The Top 10 Travel Spots Where Inspiration Meets Destination

Our ability to travel has been hampered since the first COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020. Many of us had to cancel trips, and some haven’t traveled since. However, with the world slowly returning to normal, travel has become a priority again. For creative minds, travel is crucial to developing art. Culture, food and community can contribute to our best work. If you’re looking for a destination that’s also sure to spark some inspiration, you’re in luck. Let’s explore the top travel spots for 2022, and what gives them their edge.

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Abruzzo, Italy

Everyone already knows Italy is the place to be, especially for a romantic, European summer getaway. But, instead of taking the ultimate tourist route and choosing Florence, Vatican City or Rome, we’re suggesting Abruzzo.

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Abruzzo is full of charming villages and natural landscapes, including the Trabocchi Coast. Over the past few years, the region in Southern Italy has shifted to conscious living, including sustainable food businesses. Abruzzo also has an exciting food scene that focuses on local produce and innovative takes on traditional dishes. This location will entice all of your senses, giving you the kick of culture you need to inspire your best works.

Budapest, Hungary

Part of what makes Budapest a destination hot spot is its affordability. Other than having decently priced food and accommodation for a European city, Budapest is full of surprises that will keep you on your toes. Budapest still has some historical charm, such as Matild Palace, a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city’s royals. That same hotel now hosts Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant Spago, which is a top travel spot in itself.

Surrounded by wine regions, Budapest is known as a good time with even better drinks. With a joyful attitude proud and present, and glasses always full, Budapest makes for an experience worth writing about.

Alberta, Canada

You may not have marked Canada as a country to visit initially, but you shouldn’t underestimate its beauty and rich history. Banff National Park, located in Alberta, is full of crystal-clear lakes, rounded mountain views, and scenic hiking opportunities. It showcases much of the beauty that Canada has to offer.

Other than the outdoors, you also have the opportunity to explore Alberta’s diverse history, museums, and impressive gastronomy. Whether it's breathing in the crisp outdoor air, or munching at a Michelin Star restaurant, Alberta will surely lend you the experience.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico isn’t just an all-inclusive, beach-vacation destination. As proof, look no further than Mexico City, which is enjoying a resurgence in tourism in 2022, thanks to its vibrant culture. Other than great nightlife, Mexico City is chock-full of tradition and art. There are murals by Diego Rivera scattered around the city, on the sides of houses, which can be an adventure on its own.

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It’s also known for its Templo Mayor, a 13th-century Aztec temple that adds another layer of complexity to Mexico City. If you’re not a typical beach-goer, don’t write off Mexico as a top travel spot for 2022 just yet. Mexico City will surprise you in the way it pulls you in and allows you to truly immerse yourself in everything it has to offer.

Burgundy, France

The joie de vivre is too strong to ignore! Burgundy is for foodies who want nothing more than a robust glass of wine and a complex Coq au Vin. As of May 2022, the region’s capital, Dijon, welcomed the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin, a complex that boasts a multitude of restaurants, an expansive wine cellar, a hotel, and a cooking school.

If your gut is tightly linked with your mind, then the fantastic Burgundy wine is sure to guide you in this direction. You'll definitely have food worth Instagram-ing about!

Crete, Greece

There’s nothing quite like the Greek islands in the summer. But what you might not know is that Crete is the largest island of them all, giving it a top spot on our list. With the same hillside villages and white-washed walls, what sets Crete apart is its connection to Greek mythology.

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The historical and mythological contexts that exist within Crete are what make it the place to center yourself in your creativity. Tourists are also welcome to visit the many museums and galleries throughout the island, which hold unique pieces to pique your interest.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a well-rounded destination that gives you an old structure and a modern interpretation of old-world charm. You’d be surprised by the luxury hotels, giving the city a high-end feel you may not have expected.

There’s no shortage of fun things to do, like distillery tours and a raging scotch scene, so rest assured you won’t be bored in the Scottish capital. While still an up-and-coming location for young travelers, there’s a lot to explore in terms of historical architecture.

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It has a medieval Old Town, as well as Edinburgh Castle, both of which have a Harry Potter feel. In fact, author J.K. Rowling wrote most of the series in Edinburgh, so it’s no surprise she drew inspiration from the walls around her.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island, might be a surprising choice. But did you know that it’s considered a sailing capital of the world? With shores that go on for miles, Newport is the perfect place to soak in the ocean breeze. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly community will inspire a slew of unique perspectives to integrate into your art.  

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Newport has an old-money feel with affluent accommodations and a yacht-filled harbor. But it also has a down-to-earth, humble quality that gives it a familiarity to be appreciated. If you want to trade in the city for the docks and a good book, Newport might just be your best bet.

Sedona, Arizona

Another American city that begs for more tourism is Sedona, Arizona. The southwestern state is known for its special terrain, like the Grand Canyon. But Sedona is home to gigantic red rocks, pine forests and stunning streams that can make you feel like you’re on another planet. The otherworldly environment are not only a sight-seeing must, but it will light up your imagination in ways you didn’t think possible.

In the city are spas, art galleries and great restaurants worth exploring. On the outskirts are trails that access Red Rock State Park, where you can hike, picnic, bird-watch, and much more.

Wales, United Kingdom

Wales is a part of Great Britain with a distinct emphasis on Celtic culture and the Welsh language. Known for its incredible coastline and mountainous countryside, Wales has much more to offer than a picturesque scene. Castles brimming with whimsy and Snowdonia National Park in all its glacial landform glory are just some of the unique aspects of Wales that make it a perfect destination spot for an adventure-seeker.

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The National Museum of Cardiff houses many collections, ranging from archeology, zoology, art and botany. If you’re looking for more insight into the history of Wales, the National Slate Museum offers an in-depth showing of a 19th-century slate quarry with accompanying workshops and machinery. It’s focused on the conditions endured by workers and their families as well as some live demonstrations that will capture your attention.

A crowd-favorite location in Wales is Bodnant Garden, a National Trust property and one of the most beautiful gardens in all of Britain. This wonderful garden is no stranger to impeccable views and a flurry of flowers to graze your ankle. It also features the famous Laburnum Arch, a curved walk of nearly 50 years, covered in laburnum that blossoms in late May and early June.

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