East Africa

A bucket list trip I’ve already taken twice in my 30s, going on an African safari in Tanzania and Kenya tops the list of most amazing trips I’ve ever been on. Aside from spotting all of Africa’s Big Five , we watched a pack of hyenas hunt, zebras and wildebeest as they migrated on the Serengeti Plains and giraffes crane their necks just for a drink. We combined adventure with luxury by sleeping in tented camps and 1000 year old baobab trees all while traveling by private plane on a SkySafari in Tanzania and at boutique luxury camps in Kenya .

2. Camp in Antarctica

The seventh continent has been on our bucket list for a while and we WILL make it there in our 30s. Not all Antarctica cruises are created equal though. When we go to Antarctica we not only want to step foot on the continent, we want to camp on it. It would be the highlight of my 30s to wake up to a curious penguin checking me out while cocooned in my sleeping bag. Quark Expedition s, the leader in Polar travel, offers the option to camp on the continent and when we go, we’ll be going with them. (Unless I get that job at the Penguin Post Office.)

3. Glamping in Moab

I like the fancy form of roughing it. Tim likes a bona fide camping experience. Glamping is a great compromise to make both of us happy – he’s out in nature and I still get to be squeaky clean every day. Moab Under Canvas sits right at the edge of Arches National Park, allowing you to commune with nature’s bizarrely beautiful formations and sleep under the stars. We’d love to spend a few days glamping and wetting our appetite for adventure while white water rafting the Colorado River, hiking in Arches and Canyonlands National Park and hot air ballooning over Moab.

4. Dive in the Maldives

It be cliched to say, but the Maldives truly are paradise on Earth. The 1100 islands that make up the Maldives are home to some of the largest coral atolls on Earth. Swimming right off your over water villa is like diving right in to a life-sized aquarium. The over water villas with private plunge pools, underwater restaurant where you can dine on aphrodisiacs like lobster, couples massages and pristine white sand beaches at Anantara Kihavah Villas make for a sexy holiday best shared with your special someone.

The Colorful Underwater World of the Maldives

5. Explore the Alaskan Wilderness

Alaska. The last frontier full of untamed, untouched wilderness. We think it’s the perfect adventure for a thirtysomething; after all it’s been an adventure destination since the times of Captain Cook. With only 20% of Alaska accessible by roads, we think Un-Cruise Adventures is the way to go. Massive floating resorts, er cruise ships, aren’t our thing. But a small expedition style ship that can navigate small inlets and passages and hosts an itinerary full of adventure activities from kayaking to hiking and even SUP is right up our alley. And we’d just be tickled pink to get up-close with Alaska’s brown bears!

6. Go Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

We retired from the club scene years ago and moved on to the art of eating well and enjoying the finer things in life, like wine. Meandering through the lush vineyards of Bordeaux , sipping some of the most highly coveted wine blends in the world, blending our own wine and taking a cooking lesson to prepare the perfect meal to pair with the wine are just some adult ways to have fun in Bordeaux .

Blend Your Own Cognac at Camus Cognac

7. Swim with the Bahamas’ Swimming Pigs

Once upon a time we planned to honeymoon at the brand new Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. That was 13 years ago now and it never happened. But now that we’ve been to the Bahamas twice, we’re so glad we opted for the lesser known islands to seek out pristine beaches and exotic nature. The Exumas, where you can call ultra-exclusive luxury resorts home at the end of an adventure filled day, make us go googly-eyed. And you can swim with the Bahamas’ famous swimming pigs !

8. Drive the Ring Road in Iceland

Iceland is a great destination to go to no matter your age and we’ve seen the twenty-somethings hitch hiking, surviving off of nothing more than the $2 gas station hot dogs and pitching a tent wherever the wind took them that day. But in your 30s you can splurge on amazing experiences like a helicopter flight over glaciers and volcanoes , luxury accommodations like the stunning  Hotel Ranga and feast on Iceland’s fantastic cuisine. Honestly, after a day of hard core adventures like trekking to the summit of a glacier , wouldn’t you prefer to soothe your tired muscles in a hot tub under the stars before indulging in lobster bisque and filet of lamb?

Iceland’s Ring Road in 1 Week

9. chase the northern lights in lapland.

Northern Lights tourism is still a relatively new trend, though the Northern Lights themselves are not. The Aurora Borealis, and its southern counterpart the Aurora Australis, have been dancing in the Polar Night for at least as long as the Earth is old. Over the last two or three years as the sun reaches the peak of its solar cycle, spectacular photos of green, red, purple and sometimes even blue curtains have intrigued people enough to travel to the far north in teeth-chattering temperatures for a chance to witness the phenomena in person. Taylor made holidays to Lapland combine Northern Lights tours with other adventure activities from dog sledding to sleeping in an ice hotel . It truly is a trip of a lifetime, albeit an expensive one, and worth the splurge.

Why Abisko is the Best Place in Europe to See Northern Lights

10. Explore Easter Island on Horseback

I’ve wanted to visit the remote speck of an island in the middle of the Pacific, known as Easter Island, since I saw Matt Lauer report from there in his ‘Where In the World is Matt Lauer’ series on the Today Show . Though only a few flights each week carry adventurous tourists to Easter Island, it’s certainly not an undiscovered place. But some of Easter Island’s most spectacular Moais (the weird statues) are accessible only by trail and best explored on horseback. It’s even possible to arrange multi-day horseback excursions around Easter Island, which sounds like the perfect adventure to me.

This article contains affiliate links. When you book on Anantara , Booking.com or Viator through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

March 6, 2015 at 4:13 PM

I’m in my 30s too, and although I have no bucket list to speak of, I do want to go to Antarctica. I didn’t know you could camp out there though. I wonder what its effect will be on the “locals”? Based on this list, I also want to explore Lapland, see the northern lights, and of course set foot in Rapa Nui. Maybe I should write about my own bucket list…LOL

Jacomijn says

March 6, 2015 at 4:48 PM

I’m 40 now and did a lot of great travels in the last decade…..and planning on to do somd more 😉

March 6, 2015 at 5:24 PM

You are still so young – and these bucket lists will only get longer. I am heading to Maob at the end of the month. That part of Utah is one of my fave places on the planet. We’ll be staying at the Sunflower Hill Inn – a place I love. Good luck getting through this list.

March 6, 2015 at 8:16 PM

There are two that stand out for me in this list. Swimming with the pigs in those gorgeous clear waters! And the Ring Road trip in Iceland. I would love to see both of these even though It won´t be in my 30´s ; )

Sarah Harkness says

March 6, 2015 at 7:29 PM

I have already done the Bahamas, glamping in Moab (not all it has cracked up to be unless you spend the extra money for a large tent), and explored Alaska. Norway is on my list this year for Northern Lights, and I have always wanted to do a safari. I guess that isn’t bad for someone who is still 28!

Matthew Hirtes says

March 6, 2015 at 9:06 PM

I’m in my 40s now. But would still love to visit some of these places. Thanks for the recommendations.

Catherine Sweeney says

March 6, 2015 at 9:09 PM

Let me tell you about life beyond the 30s! It’s awesome. 🙂 And actually, still feels like 30 for me. Love these bucket list trips, although I might be able to skip swimming with the pigs. But Bordeaux? That’s right up my alley.

March 7, 2015 at 10:36 PM

I love the idea of swimming with pigs in the Bahamas! Easter Island is my ultimate bucket list destination, I am fascinated by the whole mystery. I had the most amazing time on safari in Tanzania

Jessica says

March 8, 2015 at 10:26 PM

Ahh your pictures of the Maldives definitely makes it look like paradise! I’d love to go there, and checking out the Northern Lights is on my bucket list too. I’m not sure about camping in Antarctica though – much as I like penguins, I hate both the cold and camping, so perhaps not. 🙂

Vanessa says

March 17, 2015 at 4:27 PM

OMG I literally want to do all of those but swimming with PIGS?! My favourite animal ever – gonna have to go immediately 😉

April 3, 2015 at 5:00 AM

I love this. Definitely makes me look forward to my 30s that are right around the corner. A few of these were already on my list like the Northern Lights but there are a couple more I am going to have to add. Thanks for sharing.

Suzan Hall says

November 3, 2015 at 7:55 AM

Great list! I would love to visit these places in my 30’s as I am traveler and it really excites me.People sometimes think that traveling is something you have to do when you’re young. It’s not. Currently I am exploring San Francisco tours and trust SF is one of the best place to visit in your 30’s.

Edwina says

March 12, 2016 at 4:30 AM

I’ve got horseback riding in Iceland on my bucketlist, never thought about doing that on Easter Island as well! Also, the Maldives and swimming with pigs are definite items on my list.

Rhonda says

January 21, 2017 at 10:30 AM

Easter Island is on my bucket list. I figured I’d get to it when I do South America but there’s so much to do in S. America, I’m not sure I want to spend the time to get there and back.

Nat Deduck says

January 21, 2017 at 10:32 AM

This is probably the most epic bucket list I’ve seen! You’re right, most of those items are on our list! Alaska, Antarctica, Maldives and Iceland have been on our list for ages!

January 21, 2017 at 7:02 PM

As somebody past her 30s, I say that it’s never too late to chase luxurious adventures. That being said, I’m more into drinking wine than camping in Antarctica. Hopefully I’ll make it to Bordeaux the next time that I’m in France.

Marcus and Mel says

January 21, 2017 at 10:04 PM

Some great ideas for trips. We are going to Iceland for Mel’s birthday next month and can’t wait. We’ve got some really interesting hotels booked, unfortunately the Hotel Ranga was unavailable for our dates.

January 22, 2017 at 10:04 AM

An article like this just supports my ongoing saying – the more you travel, the more you realise you still have to see. So many wonderful places here. Would love to get to the Maldives and I’m hoping to get to Alaska this year. Lots of inspiration here.

Anne Klien ( MeAnne) says

January 22, 2017 at 11:51 AM

The bordeaux is definitely high on my list wine good food hopefully this summer. And eastern island to explore

January 22, 2017 at 10:47 PM

It’s true that age and experience does clarify you travel style and many other things so I’m OK embracing it. You picked 10 fabulous trips here wouldn’t it be fabulous if you could tick these (or even some of them) off in the next 5 years.

Joan Torres says

January 24, 2017 at 10:48 PM

That’s an amazing travel bucket list! It’s sad to say that i haven’t done any of those adventures, but I’m not 30 yet so, I still have a lot of time! Love the swimming pig. Is this a real thing in the Bahamas?

Catarina Leonardo says

January 25, 2017 at 2:36 AM

Excellent tips that you got here!! I am in my 30 and i want to try all of this. Swimming with pigs it would be amazing!!!

January 25, 2017 at 7:27 AM

These are great! I’ll be 30 next year so need a whole new bucketlist to celebrate the coming of age :D! I’ve crossed offthe Tanzania safari, and will be camping in Antarctica next week eeeek! So excited for that one!!

January 25, 2017 at 8:28 PM

Great list there! I’ve done some of them, but would love to go to Antarctica, swim with pigs in the Bahamas and see the Northern Lights.

Andrea Crain says

March 31, 2017 at 10:18 AM

Hey Jennifer, I’m in my late 20’s. Your bucket list is great, I’ve covered just one from this list. 😛 Last year I went to Maldives with my special one. Glamping in Moab is already on my list but, I have never heard of camping in Antarctica, would love to do that. African Safari in Tanzania also sounds great, full of adventure. Thanks 🙂

Jennifer Dombrowski says

April 1, 2017 at 1:34 PM

Glad to hear you’re already working on some adventures from this list and got some inspiration for your own bucket list!

April 26, 2017 at 5:20 AM

While I am in my late 30s, I never did create a “Bucket List” for this decade. Aside from visiting Machu Piccu and watching the World Cup in Brazil, I have really been slacking on my International destination bucket list this decade. Glad you created this as it has now gotten me to think about how I want to live my 40s soon! Going to start off by planning an epic trip for my Big 4-0 and go from there!

April 26, 2017 at 4:02 PM

Glad we could give you some ideas, Ray! Where are you thinking about for your big birthday trip?

Bob Miller says

January 14, 2018 at 6:52 PM

Will be 31 this year and it’s a shame I haven’t done as much traveling as I would have liked. Been postponing my whole life and now with the kids here, it seems I won’t be doing much traveling as I had initially planned.

February 4, 2023 at 10:27 AM

You’ve got to add swimming with sharks in Bora Bora to this list! It’s one of the best experiences ever. Great list though, making a million plans for the year right now haha.

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13 Ways Travelling the World in your 30s is Different than in your 20s

As much as we might feel young at heart forever, there are apparent differences between travelling in your 20s and your 30s. While many of these changes aren’t necessarily bad, if anything, I’ve met travellers in the 60s who endlessly inspired and excited me; everyone grows old. And how your travelling experiences change are interesting to document and think about as you grow. I love learning from other travellers, especially those older than me.

When I turned 30, it was a like a switch got flicked. Things took me longer; I was more tired and suddenly didn’t feel like I could do everything. Other travellers who went through a similar change were super helpful in setting new goals and changing my expectations. So I wanted to document this for myself here so others can learn from me and my experiences with travel as I got older.

Accommodations get an upgrade

Travelling in my 20s meant searching for the cheapest hotel or hostel. Often these would be in not-so-good locations, far out from the centre of town. And while I still managed to find some great deals and pretty decent hotels, for the most part, they weren’t always the stuff of dreams. In Australia, I will never forget walking into our hostel and seeing a dead mouse in the centre of the room and knowing we had no choice but to stay there. So we cleaned up the mouse ourselves and just tried to pretend that it never happened.

In my 30s, especially now that I travel almost always with my partner, our hotel choices are much more appealing. There are no dead animals on the floor, and most of the time, these accommodations are in prime locations in the city, close to the action without being overbearingly touristy. Airbnb has also changed the game in terms of places to stay.

Bn’Bs over Bunkbeds

Now I can find quirkily themed apartments for rent that feels more like staying in a secret playhouse than they do a sterile hotel. In my 30s, I’ve travelled enough to know the truth from the BS and how to read a listing or review of a hotel for those key signals that this isn’t a great place to stay. Proof positive of this was on my last trip to Mexico City. We had initially booked a fantastic hotel for a GREAT price in a popular neighbourhood.

But the more and more I read about the area of town and dug deeper into the reviews, the more I realized that despite it being such an awesome price and having 5-star reviews, it was located in a super touristy and busy area that completely shut down at night. We opted to cancel that reservation (thank you, free cancellations on Expedia!) and rebooked a different hotel in a smaller bohemian neighbourhood which felt safe, quaint and picturesque. I’m glad I went with my gut as I recalled when I had stayed in a similar area, and it just wasn’t for me. For others, this might be the perfect place for you, but for me, I knew it wouldn’t be a good fit.

You take your time

In my 20s, my friend and I would book a two-week vacation in Europe to see 4-5 different cities. We would be up at dawn to get to the next town in time to still fit in some sightseeing before everything closed. Then onto the next location. We carefully planned what we ABSOLUTELY had to see and made sure to make that a priority, but there wasn’t much time left to explore and meander. We would have loved to spend more time in each city, but our budget didn’t allow it back then. It seemed like a waste of an expensive international flight not to try and see as many cities as we could while on this new continent.

These days, although my time for leisure travel has been reduced, I choose to spend my week’s vacation in one place instead of rushing from country to country. I list a few AREAS to explore instead of a list of singular sights. This means I can spend an entire day just in one spot, discovering things I never found online, and therein I get to share that with all of you, readers!

I have NOTHING against jam-packed travel itineraries since they allowed me to discover which countries I liked most and didn’t like when I was younger, but now that I’m older, I merely prefer this kind of slow-travelling.ein I get to share that with all of you readers! I have NOTHING against jam-packed travel itinerary since it indeed allowed me to discover which countries I liked most and didn’t like when I was younger, but now that I’m older I merely prefer this kind of slow-travelling.

Visiting those costly cities isn’t out of the questions

When travelling in your 20s, you’ll often research “the cheapest cities in Europe to visit.” These traditional, less expensive cities mean you can have a fantastic time but still pinch those pennies. As you age, cities like New York, Paris and Singapore suddenly become viable options. It wasn’t until I turned 30 that I could FINALLY afford to travel to Japan; it was a life-changing trip! Cities with a cheaper cost of living are often well-suited to being younger. Places like Thailand, Mexico and Greece all feel more adventurous and perfect for younger travellers. While the more expensive destinations usually have a more refined and mature atmosphere, making them a comfortable place to go as you age.

Free time is harder to come by

I had this idea when I was young that when I grew up, I could afford all these amazing trips where I’d travel for months on end! But the problem with ageing is that your responsibilities at work and in your personal life seem to get in the way of just up and leaving to travel the world. Work barely enabled me to take two weeks off for my honeymoon, and when I got back, I felt the full force of being away. The idea of a “sabbatical” isn’t the norm anymore as more and more people aren’t staying with companies for years.

In your 20s, you have the time to take off for a few months between school semesters as long as you’ve worked your butt off during the school year making money. Or better yet, you might have the chance to do a year abroad and see more of the world that way. But when you get into your 30s, you have a career, not just a job. There is no longer a “summer break” unless you’re lucky enough to be a teacher. Those few weeks of vacation you get (if you get any paid leave at all!) are very precious, and you really learn to appreciate every second of your travels. It’s perhaps for this reason that you’ll find yourself spending more money to stay in a more central area hotel, lessening the amount of commuting you’ll have to do.

You have more confidence

I have learned A LOT about travelling since my first trip overseas. My dad was going there on business and traded in a first-class ticket for two economies and took me with him. What I didn’t know what that when we got there, he would be busy the entire time (although I probably should have assumed this), and I would be all on my own. I clutched the notes and directions he made for me like they were my lifeline and ended up making many mistakes but falling in love with the experience of travelling. Nothing prepares you for the pitfalls of severe jet lag like living through it. No dry runs or hypothetical conversations can give you insight into what to do when you lose your passport.

I remember not trusting my gut and being roped into a scam or tourist trap. Or I knew it was a trap and was too shy to speak up. Although I always feel like I’m learning, I’m definitely braver and more confident as a traveller than when I was 20. I speak up when I feel like something is wrong, or I know well enough not even to venture into something which feels too good to be true. I’ll call a waiter on his added “tourist taxes” or go out of my way to get a uber instead of a sketchy taxi that is bound to rip me off.

Travelling Alone

The other thing which I feel more confident about is travelling alone. Sometimes you and your partner or friends just can’t get your schedules to match up. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still head out on an adventure by yourself. Dining alone doesn’t have to be scary; it can be an opportunity to meet new people. You get to do exactly what YOU want to without any compromises. Being alone when travelling is a chance for you to reconnect with yourself in ways you don’t have the opportunity to do otherwise.

You know who your real friends are

I have travelled with many different groups of friends and partners throughout my life. And nothing tests a relationship like travelling. Travel is truly incredible, but it also involves lots of stress, compromise, exhaustion, problem-solving and more which can weigh on those relationships. When you’re in your 20s, I feel like you’re more optimistic. You feel like you go on those trips with the best intentions and optimism. New friendships feel fresh and exciting and travelling with new friends can be the best idea.

You think you don’t have a history, so you don’t have the chance of negativity from the past influencing the trip. But it also means you don’t know their personality, travel style, or financial constraints. I travelled all over the world with one good friend, who I’m still proud to call my best friend today. We never fought, always understood each other’s likes and dislikes and also learned that sometimes that means having a day apart instead of dragging the other to do things they don’t want to.

Other travel companions fell by the wayside, either due to us drifting apart or often just because we didn’t get along as travellers. In my 30s, quality time with my partner or friends is some of the best advantages of travelling together. When you get older, you have less and less time to spend with your friends, and this intimate occasion is a great way to reconnect.

You appreciate travelling with your family

Speaking of time to reconnect, let’s talk about family. When you’re in your 20s, there is nothing worse than being forced into a family trip. Maybe you’re itching to be independent and feel like this is holding you back. Perhaps you just want to have a romantic trip with your new partner, or maybe you want to let loose and party! For me, it was probably the independence that I appreciated most about travelling without my family. I felt so grown up and independent when I turned 2, even though, looking back, I totally wasn’t.

I still lived with my family in my 20s, and being away from them felt like freedom. Now, in my 30s, this couldn’t be further from the truth. I adore spending so much time with my parents and siblings, even my in-laws. As an adult (or as close to one as I can get), I get to spend time with them on a different level. Travelling helps you learn about people you might not otherwise discover.

I had such a great time travelling with my aunt, whom I’d otherwise not see outside of the holidays. Seeing her in this environment was so cool, and I feel like I got to know her more as a person rather than just a family member. The older you get, the less and less time you realize you have left with your parents, and I know I want to try and make those moments count for me.

You eat incredibly well

I’ve always been a pretty savvy traveller and found local cuisine at low prices, so I’ve never found myself eating at McDonald’s for three days straight just to save money. There are always little pubs, cafes and restaurants which serve amazing meals for low prices if you know where to look. But there is no way that when I was 20, I’d have been able to afford to eat at the various Michelin Star restaurants I’ve been so lucky to have been able to dine at now that I’m in my 30s. I’ve eaten some of my most exquisite, transcendent meals in my 30s. But even outside those “one-in-a-lifetime meals,” eating in your 30s means you might not have to be as rigorously diligent about checking menu prices.

Chances are your budget might not be so rigid, and you can generally find places to suit your tastes and budget anywhere you are. I don’t want to make this sound like I’m super rich and can eat expensive meals daily; that’s far from the truth. I’m one of the biggest cheapskates when it comes to eating out, and I still gasp at cocktails which cost $25. But in my 30s, I’ve learned to appreciate fine dining a little bit more and can afford to indulge in that from time to time.

You have a better idea of what kind of travel you like

In my 20s, I wanted to travel to all the most famous travel cities without ever thinking about if they were somewhere I’d enjoy or not. I wanted to tick those “top 10 destinations” off my bucket list (at least the ones I could afford).

And while I think I learned a lot about places I didn’t like as much as I did, I would if I could go back and change a few plans. I think I would have thought more about what I wanted and less about where people told me I NEEDED to visit. Bohemian artsy cities drew my gaze instead of glass metropolises. I also noticed that some European cities felt very similar, and I now go out of my way to visit places markedly different than other cities.

In your 30s, you are more steadfast in your likes and dislikes, and this greatly impacts where you want to travel. Everyone was so surprised when I visited Mexico City last year, but honestly, it was one of the best trips of my life. There is nowhere as bright and colourful as Mexico City, and despite everyone’s scare tactics about Mexico, we felt perfectly safe everywhere we went.

Time to relax is more important than seeing it all

When you’re 20, there aren’t too many enormous, unavoidable stresses or time vacuums in your life. School and relationships might have their ups and downs, but nothing compared to careers or, even more than that, kids. Vacations, especially those without kids, become your only opportunity to relax and unwind with your partner or perhaps with your friends. Those precious vacation days mean more than just a chance to travel somewhere new; it means a moment to catch your breath.

You might find that you can’t and don’t even want to go-go-go; you want to take things slow, to enjoy a coffee in peace and quiet for once. Maybe the kind of travelling you do changes. I’ve never been one for all-inclusive resorts, but I found myself considering one for the first time in 33 years just to get away somewhere warm where I didn’t even need to think about my schedule every day. While I still opted not to do this, I, for the first time, really did understand why people are drawn to those types of vacations.

You realize you can’t keep up with your younger self

When I took my first trip at 30, I went about it much like I always did. I got up at the crack of dawn and went as hard as possible to fit as much into my day before night. Very quickly into that first day, I realized that wouldn’t work for me anymore. For the first time in my life, I let someone convince me to take it easy, to go back to the hotel for a nap before heading out again in the evening.

And let me tell you, that nap felt impossibly amazing. I woke up feeling refreshed, not worried about the things I didn’t see or missed out on, but with a renewed sense of adventure for the rest of the evening. I definitely wear out more easily these days. That means not ticking off all the boxes on the bucket list. But feeling healthy and happy is more important than seeing it all. As you grow, you realize that it’s not about how many things you see but how you see them. How you let even those few memories and sights itch themselves into your heart and your mind.

Technology has changed

I remember when I was in my 20s, the first thing we’d do when we’d arrive in a new city was hit up the tourist information for a town map. We carried these paper maps with us everywhere we went, and by the end of the trip, they were half disintegrated from being overly used. Now and again, we’d print off a few Mapquest directions to and from different pre-planned destinations. If we got lost, there was nothing to do other than ask for direction or backtrack as best we could.

Nowadays, most big cities have free wifi all over the place, roaming is getting cheaper and cheaper on most phone plans, and there are even portable wifi devices where you can bring the internet with you. There is almost no chance of getting lost or needing to read a map. This saves a lot of time and confusion, but it’s also a little sad. I feel like staring into my phone to get the perfect route to my destination is a bit disconnected. I always challenge myself to use those old paper maps from time to time and still ask locals for directions when I get lost instead of immediately reaching for my phone.

Sleep isn’t optional

When I was young, I loved saving money by travelling when I should be sleeping. This meant overnight trains, buses and flights. I loved planning around these overnight journeys since it felt like winning free money I’d otherwise have had to spend on a hostel or hotel. I didn’t care how tired or uncomfortable I was. I’d chug down a few cups of coffee and be able to ride out the rest of the day with no problem. These days, I’m lucky even to get eight hours and not feel the sting of exhaustion by mid-afternoon. I still miss the money-saving opportunities of the overnight trains, but I don’t miss the fatigue.

While I might miss certain aspects of being young, I love getting older. I feel more connected to myself and, therefore, to my travels. I feel like I travel better, deeper and more comfortable physically and emotionally. What shifts did you see in your travels as you got older? If you’re still in your 20s, what other questions do you have for this ol’ “senior” about travel in your 30s? Let me know in the comments!

Happy travels, Adventurers!

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Such an awesome reflection! Some great things to keep in mind

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel in Your 20s & 30s: Budget, Luxury & Gap Year Tips

There are many reasons why people travel solo in their twenties and thirties.

• Some go with something to prove – that they are strong and capable people.
• Some go for adventure, knowing that the experience will drop more surprises into their life than if they were with others.
• Still others travel solo reluctantly because there is one in their circle with the time and money to go.

Whatever the reason, whether the trip is on a tight budget or a more expansive one, whether it's a weekend getaway or a full gap year, traveling solo in your twenties and thirties is a life-altering experience. It may also be the first time that a person travels without someone else handling all the details.

Traveling alone for the first time is wonderful but it can also be daunting. We have hundreds of how-to posts offering solo travel tips and advice. This is a guide to them and an overview of the most enriching experiences that solo travel in your 20s & 30s can offer.

Before diving into the guide, you might want to read the following for a bit of inspiration.

• Travel Solo and Practice 3 Essential Life Skills
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Table of Contents

Solo Backpacking: Budget-Friendly and Empowering

There are so many ways to travel solo. You can spend a lot or a little.

Often budget-friendly trips can be empowering as you will have more aspects to manage on your own. By contrast, more luxurious trips, while expensive, may have all the details handled for you by others, so all you have to do is show up.

I tend to like the former. I like backpacks and hostels and negotiating trains and buses and figuring out how things work in foreign destinations. This is the way for many solo travelers in their 20s and 30s.

As a backpacker, you can use money carefully so that you can travel farther, longer, and more often. As a solo backpacker, without anyone along for the ride suggesting ways to spend money that might not be important to you, you get all three.

We have hundreds of posts on budget and backpacker travel. Here are some posts you don't want to miss:

• Backpacking Solo: How to Plan an Exhilarating & Safe Budget Trip
• Walking the Camino Solo: Life-Changing for Body, Mind & Spirit
• The Hostel Experience for Solo Travelers: What to Expect. How to Stay Safe.
• Best Budget Destinations for Solo Travelers: 2023 Shortlist

For more, use the search bar at the top and simply put in the word “budget”.

Luxury Solo Travel in Your 20s and 30s: Sustainable and Authentic

Luxury travel is great but not at any cost. It's difficult to enjoy luxury if it damages the environment and culture of your destination.

Fortunately, that needn't be the case.

At the Hacienda Tres Rios resort on the Riviera Maya in Mexico, I watched a worker watering the plants along the beach that had been planted there to avoid erosion. He was watering them individually. Water was not being wasted on the sand between plants. Hacienda Tres Rios is known as an environmentally responsible luxury resort. Sustainability is considered in all aspects of its operations. Plus it offers authentic experiences in Tres Ríos Nature Park.

Luxury and all three boxes – sustainability, responsibility, and authenticity – are ticked. Luxury travel for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s is much different than that of their parents.

Here are some posts to help you find the right kind of luxury on your solo travels.

• Adventures in Glamping: Georgian Bay, Ontario
• The Importance of Travel to Developing Countries
• Luxury Solo Travel: Planning Your Trip of a Lifetime
• Carbon Offsets for Travel: Important? Yes. Expensive? No.
• Luxury Travel on a Budget: 32 Tips You Need to Know

Taking a Gap Year Solo

Traveling long-term offers a special reward to solo travelers in their 20s and 30s. Before settling down (if that is indeed the plan), a grand adventure of a gap year is planned to capture all the joy that travel has to offer.

Planning for a gap year is a little more involved than your standard trip. It takes saving and a better sense of geography than most people have. Because the trip is long, communications and managing access to money is more important, as well as pacing its use. And then, you also need to know yourself. Do you have goals for the trip? Do you want to schedule things or are you fine with sudden decisions to change plans?

Pacing the entire trip is important. It's important to be aware that you can't travel as quickly for a year as you do for a few weeks. You'll need to slow down. Sometimes, you even need a break from navigating and negotiating every detail yourself. This is when a tour, for a week or even more, may be very valuable. You'll also likely want to travel with someone for a period of time. The company, for a while, will be refreshing.

Here are some relevant posts for you to read.

• Long-term Travel Guide: Slow Travel One Destination or Tour Many
• How to Find a Travel Companion: Safe Options and Some to Avoid
• Need a Break? 11 Options for a Great Solo Holiday
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Solo On a Group Tour

I have been asked a number of times: how can you be solo if you're traveling in a group?

The fact is that there are many ways to travel solo. By my definition, you are traveling solo if you leave those people who define you, who have expectations of you on a daily basis, behind. You can do this traveling independently and you can do this if you pick up with a group or cruise.

Traveling solo in a group or escorted tour means you have the freedom to be who you want to be. There is no need to accommodate a partner or friend. It also means that you have the support of the tour company to manage all the details and, in many cases, you'll make new friends.

Tours come in many shapes, sizes, and prices. There are hub and spoke tours during which you stay in one spot and take day trips out to other places. Traditional tours move from one destination to another. Small groups usually involve fewer than 15 people. Coach tours can have more than 40 passengers. As for the cost, you can spend as much as you want.

The big deal for solo travelers is the single supplement. This is a premium that some companies charge for giving you your own room. In reality, it is cheaper for a company to sell to a couple but have to pay for only one room on the tour. However, with the rise of solo travel and our campaign to get more companies to drop the single supplement, more and more companies are adapting to the needs of solo travelers.

Make sure you check out our list of tours with no or low single supplements. Or sign up here and we'll send you the new list as soon as it's updated each month.

• How to Choose a Tour for Solo Travelers: Top Tips for Savings and Fun
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Top Tips for Solo Travel in Your 20s & 30s

There is so much to be said about how to travel solo. Here are some great how-to posts that dig into specifics in different areas.

• How to Plan Your Travel Budget: Luxury or Frugal Two ways to plan your travel budget.
• Solo Travel Mistakes and How to Avoid Them If there's a mistake to be made I've made it. Learn from my experience.
• Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations You need this so that you can securely go online to use a credit card or manage money in your bank while you're traveling.
• Solo Travel Safety: Expert Advice This post covers some broad travel safety advice. You can also read our 50 Tips and 5 Fundamental Solo Travel Safety Principles .
• A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers This is one that people try to avoid, but definitely shouldn't. It's really important.
• Night Safety for Solo Travelers: How to Have Fun and Be Safe Going out at night is recommended but so are these safety tips. Here's another post on that subject: Travel Solo and Enjoy the Nightlife: 18 Tips for Going to a Bar Alone .
• Road Trip Alone with Confidence: 10 Tips for a Great Trip Road trips are particularly popular right now but it is wise to prepare for them properly.
• Eating Alone is Easy When You Know How There are so many options for eating alone. Reading a book is the least interesting of them.
• Safe and Easy Hiking Destinations for Solo Travelers Adventure travel is more popular than urban travel for solo travelers. Here are some destination suggestions.
• The Wits & Wonder Travel Course If you want advice without bouncing around the site, this course is for you.

Want to hear what solo travel is like? Watch this video.

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Singles vacations for over 30s

Solo tours for 30 to 40 year olds.

All of our inspiring small group adventure tours are ideal for single travelers over 30, from walking trips to safaris, cycling adventures to cultural and foodie trips. And you’ll be in good company – around half the people in our small groups are typically traveling solo. You'll have all the excitement of traveling solo, but you'll never be alone as our small group trips are designed to offer authentic and often action-packed experiences with like-minded people, plus an expert group leader who takes care of all the day-to-day details for you. That means all you have to do is arrive and enjoy your trip, whether you want to be active and adventurous on one of our  Multi-Activity trips  or a scenic and challenging Cycling adventure or  Walking tour , or you want to get to know a new corner of the world and meet the locals on a  Discovery trip. Even if it's your first time traveling solo, you'll fit right in with your group and have an adventure to remember! New to Explore? Read more about traveling solo with us in our blog, which answers some of the most-asked questions. Please note our tours are not limited to 30 and 40 year olds , there may be a wider range of ages on the trip.

Adventure tours for singles over 30

At Explore, adventure tours are our speciality. That includes  adventure tours for single travelers , as we offer a variety of trip styles, themes and paces to suit every taste and energy level. Our Cultural Discovery trips are extremely popular for over 30s solo's as we plan your itinerary with daily activities, accommodation and transport, plus many meals, so you can focus on the adventure. Our faster-paced cultural trips include European group tours, such as the Journey through the Balkans trip, a 12-day tour around one of the world's most intriguing areas with plenty of opportunities to discover history, nature and Balkan city culture too. Foodies won't want to miss our  Classical Sicily  trip, where in between visits to spectacular and well-preserved archaeological sites there will be plenty of opportunities to indulge in exquisite local food and wine. Fancy venturing further afield? Explore Imperial cities, breathtaking mountain ranges and vast gorges on the  Highlights of Morocco  group trip, or become a  China Explorer  as we guide you through the Forbidden City, along the Great Wall and towards Shanghai, China's vibrant, modern city that cannot be missed.

Active adventures for solo travelers in their 30s

For over 30s solo travelers with energy to spare, join one of our group Active Adventure Tours where you can canoe, kayak, climb, or cycle to your heart's content! Our  Active Turkey!  trip includes a sea kayaking trip to the 'Sunken City' of Kekova, as well as swimming and snorkelling so you can truly get under the surface of this fascinating destination, or explore new heights by bike or raft on our scenic  Alpine Lakes of Slovenia  group trip. We also offer unforgettable trips for solo travelers over 30 that are ideal for keen walkers, trekkers or cyclists. Our Walking the Western US National Parks  trip includes the dramatic landscapes of the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park. Or perhaps you'd like to join our walking  Adventures in Patagonia , as we make our way through the unbelievably varied and beautiful terrain of Argentina and Chile, or hop on two wheels to  Cycle Sicily  with fellow cycling enthusiasts - we'll even provide your bike.

Popular tours for 30+ year old solos

Jordan discovery.

South Africa and Eswatini

Toubkal Climb

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Maldive Dhoni Cruise

Explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Why take a solo travel tour in your 30s with Explore?

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How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Other solo trip ideas

Solo tours for over 40s, solo tours for over 50s, solo tours for over 60s, solo adventure tours, solo walking trips, solo cycling tours, ready for your solo adventure.

Read more about our solo travel adventures

Top 10 trips for solo travelers

10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Solo travel guide for women

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure tour

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The 28 best water parks in the u.s. for 2024.

Stay cool on a hot day at America's best water parks.

Getty Images |

Whether you want to enjoy a big splash or a relaxing float, these water parks and resorts offer ample facilities to keep you entertained.

Today's water park attractions are far more thrilling and diverse than they were just a few decades ago. In fact, the best water parks in the U.S. feature everything from towering slides and water coasters to sandy spots and lazy rivers. Some even have giant wave pools and surf simulators to try out, and many offer on-site lodging options that make it easy to extend your stay beyond a single day. (Just be aware that many water parks are only open seasonally from May to September.)

Read on to learn about the top water parks, as well as their wettest and wildest amenities.

Cowabunga Bay Water Park: Draper, Utah

Sitting less than 20 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City , this swinging 1960s-themed water park is decorated with surfboards, retro beach furniture and a lively color scheme that screams fun. At this seasonal outdoor park's elaborate water playground (billed as the world's largest), kids have access to bridges and tunnels that span 12 levels. There are also 11 twisting waterslides that are well worth a visit. While older children twist through the 800-foot-long Mondo waterslide in the dark, little ones can lounge at Cowabunga Beach or enjoy Cowabunga Kids Cove's smaller slides. Cowabunga Bay also has a location near Las Vegas .

Where to stay: The aquatic fun doesn't have to end when the park closes if you stay at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City Draper, located just 4 miles southwest. This hotel features an indoor pool and free breakfast. Family-friendly rooms sleep up to four, and past guests praise the welcoming staff and excellent housekeeping.

Address: 12047 State St., Draper, UT 84020

Courtesy of Noah's Ark Waterpark |

Noah's Ark Waterpark: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Situated in Wisconsin Dells – which is known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World" – Noah's Ark dubs itself the largest water park in the country. In addition to restaurants and shops, the park is home to more than two dozen aquatic attractions, including the Flash Flood flume ride and two meandering lazy rivers with waterfalls. One of this innovative park's biggest thrills is the side-by-side tube racer, Raja, which sends riders speeding around 335 feet of track before they plunge 37 feet into the mouth of a king cobra.

Where to stay: An affordable, well-liked option is the AmericInn by Wyndham Wisconsin Dells, located less than 2 miles north of the park. From on-site grills to Wi-FI access, this hotel has plenty of amenities to help you relax after a long day on the slides. Past travelers also give a thumbs up to the large pool area in the hotel, as well as the quality breakfast (which is included, too). Wisconsin Dells is also home to plenty of resorts , many of which have indoor water parks of their own.

Address: 1410 Wisconsin Dells Parkway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

Courtesy of Water World Colorado |

Water World: Federal Heights, Colorado

Spanning more than 70 acres, this park near Denver features 50-plus attractions, including family waterslides, a relaxing lazy river and the huge Thunder Bay Wave Pool. If your kids are a little too young to be zipping down slides alone, there's a good range of lower-adrenaline attractions, including the Caribbean Family Adventure, an aquatic playground great for no-fuss splashing about. Plus, you'll have access to free parking (though the park is also accessible by Denver public transit), complimentary admission for children shorter than 40 inches and reduced rates for seniors.

Where to stay: Around 5 miles north (a quick drive on the highway) is the four-star DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Denver – Thornton. A sleek, modern property, this hotel features family-friendly rooms with two queen beds and budget-friendly rates. You'll find a fitness center and a Mexican restaurant on-site, and previous guests said they appreciated the small touches here, like warm cookies provided at check-in.

Address: 8801 N. Pecos St., Federal Heights, CO 80260

Courtesy of Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort |

Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort: New Braunfels, Texas

When founders Bob and Billye Henry added a replica German castle tower with four waterslides to their riverfront resort near San Antonio in 1979, they started what would become one of America's most well-known water parks. Schlitterbahn has expanded majorly in the decades since to become one of the top water parks in Texas .

It is now effectively two parks (East and West) rolled into one, with a broad variety of river rides, pools and waterslides for the entire family to enjoy. Thrill-seekers won't want to skip the Master Blaster Uphill Water Coaster, with its high speed and plenty of exciting drops. This water park also has a location in Galveston, Texas .

Where to stay: Families can book a stay at the Resorts at Schlitterbahn New Braunfels for a few days of fun and convenient access to the park. Options range from simple hotel rooms to fancy suites and multibedroom vacation homes. The Stay and Play package bundles park entry with your lodging. Past guests note that the accommodation options that include full kitchens make life easy if you're traveling with family.

Address: 400 N. Liberty Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Courtesy of Legoland California |

Legoland Water Park: Carlsbad, California

Located around 35 miles north of downtown San Diego within Legoland California Resort, this water park is mainly geared toward kids ages 2 to 12. Its Lego-themed rides, slides and splash pads dazzle even the youngest patrons. For added fun, kids can customize their rafts for the lazy river using Lego bricks. Other noteworthy features of this park include a spot for kids to design and build bridges and dams, as well as the Twin Chasers, where family members can race each other down slides. Or, you can just play among the water cannons of the splashy Joker Soaker attraction.

Take note: You must purchase a general Legoland ticket to access the water park inside.

Where to stay: For the full SoCal experience, consider staying at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort . It's right on the beach in Carlsbad Village, with plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance. Condos are available for families, and the resort is stacked with amenities ranging from pingpong tables to fire pits. It might be worth sticking around for a day at the resort as well as hitting Legoland, since past guests say that there's plenty of daily activities on offer, including crafts and live music.

Address: 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort |

Universal's Volcano Bay: Orlando, Florida

Opened in 2017 at Universal Orlando Resort (a top Orlando theme park ), the Volcano Bay water park is built around a realistic volcano. Admission covers access to around 20 unique attractions, plus a waterproof TapuTapu wristband, which guests can use to book and hold a spot in the Virtual Line for rides (so you don't need to wait in a physical line), pay for meals and open lockers. Notable park features include a lazy river and a dozen waterslides, such as the Maku of the Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides.

Where to stay: Universal has a number of resorts and hotels around its broader resort complex. Within walking distance is the sleek and modern Aventura Hotel; its large Kids Suites sleep up to five people. Past visitors note that the dining options are a highlight, from the Urban Pantry food hall to a rooftop bistro with stellar views.

Address: 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819

Courtesy of Silver Dollar City |

Silver Dollar City's White Water: Branson, Missouri

Branson is all about country music, live shows and family-friendly fun. For plenty of the latter, consider this 13-acre water park, which features 2 million gallons of water across a lazy river, a wave pool and a bunch of slides. Thrill-seekers will gravitate to the KaPau Plummet ride, with its near-vertical 40-foot plunge that drops you at a rate of 26 feet per second. If little ones are in tow, drift in a tube in the Aloha River or splash around in the Coconut Cove water playground.

Where to stay: If you want some contact with nature while you're in the Ozarks, Cliffs Resort Table Rock Lake in Branson is a good bet. It has one- and two-bedroom condos, plus barbecue and bonfire setups for grilling or telling spooky stories with the family. Previous visitors praise the lake location as a great place to get away from it all.

Address: 3505 W. Missouri state Highway 76, Branson, MO 65616

Courtesy of Wilderness at the Smokies |

Wilderness at the Smokies: Sevierville, Tennessee

This family resort just north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park combines lodging with a trio of indoor and outdoor water parks. At the three water parks, guests have access to numerous waterslides, pools and thrilling rides. Lake Wilderness Outdoor Waterpark and its array of slides is a must for teens during the summer months, while Salamander Springs Outdoor Waterpark offers an activity pool, a 500-gallon dump bucket and a zero-entry play area for families with younger kids.

Lastly, Wild WaterDome brings the fun inside as one of the top indoor water park resorts in the U.S. , with a clear roof that allows a jungle of tropical plants to grow. Attractions check all the water park boxes from thrilling slides to the colorful kaleidoscopic lazy river to hot tubs for the parents.

Where to stay: Wilderness at the Smokies has an array of accommodations on-site, with options like standard hotel rooms at the Stone Hill Lodge or spacious multibedroom Mountainside Cabins (which are actually more like full houses). Past travelers note that the resort staff are friendly and welcoming. Entry into the indoor and outdoor waterparks is included in your overnight stay at the resort.

Address: 1424 Old Knoxville Highway, Sevierville, TN 37876

Courtesy of SeaWorld |

Adventure Island: Tampa, Florida

Within walking distance of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay you'll find the 30-acre Adventure Island water park. Offering mat racing slides, corkscrews, a lazy river and more – all with breezy tropical decor – this outdoor water park gives you plenty of ways to cool off on a hot Florida day. The park is continuously expanding, too: In 2022, it opened the multirider Rapids Racer and the Wahoo! Remix family raft ride. In 2024, Adventure Island is set to add Castaway Falls, an interactive playground with slides, sprays, soakers and more.

Where to stay: Hotel Haya is a surprisingly affordable boutique hotel less than 10 miles away in the heart of Tampa. Choose between rooms with or without balconies, many of which are designed in a stylish blue tone. Travelers compliment beautiful building and say they love the pool area. Located alongside buzzy Seventh Avenue, the hotel offers easy access to restaurants, too.

Address: 10001 McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612

Courtesy of Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark |

Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

This family lodge within Grand Geneva Resort & Spa sits on relaxing wooded grounds and offers access to a championship golf course (part of the broader Grand Geneva property), an arcade and Moose Mountain Falls Waterpark. This 50,000-square-foot lodge and water park has an outdoor section that is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, as well as an indoor water park. Overnight guests get at least four complimentary passes to the facility's twisting slides, lazy river and heated pool. Kids will especially love climbing ropes at the activity pool and riding Avalanche Falls, which plays various songs as riders zip past colored lights.

Where to stay: Considering that free park passes are included, staying on-site at Timber Ridge Lodge is a great option. Choose between one- and two-bedroom suites, which come with full kitchens and fireplaces. Grand Geneva also has an on-site Adventure Center, so the family can take on less watery activities like biking and archery. Past visitors point out that the lodge and water park are especially suitable for younger kids.

Address: 7020 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Courtesy of Cedar Point |

Cedar Point Shores Waterpark: Sandusky, Ohio

Overlooking Lake Erie from a stretch of shoreline that is also home to the iconic Cedar Point amusement park, Cedar Point Shores Waterpark is one of the top water parks in Ohio . This park features 18 acres of aquatic fun spanning baby rides to exciting slides. The park's roughly 20 water attractions include the extreme Point Plummet body slides; a toddler zone named after the lake's mythical monster, Lemmy; and the family-friendly Lakeslide Landing, which houses a dozen miniature slides.

Where to stay: There are very few hotels on the actual Cedar Point Shores peninsula, but one option is the lakefront Hotel Breakers . The sprawling, 600-plus room property has a range of rooms suitable for families, such as double queen options. Hotel guests receive early access to the Cedar Point theme park (which is separate from the water park), and you'll have plentiful dining options. Past guests particularly love that you can access a beautiful mile-long beach on Lake Erie directly from the hotel.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Courtesy of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions |

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Wisconsin Dells: Baraboo, Wisconsin

This Safari-themed Kalahari Resorts property (which is one of four major Kalahari parks in the country) is one of the wettest and wildest water park destinations in the Wisconsin Dells area, with both an indoor and outdoor park. At the indoor water park, visitors can hop on a variety of waterslides, lounge in whirlpools, ride the Master Blaster water coaster and more. The outdoor water park features kids pools and exhilarating waterslides like the funnel-shaped Swahili Swirl. Passes include access to both parks, although the outdoor venue is only open in warmer months.

Where to stay: Lodging is available on-site, with the notable perk of included access to the water parks. The lakefront villas are great for larger groups; there are also more classic hotel-style rooms that include an extra sofa bed. Guests note that the rooms – and particularly the beds – are very comfy.

Address: 1305 Kalahari Drive, Baraboo, WI 53913

Courtesy of Camelback Resort |

Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark: Tannersville, Pennsylvania

The broader Camelback Resort complex housing this Poconos water playground offers families year-round recreation. Camelback houses the Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark, and during the summer months, travelers can also take advantage of the Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark. This outdoor facility features more than three dozen rides and slides of all sizes, plus FlowRider surf simulator sessions for those who want to learn how to surf. For a thrill that doesn't require that level of balance, try the Titan. Reputedly the highest slide of its kind in the world, it plummets guests down eight stories in a four-seat raft.

Where to stay: At the same address, Camelback Lodge offers 450-plus hotel suites for families who want to stay a few days. A stay conveniently includes water park access. To secure a good deal, pay attention to the resort's special offers, such as discounts for advance booking. The various rooms and condos sleep between four and 14 guests, and according to past visitors, you'll likely encounter friendly and helpful staff.

Address: 301 Resort Drive, Tannersville, PA 18372

Preston Mack | Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon: Orlando, Florida

A tropical paradise is the setting for this Walt Disney World Resort water park attraction. Typhoon Lagoon's focal point is Mount Mayday, where an array of slides and raft rides travel through and around caves, waterfalls and rock formations. The park's huge surfing lagoon is equally impressive; guests who enter it face 6-foot swells. Meanwhile, families can't miss Ketchakiddee Creek, a water playground with child-sized pools, a small beach and an interactive tugboat.

Where to stay: Disney has a lot of its own accommodation options spread across the sprawling Disney World property. The closest is Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, which features its own on-site beaches, hammocks and volleyball courts. Guests say they love the tropical island theme spread throughout the resort, from the guest rooms to the outdoor areas. Just be warned: Since it's Disney World, prices are high.

Address: 1145 E. Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830

Courtesy of Dollywood |

Dollywood's Splash Country: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Dolly Parton's water park in Pigeon Forge pays tribute to the lush green forests of the surrounding area, where Parton grew up. Themed rides and slides include the Downbound Float Trip with a 200-foot waterfall that soaks guests, the wooden Bear Mountain Fire Tower play structure, and dual slides that end at a butterfly-shaped pool. If you're after an adrenaline rush, ride RiverRush, Tennessee's first water coaster.

Where to stay: Dollywood has on-site accommodations at either DreamMore Resort & Spa or HeartSong Lodge & Resort. While you won't get free park entry, any resort guest with tickets will receive priority access to the parks and some of the attractions. You'll likely feel very welcome: Past visitors highlight the exceedingly warm Southern hospitality of the staff at Dollywood's resorts. Another option is to branch out to one of the Bear Cove Cabins (on a separate property) for a more outdoorsy vibe.

Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Courtesy of Aquatica San Antonio |

Aquatica San Antonio: San Antonio, Texas

This park, located next to SeaWorld San Antonio in the heart of Texas, has a beach vacation feel. There's a beach bar, a powerful wave pool and Stingray Falls, where four-person rafts float through a tank of stingrays and tropical fish. Aquatic animal encounters are also available, though extra charges may apply. No visit is complete without experiencing one of the park's biggest thrills: the high-speed Taumata Racer slide. Be sure to also check out the newly opened Tikitapu Splash, a 15,000-square-foot play area for little ones with dozens of slides, geysers, spouts and more.

Where to stay: For the full San Antonio experience, stay at the Omni La Mansión del Rio property in the city center. This historic former school was turned into an upscale hotel more than 50 years ago. One- and two-bedroom suites are available here, and the hotel has a prime location by the San Antonio River Walk – perfect for a stroll with the family after your fun at the park. Past guests highlight this location in the heart of the action, noting it is near plenty of restaurants.

Address: 10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio, TX 78251

Water Country USA: Williamsburg, Virginia

Water Country USA is easy to reach from Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and the Yorktown Battlefield, should you need a break from Williamsburg 's historical attractions. Noteworthy amenities include a chilled-out lazy river, multiple slides and a huge wave pool – plus Big Daddy Falls, a whitewater rafting adventure. As of 2023, parkgoers can now race each other through the 520-foot-long Riptide Race; there's also Aquazoid Amped, a slide that opened in 2022 and plunges 864 feet.

Where to stay: The closest major hotel to the park is the DoubleTree by Hilton Williamsburg , which is about 3 miles southwest. Head here to keep splashing around in the indoor and outdoor pools. The plush hotel rooms have a maximum of two beds, but connecting rooms are an option for larger groups. Past visitors highlight the convenient location, which is close to the park but also within easy reach of Colonial Williamsburg, downtown and nearby restaurants.

Address: 176 Water Country Parkway, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Courtesy of Audubon Nature Institute |

Audubon Cool Zoo: New Orleans, Louisiana

It might not be as large as some of the other water parks on this list, but this park in New Orleans is an especially cool pick thanks to its unique location inside the lush Audubon Zoo . Here, families can explore exotic animal habitats and indigenous swamp life by foot or train. Though you'll pay extra to visit the zoo's water park, you'll find instant relief from the heat in its animal-themed soakers, pools and Gator Run, a 750-foot-long lazy river that's connected to two beaches. Plus, entry to Audubon Cool Zoo is a fraction of what big water parks cost.

Where to stay: The Omni Riverfront Hotel is a family-friendly option that's close enough to the activities of the gorgeous French Quarter, but far enough that you will sleep peacefully away from New Orleans' raucous nightlife. The Omni Junior Chef program provides some kid-friendly snacks and activities, too. Previous guests compliment the hotel's historic building and elegant rooms.

Address: 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70118

Courtesy of Holiday World |

Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana

A perennial favorite among families, Splashin' Safari, which is situated roughly 75 miles west of Louisville, Kentucky , is best known for its fun family water coasters, including Cheetah Chase, Mammoth and Wildebeest. The park also offers the eight-slide Tembo Falls and the Tembo Tides wave pool. When you need a break from the water, stop by Holiday World, the charming holiday-themed amusement park located on the same property. Ticket prices include access to both parks.

Where to stay: Packages that include park entry are available at a number of hotels in the area if you book through the Holiday World & Splashin' Safari website. Stay in a cottage at Santa's Lakeside Cottages to enjoy an outdoor pool, fire pits, waterfront accommodations and more. Travelers say the cottages are well maintained and good for families.

Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579

Courtesy of Knott's Soak City Water Park |

Knott's Soak City Waterpark: Buena Park, California

This Knott's Berry Farm-affiliated water park around 5 miles west of Anaheim features 15 acres of amenities, including a lazy river and roughly two dozen speed, tube and body slides. Families will love Gremmie Lagoon and the Beach House water playground, where kids can climb and splash beneath a three-story structure. The 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay wave pool is another crowd favorite.

Where to stay: Just a mile north of Knott's Soak City is the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Buena Park, offering a variety of rooms that can each sleep up to four guests. Past visitors call it a clean, no-fuss option for a vacation, adding that the location across the street from the beloved Porto's Bakery is a big plus.

Address: 8200 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620

Read: The Top California Theme Parks

Steve Davis | Courtesy of Shipwreck Island Waterpark

Shipwreck Island Waterpark: Panama City Beach, Florida

Florida's Panama City Beach is known for its white sand beaches and emerald-green waters, but visitors will also find plenty of attractions away from the sea. A great option is Shipwreck Island Waterpark, which contains 3 million gallons of water across 15 acres of attractions. Major features include a 500,000-gallon wave pool, the white waters of the Raging Rapids ride, the 60-foot-high Pirate's Plunge Racing Slide and children's activity pools for the little ones in your crew.

Where to stay: For a self-contained place to stay directly on the beach, Treasure Island Resort Condominium is a solid choice. There's a range of condos with two and three bedrooms. Exact amenities vary, but a modern full kitchen is standard – and many have balconies, washers and dryers. Past guests rave about the great views and the on-site pool.

Address: 12201 Hutchison Blvd., Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Courtesy of Big Rivers Waterpark |

Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures: New Caney, Texas

Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures is home to what it calls the largest lazy river in the Houston area, as well as numerous thrill rides and a unique river racer with a 360-degree loop. An attraction called Frio Falls features three towering slides that leave guests spiraling or plummeting six stories below. For some drier fun, parkgoers can head to the on-site Big Rivers Fairgrounds, complete with its own share of roller coasters and rides. Entry to both areas is included with the same ticket.

Where to stay: Head 6 miles south to La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Houston New Caney, featuring simple hotel rooms with free Wi-Fi access, breakfast and parking. There's also an outdoor pool and barbecue grills. Past visitors praise the cleanliness of the property and the friendliness of the staff.

Address: 23101 Texas state Highway 242, New Caney, TX 77357

Courtesy of Waldameer & Water World |

Waldameer & Water World: Erie, Pennsylvania

This combination theme park and water park – one of the best water parks in Pennsylvania – has more than 30 slides, alongside a 500,000-gallon wave pool and an enormous hot tub for relaxation (it fits up to 120 people). The Rally Racer lets you lay belly-down while racing your friends on a personal raft, and the Lake Erie Dip is a twisting-and-turning body slide that's sure to thrill adrenaline-seekers. If you have small children in your group, the Kidz Zone splash area offers eight small slides and dozens of interactive water jets.

Where to stay: Around 5 miles northeast in downtown Erie sits the well-rated Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront, right alongside the city's Maritime Museum. The tasteful rooms feature a pop of color in their funky carpets; family-friendly lodging options include rooms with two queen beds. Guests note that the hotel is quite pristine, as it's relatively new. They also say the rooftop restaurant is a particular highlight.

Address: 220 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA 16505

Courtesy of Rapids Waterpark |

Rapids Waterpark: West Palm Beach, Florida

Located less than 10 miles northwest of downtown West Palm Beach , Rapids Waterpark is a go-to for splashy fun in South Florida. With around 20 attractions, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy yourself here. Get the family together and take a thrilling spin on the funnel-shaped Black Thunder, which will spin you around in total darkness. If that's too much, you can always just cruise down the lazy river as it takes you through water cannons, mist and a waterfall.

Rapids is also now home to Florida's only water coaster racer: the newly opened Mega Mayhem, an exhilarating ride equipped with blast jets for extra speed (allowing you to hit up to 22 miles per hour).

Where to stay: Although a lot of prime lodging in this area is concentrated further over in Palm Beach, the Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown is located right downtown. It's a classy spot with a rooftop pool and floor-to-ceiling windows in its eclectically decorated rooms. Past guests love the property's location close to the shops and restaurants of Clematis Street, and they also like the stylish design of the hotel.

Address: 6566 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33407

Island H2O Water Park: Kissimmee, Florida

This park outside Orlando puts a technological twist on classic water park attractions. Slides like Live Streaming will give you a wacky video recording of you as you drop vertically, while the Profile Plunge allows your group of six to control the music while on the way down. When you are ready to lounge, you can book cabanas for an extra fee. The park also offers smart wristbands that let you control parts of some rides, store photos and videos, find your friends and family, and more.

Where to stay: For easy access to the park, stay at Sonder Cirrus, which is effectively right next door. Its sleek, modern rooms feature lots of wood and white textures, and they can sleep up to six guests. Past visitors appreciate the tech-savvy nature of this hotel, where everything from check-in to room access can be handled through an app.

Address: 3230 Inspiration Drive, Kissimmee, FL 34747

Read: The Top Things to Do in Orlando With Kids

Courtesy of Lost Island Waterpark |

Lost Island Waterpark: Waterloo, Iowa

Designed with a tropical island theme, this park in northeastern Iowa mixes high-octane thrills with more relaxed activities. For thrill-seekers, there's the high-speed Wailua Kupua, a hydromagnetic water coaster – meaning it uses power from magnets to push rafts up in the slide. Another exciting option is the intense funnel-shaped Molokini Crater. If you like it calmer, there's a zero-entry wave pool for everyone and the Blue Iguana Lagoon for smaller kids to splash about.

The park also offers mini-golf and go-karts for an extra fee if you tire of the water. For more excitement, buy a combination ticket so you can head to the theme park at the same site.

Where to stay: Less than 2 miles away is the Fairfield Inn & Suites Waterloo Cedar Falls, which offers a good range of amenities like an indoor pool and a fitness center, plus a colorful design scheme in the rooms. Past guests say they appreciated the fresh, abundant free breakfast, too.

Address: 2225 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701

Grahm S. Jones | Courtesy of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Zoombezi Bay: Powell, Ohio

For a water park with a twist, Zoombezi Bay is a fantastic choice. It's owned by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and you can enter both the water park and the zoo with the same ticket to enjoy Zoombezi Bay's 17 slides and other rides. For a thrill, you can feel the sensation of weightlessness in the tunnel of Big Boa Falls. Meanwhile, kids can splash and climb through Baboon Lagoon, while parents relax and float down the adults-only Croctail Creek with its swim-up bar.

Where to stay: There are few hotels in the immediate vicinity of Zoombezi Bay, but around 10 miles east lies the top-rated Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel, a Marriott property. With queen beds and hardwood floors, the rooms are both comfortable and stylish. Past visitors note that the whole place, from the grounds to the rooms, is quite beautiful.

Address: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, OH 43065

Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge |

Great Wolf Lodge: Multiple Locations

Great Wolf Lodge's indoor water park resorts are notable for their scale and the number of locations. As of early 2024, there are 20 parks, including one in Canada. Other locations are coming soon. The parks vary in size – with the largest (in Perryville, Maryland) clocking in at more than 120,000 square feet – but they share many of the same basic attractions and food. Regardless of location, expect to splash around lazy rivers, wave pools and waterslides in winter-friendly pools heated to 80-plus degrees. (Most parks are indoors, allowing for winter visits.) There are also usually some activities on dry land, too, such as arcade games and bowling.

Where to stay: Great Wolf Lodge locations typically offer accommodations on-site in woodsy suites, allowing for an easy overnight trip. Water park passes are included with accommodations and cover all days of your stay. Various restaurants are offered at most locations, with dining packages available.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Water Parks in New Jersey
• The Top Water Parks in Georgia
• The Top Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Indoor Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Aquariums in the U.S.

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