2024: Our favorite travel destinations
Just like your favorite music streaming service or compulsory iPhone photos “memories,” we knew it was time to reflect on our year of travel. To be completely honest, this year f@#$ing sucked. A lot. Like a lot a lot. And for a lot of reasons. For me (Erin), it was filled with challenges, heartbreak, and disappointment. It was also filled with a ton of love and growth. I’d like to believe that our travels were a big part of the latter, both in the sense that they helped us connect with close friends and loved ones, and because they challenged us to grow and extend beyond our comfort zones.
So without further ado, here are the cities we loved visiting in 2024 (+ links to our full trip recap with lodging, food, and sightseeing dos/don’ts):
1. Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Located in the Hauraki Gulf, this island is a ferry ride away from Auckland. With its picturesque beaches, rolling vineyards, and lush walking trails, the island offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Pro-tip, slather on the sunscreen, hop on some rented e-bikes, and explore the island on two wheels. You’ll have more than enough time to visit beaches, wineries, cafes, breweries, and even enjoy an olive oil and honey tasting at Allpress Olive Groves. This idyllic island was just what we needed in 2024 and we can’t wait to go back.
2. Porto, Portugal
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, Porto is one of the best cities. We had some of our best meals of 2024 in this city (check out our post on foodie cities). We also met some of the kindest people during our time in this city. And let’s not forget the incredible architecture, rich history, and lively culture. Give us enough bifanas and pasteis de natas, and we’ll wander these narrow streets staring at beautiful azulejos all day long.
3. Blenheim, New Zealand
Nestled in the heart of the Marlborough region, Blenheim is surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, making it a haven for wine lovers. We almost didn’t include this city on our trip but decided it was the best place to stay to enjoy as much Sauvignon Blanc as possible. Thank goodness we did. This city was so unexpected. Unreal wine, food, and scenery. We recommend booking e-bike wine tour, staying at a local bed and breakfast, and grabbing some meat pies from Burleigh’s Gourmet Pies.
4. Mexico City, Mexico
This city's vibrant neighborhoods, like Roma and Condesa, are teeming with stunning architecture and lush parks, making us feel like we’re in a real life rom-com. Food lovers can indulge in an array of flavors, from street tacos to sophisticated fine dining, showcasing Mexico's diverse food culture and history. The city's arts scene is equally impressive, with world-class museums like the Museo Frida Kahlo and the Palacio de Bellas Artes celebrating both traditional and contemporary works. Mexico City's mix of ancient traditions and modern innovations makes it a must-visit location that offers an unforgettable experience for all.
5. Annecy, France
Known as the "Venice of the Alps," this enchanting city captivates with its stunning alpine scenery, crystal-clear lake, and charming canals. The well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant markets, and quaint cobblestone streets create a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Depending on the time of year, enjoy boating, hiking, and cycling, or simply relax by the lake while savoring local food.
6. Douro Valley, Portugal
While not technically a city, this region of Portugal was one of our favorite destinations in 2024. Known for breathtaking landscapes, terraced vineyards, and rich cultural heritage, Douro Valley offers visitors the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of Portugal's wine country, indulge in wine tastings of famous Port wine, and enjoy leisurely boat cruises along the Douro River. We highly recommend staying at Quinta Do Portal and booking a multi-course dinner with wine pairings at their onsite restaurant.
7. Santiago, Chile
Nestled between the Andes mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santiago is a modern city offering stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. Explore historic neighborhoods like Lastarria and Bellavista, enjoy world-class cuisine and Chilean wines, and experience a thriving arts scene. Our time here was brief, but this city and its people made a lasting impact. We’re already looking forward to our next trip back and hoping to explore more of the country (hello Torres del Paine National Park!).
8. Christchurch, New Zealand
This vibrant city beautifully blends nature, culture, and incredible food. We spent an entire day wandering through the city, on scenic paths, ending up in the lush public botanic gardens. When we weren’t walking, we couldn’t get enough of the food and café scene, serving everything from gourmet meals to artisan coffee. We highly recommend eating at Dux Dine, Bar Yoku, and King of Snake, exploring Riverside Market, or taking a day trip to Akaroa.
9. Moshi, Tanzania
If you’re not planning to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro you may just miss the incredible town of Moshi, sitting at the base of Africa's tallest peak. This city offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Explore vibrant markets, enjoy local cuisine, and engage with friendly communities. Moshi is a great homebase for those looking to hike, but is also well-located for those hoping to explore Tanzania’s many national parks, coffee tours, or visit nearby waterfalls like Materuni. We highly recommend Jackfruit Cafe, Courage Cafe, and Blossoms Cafe and Wine Bar.
10. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Known for its lakes, parks, and wild winters, Minneapolis is also home to some of the best food we had in 2024. Featuring everything from classic Midwest fare to international cuisine, we had so much fun exploring new cafes and restaurants, like Diane’s Place for Hmong-influenced brunch and pastries, Porzana for Argentinian-style steaks, or Estelle (technically in St. Paul) for Portuguese-inspired dishes. Food aside, we had a blast running the Twin Cities Marathon, enjoying local beer at Summit Brewing, and navigating the crowds of the famous Minnesota State Fair. We had the opportunity to visit friends and family multiple times in 2024 and can confidently say this city is not one to miss.
As we step into the New Year, let’s pause and cherish the lessons learned over the past year. There’s an undeniable warmth that travel brings into our lives. Each trip has offered us a glimpse into different cultures, allowing us to uncover the beauty and stories that surround us. Remember those moments when you tried a new dish, chatted with a local, or marveled at a breathtaking landscape? Those experiences shape us and widen our perspectives.
Carrying this enthusiasm into 2025, let's embrace the excitement of upcoming adventures. Whether it’s a familiar spot or a new destination, each journey holds the potential for growth and connection. So, here’s to the travels that await us, ready to enrich our lives further as we explore what the world has to offer (and a sneak peak of where we’re heading next…)!
Nigeria
Germany
Costa Rica
Philippines
Canada