Travel and Vacation: Reasons Why Mallorca, Spain Should Be on Your Places to Visit Bucket List

Mallorca, Spain: Tantalizing Facts, Timeless History & Why Travelers Can’t Stay Away🌅 

Mallorca is the backdrop for "The Last Sunrise", a 2026 Amazon Prime Original film.  It's no wonder it was chosen for a love story.  The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca blends ancient history, Mediterranean beauty, and modern luxury in a way few destinations can match.

Mallorca's Ancient Roots & Storied History🌿 

Mallorca’s history stretches back over 4,000 years, shaped by waves of settlers and conquerors who left their mark on the island’s culture and architecture.

• Talaiotic Culture (c. 1000 BCE) — Mallorca’s earliest known civilization built mysterious stone towers called talaiots, many of which still stand today.

• Roman Conquest (123 BCE) — The Romans founded Palmaria Palmensis, today’s Palma, turning Mallorca into a thriving Mediterranean port.

• Moorish Rule (902–1229) — Under Islamic rule, Mallorca blossomed with irrigation systems, architecture, and trade networks.

• Catalan Reconquest (1229) — King James I of Aragon reclaimed the island, shaping the Catalan language and culture that remain central today.

Mallorca’s layered past gives it a unique identity — part Spanish, part Catalan, part Mediterranean crossroads.

Mallorca NOW?  A Mediterranean Powerhouse🌞 

Modern Mallorca is a global tourism magnet, drawing more than 10 million visitors a year. It’s known for:

• Luxury resorts and boutique hotels

• World‑class beaches and coves

• A thriving culinary scene featuring fresh seafood, sobrasada, and ensaïmada

• Outdoor adventure — cycling, hiking, sailing, cliff diving

• A vibrant arts community inspired by Joan Miró, who lived and worked on the island

Mallorca balances its booming tourism industry with strong preservation efforts, especially in its UNESCO‑protected mountain range.

Tourist Destinations You Can’t Miss🏖️ (Or You'll Be Sorry)

Palma de Mallorca

The island’s capital blends Gothic architecture, seaside promenades, and cosmopolitan energy.

• Must‑see: La Seu Cathedral, Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Arab Baths

Serra de Tramuntana (UNESCO Site)

A dramatic mountain range perfect for hikers, cyclists, and photographers.

• Must‑see: Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller

Cala d’Or & Cala Millor

Crystal‑clear waters, white‑sand beaches, and hidden coves ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Cap de Formentor

A breathtaking peninsula with cliffside views that feel straight out of a romance film.  Some say Cap de Formentor feels like the soul of Mallorca made visible. Those cliffs catch the sunrise in a way that makes the sea look endless and alive.

Port de Pollença

A serene coastal town beloved by families, artists, and travelers seeking quiet beauty.

Valldemossa

A serene stone village tucked into the mountains, famous for its monastery and artistic heritage. Highlights: Royal Charterhouse, Chopin’s residence, charming plant-lined streets.

Deià
A bohemian cliffside village beloved by artists, writers, and filmmakers. Highlights: Cala Deià, Robert Graves House, golden sunset views.

• NOTE: Valldemossa and Deià are more niche, intimate, and cultural destinations — not the big resort‑style areas that casual travelers usually search first. They’re beloved by: artists, writers, photographers, luxury travelers, film crews, and people seeking quiet, romantic villages.

DID YOU KNOW? 🌟 

• Mallorca is home to Europe’s largest underground lake, located inside the Cuevas del Drach.

• Chopin lived in Mallorca, composing some of his most famous works in Valldemossa.

• The island has over 250 beaches, ranging from bustling resort strips to secluded coves accessible only by boat.

• Mallorca’s wine industry is booming, with over 70 bodegas producing award‑winning vintages.

• The island’s light is legendary, inspiring painters, photographers, and filmmakers — making it a natural choice for romantic cinema.

✨ Mallorca is more than a Mediterranean getaway — it’s a place where history, nature, and emotion collide. Its sun‑washed cliffs, ancient villages, and turquoise waters create a setting that feels both timeless and cinematic. Whether you’re exploring its Roman ruins, wandering through mountain towns, or diving into hidden coves, Mallorca invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and chase your own sunrise. It’s no wonder filmmakers choose it as the backdrop for stories about love, transformation, and second chances.

What Do Paris, France, and Miami, Florida Have in Common? Moi!

A humorous look back at my childhood growing up in Miami, Florida. I almost went to Paris, France.

Growing up in Miami, Florida is a wonderfully multicultural experience. Hanging out in Downtown Miami is the best fun ever for kids who have no money. The bus ride only cost ten cents (back in the day). If you had an extra twenty-five cents, you could stop by Woolworth or McCrory’s and buy a quarter-pound bag of cashew nuts and share it. That’s what my late sister and I used to do. We thought we knew all about downtown and that there was nothing we had not seen that we did not want to see again and again. But one day we decided to be adventurous and travel a little bit further than we usually did. We turned down a street, and we were immediately transported to Paris, France. Of course, we were still in Miami, but it sure felt like we were on the streets of Paris.

People were sitting and eating at a sidewalk cafe. There was an artist painting a picture. He was a light-skinned man, but his complexion had been kissed by the sun, so there was a hint of bronze color. Not very tall, with a trim, slender build. He was wearing a black beret as if he were a soldier; a black T-shirt, and black pants. He had a dazzling smile and the most amazing blue eyes. Blue like the sky!

When he noticed that I was admiring his artwork, he looked directly at me. He was about to say something when my overprotective sister grabbed my arm and started dragging me away. “Let’s go! We have to catch the bus and get back home!” I could have protested, but she was right. It was getting late. Downtown was fun during the day but not a safe place for two young girls at night. No matter.

That day, a memory was created that I would always cherish, and it has a little mystery.

Wonder what the man was going to say to me?

Was he going to ask me if I liked his painting? Was he going to ask if he could paint my picture? Was he going to try to pick me up? He looked French, and I imagined that was something French men did when they saw young girls. Give me a break! I was about 12 years old and watched a lot of television. Anyway, I’ll never know what he was going to say to me. From that day, whenever we would go on our outings, my big sister would insist we stay on the safe streets.

Paris, France is on my list of places to visit at least one time in my life. 

Realistically though, it looks as if that may never happen. Oh well! There’s always virtual travel via the Internet. When I dream of Paris, I see a city for artists, poets, and lovers, oozing with diversity and great food! Because of that one day when my sister and I decided to turn down that one street we had never been on before, I like to think that Paris is like Miami, only French. So that means — technically — I’ve already visited this fabulous city and could scratch it off my list. But I won’t!

* * * POST NOTE: No sooner than the 2015 new year had begun, we were all saddened by an horrific event, the massacre at Charlie Hebdo. Can no longer think of Paris through the eyes of an innocent child. It is now interrupted by the memory of this tragic event. #CharlieHebdo

Travel and Vacation: 3 Destinations on My Dream Travel Bucket List

These are the Top 3 cities on my dream travel bucket list. Do you agree? 

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If you are like me and you have been blessed to travel, then there are some cities you have visited and your trips are wonderful memories. But there are some cities which you will probably never see in your lifetime. That doesn’t stop you from wishing you could visit. Those “wished for” cities end up on your bucket list or, in my case, a “dream travel bucket list”. Some people may actually one day get to visit the places on their bucket list. However, I am an armchair traveler now, and hopefully one day I will get an opportunity to leave my chair and get into the real world. Here are the cities on my bucket list.

1) Toronto, Ontario, Canada
2) Melbourne, Australia
3) Paris, France

I often like to compare my picks with official lists published by organizations that are in the travel business 7or those who are “in the know”.

Why Toronto, Ontario, Canada is On My List

TripSavvy is an award-winning travel site, and many people rely on their information and advice, which is written by experts and not by anonymous reviewers. According to this site, Toronto, Ontario, Canada is Number 1 on the list (dated November 2019) of the Top 10 cities to visit in Canada.

How did I choose this city? It had nothing to do with recommendations from travel professionals or reviews by people who had visited the city. You might think it’s silly, but there is a television show called “Murdoch Mysteries” and it was the first detective series I ever watched where the setting was in Canada. From episode 1 of the first season, when the main character introduced himself as “Detective William Murdoch of the Toronto Constabulary”, I made up my mind to add Toronto to my dream travel bucket list. Because the series was set in the 19th century and the characters were so interesting and diverse, it piqued my interest. I wanted to visit a city in a country in North America that was similar to the United States of America, with diverse peoples, and yet different.

Yes! A decision to travel to a real place was based on a fictional TV show. Haven’t you ever wished to go somewhere because you read about it in a book? For me, it was a TV program instead of a book.

Why Melbourne, Australia is On My List

Much like TripSavvy, Trip Advisor is also a respected site that people consult for travel tips. Trip Advisor includes Melbourne, Australia on its 2019 list of top cities to visit in Australia. It’s not Number 1. It’s Number 4. Eh! Good enough!

How did I choose this city? Thanks to streaming sites like Netflix, I get more exposure to foreign (i.e., non-American) TV programs. As I mentioned in the first paragraph of this article, I am physically unable to travel. What I did not mention is that I heart detective crime-solving mystery TV shows. When I go to places I have never been, it’s either via the Internet or a travel channel or … a really cool detective mystery series. Australia is on my travel list because of "Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries" and "The Doctor Blake Mysteries", the and two detective series I loved watching. The main character in the first series is an independent woman who is a private detective living in 1920s Melbourne. The main character in the second series is a doctor who is also a police surgeon, and it is set in the 1950s in a town named Ballarat, which is near Melbourne. Both shows are fascinating and introduced me to life in Australia, albeit it wasn’t life during the 21st century.

Why Paris, France is On My List

The question is not why Paris, France is on my list. The question is why isn’t the City of Love on everybody’s list? You don’t need a travel professional to recommend this city. Who doesn’t want to go to Paris? Once again, it was another television show that convinced me. But this time it was an American TV comedy show, “Rhoda” a sitcom series from the 70s. The central character in the series was a Jewish woman who moved to New York City from Minneapolis. In one particular episode, Rhoda was down in the dumps and wanted to do something she had never done to make herself happy. In other words, she had a bucket list. She wrote her bucket list on pieces of paper and put it in a bowl, and she would do what she picked. Guess what she pulled out of the hat? On the piece of paper was written: “Fly to Paris for a day.” That’s how Paris, France ended up on my dream travel bucket list.

Previously published on Read.Cash

Five (5) Reasons to Add Busan, South Korea, To Your Travel Bucket List

Watching certain Korean dramas makes you curious about the location. For me, it was the gritty realism and emotional storytelling of the Friend trilogy that sparked a deep curiosity about Busan. The films captured a city that felt raw yet beautiful, tough yet tender. Here are five compelling reasons to move Busan to the top of your travel bucket list.

AI image of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple 

Reason 1. Stunning Coastal Scenery

Busan’s coastal landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. Unlike many major cities that turn inward, Busan opens itself to the sea. Dramatic cliffs meet rolling waves, and walking paths trace the shoreline with panoramic views at every turn.

Spots like the Oryukdo Skywalk and Igidae Coastal Walk offer sweeping vistas of the Korea Strait, while seaside parks provide peaceful corners to sit and watch fishing boats drift across the horizon. Whether you’re catching sunrise over the water or admiring the city lights reflecting on the ocean at night, Busan delivers postcard-worthy scenery in every season.

Reason 2. Beautiful Beaches With a Relaxed Vibe

When most people think of South Korea, beaches may not be the first image that comes to mind — but Busan will change that. The city is home to some of the country’s most beloved stretches of sand.

Haeundae Beach is perhaps the most famous, drawing visitors with its wide shoreline, summer festivals, and vibrant nightlife. For a slightly more laid-back atmosphere, Gwangalli Beach offers soft sand paired with stunning views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge after sunset.

Despite their popularity, Busan’s beaches maintain a relaxed, welcoming feel. Locals stroll along the boardwalk, couples linger over coffee at seaside cafés, and street performers add energy without overwhelming the space. It’s easy to spend hours simply soaking in the rhythm of the waves.

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Reason 3. Fresh Seafood & Bustling Markets

As a major port city, Busan is synonymous with seafood, and experiencing it here is unforgettable. The lively Jagalchi Fish Market is the heart of the city’s culinary culture. Vendors display tanks filled with live fish, crab, and shellfish, calling out daily specials to curious visitors.

You can select your seafood downstairs and have it prepared upstairs within minutes — as sashimi, grilled, or simmered in spicy stew. It’s as fresh as it gets.

Beyond seafood, Busan’s markets are a feast for all the senses. Traditional street foods like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) tempt passersby, while colorful stalls showcase everything from handmade goods to regional specialties. Exploring these markets offers a glimpse into everyday life — lively, flavorful, and wonderfully authentic.

Reason 4. Rich History, Vibrant Culture & Unique Attractions

Busan beautifully balances modern innovation with deep-rooted tradition.

On the contemporary side, the Sky Capsule ride along the coast provides Instagram-worthy views in brightly colored pods gliding above the shoreline. Seasonal drone light shows illuminate the night sky with choreographed displays, reflecting the city’s forward-thinking spirit.

Yet tradition is never far away. The serene Haedong Yonggungsa temple sits dramatically on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea — a rare coastal Buddhist temple that feels both powerful and peaceful. Wandering through its ornate gates and stone lanterns offers a quiet contrast to the city’s buzz.

For a dose of artistic charm, Gamcheon Culture Village enchants visitors with its pastel-painted houses, winding alleyways, and vibrant murals. Once a hillside refuge during the Korean War, it has transformed into a colorful cultural hub filled with galleries and cafés.

Busan’s layered identity — shaped by war, resilience, art, and ambition — makes it far more than just a beach destination.

Reason 5. Iconic Landmarks & Impressive Architecture

From towering bridges to cinematic skylines, Busan’s landmarks leave a lasting impression. The diamond-shaped façade of Busan Cinema Center honors the city’s role as host of the Busan International Film Festival, one of Asia’s most prestigious film events.

At night, the city truly sparkles. The illuminated Gwangan Bridge stretches gracefully across the water, while high-rise buildings line the coast in a display of sleek, modern design. It’s a skyline that feels both dynamic and distinctly maritime — urban sophistication meeting ocean breeze.

BONUS: No Zombies

(Humorous reference to the popular pulse-pounding horror thriller Train to Busan.) 

AI image of night view of Gwangan Bridge 

From cinematic roots to coastal charm, Busan captures the imagination long after the credits roll. Whether you’re drawn by its beaches, intrigued by its history, or simply craving unforgettable seafood by the sea, this vibrant port city promises an experience that is both dynamic and deeply memorable.

As highlighted in “Exploring Korea: 10 Reasons Why Busan Is Famous.” | Stripes Korea.

Busan’s blend of culture, cuisine, and coastline makes it one of South Korea’s most compelling travel destinations.

Travel and History: Ten Facts About the Republic of Turkey

When you travel, it is good to know historical facts.  Modern-day Turkey, officially the Republic of Turkey, is a country strategically located between Europe and Asia, and its leaders have an integral role on the world stage. The Asian part of Turkey was at one time called Asia Minor and was a part of the ancient Roman empire. Later, Turkey became part of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. 

Its historical, religious, political, and cultural significance, including the fact that its largest city was once the capital of three empires ~ Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ~ should not be discounted or minimized. The heritage of Turkey and its influence in today’s political and economic arena are intricately woven into world history and world affairs.

♦ Here are TEN FACTS About the Republic of Turkey:

1. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is revered as the founder of the Republic of Turkey and is also called the “Father of the Turks”.
2. The founder of the Republic of Turkey was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1934.
3. The current capital city of Turkey is Ankara.
4. Istanbul was once the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
5. Istanbul was once historically known by the name Constantinople.
6. “Turkey entered World War II in 1945 on the side of the Allies, who secured an agreement that Turkey would become a democracy.”
7. Even though Britain or the UK has voted to exit the EU (“Brexit”), Turkey wishes to be accepted as a member state of the European Union (EU).
8. NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is an international alliance between European and North American countries and Turkey is a member state.
9. Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Galata Tower are all famous buildings in Turkey; must-see places for any traveler or visitor. The Topkapi Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
10. The Independent published a list of Turkey’s 7 most popular cities that attract tourists. Even though Cappadocia is located in Central Turkey and is mentioned in the Bible, this city was NOT on their list.

(Content previously published at Virily.)

Related Links:

What is the Capital of Turkey?

Accession of Turkey to the European Union

Top 10 most famous places to visit in Turkey

* * *FOR YOUR READING LIST (if you enjoy a good mystery):

• Istanbul Passage

• The Iznik Enigma

*

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque aka Blue Mosque, built in the 1600s during the rule of Ahmed I. #FamousBuildings in #RepublicOfTurkey #travel #vacation #touristattractions #travelplanner #Turkey pic.twitter.com/dUP2rbfYRe

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) December 29, 2018

Hagia Sophia was first a cathedral, later a mosque and now a museum. #FamousBuildings in #RepublicOfTurkey #travel #vacation #touristattractions #travelplanner #Turkey pic.twitter.com/P2WiuF20jO

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) December 29, 2018

Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower built in 1348. During the #ByzantineEmpire it was called the ‘Christea Turris,’ or the Tower of Christ. #FamousBuildings in #RepublicOfTurkey #travel #vacation #touristattractions #travelplanner #Turkey pic.twitter.com/rstsHEz3F7

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) December 29, 2018

Travel and Vacation: Explore the City Rome: Where to Go and What to See (Guest Post)

The Eternal City Rome is home to more than 3 million people and rises from the Lazio region of west central Italy. Cradled between the Apennines and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

According to legend, Rome was founded by twin brothers, Romulus and Remus, 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ. And it was here, on Palatine Hill, that the foundations of the city were laid. A city that would soon become the Capital of the World.

Even today, the atmosphere of Roman times could be felt throughout the city.

Colosseum in Rome: symbol of ancient Rome

Surviving earthquakes and centuries of stone thieves, the magnificent Colosseum remains the most enduring symbol of Ancient Rome. The impressive structure is still in very good condition, you just need a little imagination to frame images of gladiators in battle. Over four centuries, tens of thousands of gladiators, slaves, and Christians died in a blaze of glory.

The Colosseum at night is pleasing to the eye, during the summer it is now possible to see the Colosseum at night on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Make sure to buy your Colosseum tickets in advance during the planning stage of your Rome vacation, otherwise you’ll have to queue for a long time.

Roman Forum

Beneath the birthplace of Rome is the Roman Forum - the Roman Forum filled with temples, monuments and markets.The Forum was the center of public life in Ancient Rome and the most famous meeting place in the world, and was the heart of the city. . When the Roman Empire fell in the fifth century, the forum was reduced to a meadow of cows; a mere orchard. But, the eight columns of the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Septimius refused to crumble.

In the 17th century, young European travelers came to Rome in search of the roots of Western civilization. This hunger for the antiquities of Rome led to their preservation. And yet, travelers come from all over the world. The Roman Forum is very close to the Colosseum in Rome.

The Pantheon: the place to worship

On the nearby Arch of Constantine, an inscription bears the words, inspired by the divine. The Pantheon, one of the oldest Roman buildings, was a place to worship all the gods, from Juno, the god of fertility, to Mars, the god of war.

Pass under the central oculus of the dome and stand in the same divine light that has bathed emperors, gladiators, merchants, and travelers for nearly two millennia.

Toss the coin in the Trevi Fountain

Located in the center of the city hidden in the labyrinth of Small Street is the Trevi Fountain. No Roman holiday is complete without making a wish at the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin in Trevi and one day you’ll be back in Rome (it can be another relaxing city break in Rome). Flip two coins and you will fall in love with a Roman. After flipping coins, you can relax on the steps with a scoop of ice cream, the city’s famous ice cream.

World’s largest church St. Peter’s Basilica

Rome may no longer be the capital of the world, but it has long been the center of Christianity. Today, modern pilgrims continue to cross the river, guided by the angel of the bridge as they make their way to one of the great squares of the world.

Piazza Saint Pietro, Saint Peter’s Square.

And here is the largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica. Filled with masterpieces by Bernini, Giotto, Raphael, Saint Peter’s crowning glory is its dome, designed by the brightest star of the Renaissance, Michelangelo.

From the dome you can see the holy square where two colonnades extend like open arms to welcome the faithful who gather by the thousands to receive the blessings of the Pope. This Vatican City is the seat of the Catholic Church and the home of the Pope.

Piazza Navona is one of the great squares of Europe

Once a stadium, today Piazza Navona is one of the great squares in Europe. The crowds and thunderous carts have long faded replaced by a trio of fountains, baroque architecture, artists, and the aroma of Rome’s best coffee.

Traditional Roman cuisine near the Tiber river

As the sun sets over Rome, head to the island sanctuary of Isola Tiberina. Let the rushing water of the River Tiber soothe your senses and indulge in authentic Roman cuisine that has been perfected by generations of Italian grandmothers and great-grandmothers. This is just a highlight. Really tasting all of Rome’s treasures can take a lifetime. But Rome only needs a moment for you to fall in love with it, so be prepared.

Shopping in Rome

During your relaxing vacation in Rome, if you are planning or have already planned to do some shopping, you will find designer stores with all the famous brands such as Zara, Gucci, Prada, etc.

**Original Source (annelouis24(dot)tumblr(dot)com) This writer wrote this post for my blog and then disappeared. (?)

Why You Should Pick Florida and the Bahamas for Vacation

Planning a vacation? Need suggestions? How about South Florida and The Bahamas? They both have beautiful beaches. Isn't that enticement enough?

I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. My husband and father are both from The Bahamas, a country right next door to Florida. For those who are planning a vacation, I usually tell them to go to South Florida. Specifically, they should go to Miami, Florida, and the Florida Keys. Then I advise them: “While you're there, since you're close, you might as well go over to The Bahamas.” It's a half-hour plane ride. Some people fly over and come back on the same day. Others take a 1-day cruise. I don't recommend it. Hey! It's a vacation! Why rush? Of course, if you don't want to leave the country, you could stay in Florida, drive up to Orlando, and visit Disney World. How fun is that?

Here are some interesting and fun facts about Florida and The Bahamas. When you travel, it's good to know a little bit of history or trivia about the places you will visit. Somehow you appreciate the visit a lot more. At least I think so.

About The Bahamas

Christopher Columbus was an “accidental Bahamian tourist”. He wasn't really looking for these islands. “Long Island is where Columbus anchored the Santa Maria when he discovered the island in 1492.” (Quote Source) “After the American War of Independence, thousands of pro-British loyalists and enslaved Africans moved to the Bahamas and set up a plantation economy.”

This fact makes me laugh and makes me cry. First of all, if you are “enslaved” you don't really have much of a choice about where you're “moved”. That's the part that makes me cry. On the other hand, the part that makes me laugh is … if I am being an eternal optimist, no matter what my circumstances, to end up in a country as beautiful as The Bahamas, slave or not, I'd have to say “Well, alright!” Sunshine! Pink sand. Turquoise blue waters. Excellent diving and fishing! Hey! It's not like I was moved to Siberia! Besides. A few decades after that move, slavery was abolished. A couple of centuries later, the Bahamas became an independent nation just like America.

About South Florida

Miami is a hot spot. There's nothing I could say that a bazillion people have not already said, except that I loved growing up in that city. My memories are blessings.

Some have likened the Florida Keys to an “American Bahamas”. I disagree, but totally understand why the comparison was made. The Florida Keys and The Bahamas are very much alike. Jerry Wilkinson published a very informative article titled “History of the Bahamas,” where he explains the similarities. Both places were inhabited by indigenous Indians, and after the American Revolution, some English loyalists moved to the Keys and settled there.

So what do you think about these vacation suggestions?

Are South Florida and the Bahamas on your bucket list of "Places to Visit"?  If not, others have suggestions too.  See below.

Hunter, Scenic. “12 Must See Bucket List Destinations To Visit Before You Die.” YouTube, 10 May 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSfH5ACHBxQ.

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(NOTE: Content also appears on Read.Cash.) 

Travel and Vacation: Do You Like Mountains?

I'm not really into mountains but Helen, Georgia has captured my attention.  This is the description provided by the article writer:

“Sitting on the cusp of the Blue Ridge Mountains (a segment of the Appalachians) in northeast Georgia, Helen oozes charm. With cobblestone streets, mountain cabins, and painted buildings, you'll feel like you stepped out of Georgia and into a European alpine village. Its location makes it a desirable year-round destination.”

Doesn't that sound like fun??

* * *

If you're coming to America OR you already live in America ...

AND you like mountains, then … 

“The Best Mountain Towns in America | The Discoverer” 

1. Asheville, North Carolina
2. Helen, Georgia (Image)
3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
4. McCall, Idaho
5. Taos, New Mexico
6. Telluride, Colorado

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1. Asheville, North Carolina:

• Natural Beauty: Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning scenery with lush forests, rolling hills, and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Outdoor Activities: It's a hub for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting opportunities.

• Cultural Scene: The town is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, including the famous Biltmore Estate.

2. Helen, Georgia:

• Scenic Charm: Helen is famous for its Bavarian-inspired architecture and setting in the Appalachian Mountains, making it a picturesque and unique mountain town.

• Recreational Activities: The area offers hiking, river tubing, and access to Unicoi State Park.

• Festivals and Events: Helen hosts various cultural events, including Oktoberfest celebrations.

3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming:

• Iconic Beauty: Jackson Hole is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Grand Teton National Park and nearby Yellowstone National Park.

• Outdoor Adventures: It's a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, offering world-class skiing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and more.

• Western Charm: The town has a charming, western ambiance with a rich cowboy and ranching heritage.

4. McCall, Idaho:

• Lakes and Mountains: McCall is surrounded by pristine Payette Lake and the rugged Salmon River Mountains, providing ample opportunities for water and mountain activities.

• Outdoor Recreation: Residents and visitors can enjoy boating, skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking in the area.

• Relaxed Atmosphere: McCall offers a laid-back, small-town feel with a strong sense of community.

4. Taos, New Mexico:

• Unique Culture: Taos is known for its distinctive Pueblo-style architecture and strong Native American and Hispanic influences.

• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos offers spectacular vistas and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.

• Artistic Community: It's a haven for artists and artisans, with a thriving art scene.

5. Telluride, Colorado:

• Majestic Setting: Telluride is situated in a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains, providing an awe-inspiring alpine environment.

• Skiing Paradise: It's famous for its world-class skiing, with the Telluride Ski Resort attracting winter sports enthusiasts.

• Cultural Festivals: Telluride hosts numerous cultural events, including the Telluride Film Festival and Bluegrass Festival.

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My Dream Travel Bucket List Includes 4 African Countries

Starting in 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous travel bans or restrictions have been implemented by various countries. Both the airlines and the cruise lines have taken heavy hits financially and are taking desperate measures in the hopes that they will recover. Still! That doesn’t stop many people from dreaming and making up travel bucket lists of places they’d like to see. 

Image credit:  Amazon.com

In the USA, in March 2020, the pandemic was announced. If you do a generic online search of the phrase “travel bucket list”, you will find people still publishing their lists. In fact, I’ve seen some lists that specifically indicate that these are “Post-COVID” travel wishes. Why not? If there had been an Internet during the Black Plague of the 1300s that affected Europe, you would probably have found bucket lists. An article published by Scientific American stated that Europeans survived the Black Death and those survivors lived even longer. Don’t you imagine that those survivors probably wanted to see another part of the world after that experience?

Most of us want to be optimistic about this modern-day plague and believe that one day, hopefully soon, the world will once again be our “oyster”; even if we are already senior citizens. I have always admired people who were 70+ years of age and still traveling the world. They planned out the places they would visit during retirement and they’re loving it!

So below is a quick list of 4 countries in Africa that are on my bucket list. How did I decide on these locations? I have either met someone from that country, online or in person. I figure if the rest of the citizens are as nice as they are, that’s a place I’d like to see. I might have become fascinated after watching a movie that was filmed on location in that country. It could be that I found a YouTube music video and loved the music or I watched a cooking show that showcased the cuisine from that country and my mouth started watering. It’s one of those reasons.

1. Botswana

2. Cameroon

3. Ethiopia

4. Morocco

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♦ Botswana: Met a blogger who writes about all the various tourist destinations in this country (yourbotswana.com). The blog post I liked the most was the “photo safari”. People don’t go on safari to shoot the animals. They go to shoot photographs. Also, there is a movie about this country which stars two of my favorite actors: David Oyelowo, and Rosamund Pike. It’s a true love story between an African prince and a British citizen, and in addition to learning about how these two managed to have a successful marriage, against all odds, the film teaches the viewer a lot about the history of Botswana.

Botswana | History - Geography | Britannica

Botswana Tourism Organisation | Official Site of Botswana

15 reasons to visit Botswana – YourBotswana

♦ Cameroon: Met a stranger at a gas station in America. He was very nice, had a delightful accent when he spoke, and I could tell by his clothing that probably wasn’t from ’round here. He needed some assistance at the gas pump and I helped him out. We had a short conversation and I asked him where he was from. He said he was visiting from Cameroon. He filled up his car and I told him that I hoped his stay in America would be pleasant. Off he went. But I couldn’t help but wonder if the folks from Cameroon were as nice as he was. Years later I was watching a musical TV show and the host had invited a guest to sing with him and also play the guitar. The music was amazing. The guest entertainer was from Cameroon and his name is Richard Bona. If you have not heard him perform, you are missing an amazing talent!

Cameroon | Culture, History, & People | Britannica

Cameroon Travel Advisory – travel.gov

♦ Ethiopia: The most outstanding fact about this African country’s history is the fact that they were never colonized by the Europeans. Another fascinating fact is the “Jewish connection”. Some people say that Solomon, the famous Jewish king has a relationship with Sheba, one of the queens of Ethiopia. From that relationship, a child was born. When the queen returned to her own country, it is believed that she was a convert to the Jewish religion and that she raised her son in the Jewish faith. That story is not in the Jewish scriptures, i.e. Old Testament. But nobody has come up with a different explanation for how there came to be practicing Jews in Ethiopia. Today, there are thousands of Ethiopian Jews who willingly relocated to Israel to live. My curiosity is piqued. Last but not least there is a TV cooking show called “No Passport Required”. The host Marcus Samuelsson is from Ethiopia and for one of his shows, he spotlighted the people from Ethiopia who had made their way to America and were living in Washington, D.C., but still maintained their heritage and traditions; particularly, through their food (4).

Ethiopia | History, Capital, Map, Population, & Facts | Britannica

Ethiopia Travel Advisory - travel.gov

♦ Morocco: Casablanca is a city in Morocco. Tell me who would not want to visit Morocco after watching Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in the movie Casablanca? In case you have not watched this 1942 Hollywood movie, it is a movie based on true events. The movie won the best movie award and the director won the best director award at the Oscars.

Morocco | History, Map, Flag, Capital, & Facts | Britannica

Moroccan National Tourist Office: Travel to Morocco - Official

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So that’s it!

Of course, this bucket list is based on the assumption that there is peace in the land, no political and social upheavals going on, no major natural disasters have occurred or are predicted to occur, crime is not rampant, it's not dangerous to go there in terms of one's health, and … there is Internet access!

Do you agree with my travel bucket list of African countries?

If not. which African countries would you recommend?

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Source Credit: Content first published at ArticleWritingJobs. It has been revised, updated, and republished at Read.Cash.