I have always loved the idea of traveling. I’ve been to Peru, Germany, and Austria. I haven’t been to many places in the U.S. My fiancé, on the other hand, has traveled to various states in the U.S., but has never traveled outside the country. We decided to make a list of places to visit that'll satisfy both of our cravings for travel.

I grew up in Naples, Florida and I’ve only traveled a few times in my life. I always loved long drives and trips to places I’d never seen before. About two years ago, I was given the opportunity to travel to Austria and Germany with FGCU professors and students. It was the best experience of my life. That trip only fueled my ambition even more to travel. Once Tyler and I met, we found that we both had the same attitude about traveling. We have made a few road trips to places in and around Florida, but we’re really hoping to travel further over the next few years.

The U.S.

1. Manhattan, New York

I know, I know, it’s a bit of a cliché, but I was born here. I believe everyone should visit New York at least once in their life. There’s a certain energy in New York that is unlike any other.

2. Long Beach, California

Along with our love of travel, we also have an interest in paranormal and eerie ghost stories. The Queen Mary is a haunted hotel ship that is located in Long Beach that has a reputation for being particularly paranormally active. Why wouldn’t we want to experience some scary stuff in our hotel room, right?

3. Essex, Vermont

This beautiful northeast city is home to The Essex, Vermont Culinary Resort. A cozy little lodge full of fresh air, beautiful room, and breathtaking scenery. Did I mention we’re also obsessed with staying in hotels?

4. Seattle, Washington

We hope to live here one day, so visiting the rainy city would probably be a good idea. Dale Chihuly, a world-renowned blown-glass artist, has an unimaginable talent that he showcases at the Chihuly Garden and Glass. The museum is full of his artwork that can also be found at Artis Naples. A great little piece of home to take with me.

5. Salem, Massachusetts

Another spooky addition to the list, Salem is known for the Salem Witch Trials of the 17th century. It’s also full of beautiful landscapes and gorgeous changing leaves in the fall.

6. Portland, Oregon

Rumored to be one of the friendliest cities in the world, Portland is an art-filled gem with hole-in-the-wall restaurants, coffeehouses, and microbreweries. Needless to say, it’s a traveling must.

Europe

7. Leipzig, Germany

A smaller version of Berlin, this quaint city has the perfect combination of history and modernity. The nightlife is sophisticated and perfect if you’re looking for a quiet outing.

8. Gothenburg, Sweden

Full of art and history museums, Gothenburg is a beautiful Swedish state that can be a great alternative to the tourist-heavy Stockholm.

9. London, England

This is another cliché, but it’s London. Arguably the most popular tourist attraction in England, London contains Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the River Thames. Beautiful places to visit while on vacation, or "on holiday" as they would say.

10. Bruges, Belgium

This adorable medieval town in Belgium contains gorgeous religious structures that have stood the test of time. Though it's small, it is full of European history!

11. Salzburg, Austria

The hills are alive! Salzburg, Austria is full of history, starting with the Hohensalzburg Castle (pictured above). This 11th-century fortress sits on a large hill that overlooks the snow-capped Alps and the entire town. This is a worthy vacation spot that will leave anyone mesmerized.

Take some time to make your own list. Travel to the first place that pops into your head. Why not? Every new discovery contributes to a chapter in your life. Be ambitious!