Our ability to travel has been limited since the first COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020. Many of us have had to cancel trips and some have not traveled since. However, as the world slowly returns to normal, travel has become a priority again. For creative minds, travel is crucial to the development of art. Culture, food and community can contribute to our best work. If you’re looking for a destination that will inspire you too, you’re in luck. Let’s explore the top travel destinations for 2022 and what gives them their edge.
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Abruzzo, Italy
Everyone already knows that Italy is the ideal place, especially for a romantic summer holiday in Europe. But instead of taking the ultimate tourist route and choosing Florence, Vatican City or Rome, we suggest Abruzzo.
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Abruzzo is full of charming villages and natural landscapes, including the Trabocchi Coast. In recent years, the region of southern Italy has shifted towards a conscious lifestyle, including sustainable food companies. Abruzzo also has an exciting food scene that focuses on local produce and innovative takes on traditional dishes. This place will appeal to all your senses and give you the cultural kick you need to inspire your best work.
Budapest, Hungary
Part of what makes Budapest a popular travel destination is its affordability. Aside from reasonably priced food and accommodation for a European city, Budapest is full of surprises that will keep you on your toes. Budapest still retains its historic charms, such as the Matild Palace, a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city’s kings. The same hotel now houses Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant, Spago, which is a top destination in itself.
Surrounded by wine regions, Budapest is known for a good time with even better drinks. With a happy, proud and present demeanor and always full glasses, Budapest is an experience worth writing about.
Alberta, Canada
You may not have initially marked Canada as a travel destination, but you should not underestimate its beauty and rich history. Alberta’s Banff National Park is filled with crystal clear lakes, panoramic mountain views and scenic hiking opportunities. It showcases much of the beauty that Canada has to offer.
Aside from the great outdoors, you also have the opportunity to explore Alberta’s rich history, museums and amazing gastronomy. Whether you’re breathing the crisp outside air or munching at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Alberta is sure to give you the experience.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico isn’t just an all-inclusive beach vacation destination. For proof, look no further than Mexico City, which is enjoying a tourism resurgence in 2022 thanks to its vibrant culture. Great nightlife aside, Mexico City is steeped in tradition and art. There are murals by Diego Rivera scattered around the city on the sides of houses, which can be an adventure in itself.
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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. Unless you’re a typical beach bum, don’t write Mexico off as a top travel destination for 2022 just yet. Mexico City will surprise you in how it draws you in and allows you to truly immerse yourself in everything it has to offer.
Burgundy, France
That enjoyment of life is too strong to ignore! Burgundy is for foodies who want nothing more than a strong 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 with a variety of restaurants, an expansive wine cellar, a hotel and a cooking school.
If your gut is closely connected to your mind, then the fantastic Burgundy wine is sure to lead you in that direction. You will definitely have food worth Instagramming about!
Crete, Greece
There is nothing more beautiful than the Greek islands in summer. But what you may not know is that Crete is the largest island of them all, which puts it at the top of our list. With the same hilltop villages and whitewashed walls, Crete is distinguished by its connection to Greek mythology.
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The historical and mythological contexts that exist in Crete make it what it is the Place to center in your creativity. Tourists are also welcome to visit the many museums and galleries across the island that have unique pieces to pique your interest.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a well-rounded destination that offers you an ancient structure and a modern take on old-world charm. You will be surprised by the luxury hotels that give the city a high-end feel that you might not have expected.
There’s no shortage of fun activities, like distillery tours and a raging scotch scene, so rest assured you won’t get bored in the Scottish capital. While it’s still an up-and-coming place for young travelers, there’s plenty to explore in terms of historic architecture.
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It has a medieval old town as well as Edinburgh Castle, both a Harry Potter Feeling. In fact, author JK Rowling wrote most of the series in Edinburgh, so it’s no surprise that she took inspiration from the walls around her.
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport, Rhode Island might be a surprising choice. But did you know that it is considered the sailing capital of the world? With miles of coastline, Newport is the perfect place to enjoy the sea breeze. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly community will inspire a host of unique perspectives to incorporate into your art.
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Newport has an old money feel with affluent accommodation and a marina full of yachts. But it also has a down-to-earth, unassuming quality that gives it an appreciable familiarity. If you’re in town to swap docks and a good book, Newport might be your best bet.
Sedona, Arizona
Another American city asking for more tourism is Sedona, Arizona. The southwestern state is known for its special terrain like the Grand Canyon. But Sedona is home to giant red cliffs, pine forests, and breathtaking creeks that can make you feel like you’re on another planet. Not only is the otherworldly setting a must-see, it will capture your imagination in ways you never thought possible.
The city has spas, art galleries and great restaurants worth visiting. On the outskirts, trails lead to Red Rock State Park where you can hike, picnic, bird watch and 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 scenery, Wales has much more to offer than scenic countryside. Whimsical castles and Snowdonia National Park in all its glacial glory are just a few of the unique aspects of Wales that make it a perfect destination for adventure seekers.
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The National Museum of Cardiff houses many collections ranging from archaeology, zoology, art and botany. If you’re looking for more insight into Welsh history, the National Slate Museum has an in-depth display of a 19th-century slate quarry, workshops and machinery. It focuses on the conditions faced by workers and their families, as well as some live demonstrations that will catch your attention.
A crowd favorite in Wales, Bodnant Garden is a National Trust property and one of the finest gardens in Britain. This wonderful garden is no stranger to immaculate views and a floral display that grazes your ankle. It also features the famous Laburnum Arch, a nearly 50-year-old curved path covered in laburnum that blooms in late May and early June.
