A little family travel wishlist

I have ‘problems’ with wanderlust (always loved that word) all year round, but I don’t think it’s ever been as bad as now. I find myself searching for flights, hotels, weather reports and places of interest far more than is appropriate. Whenever I start looking I feel so overwhelmed with how fortunate I am to live in Europe where we have so many vastly different cultures, languages and climates within a few hours. It’s marvellous, and means options are endless.

When the new baby arrives one of the first things we want to do is book a family holiday, so we can squidge one in before Win starts school in September. The only criteria is (guaranteed) sun and sand, but from experience Jared and I don’t fair well on beach holidays. There has to be places to sight see, things to do in the evening and locals to mix with…otherwise what is the point of being somewhere new? I really don’t know where we’ll end up going, but I am so excited thinking about it.

There are many far off places I dream of visiting (who doesn’t dream of visiting Mauritius or Hawaii one day?), but these are the spots I’m dreaming of at the moment:

1. Iceland – Last December we very nearly booked a trip to Iceland, but common sense got the better of us and we decided to visit Poland instead. Iceland will firmly remain my very favourite until we get the opportunity to visit. Even though it will probably be another year until we visit – that doesn’t stop me from stalking all of the sights and natural beauty spots.
2. Morocco – This is another firm favourite. Whenever I imagine myself in Morocco I am staying in an atmospheric riad with low lighting, a pool, worn walls, handmade cushions and leather pouffes. I spend the day at the beach, and my evenings at a buzzing bizaar looking at lanterns, rugs and baskets. Actual heaven. Of course, in my dream, the children are perfectly behaved!
3. Cuba – My parents and some of my younger siblings went to Cuba last year and after seeing the photographs I am desperate to go, before it gradually becomes ‘Americanised’. Lonely Planet describes it as: “Timeworn but magnificent, dilapidated but dignified, fun yet maddeningly frustrating – a country of indefinable magic.” That is exactly what I felt when I saw the photographs – as well as energy from all the dancing my mum was doing!
4. Croatia – I went to Croatia as a student, and it is a place I have always wanted to take Jared to because it is completely enchanting. Dibrovnik is as perfect as it looks, and Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most breathtaking places I have ever been.  I would love to take the children swimming in the waterfalls there – I remember feeling like I was in a scene from ‘The Lion King’. The weather is exactly what you hope for, and island hopping is fun and easy.
5. Scandinavia –  I have Finland and Norway left to visit and they are both places I would love to go during the winter. The trees, the snow, the husky rides, the cabins and the delicious food. No it’s not winter, but again – that doesn’t stop me from looking.
6. Cornwall – I holidayed in Cornwall frequently as a child and I’ve loved going back as an adult. We are going with my side of the family this year and I am really hoping to have a proper surfing lesson. I absolutely love swimming in the sea and we always make sure we visit our favourite beach Kynance Cove – it is stunning.
7. Barcelona – Jared says he has been to Barcelona, but I’m not sure going solely to visit the football ground counts. My eldest brother is a real lover of historic buildings and architecture, and he often tells me that I need to go. Quite simply because there is no where else like it.
8. Istanbul – Another destination that has been on our radar for more than a few years. We love city breaks and Istanbul looks like such a delicious blend of culture, history, food and life. The weather is a huge bonus too. I’m not entirely sure how safe it is to travel here at the moment though, but it doesn’t stop me looking!

Where are you dreaming about going? Where have you been? and what suggestions do you have?

E xx