If you haven't noticed, it's a bit nippy outside. According to The Weather Channel's website, it feels like 20 degrees on this January night. With winter storm Jupiter making its way around the nation, several people are stocking up and settling down for a long, cold weekend. Students are either rushing back to campus to beat the storm or waiting it out before heading back.
My sister and I chose the former, so I'm back at the lovely University of Kansas, cuddling down in my dorm room with a blanket and some fuzzy socks and thinking about places not currently under an Ice Storm Warning. Sun shining on sparkling beach sands or beautiful mountains covered in evergreen trees, I eventually want to see it all. While I'm still sitting in my room during a Kansas winter, however, I have to content myself with Googling pictures of my dream places, like these. Enjoy!
1) Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore, Italy
This fishing village is located in the south of Italy, and it's known for its bright lights, uniquely colored buildings, blue sea waters, and, of course, the wonderful Italian cuisine.
2) Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
Created by a glowworm exclusively in New Zealand, these twinkling insects light up the walls, ceilings, and even the water like stars.
3) Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Built above a village in Germany, this castle is an inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty. I feel like it also looks like the castle in Disney's Frozen during the winter.
4) Zion National Park, Utah
Filled with colorful sandstone cliffs and clear rivers, this national park is said to be one of the easiest parks to explore.
5) Oia, Santorini, Greece
Easily recognized by its white-washed buildings with bright blue roofs, this small town is one of the most famous of Santorini. It also has a killer sunset.
6) Machu Picchu, Peru
Once the height of Inca civilization, this city covers more than 116 miles of mountainous area. Its main purpose is still disputed, which makes it all the more mysterious.
7) Venice, Italy
I'm a huge sucker for any Italian location, but none so much as Venice. If I can ride a gondola just once, I think I could be happy for the rest of my life.
8) Tunnel of Love, Ukraine
It may not look like much, but it's a popular destination for couples. Formed by a train that still passes through, it's believed that wishes made in this forest with a significant other come true.
9) Kawachi Fuji Gardens, Japan
What I thought was a painting at first look is actually millions of wisteria flowers growing in an explosion of color. You don't have to stop to smell these flowers, that's for sure.
10) Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Known as the world's largest mirror, this area in Bolivia is the largest salt flat in the world. Its reflective quality only works if it has rained recently.
Don't get me wrong, I love Lawrence, Kansas. However, I also love stunning mountain views and ocean side sunsets, which is rarely seen here, for some odd reason...
Regardless, I hope to one day visit all these sites and many, many more absolutely breathtaking locations. Until then, I'm going to put on a sweater, make some hot coffee, and dream a little warm dream. Stay toasty, and stay safe, friends!
