Happy almost 2020 my people!
For the third year in a row, here I am writing and publishing a list of the best five new places I’ve explored this year. Y’all seem to love this kind of content, and I love writing it, so here we go! Remember, these are the rules: I have only listed places that I have visited for the first time in 2019. (Aka yes, I LOVE London, but I’ve been there like five times so that doesn’t count). If you’re curious, here are my rankings from 2017 and from 2018.
5- Washington DC
I truly did not think I would enjoy DC as much as I did! We checked out all of the most famous monuments around town: the Lincoln Memorial, the Monument, the White House, the US Capitol and more! This city is so full of history and American culture. It’s a great place to check out to learn everything about the United States’ history and government. But history is not the only thing DC has to offer: in fact, all museums are free to visit, and the food scene is outstanding!
4- Montreal
Oh, I have talked SO much about Montreal, both on my Instagram and on this blog, where I rounded up the best things to do in Montreal in the summer. Montreal is one of those places where I felt like I could live. I had a blast touring neighborhoods and exploring the Vieux Port and the older area of the city. Cherry on top: Montreal is THE circus town, and you know how much I am into circus. I can’t wait to go back!
3- Québec City
While Montreal is a city I could see myself living in, I see Quebec City as a relaxing vacation spot. It’s not as lively, but it is certainly more aesthetically pleasing. It looks very European compared to most cities in North America, with its old churches, narrow streets and small shops. There are walls that surround the city, which gives it an even “older” and fascinating look. There’s also a huge hotel that looks like a castle and represents one of the most popular landmarks of Quebec City. However, my favorite thing about Quebec City is that French is the main language spoken there! With a heavy Canadian accent of course, but still! Places that cherish and preserve their unique culture hold a special place in my heart.
2- Cortina D’Ampezzo and the Dolomites
Cortina D’Ampezzo was most definitely a highlight of my year – twice! I got the chance to visit the town and surrounding area twice, once in summer and once during the winter (just a few days ago!). Let me tell you: this place is incredible. Cortina is pretty well known in Italy, and soon enough it will be famous all around the world as it will be hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics (if you read my blog often, please forgive me for dropping an Olympic comment in each and every blog post – I just can’t help it!).
Cortina offers so much: in the summer, you can hike up the Dolomites (UNESCO World Heritage site!). The views they offer are truly incredible! In the winter, you get to ski down the Dolomites. These are some of the best slopes in the world: there’s even a – you guessed it – 1956 Olympic slope! In addition, the town itself is the fanciest ski resort around: you’ll be surrounded by tan, rich people in their designer clothes, ready for their après-ski cocktail. I highly suggest checking this place out, it’s truly fascinating at any time of the year!
1- Lago di Braies
All of the places outlined in this list feature a lot of sights to see and things to do. However, as far as literal beauty goes, Lago di Braies is probably the most gorgeous place I have ever seen in all of my travels. Its clear waters, green surroundings and the beautiful Dolomites framing the lake are the reasons why Lago di Braies is sitting at the top spot. No wonder this once hidden gem has been drastically increasing in popularity in the past few years – mainly due to Instagram! There are definitely less things to do here compared to the rest of the places I have listed, but in the summer, you can hike around the area or get on one of the little wooden boats and row around the whole perimeter of the lake. Any view at Lago di Braies is out of this world. The whole place feels surreal.
With that said, that is all! I hope this list inspires you to travel in the new year and well, the new decade! I wish you all the happiest New Year!