Where to Travel to in 2022: The North American Edition

Alas, Spring Break season is almost upon us. 'Tis the season of swim suit shopping, air fare bookings, and voracious wanderlust. That's right folks. You heard it here. Naturally, I have taken it upon myself to reflect on some of the must visit places within this gorgeous continent: North America.

1. Kauai, Hawaii

Despite both of my grandmothers insisting that Hawaii is a cursed place for our family after two slightly miserable-sounding trips (I don't know though, they both have a penchant for exaggerations - an inheritable trait, perhaps), I am ready to be part of a newer generation in the Sullivan/O'Leary clan that has a successful Hawaii trip!

My ideal Kauai trip would consist of a Na Poli coastal excursion, a visit to Koke'e state park, secret beach explorations, and some fruity rum drinks.

2. Garibaldi Lake, British Columbia

Located just outside of Vancouver, and not too far away from Whistler, lies this stunning lake. My first trip to Canada, at the end of 2021 set me up for an exquisite need to see more of British Columbia. One weekend skiing at Whistler floored me. What is more, it also filled me with a desire to experience as much as I could of this beautiful part of the world, tucked away less than three hours away from where I live.

I won't say too much about why I want to camp there, and do this specific trail so badly. I feel like the image speaks for itself.

3. Banff, Alberta

I will openly admit I am on a Canada kick right now. Last year I was robbed of the opportunity to visit Banff and go hiking with my family (due to COVID travel restrictions between Canada and the US), so I feel like this has got to be my year of redemption. Banff has been a dream travel destination of mine for a very long time. The natural wonders this corner of the universe offers are, in my opinion, completely unparalleled.

4. Denali National Park, Alaska

Throughout my life, I have heard friends and family members remark on my "wild child" nature. I always kind of reveled in the label, honestly. I wore it like a badge of honor. That being said, Alaska is ostensibly the wildest state in the U.S of A, and Denali National Park is on my must experience list. A wild child, in a wild place... seems suiting, right?

5. Acadia National Park, Maine

I have been charmed by picture after picture of this beautiful national park, for the entirety of my life. When my mom was in college, she and my dad took a vacation to Acadia, and I have never seen the two of them glow like they did in the photograph album containing their Acadia memories. I have always wanted to experience the magic of Acadia first hand, and am optimistic that it is in the imminent future for me!

6. Gunnison, Colorado

This is a sentimental one for me. My boyfriend lived in Gunnison for 5 years before we met and fell in love. I have not visited this sleepy, little mountain town yet, despite all of my better half's proclamations that there is no place in the world where the stars shine so bright. This August we will be attending a wedding in Gunnison, and I will have a chance to see if he is right!

7. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Situated right on the border of Mexico, I have always dreamt of kayaking through this gorgeous national park. One of my favorite vacations growing up was to Bryce and Zion National Parks, and all the stories and pictures I have seen of Big Bend have that same Southwest hiking vibe, that I adore so much. Big Bend is high on my list of must visit places in 2022!

8. Glacier National Park, Montana

An obvious choice for a gal that loves the mountains. Glacier was another point on last year's family vacation itinerary that got obliterated due to a global pandemic. I have no doubt though that the wait on this one will be worthwhile, and the experience will be everything I had aspired for it to be and more!

9. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Mexico is a country that I have never been to, despite the fact that I my ancestors are from there, it is my neighbor country, and I speak fluent Spanish. Ay Carumba, right?! Puerto Vallarta, from what I have heard, would be the perfect vibe for me. Not as touristy as Cancún, but with all the amazing perks such as copious beach time, a cute city life, delicious sea food and more.

10. Isle Royale, Michigan

I decided to end on this one, because it is a midwest gem, that oftentimes slides under the radar. It is immensely difficult to get to, as there are no bridges connecting any of the Lake Superior shores to this magnificent island. You may only get there by boat or by sea plane, and once you're there, guess what? No cars allowed! It is a true slice of a nature-lover's heaven and I am itching to go! This would be another ideal kayaking vacation.