Isolation pinches. 2020 started it all - the COVID-18 outbreak, pandemic impact on global health and economy, work from home (WFH) trend, lockdown, anxiety, and mental stress.
The COVID impact this year is doubly threatening. Vaccinations are like a soul-pacifying balm. Unlike in the past, there are fewer options now to refill the tank and discover the world with your family and pets.
You may like to keep yourself busy by sharing Instagram moments and Netflix memes. But there is always a way to encourage and resume your adventure trips. Few months down the line when the situation improves, you may see yourself packing your bags to these touristy destinations. Here are three nostalgic choices to bookmark when travel returns to normalcy.
1. Ireland:
Apart from endless outdoor pursuits to enjoy, such as golf, horse riding, sailing, and wild islands to explore, Ireland is a truly stunning destination to gain back the lost joys and wonders of life.
The Glenveagh National Park is beautiful for its unspoiled lakes and rugged mountains. The daunting Cliffs of Moherare about 14 km long and 120 meters above the Atlantic. The 179 km long trail of picturesque paradise The Ring of Kerry; and the holiest mountain Croagh Patrick nicknamed ‘The Reek’ which stands 764 meters tall is a sneak peek of Ireland's dramatic coastlines.
It is heartening to know about Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, that got designated as the UNESCO City of Literature in the year 2010. Friendly people, pub-and-music culture further make Ireland one of the choicest travel destinations.
2. France:
Think of the Eiffel Tower, red wine, chocolate mousse, local café’,
perfumeries, French Riviera (Cannes, remember!) and you will start drooling over picturesque France.
The Loire Valley stands out for the beautiful villages and chateaux, whereas Bordeaux has fine architecture, shopping, and world-class arts. Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris has some of the world’s finest museums. France nation is a toast to a good life and wines.
3. Italy:
If there is one place in the world that stands out for the unconditional love for life and all things pleasure, it is Italy. This beautiful country relies so much on tourism. A glass of wine and a pizza are a staple diet. But more than that, it is worth exploring the ancient Greek temple at Paestum near Naples.
Tuscany is a picturesque hillside town, and it is scenic, too. Milan is home to world-class museums and Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper”: For the romantic souls, Lake Como is pure bliss. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is worth a quick stop-over for clicking photos and climbing the tower.
Final Thoughts
Lockdown restrictions will ease gradually with wellness destinations springing back. As the world adjusts to a new normal, I hope my travel diary gets filled with more of these missed-out destinations and endearing experiences. In the meantime, check out cities that have lifted restrictions and are permitting people to travel. Keep your travel spirit high. Many unexplored places are waiting to see you.
Author:Deepika Dewan
