From an early age, I knew that I was not meant to spend my entire life in one place. Maybe it was because I moved more often than most. Maybe it was because my mom always made sure we went on at least one big vacation every year. Either way, this little heart of mine was meant to travel the world and broaden my knowledge more than I would in little old New Jersey. (Side note: Central Jersey does exist).
When I was a child, I wanted to get married on top of The Eiffel Tower. I wanted to backpack around Europe for my honeymoon. I lived through pictures of these beautiful places with the horrible gut feeling in my stomach that I might not ever get to them in my lifetime. I had all of these extravagant ideas and dreams, but only $4 to my name. How was I supposed to do everything I wanted to do?
The high school that I went to offered a 12-day long trip to the seniors just a few weeks after graduation. Surprisingly enough, my mom was on board, and there we were getting a passport, trying to figure out where the hell to exchange dollars to Euros, and then I was off. That trip will forever go down as one of the best experiences of my life. I was completely in awe of every new place we went to and I vowed to myself that I would make it back. The following summer, my aunt had this awesome opportunity to travel to Austria with her job. Jokingly, she told me, my sister and my mom to come. Sure enough, we traveled across the Atlantic to Austria, Vienna and Prague.
Traveling is by far the best thing you can do for yourself, your soul and your mind. It allows you to seek new adventures and places that you might have never gotten the chance to see before.
So you're not that fond of traveling? Not a problem. Here are four places -- not that far -- to kick off your love of traveling:
1. New York City, New York
This is really a no-brainer. After coming to college, it baffled me that some of the people I met have never been to the city. There is so much that the city has to offer. The concerts, the museums, the coffee shops, Broadway! The possibilities are actually endless. There is always something to do in NYC -- go out and find it!
2. High Point State Park, New Jersey
As a child, I remember going here, and it was beautiful. There is a lovely tower that you can walk up -- lots of stairs peeps, be prepared -- and literally see all of New Jersey. Aside from that, they offer recreational activities such as swimming, fishing and camping. Who wouldn't love a laid back weekend with some of their closest friends?
3. Baltimore, Maryland
If you want a little adventure -- and to catch a baseball game -- Baltimore is just the place for you! Between the scenic views and the hundreds of things to do, you'll never be bored. Not only will you get a feel for new places, but you'll be in one of the most important cities in the country. It's really a win-win.
4. Niagara Falls, Canada
Not only will you be in a different country (yay, already going outside of your comfort zone!) but you'll be at one of the most well-known landmarks in the world. Catch the breathtaking views of the falls, have a bite to eat with a gorgeous backdrop and then finish off the night with the Maid of the Mist boat ride which takes you right to the base of the falls! And then if you're feeling a little risky, Toronto -- one of the greatest cities ever -- is only an hour and a half drive away!
Traveling isn't for everyone, but when these great places are literally right in your backyard, it is a sight not to miss.
Happy traveling!
