As I sit down to write this article, I am reminded of my current reality – a 15-year-old living with my family in the quaint town of Goshen, Indiana. I am grateful for the occasional vacations I am able to take, which puts me in a better position than many others. However, I dream of traveling more extensively in the future. The cities I have had the opportunity to visit thus far, all located in North America, and majority within the United States, have left a lasting impression on me. They are all truly wonderful and unique in their own way, despite the limited travels I have had so far.
San Juan
Puerto Rico’s capital city, San Juan, is a destination not to be missed. The charming old town, Old San Juan, is a treasure trove of unique shops and historical Puerto Rican artifacts. Strolling along the cobblestone paths, one can admire the beautiful flowers and stunning architecture that lines the streets. For those seeking adventure, a day trip to El Yunque National Rainforest – the only rainforest in the United States – is a must. But if relaxation is what you’re after, the many beaches along the coast offer the perfect retreat. My personal favorite, Playa Escondida, requires a half-hour hike to reach, but the seclusion and breathtaking views are well worth the effort. San Juan left a lasting impression on me and I highly recommend visiting this beautiful city.
Miami
Miami is a versatile destination that caters to all types of travelers, whether you’re looking to party, relax on the beach, or explore nature. With its warm, tropical climate, Miami is always a great place to admire palm trees. The city is known for its lively nightlife, where clubs stay open all night and celebrities can often be spotted. However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, Miami has plenty of serene beaches along the coast or you can take a short drive to the Florida Keys to enjoy even more beautiful beaches. For nature enthusiasts, the Everglades is only an hour away and offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife and ecosystem of the area. Miami truly has something for everyone.
Montreal
Montreal, the largest city in Quebec, Canada, is a city steeped in French culture and boasts stunning European-inspired architecture. One of the city’s highlights is the Montreal Eaton Center, the largest mall I have ever been to, with multiple stories and even an underground shopping area. Old Montreal is a charming neighborhood, filled with picturesque buildings and quaint shops and cafes. Just outside of the city, The Jardin Botanique, a vast garden divided into different sections representing different countries like Japan or China, is a must-see for nature lovers. Overall, Montreal is a beautiful city with plenty of great shopping options and charming streets to explore.
San Diego
San Diego, a city located along the border of the United States and Mexico, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Known for its fantastic weather, San Diego boasts some of the best beaches in California, particularly for surfing. Visitors can stroll the picturesque streets, taking in the impressive architecture, or spend a day with the family at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, home to over 4,000 animals and 650 species. Another must-see attraction in San Diego is Old Town, a collection of well-preserved and reconstructed buildings that were once home to the first European settlement in California. San Diego is an ideal destination for those looking for both great weather and a diverse range of activities to enjoy.
Seattle
Seattle, home of the iconic Space Needle and the Seattle Mariners, is a city that exudes a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Despite its frequent cloudy weather, Seattle is a destination brimming with diverse neighborhoods and an abundance of things to do and see. Foodies and shoppers will be delighted with the Pike Place Market, where you can stroll through the endless stalls for hours, indulge in a meal at one of the restaurants overlooking the harbor, or visit the first Starbucks. Seattle’s laid-back atmosphere and wealth of experiences make it a wonderful city to visit, don’t let the cloudy weather fool you.
Chicago
Chicago, often referred to as the shining jewel of the Midwest, is a city that boasts a wealth of interesting sights and experiences, in my opinion. Despite its reputation for crime, it is important to note that with proper safety precautions, the true beauty of the city can be fully appreciated. One of my favorite streets in the world is Michigan Avenue, particularly the sleek and modern glass Apple store on the riverfront. The art museum is also a must-see, with a vast collection of impressive pieces. Whether you visit during the summer or winter, the city is beautiful in all seasons. If you do happen to be there in the winter, be sure to check out the Christkindl Market, a traditional German Christmas market.
Boston
Boston, the home of numerous founding fathers, is a city that exudes a sense of intelligence and culture. Many visitors flock to the city to tour the campuses of its prestigious colleges such as Harvard and MIT. During my visit, I highly recommend taking a duck boat tour, which provides a unique perspective of the city both on land and on the water. Unfortunately, during my trip, I fell ill with Covid, but even while feeling unwell, the city’s charm and beauty did not disappoint. Boston boasts an array of incredible restaurants, particularly Italian restaurants, and bakeries. For anyone, especially Americans with an interest in history, Boston is a must-visit destination.