[PHOTO_378264]
Picture-perfect view on Canada’s Lake Louise
For the moment, armchair travel may be the only way to satisfy our wanderlust, allowing us to dream – and plan – future vacation experiences. Here are some highlights of personal “wow” moments during our travels that will live on in our memories, thanks to the photos we captured along the way.
This view on Canada’s magnificent Lake Louise, part of a picturesque train excursion through the Canadian Rockies, is a perfect example of a cherished travel memory kept alive through photos.
[PHOTO_378265]
Yosemite’s eternal splendor
There’s certainly much truth in the adage that reminds us that beauty lies in our own backyard. It took us many years to finally pay a December visit to Yosemite National Park, an easy day’s drive from our home.
The moment we drove through the Wawona Tunnel to enter the park, our hearts stood still as this scene of El Capitan, in all its winter glory, came into view.
[PHOTO_378515]
Discover Old World Europe close to home
When travel finally gets the green light, you may initially opt to venture out to destinations a bit closer to home. Just across the Canadian border in Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only walled city in North America north of Mexico, you’ll discover a wealth of Old World history and romance.
[PHOTO_378290]
The magical beauty of the Hawaiian Islands
Another “close to home” destination you’ll want to dream about, and plan to visit, are the Hawaiian Islands. As much as you may be tempted to put away your camera and just relax when you visit our 50th state, its incomparable natural beauty and the ever-changing lighting will definitely inspire you to capture the moment.
And you’ll be glad you did, as you will have these photos to remind you of one of the most beautiful places on earth.
[PHOTO_378266]
Seeing eye-to-eye with a Galápagos tortoise
The Galápagos Islands rate high on many must-see lists, and that shouldn’t come as a surprise. Imagine trekking down a muddy path and coming face-to-face with a massive Galápagos tortoise looking up at you with curiosity.
You’ll never forget the many creatures – from docile sea lions, blue-footed boobies and iguanas to a variety of bird species – that pose for the camera as you walk down the guided paths.
[PHOTO_378292]
Blossom time in Japan
This was our first trip to Japan, and how lucky we were to have arrived at the peak of sakura, cherry blossom season. In the ancient city of Nagoya, a stroll through the castle park will take you past a surreal profusion of cherry blossoms at every bend in the path.
Families come out to picnic under the trees and immerse themselves in this floral wonderland. At any time of the year, Japan is a country that offers the traveler a truly eclectic cultural experience.
[PHOTO_378295]
Dawn over Death Valley
For many who have the opportunity, off-season travel is a perfect option for a number of reasons. These include reduced travel expenses, fewer crowds and ever-changing weather conditions, which make for stunning photos when the atmosphere is right.
Death Valley National Park is the perfect off-season travel destination, as evidenced by this magnificent view of sunrise over Zabriskie Point on a crystal-clear December morning.
[PHOTO_378289]
A cable car ride like no other
With its amazing natural beauty, hip and historic cities, and quaint towns and villages, it’s no wonder Switzerland remains a beloved visitor destination for guests from around the world.
Saying you’ll be awed by the mountain scenery is an understatement. The cable car ride down from Switzerland’s famous Schilthorn summit to the stop at Bira, where you’ll pass turquoise glacier lakes and snow-covered peaks, is almost surreal in its beauty.
[PHOTO_378305]
Go back in time on the Rhine
There’s no better way to go back in time to explore medieval Europe, in an intimate and luxurious setting, than on a Rhine river cruise. Unpack once and relax on your balcony or go up on the deck and literally watch history drift by you.
Daily shore excursions, either by foot, bike or bus, take you to the most beautiful regions and historic attractions along this ancient river.
[PHOTO_378302]
The aura of Ancient Greece
Greece will forever remain one of the world’s most beloved travel destinations because of the country’s vast scope of attractions, from its archipelago of picturesque islands and beaches stretching out over more than 4,500 miles of coastline, to charming towns and cosmopolitan cities. Not to mention the wealth of ancient history that pervades the entire country.
A favorite among small to medium cruise ships, Greece is a popular destination both for island hopping as well as for a sail down the Adriatic sea.
[PHOTO_378297]
Flower power in the California desert
It doesn’t happen often, only when conditions are right, but when the Southern California deserts burst into bloom in spring, it’s a glorious site to behold. The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located 80 miles east of San Diego, California, is a perfect place to experience the super bloom when this phenomenon occurs.
[PHOTO_378310]
Croatia’s enchanting island of Hvar
Instead of always trying to “see it all” during your travels, consider spending a few leisurely days in one beautiful place, such as the island of Hvar, Croatia, for example.
Stroll through the picturesque town, visit medieval castles, bike through the countryside, wine-taste in the local vineyards, relax on beautiful beaches, savor incredible local cuisine and shop for exquisite handmade jewelry. Turn back the clock for a few days for a memory you’ll keep with you always.
[PHOTO_378300]
Discover the Grand Canyon on a vintage train
Grand Canyon National Park is considered one of the wonders of the world, attracting some six million visitors annually from all parts of the globe. For a one-of-a-kind adventure, consider a unique and relaxing ride to the spectacular South Rim via a vintage train.
[PHOTO_378294]
Monkeying around in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has come into its own as an excellent destination for eco-tourism, as the country is committed to preserving its natural habitat while promoting sustainable tourism. Consider a small-ship adventure cruise for an opportunity to immerse yourself in a truly personal adventure far from the crowds.
Come face-to-face with a Capuchin monkey at the Curú National Wildlife Refuge and bond with nature, and your family, as you visit remote islands off the Costa Rica and Panama coasts.
[PHOTO_378308]
Remember the Alamo
For those of you who have never visited San Antonio, Texas, you may just want to add this destination to your travel wish list. The famous River Walk, a hip and culturally vibrant downtown, the 18th Century Missions National Historical Park, first-class shopping and dining, and many other attractions will have you wonder why you haven’t visited one of America’s most historic places years ago.
The Alamo, the hallowed monument that commemorates the battle fought for Texas independence in 1836, is positioned in the heart of the city.
[PHOTO_378306]
Into the midnight sun
Sometimes scenarios like the present bring life into perspective and emphasize the fact that it is experiences, and not “things,” that make a lasting impression on our mind and souls. On a personal note, one of my most inspirational photos was taken from the balcony of my cabin on board an ocean cruise ship as it slowly sailed up the Norwegian coast.
I stood for hours watching the midnight sun paint the sky in vibrant hues of pink and gold until it burst forth in a golden ball announcing the dawn of a new day. Let’s hope for a new day very soon, and may travel remain one of our most precious adventures in life.
10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.