Emiley’s Top 5 Unforgettable Destinations: A Travel Consultant’s Guide to the World
If you are dreaming of your next great adventure, there is nothing quite like hearing firsthand recommendations from someone who has been there. At Riverdale Travel, our expert consultants don't just book trips — they explore the world themselves to find the best hidden gems, restaurants, and cultural experiences for our clients.
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit some of the most spectacular destinations across the globe, bringing back countless gorgeous photos (some of which you can explore throughout this post!) and a wealth of insider knowledge.
From the romantic cobblestones of Europe to the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii, here are five of my absolute favorite places I’ve ever visited — and why you should let Riverdale Travel help you plan your journey there.
Ready to start planning your dream vacation? Connect with me, Emiley Nelson, or one of our other destination experts today!
1. Segovia, Spain: Peaceful Charm + Ancient History
Segovia, Spain, will always be one of my favorite places. If you are planning a trip to Spain and want to escape the bustling cities, Segovia is the perfect small town to slow down and enjoy real Spanish charm.
Getting There: It is incredibly accessible! Segovia is only a 50-minute, 5-euro bus ride from Madrid, making it a super easy and affordable day trip.
What to See: The town is wonderfully walkable and peaceful, featuring incredible sights like a towering Roman aqueduct, the breathtaking Alcázar castle, and one of the last Gothic cathedrals ever built.
The Vibe: There are plenty of walking trails offering sweeping views of the city walls. When you get hungry, be sure to try authentic Spanish dishes, including the region's famous cochinillo (roast suckling pig).
2. Lisbon & Sintra, Portugal: Seaside Energy + Fairytale Forests
Lisbon, Portugal, is a gorgeous seaside city bursting with life and things to do. Everywhere you go, the city feels lively and charming, surrounded by beautiful Portuguese tiles and rich culture.
In the City: Spend your days riding the cute, historic yellow trams, trying classic dishes like sardines, and spending your evenings listening to mesmerizing, traditional Fado music.
A Fairytale Day Trip: If you’re craving a magical escape, the town of Sintra is just a short 40-minute trip away. Sintra feels straight out of a storybook — filled with rolling hills, sprawling gardens, ancient kings' and queens' palaces, and hidden tunnels to explore.
Sintra is truly one of my favorite places I’ve ever visited!
- Learn more about the travel possibilities in this amazing country on our Portugal page.
3. Kona, Hawaii (The Big Island): Volcanoes & Coffee
I’ve visited Hawaii a few times, yet I was surprised at how much I absolutely loved Kona. Located on the Big Island, Kona has a drier, rockier landscape that feels truly unique compared to the lushness of the other islands.
Adventure Awaits: A must-visit spot is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of the United States’ 63 national parks. Here, you can actually stand atop an active volcano and enjoy incredible views and scenic hikes.
Local Flavors: Thanks to the rich volcanic soil, Kona is world-famous for its coffee. And for the beer lovers out there, grabbing a cold drink at Kona Brewing is the perfect way to end an active day.
4. Rome, Italy: A Fast-Paced Feast for the Senses
Rome is a city with so much to do that one trip might not be enough! It is the ideal destination for travelers who love staying busy and soaking up world-class sights.
Everywhere I went, I discovered incredible history and saw art I thought I’d only ever seen online.
Iconic Sights: A visit to Vatican City to see St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel is an absolute must. Your itinerary will be packed with wonders, from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the Pantheon.
Unforgettable Cuisine: Authentic Italian pasta and gelato are never far away. For those who enjoy a good drink, nothing beats a glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or a flight of traditional Italian amaro after a long day of touring.
- Expert Tip: Because Rome is so busy, booking your tours and skip-the-line passes through a Riverdale Travel consultant is essential to avoid long waits!
5. New Orleans, Louisiana: Jazz, History, & Cocktails
Looking for an unforgettable domestic getaway? New Orleans is the perfect city for an all-out party or a classy vacation for jazz lovers. The city can effortlessly switch from a romantic European vibe to a buzzing hotspot.
The Culture: The city's unique architecture, food, and culture are deeply rooted in its French, Spanish, and Creole heritage, making every corner a new experience.
The Music & Drinks: Music is everywhere, from jazz spilling onto the streets to live performances in cozy, intimate venues. With a rich history rooted in Prohibition, the city is home to iconic bars serving some of the best cocktails in the world.
Even if you don't drink, the atmosphere makes it one of my most memorable trips yet!
Why Book Your Next Adventure With Riverdale Travel?
Planning a multi-destination European getaway or a specialized domestic trip isn’t all sun and fun — unless you work with Riverdale Travel! Taking the stress out of your getaway is what our friendly, knowledgeable consultants do best.
Stress-Free Planning & Logistics
When you book with an expert travel advisor like me, Emiley Nelson, I take care of all the complex logistics! You can count on me to constantly monitor travel alerts and restrictions, manage all of your vendor bookings, and make swift adjustments should your plans need to be rescheduled.
Riverdale’s travel consultants anticipate your needs and answer your questions so you never have to navigate the confusing parts of travel alone. In fact, the only thing I won’t do is pack your suitcase — but I will make sure you have the exact documents and equipment you need for your chosen destination!
All you have to do is sit back and think about where you want to spend that first sunset.
Fully Personalized Itineraries
Riverdale Travel brings your dream vacation to life by meticulously customizing your experience to your personal preferences. Our destination specialists ensure your vacation is tailored exactly to your unique travel style.
You will work one-on-one with me or another travel expert who specializes in the type of vacation you’re interested in, receiving a high level of care and emotional investment into every last detail of your custom itinerary.
Exclusive Perks + Global Partnerships
Crafting your dream getaway is effortless thanks to Riverdale Travel’s global partnerships and industry connections. Because of our deep relationships with private yachts, cruise lines, airlines, and land package providers, you will enjoy exclusive offers to travel in luxury and style at the most affordable rates.
Booking your trip through Riverdale Travel grants you access to exclusive promotions, discounts, and VIP perks you simply can't get booking on your own. Get ready to experience the best vacation of your life!
Call us at 763-323-3665 to start planning your trip virtually or in person. Riverdale Travel is headquartered in the Twin Cities at 2740 Main Street NW #112, Coon Rapids, MN 55448.