11 Destinations That Will Make Americans Rethink Their Definition of Home
Travel can raise questions about where home truly is. Several factors play a role in our sense of belonging and comfort including our culture, the people around us, and the familiar things around us. Some parts of the world are so welcoming and have a vibrant culture that they often feel more like home than home!
Join us as we explore 11 destinations that might make you consider relocating to be a part of the beauty and awe within its borders.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a beautiful medieval town of quiet streets, ancient shrines, and exquisite tea houses. As you walk through the city’s thin alleys, you’ll see many wooden houses, and locals wearing kimonos. Kyoto is a place where a more mindful approach to life is valued and serves as a reminder to enjoy the little everyday moments that are often neglected with busy schedules.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is as cozy as it is inspiring. Its bike-friendly streets, charming canal houses, and thriving art scene create a balance of beauty and luxury. If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of American life, you might reconsider the work-life balance and neighborly connections the city promotes, which can be so refreshing.
Ubud, Bali
Living in harmony with nature is the new alt level in the kind of tropical paradise Ubud offers. Life here feels rich with serenity, with open-air homes built to embrace nature, fresh food, and vibrant colors. The people are friendly and share such a sense of community that you quickly feel like you belong. Ubud will make you feel at home.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a city with bright streets, markets, and busy streets. The people take midday breaks called siestas, and long, leisurely dinners. Life is lived slowly and intentionally with a warm, social atmosphere. The community-driven lifestyle of Barcelona is a stark contrast to the busy often isolated lives many are used to.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town‘s combination of beautiful coastlines, mountain capes, and energy all in one has an uncanny ability to simultaneously feel like a natural haven and a great urban escape. The people here have a palpable love for the outdoors and enjoy hikes, beach days, and picnics with friends. A spirit of camaraderie and adventure here can make you feel like you’re part of the community too.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen believes in the concept of ‘hygge’ – or coziness – and you can’t visit without falling in love with it. People here make warm, welcoming spaces in their homes, and simple pleasures, like a cup of coffee or curling up with a book are the likely activities you can enjoy. Copenhagen reminds us that home doesn’t have to be grand or elaborate, just cozy and close-knit.
Cusco, Peru
Perched in the Andes, Cusco is steeped in an Incan past and modern Andean heritage. Cusco is a city with vibrant markets and festivals all bringing people together. It is special because of its history and culture. For Americans, it’s a new take on home as a place that remembers and celebrates its heritage in everyday life.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is tiny, intimate, and alive. The crowded, narrow alleyways are punctuated by lively squares and ocean views cafes that feel like a living room extension, where neighbors know each other, and where weekends are spent lingering over good food and conversation. Lisbon’s warmth and relaxed pace means you’re just as likely to get to know the neighborhood cat as your local barista, and you may find yourself at home in no time.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Even though Reykjavik is small, it’s got a big community feel and big adventures. The city is surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, geothermal pools, and mountain views. You’ll find people here who know how to enjoy the warmth of friendship as well as the challenges of nature, and you may be surprised to find you like this rough-and-tumble way of life.
Hoi An, Vietnam
In the lantern-lit streets and riverside setting, Hoi An feels almost dreamlike. On the whole, life moves at a laid-back pace here in the old town. Several family-owned shops and cafes in the town mean there is a sense of belonging as bright as the city’s famous lantern. Hoi An’s warm, open, friendly vibe feels like a warm embrace.
Marrakech, Morocco
The sharp and unique aroma of mixed spices with the wondrous tilework of Marrakech is an experience that engages all the senses. The constant hustle is like the rhythmic pulse of a heartbeat. The community gathers at the squares to chat over mint tea and there are many activities to be shared. The warm sense of culture can be comforting when you’re far from home
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
