A few years ago, my wife and I spent three weeks in Italy. We'd been to the "Big Three": Firenze, Roma, and Venezia on past trips, so we chose smaller towns to immerse ourselves to live like the locals. We fell in love with Reggio Emilia, which is equidistance between Parma and Modena, with Bologna further east. We think it's a hidden gem of history, culture, and gastronomy. The city dates back to 175 B.C., so it has some amazing architecture. The train station was close to our hotel (about 2 km), and the Piazza Prampolini (The Big Square) hosted an open marketplace for food and clothing several times a week. Nearby are spectacular churches, the Opera House, and a photography museum. This area is famous for its meats, so there was no shortage of salumi shops, lasagne with meat sauce, pizza with pepperoni and sausage, ham, prosciutto, et.al. But we were surprised to find a few Asian Fusion restaurants offering sushi, which was quite a change in taste from all the pizza, pasta, and paninis, we'd been eating. One day we took a short train ride west to Parma. As the second most populous city in the area after Bologna, it's a lot more crowded than Reggio Emilia. Parma is famous for its prosciutto, Parmesan cheese, pasta, Lambrusco wine, and as the birthplace of Giuseppe Verdi. If you want to see a Leonardo da Vinci painting, "La Scapiliata" (The Lady with Disheveled Hair) can be viewed at the National Gallery within the Palazzo della Pilotta. The following day, we took a train east to Bologna. If Italy's a bad place for a diet, Bologna's probably the worst place to try to limit your intake. However, when in Bologna... try the three-hour, six-stop Secret Food Tour. We thought Parma was crowded, but Bologna, as the capital of the area, was packed. Another day, we took a short train ride to Modena, home of the Enzo Ferrari Museo, "where the legend was born". You can get up close and personal to dozens of vintage Ferraris, and even steer a Ferrari GT Simulator. It's like a video game on steroids, with the sound of the engines roaring in your ears. After all these day trips, we enjoyed just stumbling around Reggio Emilia and hoping that it doesn't get discovered by the hordes of tourists in other nearby Italian towns. Ciao!
Kyoto, Japan, is a destination that truly exceeded my expectations, offering an incredible blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural depth. Walking through its ancient streets feels like stepping into another era. The city is often referred to as the cultural heart of Japan, and it's easy to see why. With its countless temples and shrines, like the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine with its endless red torii gates or the tranquil rock gardens of Ryoan-ji, Kyoto invites you to slow down and connect with centuries-old traditions. What made Kyoto even more special for me was the changing beauty of its seasons. I visited in the spring when cherry blossoms lined the Philosopher's Path, creating a dreamy landscape, but I've heard autumn's vibrant colors are equally magical. The cultural experiences also set Kyoto apart. I had the chance to take part in a traditional tea ceremony and even learn Japanese calligraphy, both of which gave me a deeper appreciation for the artistry and mindfulness woven into everyday life there. What I loved most about Kyoto is how it balances its historical charm with natural serenity. After exploring the bustling markets and lantern-lit streets of Gion, it's easy to find peace in the quiet bamboo groves of Arashiyama or along the banks of the Kamo River. Kyoto feels perfectly suited for travelers who enjoy history, art, and cultural immersion, but it also appeals to those seeking tranquil escapes and breathtaking scenery. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left. Would you add it to your list?
You will never guess what I am going to say.. Rome was the Italian city that truly exceeded my expectations. I'll admit, I wasn't sure it would match my style since I tend to favor Northern Italy. I assumed it would be too crowded, overwhelming, and not quite clean enough-a destination I'd visit once but not feel compelled to return to. Well, I couldn't have been more wrong! I fell so in love with Rome that I booked another trip the same year, and now my husband loves to joke that we'll end up moving there. What makes Rome so special? Honestly, everything. It's like walking through a living museum that leaves you speechless at every turn. The food is incredible, the vibe is friendly and welcoming, and the city has this effortless mix of elegance and simplicity. There's a kind of happiness in the air that's impossible to put into words-you just feel it. Rome is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're on a budget or splurging, you'll find accommodation and experiences to suit your needs. History lovers, foodies, shopaholics, or those who just want to soak in the city's energy-all types of travelers will find their own magic in Rome.
Oh, Slovenia-because I thought, "Yeah, it'll be nice," and then BAM, it hit me with next-level stunning. Picture this: fairy-tale lakes, jaw-dropping mountains, and food so good it made me question my life choices for not visiting sooner. Lake Bled looked like it was plucked straight from a postcard, and yes, I did the cliche thing of rowing to the little island because main character energy. What made it so special? It's like Europe's greatest hits but without the overwhelming crowds. Nature lovers, adventure junkies, and even "I-just-want-a-cute-photo" travellers will all be obsessed. Plus, it's small enough to explore easily but packed with surprises-kind of like the travel version of a Kinder Surprise egg.
I spent the early weeks of April in Iceland exploring the southern highlights of the country. I had no idea what to expect, just that it was going to be cold and probably unlike anything I've ever seen. Iceland was gorgeous in more ways than I could have ever expected. The food was unique but phenomenal. And the welcoming nature of the people was my favorite part. I left knowing I needed to return and explore more of this amazing country. Anyone looking for adventure, sprawling night skies and unique experiences NEEDS to add Iceland to their list!
One travel destination that truly exceeded my expectations is Meiringen, Switzerland-a hidden gem in the Swiss Alps offering adventure, history, and indulgence. My husband, Mark Schulze, and I traveled there while videotaping our multi-award-winning documentary, Full Cycle: A World Odyssey. As we rode through nine countries capturing the beauty and culture of mountain biking, Meiringen stood out as one of the most unforgettable stops. One of the highlights was descending a singletrack trail past Reichenbach Falls. This legendary site, where Sherlock Holmes faced Moriarty in their fateful struggle, felt surreal. As the mist from the falls cooled our skin, we navigated a thrilling path through breathtaking alpine scenery. It was a perfect blend of literary history and pure adventure. Beyond the falls, Meiringen's diverse trails offered everything from technical descents to sweeping alpine views. Every turn revealed rolling meadows, towering peaks, charming Swiss chalets, and grazing cows, making it an idyllic destination for two-wheeled exploration. We visited the Sherlock Holmes Museum, located in an old English-style church, where a detailed replica of 221B Baker Street immersed us in Victorian London. Outside, a life-size bronze statue of Holmes sat on a bench in quiet contemplation, a memorable tribute to literature's greatest detective. As the birthplace of meringue, Meiringen celebrates this airy treat in several pastry shoppes along the main street. We couldn't resist indulging, pairing it with fresh Swiss cream. But our culinary journey didn't stop there-a classic Swiss fondue was the perfect comfort food after a long day of adventure, with rich, melted cheese and fresh bread shared in a cozy Alpine setting along with a crisp Swiss lager. For travelers seeking a mix of outdoor adventure, literary history, and culinary delights, Meiringen is a treasure. Mountain bikers will love its trails, Sherlock Holmes fans will revel in its connections to their favorite detective, and food lovers will be enchanted by its edible wonders. For Mark and me, Meiringen wasn't just another stop-it was a place where adventure, storytelling, and discovery came together in the most unexpected and delightful way. It remains one of the most memorable locations from Full Cycle: A World Odyssey, and I would highly recommend paying a visit if you are in the neighborhood.
As someone who works in the zoo industry and is constantly surrounded by incredible animal encounters, it's rare for a zoo to truly impress me-especially since my own park, Tanganyika Wildlife Park, spoils me with unique, interactive experiences. But I have to say, Brevard Zoo in Florida completely exceeded my expectations. What set it apart was the opportunity to kayak around their African exhibit, which allowed me to get up close to animals like giraffes, rhinos, and zebras from an entirely new perspective. It felt like a true immersive experience-one that felt more like a safari than a typical zoo visit. This hands-on, unique engagement with the animals was something I hadn't experienced anywhere else, and it was a refreshing change from the usual zoo visit. For someone who enjoys getting out of the traditional zoo environment and into something more engaging, Brevard Zoo is a dream. The way they integrate animal habitats with guest experiences was a standout, and I loved how the park really prioritizes connecting visitors with animals. It reminded me of the interactive experiences we offer at Tanganyika Wildlife Park, where guests can feed, touch, and learn about animals in intimate and educational ways. I would highly recommend Brevard Zoo to travelers who love adventure, wildlife, and hands-on experiences. If you're someone who enjoys feeling like you're part of the animals' world, rather than just observing it from a distance, this is the place for you.
The one place that blew my mind in many ways was Taiwan. I simply had no expectations at all and I fell in love instantly. Taiwan has an incredible mix of nature, modernity and tradition that for such a small country it's easy to experience it all in a short holiday. For outdoor lovers this is a hiking paradise, with over 260 of peaks over 3,000 meters; most of them not crowded at all, offering a sublime hiking experience. You can also go surfing and visit some gorgeous beaches. For food lovers, Taiwan has a culture of night street food markets which a rich variety of foods. This happens in pretty much every large town I visited. For those looking for cultural activities, the city of Kaohsiung has a district that resembles an open air museum. Taipei also has plenty of cultural activities going on. I wrote about my adventures travelling in Taiwan here: https://planetofadventures.com/category/destinations/backpacking-asia/backpacking-taiwan/ I'd be more than happy to provide more thoughts about this beautiful country.
Cape Town, South Africa exceeded all my expectations - and as someone who grew up there, I can tell you it's a destination that offers something for every type of traveler. The city perfectly blends stunning natural beauty with rich culture and history. You can start your morning hiking Table Mountain for breathtaking views of where two oceans meet, spend your afternoon wine tasting in Stellenbosch, and end your day enjoying fresh seafood at the V&A Waterfront while watching the sunset paint the sky in incredible colors. This destination is perfect for adventurous souls who love outdoor activities, foodies who want to explore diverse cuisines, history buffs interested in learning about South Africa's journey, and luxury travelers seeking world-class accommodations and experiences.
Almost 20 years ago I took a trip to St Joseph, Michigan (just across the lake from Chicago) and I fell in love. It was otherwise just a place that I drove by on the way between our home in the city and trips to see relatives but this time we decided to spend a few days exploring. As someone who grew up on both east and west coasts I never imagined that there would be a place that offered fantastic sandy beaches, gentle waves, wineries and great food. Plus of course, it's Southwest Michigan so there's plenty of outdoor recreation stuff with plenty of RV spots nearby, awesome public parks, forested hiking trails, bike paths, kayaking, SUP, and boating on the lake and rivers. It gets cold in the winter but summer and fall are incredible. Ultimately my wife and I enjoyed visiting here that we decided to make it our new home and it continues to exceed our expectations as residents even more than it did as visitors.
Having traveled to over 50 countries, few places have left as profound an impression on me as China. In fact, it has exceeded my expectations so consistently that I've returned three times in the past decade. While the political climate often makes headlines, it's the extraordinary sights, rich culture, and the warmth of the people that truly stand out. China offers an unparalleled mix of vibrant cities, breathtaking national parks, and charming small towns. It's a destination where you could spend years and still only scratch the surface of its vast wonders. From the awe inspiring peaks of Zhangjiajie to the tranquil water towns near Shanghai, the diversity of experiences is staggering. This is a place that calls to the adventurer at heart. Communication and navigation may be challenging at times, but for those with determination and a sense of curiosity, every day becomes a rewarding journey of discovery.
Lofoten Islands! While it is a destination known for its stunning natural beauty, it is truly something else when you experience it and see it with your own eyes. Everything is even more breathtaking in person than you could ever imagine from photos. The landscape feels so wild and untouched and it is a perfect place for anyone who craves adventure, peace, and a connection with nature.
Bhutan was a travel destination that really surprised me. The scenery was beautiful, and the focus on preserving culture made it feel unique. Visiting monasteries and learning about Gross National Happiness was a highlight. It's a great place for travelers who enjoy nature, history, and quiet, meaningful experiences.
One travel destination that exceeded my expectations was Iceland. I had heard a lot about its natural beauty, but seeing it firsthand was truly awe-inspiring. From the otherworldly landscapes of glaciers, volcanoes, and geysers to the breathtaking waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss, Iceland offers some of the most dramatic and unique scenery I've ever experienced. What made it even more special was the peacefulness and sense of isolation you get when driving through its vast, open spaces, where you can sometimes go hours without seeing another car. Iceland is also home to natural wonders like the Blue Lagoon, where you can relax in geothermal hot springs, and the chance to see the Northern Lights-an experience I'll never forget. The mix of outdoor adventure (hiking, whale watching, and exploring caves) combined with the opportunity to unwind in natural hot springs makes it a great destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. This place would appeal to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Iceland is perfect for anyone who enjoys dramatic landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and a sense of tranquility amidst nature.