Stumbling Onto a New Wanderlust List
Lately I’ve been indulging my imaginary wanderlust, letting my mind drift to places I’ve been and places I still hope to see. So when I tripped over an article in Country Living titled “40 Trips Every Woman Should Take Before She Dies,” I couldn’t resist diving in. It reminded me of an abbreviated version of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die — a sampler platter of adventures meant to spark curiosity.
I’m not tackling all forty today, just the ones that jumped out at me and stirred a few memories.
#3: The “Last‑Minute Adventure”
I love the idea of a spontaneous getaway, but let’s be honest — even last‑minute adventures need a little prep. The article suggests Kansas City, New Orleans, and Washington, D.C.
Kansas City is still on my “someday” list, but I have been to New Orleans. Sorry, Mardi Gras fans, but it wasn’t my favorite stop. I spent three days there and never quite shook an uneasy feeling. Maybe someday I’ll give it another try, but it’s not at the top of my list.
Washington, D.C., on the other hand, was a spur‑of‑the‑moment trip. I went chasing cherry blossoms… and arrived in a pounding rainstorm that turned to sleet and froze every last bloom. Wandering the monuments was still fun, but the trip wasn’t the floral fantasy I’d hoped for. Poor little blossoms never stood a chance.
#6: A Voyage by Train
Now this one speaks to me. The list highlights some spectacular rail journeys — Rockies to Red Rocks, Vancouver to Banff, and one I’ve had my eye on for ages: the Coast Starlight. It traces California’s iconic coastline, letting you sit back, relax, and soak in the scenery without worrying about traffic or distracted drivers. That’s my kind of travel.
#4 and #7: Solo Adventures and Hawaiian Bliss
Trip #4 recommends a solo journey to Iceland. I haven’t made it there yet, but I’ve traveled solo many times. There’s a freedom in not coordinating with anyone else, though you do miss the shared moments and bonding that come with traveling together.
Then there’s #7 — a relaxing stay in Hawaii. This one is my heart. Hawaii was the first big trip I ever took, and I’ve returned more times than I can count. It’s my favorite place on earth, the destination that always feels like coming home.
#10: Natural Wonders at Niagara Falls
The last one I’ll touch on today is #10: a natural‑wonders trip to Niagara Falls. I’ve been twice — once with a friend and once with my mother for a bowling tournament. I was so young then.
The falls were breathtaking, and at the time the Canadian side was much nicer than the American side. I’d love to return someday just to see what’s changed.
Still Exploring, Still Dreaming
I’m only partway through the list, but it’s already sending me on a lovely trip down memory lane. I’ll keep exploring the suggestions, and I’m sure more stories — and more daydreams — will follow.