Lately, I’ve been daydreaming about traveling more than I think I ever have in my entire life! I’m pretty sure it’s because I’ve been cooped up for what feels like forever. Ya’ll feel me. During one of my many midday daydreams, I thought about where I would want to go if I could go anywhere and it inspired me to share my travel bucket list and 5 places I want to visit before I retire. For each destination, I’ve included a shortlist of must-see locations and attractions. Enjoy, and let me know in the comments which are your favorite!

Scotland

Scotland is a place that has always intrigued me and as I have some Scottish in my DNA, it’s perched high on my must-visit list. It’s mysterious and beautiful and I think it’s the mystery that draws me the most. Scotland is full of history and folk legends; and ghosts. If you know me, I’m also obsessed with ghost stories and would love nothing more than to visit a haunted castle! Or maybe even stay in one! Maybe…

MUST SEE:

• Aberdeenshire (castles…hopefully haunted)
• Inverness to drive the NC500 and to visit the Victorian Market
• Loch Ness (obvi)

Italy

Aside from have a bit of Scottish in my DNA, I’m very Italian. So it’s obvious that Italy would be on my must visit places though not just any part of Italy; I want to visit the Amalfi Coast and Tuscany. The Amalfi coast is simply stunning and the views are outrageous. Tuscany is a wine lover’s dream so I would spend most of my time wine tasting…and probably a little buzzed.

MUST SEE:

• Sorrento for Limoncello (and the views)
• A boat tour into the Grotta Dello Smeraldo Cave
• Chianti for the vineyards
• Siena for history

Greece

It may be a cliche to have Greece on this list but seriously, what a stunning view! When I was a kid I was OBSESSED with Greek mythology and have always dreamed of visiting the Acropolis in Athens. And for the foodie (and win-o) in me, Greece offers everything I could ever want. I may never leave once I get there if I’m being honest.

MUST SEE:

• Acropolis in Athens
• Parthenon
• Architecture
• Sunset in Santorini

Egypt

The pyramids of Egypt and Egyptian history have always tugged at me. The was a brief moment in my youth when I wanted to be an archeologist a la Indiana Jones. My career aspirations changed as I got older but I’ve always been intrigued by ancient Egyptian art and architecture. Egypt is home to one of the oldest civilizations on earth and, rumor has it, is a top tourist destination due to its hospitality!

MUST SEE:

• Pyramids of Giza
• Valley of Kings, Luxor
• Rock Temples of Abu Simbel
• Ramessum – Temple of Ramses II

Maldives

Literally, this is my number one, travel wish list destination. I mean, just look at that water! My dream would be to stay in one of those bungalows on the water and spend my days floating in the turquoise water while sipping on a tropical cocktail. Tell me this isn’t paradise!

MUST SEE:

• Vaadhoo Island in Raa Atoll for the bioluminescent algae
• Male for the markets
• Banana Reef for diving

So which location strikes your interest? What places are on your travel bucket list?