From a secret hot spring hike to an unforgettable sushi breakfast, these are some of my favorite travel memories.
Hi, I’m Hannah and I’m obsessed with travel. In fact, I am constantly hoarding and hoarding precious vacation days in the hope of going somewhere new. I spend way too much time tracking down the best airfare deals, planning itineraries, and daydreaming about my next adventure. I have visited over 35 countries (and there are soooo many places that I have yet to see). In doing so, I was fortunate enough to relive some pretty incredible travel memories. Here are some of the highlights of traveling around the world that I will never forget.
one.
Sweat while hiking to hot springs outside of Reykjavik.
Hanna Löwentheil
I have been to Iceland twice and would happily return, but it is impossible to ignore the fact that she has become very popular. Unless you’re really crazy, you’ll find tour buses at almost every attraction. But there were few other tourists at the entrance to the Reykjadalur Valley, a trail flanked by gorges and waterfalls, meandering past natural hot springs.
After a rather steep hour-long climb, I arrived at the only hot spring that was allowed to bathe in (there are other boiling pools along the way, which are definitely off-limits!). There are no changing rooms or amenities, and almost everyone bathing in the river seemed to be locals. They refueled with picnic sandwiches and relaxed with their kids and dogs in tow. I dove into the warm water and took in the views before heading back through the valley. It was one of those moments when it is impossible not to stare at the incredible nature.
2.
Taco tour of the historic center of Mexico City.
Hanna Löwentheil
Traveling to Mexico City is an exercise in endurance: you want to eat all. With street food stalls on every corner of every block, you constantly breathe in the wafting scents of freshly grilled blue corn tortillas and succulent al pastor shaved from skewers.
I took a taco tour of the historic district, making my way through bustling streets and busy market halls with the help of a local guide who was able to show me places I would never have found on my own. He explained the culture and traditions of each plate which made everything so much tastier. As someone who puts food first on every trip, this guided food tour of one of the best culinary cities I have ever visited was a dream come true.
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