quick trips Archives

As I wrap up this three-part wander through the “40 Trips Every Woman Should Take Before She Dies” list, I’m still amazed at how many of these adventures I’ve already checked off—or at least dreamed about. This last batch brings back some big memories and sparks a few new ideas too.

Grand Canyon

#27 – The Grand Canyon (Again, and Worth It Every Time)

We’ve talked about the Grand Canyon before, but honestly, it deserves another mention. If I were ranking this list, it would be sitting proudly at #1. I’ve been twice, and the second visit was every bit as jaw-dropping as the first. Even with my adrenaline-junky streak, I still have zero desire to take that mule ride into the canyon. Watching from the rim suits me just fine—plenty of awe without the saddle sores.

#32 – A Weekend in Las Vegas

I’ve spent many weekends in Las Vegas, but not for the reasons most people go. The casinos don’t tempt me at all, but the shows? Absolutely. Still, if I return, I’d rather trade the neon lights for the fiery glow of Valley of Fire State Park. Those red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs are calling my name. And if you’re already in the area, a side trip to Hoover Dam is well worth the time. I’ve done it, and it’s every bit as impressive as the postcards suggest.

#33 – Leaf Peeping in the Fall

Living in Taunton, MA puts me right in the heart of leaf-peeping country, so this one feels like home. One of my favorite fall memories is riding the Kancamagus Highway on the back of my brother’s motorcycle—no car windows, no distractions, just pure color exploding around every curve. The list also recommends the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, and honestly, that would be spectacular in any season.

#34 – A Road Trip on Route 66

Ah, Route 66—the Mother Road. Not all of it survives today, but the stretch I explored in Arizona near the Grand Canyon still carries that nostalgic charm. Vintage neon signs, old-school diners, quirky souvenir shops… it’s a living postcard from America’s road‑tripping heyday. You can almost hear the hum of classic cars cruising by.

The Ones I Skipped

Wine-tasting tours from California to France didn’t make my personal list—I’m not much of a drinker. And the shopping trips to NYC or the Mall of America? Also not my style.

I’ve been to New York City, but I went for the history and the sights: Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Museum of Natural History… and of course, a Broadway show. And ever since 9/11, no trip to the city feels complete without visiting the 9/11 Memorial. It’s a powerful, solemn place that reminds you how deeply the city—and the world—was changed.

A Final Thought

If I were adding to this list, I’d say any relaxing Hawaii trip should include a stop at Pearl Harbor. It’s a beautiful, solemn memorial and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many.

So now I’m curious—what do you think.
Which trips did these professional travel writers overlook. Check out the full list here
Do you have a favorite getaway that always calls you back.
And how many of their 40 have you crossed off.

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.