Not every destination is the perfect fit for every traveler. Some countries are a paradise for adventure seekers, while others are ideal for history buffs, food lovers, or city explorers. Your travel style—how you like to explore, where you feel most comfortable, and what excites you—plays a key role in choosing the best destination for your trip.
In this travel guide, we’ll break down why you should or shouldn’t visit 23 countries across North America, Central America, and Western Europe based on your personality, travel habits, and preferences. Why these 23? I’ve personally traveled to each of them and have experienced their highlights—and challenges—firsthand. Every destination has something incredible to offer, but not every place aligns with every traveler’s ideal experience. Let’s find out which ones are right for you!
Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll journey through the Mediterranean, exploring must-visit spots across Southern Europe, the Balkans, and the Middle East—rich with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes!
Iceland 🇮🇸
Why You Should Visit:
- Unmatched Natural Beauty – Iceland is a paradise for nature lovers, with its volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls offering incredible landscapes and outdoor activities.
- The Northern Lights – If you’re lucky, you can witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Iceland, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many.
- Adventure-Filled – Iceland is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy activities like hiking, whale watching, and exploring hot springs.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit:
- Expensive – Iceland is one of the more expensive countries to visit, especially in terms of accommodations and food.
- Limited Daylight in Winter – If you’re visiting in winter, the days are incredibly short, with only a few hours of daylight each day.
- Remote and Isolated – While Iceland’s natural beauty is unmatched, the country can feel isolated, and some areas may require long drives to reach.
Canada 🇨🇦: The Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise
Why You Should Visit Canada
- You love nature and outdoor adventures. The Rockies, Banff, and countless lakes make Canada a dream for hikers and skiers.
- You appreciate a mix of European and American culture. Cities like Montreal feel European, while Toronto has a New York-like energy.
- You prefer quieter, friendly cities. Even big cities don’t feel overly chaotic.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit Canada
- You dislike cold weather. Winters can be brutally long and harsh.
- You want fast, efficient transportation. Public transport is decent in cities but nearly nonexistent in rural areas.
- You’re looking for budget travel. Canada can be expensive, especially in major cities.
USA 🇺🇸: The Road Trip Nation
Why You Should Visit the USA
- You love road trips. The U.S. is built for long drives, with iconic routes like Route 66, I 75 connecting Michigan to Florida, and the Pacific Coast Highway.
- You enjoy variety. From New York’s fast-paced energy to Michigan’s largest collection of fresh body water in the world to the paradise of Hawaii to the dessert lands of New Mexico– the USA has nearly every landscape and culture, truly from sea to shining sea!
- You thrive in big cities. Places like NYC, Chicago, San Diego, and Miami have world-class food, art, and entertainment.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit the USA
- You don’t enjoy driving long distances. Public transport is limited in most places outside of major cities like New York, Chicago, and Washington D.C.
- You prefer walkable destinations. Unlike European or Asian cities, American towns and suburbs are spread out and almost 99% of the time accessible by car.
- You don’t enjoy tipping culture. The U.S. has a strong tipping culture, with 15-20% expected at restaurants, coffee shops, and even now at fast food joints.
Mexico 🇲🇽: Vibrant Culture & Coastlines
Why You Should Visit Mexico
- You love beaches and warm weather. Cancun, Tulum, and Baja California offer stunning coastlines.
- You enjoy bold flavors and authentic food. Mexico is a paradise for food lovers.
- You want rich history and culture. Mayan ruins, Mexico City, colonial towns, and vibrant traditions are everywhere.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit Mexico
- You’re not comfortable with varying levels of safety. Tourist areas can feel safer for travelers, but some regions require extra precautions and don’t tailor to tourists.
- You don’t enjoy hot and humid climates. Many areas can be sweltering, especially in summer.
- You prefer a structured, predictable environment. Mexico operates on a relaxed schedule, which may frustrate some travelers.
Costa Rica 🇨🇷: The Eco-Adventure Haven
Why You Should Visit Costa Rica
- You love adventure and wildlife. From zip-lining through rainforests to spotting sloths, Costa Rica is an outdoor lover’s dream.
- You’re a beach and jungle explorer. There’s a mix of beaches, volcanoes, and lush forests.
- You appreciate sustainable travel. Costa Rica leads in eco-tourism.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit Costa Rica
- You dislike humidity and unpredictable weather. The rainforest climate means sudden downpours.
- You prefer a city-focused trip. Costa Rica’s main attractions are in nature, not urban areas.
- You’re not a fan of insects or wildlife. Bugs and unexpected animal encounters are common.
Netherlands 🇳🇱: The Cyclist’s Dream
Why You Should Visit the Netherlands
- You love cycling and pedestrian-friendly cities. Amsterdam is designed for biking.
- You enjoy canal-side charm. The Netherlands has picture-perfect canals and windmills.
- You appreciate efficiency and order. Public transport and infrastructure are excellent.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit the Netherlands
- You’re not comfortable cycling in traffic. Bike culture is strong, but it can feel overwhelming.
- You don’t enjoy flat landscapes. The Netherlands is almost entirely flat.
- You prefer warm, sunny weather. The country is often rainy and cloudy.
Germany 🇩🇪: A History Buff’s Dream
Why You Should Visit Germany
- You love history. Berlin, Munich, and Nuremberg are full of historical sites.
- You enjoy efficient public transport. Germany’s trains and buses are reliable and widespread.
- You like beer and festivals. Oktoberfest and beer gardens are a huge part of German culture.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit Germany
- You prefer slow, relaxed cultures. Germans value punctuality and efficiency.
- You don’t like heavy food. Traditional German food is hearty, with lots of meat and potatoes.
- You expect shops to be open on Sundays. Many stores and restaurants close on Sundays.
Austria 🇦🇹
Why You Should Visit:
- World-Class Culture – Vienna is a dream destination for classical music lovers, with renowned opera houses and concerts. It’s perfect for anyone seeking an artistic and cultural experience. The Sound of Music was filmed here and many locations can be visited and enjoyed all year round!
- Alpine Adventures – The Alps are perfect for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking scenery year-round. If you’re into nature, outdoor activities, and stunning landscapes, Austria is the place to be.
- Gourmet Experiences – From traditional Viennese coffeehouses to Alpine cheeses, Austria offers food lovers plenty of delicious options to explore.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit:
- Cold Winters – Austria’s winters are known for their cold, especially in mountainous regions, which could be a downside for those who prefer warmer weather.
- Traditional Atmosphere – If you’re looking for a laid-back, modern vibe, Austria may feel a bit too traditional and focused on its rich cultural heritage.
- Walking Required – Austrian cities like Vienna and Salzburg are best explored on foot, so be prepared to do a fair amount of walking, which might not be ideal for everyone as their are steep hills and some uneven paths.
Switzerland 🇨🇭
Why You Should Visit:
- Unbeatable Landscapes – The Swiss Alps offer the best hiking, skiing, and breathtaking panoramic views that nature lovers will adore.
- Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts – From train rides like the Glacier Express to scenic hikes, Switzerland is a haven for those who want to experience nature in its most pristine form.
- A Blend of Modern and Traditional – Swiss cities like Zurich and Lucerne offer the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences, making it a great destination for both city lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Why You Shouldn’t Visit:
- High Costs – Switzerland is notoriously expensive. From food to accommodations, you’ll need a bigger budget compared to other European destinations.
- Fast-Paced Cities – While Switzerland’s cities are beautiful, they can feel a bit busy and high-energy, especially Zurich, which might not appeal to travelers looking for a slower pace.
- Limited Variety for Non-Nature Lovers – If you’re not into outdoor activities or scenic landscapes, Switzerland may not have enough to offer in terms of cultural or historical experiences.
Ultimately, where you choose to travel comes down to your own unique preferences and travel style. Whether you’re drawn to the history and culture of a bustling European city or the tranquil nature of a remote beach, understanding your personal travel habits can make all the difference in curating a trip you’ll truly enjoy. Every country has its own charm, but the key is finding the one that aligns with your personality and interests.
So, before you pack your bags and book your next flight, take a moment to reflect on your ideal travel experience. Are you ready for an adventure, or do you crave peace and relaxation? If you have never traveled outside of the country before, be open and flexible, as no matter the destination it will require you to step outside your comfort zone and fall in love with something you have yet to experience!
Whatever your choice, trust that there are destinations waiting for you that will make your travel dreams come true!
Happy Traveling,
Cosette
Janine Lambaren and are very excited. We are living together now that we are both ‘single’ and aged. 🤗 we…
Lovely read! Can’t wait for part 2
obsessed, I’ll be back for more
Leave a Reply