The 5 best countries I’ve visited (so far)
Out of the 46 countries I've been to, these are my all-time favourites
I’ve been lucky enough to visit 46 countries in my life so far, but these are the five that stand out as my favourites. Now, in saying that, I’ve never been to any of the Americas, and I’ve only ever been to Morocco in Africa. My primary travel has been in Asia and Europe, so this list is limited by that fact. Despite having been to 46 countries, I still feel like there are so many places that I am desperate to visit. This list feels like it will be a fun time capsule to look back on in 20 years and see if these still stand. So, in no particular order, here are the best countries I’ve had the privilege of travelling to.
Japan
Japan is hands down one of the best places ever. It’s a beautiful mix of chaotic cities, breathtaking nature and cultural wonder. All things I love when travelling. Tokyo is a futuristic city full of elaborate train networks, glowing lights and gorgeous cherry blossom-lined canals. Out of every city I’ve ever visited, Tokyo is my favourite, no competition. I also visited Kyoto, Osaka and Hakone (under Mt Fuji) and loved how different they all were from one another. Japan has something to offer everyone, whether you enjoy exploring cities, soaking in magical landscapes, satisfying your taste buds, skiing in white wonderlands, or discovering a new culture. If I had to recommend one place to visit in your lifetime, it’s Japan.
New Zealand
Despite being Australia’s neighbour, I only visited New Zealand for the first time a few years ago, and I can’t believe I didn’t go sooner. New Zealand has got to be the most stunning country I’ve ever visited. The landscapes there are so breathtaking, they look fake. The North Island is full of rolling green hills and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, while the South Island boasts jagged mountain ranges and stunning blue glaciers. If you’re a nature lover then New Zealand is the place for you.
Bosnia & Herzegovina
I’ve been to Bosnia & Herzegovina twice now. Once on my gap year when I was 18, and then again a few months ago. Both times I just loved it. I ended up there sort of accidentally the first time. I had never even heard of it when I met some people in Croatia who suggested it. I spontaneously hopped on a bus to Mostar, and proceeded to have the best two days there. This year I also got to go to Sarajevo which was an incredible city. Bosnia & Herzegovina is a country full of rich history, charming natural wonder and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.
Greece
Greece is a country that has my heart. The food, the people, the ocean, the history, the streets, the islands. I love it all. Athens is definitely a polarising city, some people love it, and some people hate it. I’m in the former camp. It’s a city with so much character and charm. In terms of the Greek islands, you really can’t go wrong. Of course Santorini is the most famous, but there’s so many others with so much to offer. Crete and Kefalonia are my favourite islands I’ve been to, with their breathtaking blue waters and cozy seaside towns. The Peloponnese is also definitely worth a visit for its history and beauty. Greece has so much to explore, and I can’t wait to go back.
Thailand
Full of bustling cities and picturesque beaches, Thailand is a must-visit country. The people are incredibly kind and welcoming, and there are so many amazing places to be discovered. One of my favourite things about Thailand is the food. Their cuisine is unmatched, and if you want to have the best culinary experience, then you have to go to one of Thailand’s many bustling food markets.
Special mentions
Now I need to give a special shoutout in this list to Indonesia and Portugal. I feel like I couldn’t include them in the main list because I have lived in both these countries and am far too biased, but it would be amiss of me not to mention them as they are my two favourite countries in the world.
Indonesia
When it comes to Indonesia, don’t just go to Bali. I love Bali but there are so many other incredible places, including Flores, Lombok, Java and Sumatra, that aren’t to be missed. The people, the nature, the culture and the food are all just out-of-this-world.
Portugal
I just spent the last year of my life in Portugal and I already miss it so much. It has so much to offer, depending on your interests. Once again, I would recommend going beyond Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. They are all incredible but venture out further to the Azores Islands, Madeira, and up north to Braga and Guimaraes.
Now that I’ve shared my favourites, I want to know what yours are! Tell me in the comments below, and I’ll add them to my list for future travel.