My parents are African immigrants, and a lot of my family is settled all over the world (America, Europe, Middle East.) As such, a lot of people I know have traveled extensively through places that are not on this list. I understand Western countries make sense for a lot of reasons. They might be more affordable, safe, and geared towards travelers with nice amenities. But, there are only two countries in Asia or Africa on this list, and none in the Middle East. This is compared to 9 European countries, nearly half the list. Not to mention several American locations, New Zealand, and Montreal. All of these seem like great places to check out. But, what about Nairobi, Tokyo, or Dubai? This seems like an imbalance of cultures represented as worth seeing.
1
Interesting - as it happens, Amsterdam was my first European city visited, and Prague my fourth, both done on the cheap in my 20s in the late 80s/early 90s. I can see how they made the list - both blew my mind visually and otherwise. I was in the desert for three months in the Middle East right before I visited Amsterdam, and I will never forget arriving there on a rainy day and walking around entranced, in wonderment. What a striking city. A few years later, I arrived n Prague on a picture perfect 70-degree sunny day and stared at the castles and red roofs for about an hour.
3
It's a fantastic list, but anyone in their 20's would need quite the trust fund to do it. It took me until 42 to see half, and my husband and I are saving up to even think of going to Viet Nam. Travel is very important, but it is still a luxury.
4
Wrong. I spent 3 months in India and spent $950 when I was 20, now 27. I have since been to most on this list and done so very much on the cheap. I spent 3 months in south east Asia fininaced from my first job in advertising and have traveled most of Europe staying in hostels and cooking my own meals. I made great friends in the process and return often staying at friends places.
1
I guess I was a late bloomer, but for my best early trip, when I was 32, I looked at a globe, to find a likely place to take a bicycle ride, and ended up riding from Buenos Aires to Rio, up the coast. That's something I would have trouble doing now, in my 60s, and other than the airfare, the prices were extremely reasonable, staying in inexpensive hotels and eating in inexpensive restaurants. I fell in love with the area, and went back 3 more times in the following 4 years. I even have a few friends, Brazilian and Argentine who I am still in touch with. These are suggestions. Do something you think you'd like, but by all means, do something.
2
As someone before mentioned, light on Asia. One principal for all distant destinations is to weigh the in-country travel cost against the pricier ticket. India and Nepal are cheap when you arrive.
Surprised Cambodia was not included with Vietnam. In the warmer months Hanoi and northern Vietnam are to be considered. Like Cuba, consider Myanmar before it develops more now that things are liberalizing. It is a colonial blast from the past.
Of course India is full of wonders. A Mumbai to Kolkata trip taking in the Rajasthan, and snaking through Varanasi is a real head trip, but very easy to tackle on a budget. Being young allows you to handle some of the discomforts of Asian, and particularly Indian, travel. But this is how you pay for that pricy ticket.
Closer to home, consider Peru, dipping your toe into northern Bolivia.
I did a round the world trip in my mid-twenties through Europe and Asia. Look for RTW tickets or cheap flight to Europe and bridge other cheap flights along way. In the old days we called those ticket outlets "bucket shops" and thats how many backpackers put it together. What is great about Asian travel is young travellers abound, so its easy to link up and there is a cheap accommodation and food culture. I did this trip alone and the mates I met in Asia were among the best.
Surprised Cambodia was not included with Vietnam. In the warmer months Hanoi and northern Vietnam are to be considered. Like Cuba, consider Myanmar before it develops more now that things are liberalizing. It is a colonial blast from the past.
Of course India is full of wonders. A Mumbai to Kolkata trip taking in the Rajasthan, and snaking through Varanasi is a real head trip, but very easy to tackle on a budget. Being young allows you to handle some of the discomforts of Asian, and particularly Indian, travel. But this is how you pay for that pricy ticket.
Closer to home, consider Peru, dipping your toe into northern Bolivia.
I did a round the world trip in my mid-twenties through Europe and Asia. Look for RTW tickets or cheap flight to Europe and bridge other cheap flights along way. In the old days we called those ticket outlets "bucket shops" and thats how many backpackers put it together. What is great about Asian travel is young travellers abound, so its easy to link up and there is a cheap accommodation and food culture. I did this trip alone and the mates I met in Asia were among the best.
2
If your time away from work is limited, I agree with Morocco and Lisbon. Lisbon, and the rest of Portugal, is very welcoming. Morocco will give you a taste of the exotic. They're close to each other, so if you can do both in the same trip, all the better.
If your time away from work isn't so limited, Vietnam is nice, but I can also recommend Cambodia and Bali. Southeast Asia is CHEAP. In Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a real tourist magnet, so go there only if you want to rub elbows with other tourists. Otherwise, go to Phnom Penh and Battambang, two authentic Cambodian cities where you'll get to know the locals.
Bali, and its outlying islands, is superlative; the most beautiful place I've ever been. Go there for a couple weeks and just hang out.
If your time away from work isn't so limited, Vietnam is nice, but I can also recommend Cambodia and Bali. Southeast Asia is CHEAP. In Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a real tourist magnet, so go there only if you want to rub elbows with other tourists. Otherwise, go to Phnom Penh and Battambang, two authentic Cambodian cities where you'll get to know the locals.
Bali, and its outlying islands, is superlative; the most beautiful place I've ever been. Go there for a couple weeks and just hang out.
1
My motto in life is to live my 60's like I should have lived my 20's. Traveling is at the top of my list. I am fortunate that my husband let's me travel as long as I can find a friend who is as equally adventurous. But my advice to my daughters and everyone is don't let "life" get in the way of seeing the world. Technology is changing the world very fast and is beginning to reach all corners. Do not be afraid because there are friendly warm people everywhere and the internet makes planing easier than ever. Travel with a warm heart and a big smile and you will find people very welcoming . Many cultures, especially Asia, show enormous respect for seniors. So yes go to the gym. Get in shape. Travel young... travel old... Open up your eyes, your heart and your mind. Just travel!
9
When I was 29, my first trip outside of Canada was to Montpellier in Languedoc-Rousillon in the south of France. It is a second tier city, a university town with thousands of students, cheap bars and restaurants galore. The people there were very warm and friendly not blasé like Parisians and genuinely welcoming. It has an art museum, an opera and a zoo as well as some of the most amazing weather. It was a great introduction to France and I'd go back in a heartbeat if I could.
Great list, which I enjoyed.
A little short on Asian destinations, considering that half of the people in the world live there and their culture and languages developed quite separately from Europe, Africa and the Americas.
If you are trying to understand the world better when you are young, it helps to wipe away all of your cultural assumptions, which a thoughtful trip to Asia can do (not just a island tourist beach in Thailand).
A little short on Asian destinations, considering that half of the people in the world live there and their culture and languages developed quite separately from Europe, Africa and the Americas.
If you are trying to understand the world better when you are young, it helps to wipe away all of your cultural assumptions, which a thoughtful trip to Asia can do (not just a island tourist beach in Thailand).
2
Most of the reasons the author gives for visiting a particular place are pretty sad and pathetic. It seems to mostly be about having fun, drinking beer and eating, or visiting a place that is "like Europe." I really couldn't afford to travel in my 20s. But in my late 20s when I was in grad school I traveled because I was living on almost nothing the rest of the year to save money to travel.
1. A national park. Well duh!
2. Prague. Was communist at the time, but never on my to-visit list.
3. Oaxaca, Mexico. Definitely, not to eat. That's the least important reason. And it's NOT safe for Mexicans.
4. Cuba. Closed when I was young. Would like to go.
5. Amsterdam. Not at the top of the list, but I do want to go there. Brussels and Luxembourg too.
6. Patagonia, Argentina. I would have gone in my youth.
7. New Orleans. Go once. Get hammered. Don't go back.
8. Berlin. See Prague above.
9. Montreal. Still on my to-visit list.
10. Vietnam. Closed when I was young.
11. Budapest. A hotbed of racist fascism today. Pass.
12. New Zealand. Maybe. But expensive due to distance.
13. Iceland. Definitely.
14. Barcelona. Been there. Nice.
15. California coast. My favorite area of the U.S.
16. Morocco. Definitely go.
17. Costa Rica. Went there. Twice. To volunteer.
18. A Greek island...The Greeks are amazing. They're my favorite Europeans. They've taken in refugees with almost no help from Europe.
19. Lisbon. The Portuguese are my second-favorite Europeans.
20. The Croatian coast. Maybe.
1. A national park. Well duh!
2. Prague. Was communist at the time, but never on my to-visit list.
3. Oaxaca, Mexico. Definitely, not to eat. That's the least important reason. And it's NOT safe for Mexicans.
4. Cuba. Closed when I was young. Would like to go.
5. Amsterdam. Not at the top of the list, but I do want to go there. Brussels and Luxembourg too.
6. Patagonia, Argentina. I would have gone in my youth.
7. New Orleans. Go once. Get hammered. Don't go back.
8. Berlin. See Prague above.
9. Montreal. Still on my to-visit list.
10. Vietnam. Closed when I was young.
11. Budapest. A hotbed of racist fascism today. Pass.
12. New Zealand. Maybe. But expensive due to distance.
13. Iceland. Definitely.
14. Barcelona. Been there. Nice.
15. California coast. My favorite area of the U.S.
16. Morocco. Definitely go.
17. Costa Rica. Went there. Twice. To volunteer.
18. A Greek island...The Greeks are amazing. They're my favorite Europeans. They've taken in refugees with almost no help from Europe.
19. Lisbon. The Portuguese are my second-favorite Europeans.
20. The Croatian coast. Maybe.
6
re California Coast
I biked (yes a bicycle) down the Hwy 1 from San Francisco to just North of Los Angeles, with camping gear.. At that time (early 80s) if you were self propelled, hiking or say on a bike there was a common area in each State campground, where you could setup a tent and stay for free. ..No reservations required. I stayed at the Big Sur campsite, and Moro Bay. Just two I remember. Then I took Amtrack with my bike back up the coast. Bicycling North of San Francisco is beautiful too. Up through the Napa and Sonoma valleys. Then back to the coast to come down to Point Reyes.
Later I would bike in France along the CoteD'Azur and it reminded me of biking in California. So think about a bike as a great, inexpensive way to travel!
I biked (yes a bicycle) down the Hwy 1 from San Francisco to just North of Los Angeles, with camping gear.. At that time (early 80s) if you were self propelled, hiking or say on a bike there was a common area in each State campground, where you could setup a tent and stay for free. ..No reservations required. I stayed at the Big Sur campsite, and Moro Bay. Just two I remember. Then I took Amtrack with my bike back up the coast. Bicycling North of San Francisco is beautiful too. Up through the Napa and Sonoma valleys. Then back to the coast to come down to Point Reyes.
Later I would bike in France along the CoteD'Azur and it reminded me of biking in California. So think about a bike as a great, inexpensive way to travel!
2
Why no options in sub-Saharan Africa? Cape Town or Durban in South Africa, or Accra, Ghana, for example (among other good options...)
2
An age-based travel story is ridiculously silly. Go where you want to go. Be a life-long traveler! No age limits! The world is here for everyone!
15
They should start the list in a realistic and humble way by including (briefly) information for cheap travel options (the amazing app hitlist, living with locals for free via couchsurfing, teaching English abroad).
As for the list, what a snore! It reads more like where to go when you're old and tired and afraid of adventure.
In my twenties I focused on visiting countries where I knew as I get older I might not be as happy to endure the local transportation or the long flights with connections to get there. Also focus on places that are changing fast and will be vastly different in ten years.
Countries from my list: Mongolia, Madagascar, Namibia, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burma...
Go!
As for the list, what a snore! It reads more like where to go when you're old and tired and afraid of adventure.
In my twenties I focused on visiting countries where I knew as I get older I might not be as happy to endure the local transportation or the long flights with connections to get there. Also focus on places that are changing fast and will be vastly different in ten years.
Countries from my list: Mongolia, Madagascar, Namibia, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burma...
Go!
4
In response to those who've commented that a European vacation is "out of reach" for most twentysomethings:
1. You can now fly from the U.S. to Europe for as low as $199, and fares around $299 aren't uncommon, either. Several international budget airlines -- most notably Norwegian Air and WOW air -- have begun offering flights to and from multiple cities on both continents. As of this writing, you can fly from New York, D.C., Miami or San Francisco to London, Paris, Berlin or Amsterdam for under $300. (You do, however, need to book well in advance.)
2. Flying within Europe -- including nearby countries like Morocco and Egypt -- is almost absurdly cheap. Dozens of deep-discount airlines now exist with direct flights to/from virtually any city pair. You can fly for $22 roundtrip (seriously, and yes, that includes taxes) between Madrid & Morocco. Or $24 between London & Warsaw. And so forth.
3. Hotels and hostels in most of the recommended cities are vastly less expensive than ones in any major U.S. city. Hostels in most European cities are available for under $10/night, and even in larger cities like Barcelona, boutique hotels can be had for under $75/night.
4. Airbnb has also revolutionized cheap travel. Wanna stay in a centrally located Istanbul flat for $30/night? No problem at all. (Ditto all of Eastern Europe.)
5. These same types of bargains can be found on nearly any continent! One can easily visit various Thai islands for under $10/day. (For a room *and* food!)
1. You can now fly from the U.S. to Europe for as low as $199, and fares around $299 aren't uncommon, either. Several international budget airlines -- most notably Norwegian Air and WOW air -- have begun offering flights to and from multiple cities on both continents. As of this writing, you can fly from New York, D.C., Miami or San Francisco to London, Paris, Berlin or Amsterdam for under $300. (You do, however, need to book well in advance.)
2. Flying within Europe -- including nearby countries like Morocco and Egypt -- is almost absurdly cheap. Dozens of deep-discount airlines now exist with direct flights to/from virtually any city pair. You can fly for $22 roundtrip (seriously, and yes, that includes taxes) between Madrid & Morocco. Or $24 between London & Warsaw. And so forth.
3. Hotels and hostels in most of the recommended cities are vastly less expensive than ones in any major U.S. city. Hostels in most European cities are available for under $10/night, and even in larger cities like Barcelona, boutique hotels can be had for under $75/night.
4. Airbnb has also revolutionized cheap travel. Wanna stay in a centrally located Istanbul flat for $30/night? No problem at all. (Ditto all of Eastern Europe.)
5. These same types of bargains can be found on nearly any continent! One can easily visit various Thai islands for under $10/day. (For a room *and* food!)
1
Great list - I would also include Nepal. Not the cheapest to get to but once you are there, you can move around the country pretty and it's a relative bargain. Some amazing trekking routes - Annapurna, Everest Base Camp, Tsum Valley. Good at any age, but why not do it in the prime of your physical life?
In my 20s, I found that traveling in a tour was sometimes a good way to see a country, especially those that lack basic infrastructure or can be a bit sketchy. Depending on where you're going, it can also save considerable sums of money.
This is a good site for comparing and reading reviews on tours all over the world: www.stridetravel.com
full disclosure: I am co-founder of Stride Travel.
In my 20s, I found that traveling in a tour was sometimes a good way to see a country, especially those that lack basic infrastructure or can be a bit sketchy. Depending on where you're going, it can also save considerable sums of money.
This is a good site for comparing and reading reviews on tours all over the world: www.stridetravel.com
full disclosure: I am co-founder of Stride Travel.
1
I was expecting some new ideas in this list. Though all fine places, these are so obvious (and full of American twenty somethings). My idea --- forget all those foreign tourist destinations, get in your car if budget allows, turn off your devices, especially your GPS, and hit the road. Maybe don't even allow maps in the car. Just drive and see what you discover.
2
I've only been to a few places on the list. However, this week, with luck, I will visit my 50th US state. There are lots of wonderful places to visit right here at home. Some of my favorite places: Glacier Bay NP in Alaska, Muir Woods in California, and Glacier NP in Montana.
Some of these places I would save for later to be honest. South east Asia in particular Thailand is cheap and great place for your people, India, and Nepal for hiking the annapurnas. Macchu pichu definitely. someone mentioned south Africa and zanzibar. beautiful places along with Mozambique but flying to and travel in Africa is expensive and probably best in thirties when incomes are higher. For those of you with debt, think long term. It won't be terrible to ask for a deferment for a few months or so, maybe just lay off interest if necessary. save some money or get an extra job for a short period if you have the extra time and then travel. You have years ahead to pay off loans. It is true there is something special about travelling I your 20's. you can be more adventurous, you don't have families and you probably could take more time than when you are in your 30's and older. I traveled alone to India and Nepal for 6 months working for last month in India, when I was 25. met amazing people.
I love this list and how it starts with national parks. I think Iceland should be on everyone's list as global warming is a serious issue. From someone who is currently typing this in Barcelona, this is a must visit especially for those commenting that they wish they had money. Out of all of Europe, I'm finding this place to be very friendly on the wallet - the problem is everything tastes so good you want to buy more!!
1
"The list is not diverse enough"
"A travel guide for the 1%"
"I can't believe you left CYX out."
You can't please everyone. I do think lists like this tend to be filler. There have to be a billion articles like this online. Ones written by actual millennials who know the struggle.
"A travel guide for the 1%"
"I can't believe you left CYX out."
You can't please everyone. I do think lists like this tend to be filler. There have to be a billion articles like this online. Ones written by actual millennials who know the struggle.
2
I believe the article was written for the US 20s. Being Korean, I found my early 20s tour to the USA most educational and valuable in that I got to understand more of the western life and values. The East and the West are so different that young people should visit more of their opposite hemisphere.
6
These are all nice places. But, if travel is about broadening a young person's understanding of the world. How about: Berlin, Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi, Mumbai, Mexico City, Capetown, and Istanbul.
I am the mother of a 20 year old and twin 18 year olds and *none* of them are leaving the lower-48 without their father and/or me until I'm sure America has their back again. Our citizenship used to be our shield. We used to be able to rely on our leadership to move heaven & earth to help us if we were imperiled outside our borders, but that's gone now. I certainly wouldn't travel to Cuba or some of these other cesspools you glorify here. I don't know what world you're living in, but outside Manhattan the world is an exponentially more dangerous place now than it was in January 2009.
I'm sorry, but these claims are patently ridiculous. Earth is a big place, and it only has a tiny handful of areas where American tourists would be ill-advised to visit. I'm also unclear what you mean about "moving heaven and earth" to help Americans "imperiled outside our borders." Assuming your kids are smart enough to avoid trying to sneak into North Korea or Iran -- actions that *have* resulted in Americans being detained -- the odds of anything of this nature transpiring are in the 1-in-20-million vicinity.
As for the remainder of the world, quite a bit of it is nicer *and* safer than anywhere in the U.S. You might want to check out the Global Peace Index (GPI), which gauges a country's broad safety & security levels based on societal conflicts, crime levels, and the degree to which a nation is militarized. The country consistently ranked as the safest is on The Times's list: Iceland. New Zealand, also on this list, is usually ranked in the GPI's top five, and this year Portugal -- where Lisbon is located -- landed in the top-five as well. As for the U.S.? It's ranked 103rd (out of 163 total): almost exactly where it was in January 2009.
Which reminds me: what happened at that time that made the world "exponentially more dangerous"? The only major global event that transpired then was the exit of the American president who initiated two wars and failed to capture the man responsible for the worst terrorist attack on American soil since the nation's founding.
As for the remainder of the world, quite a bit of it is nicer *and* safer than anywhere in the U.S. You might want to check out the Global Peace Index (GPI), which gauges a country's broad safety & security levels based on societal conflicts, crime levels, and the degree to which a nation is militarized. The country consistently ranked as the safest is on The Times's list: Iceland. New Zealand, also on this list, is usually ranked in the GPI's top five, and this year Portugal -- where Lisbon is located -- landed in the top-five as well. As for the U.S.? It's ranked 103rd (out of 163 total): almost exactly where it was in January 2009.
Which reminds me: what happened at that time that made the world "exponentially more dangerous"? The only major global event that transpired then was the exit of the American president who initiated two wars and failed to capture the man responsible for the worst terrorist attack on American soil since the nation's founding.
16
Be afraid very afraid. Hide under the bed.
4
That's a shame, Annie. The world's a big beautiful place. You would learn so much about yourself and others if you opened your eyes and your heart.
3
Definitely do the adventuresome, extreme and physically demanding stuff in your 20s and 30s. Don't take it for granted that you'll be able to do your Himalayan trekking after you retire!
6
Did 13 of them in my 20s. Vietnam war had just ended, Berlin and Prague and Cuba were still pretty inaccessible. As for money I had odd jobs. Camped hitch hiked mainly. Caught rides. Tried to stay clean and descent so as not to be an obvious problem.
To this list I would add or dis add the Baleric Islands, Festical if San Fermin. And the area south of Lisbon to Sevilla.
Oaxaca to Guetelmala. Took $400 for 2 month trip made it back with $200. That was 1976 though.
A wedding in momostenango as the sun set. Tea shirt jeans sweaty after long ride in third class bus. Taking picutres as bride and groom showed up. Was asked to go stand next to priest to take more. Wasn't invited. Went to reception . Open pavilion. Sat talking to women that worked for Iberian air. ....
To this list I would add or dis add the Baleric Islands, Festical if San Fermin. And the area south of Lisbon to Sevilla.
Oaxaca to Guetelmala. Took $400 for 2 month trip made it back with $200. That was 1976 though.
A wedding in momostenango as the sun set. Tea shirt jeans sweaty after long ride in third class bus. Taking picutres as bride and groom showed up. Was asked to go stand next to priest to take more. Wasn't invited. Went to reception . Open pavilion. Sat talking to women that worked for Iberian air. ....
I traveled to most of the islands, Mexico, Canada and did most of the U.S. in my twenties. Except for a humanities trip (college) throughout Italy for several weeks Europe was too expensive for me as I was establishing a career and saving to purchase real estate. The world is a very large place and there is a lot to see. Hopefully everyone will have a blessed long life and will be able to enjoy thoroughly each country. Do not rush it. I have been to most countries and continents and enjoy exploring my next new conquest. Traveling is timeless and keeps one young. Do it before you retire because things happen in life.
1
Most of the destinations call for gratuitous air travel - in this day and age of climate change.
1
Not a single Asian destination? More than half the world lives there. Full of excellent places to challenge cultural preconceptions.
3
Vietnam!
1
Why not take the opportunity to live and work somewhere in your 20's? Work in a different region of country. After college I found an internship with the National Park Service and spent a summer in Virginia. By the time I was in my late twenties, there was mortgage and marriage and work offered only 2 weeks of vacation.
5
I worked in Kenya, East Africa in my 20's as a pilot flying around the Game Parks for 2 years. I also flew a sked run to Lamu, an important Muslim religious center, that happens to have great beaches and restaurants too..
Lived in Mombasa, then later in Malindi right on the Indian Ocean.
An amazing opportunity to experience other cultures. Met some great people in US Peace Corps too.
Lived in Mombasa, then later in Malindi right on the Indian Ocean.
An amazing opportunity to experience other cultures. Met some great people in US Peace Corps too.
2
The European choices are predictable and uninspired. Coincidentally, I took my first trip to Europe when I was 20 (I'm 61 now). That 4-month trip, and so many thereafter, including living in Germany for 12 years, confirmed that the "second tier" cities are more rewarding than London, Paris, etc. My shortlist:
Edinburgh, Scotland
Ghent, Belgium
Hamburg, Germany
Innsbruck, Austria
Strasbourg, France
Toledo, Spain
Utrecht, The Netherlands
Verona, Italy
I would also recommend visiting a US Civil War battlefield over a National Park. You cannot understand the USA without fundamental knowledge of the Civil War. I recommend Antietam in Maryland--poignant and beautiful.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Ghent, Belgium
Hamburg, Germany
Innsbruck, Austria
Strasbourg, France
Toledo, Spain
Utrecht, The Netherlands
Verona, Italy
I would also recommend visiting a US Civil War battlefield over a National Park. You cannot understand the USA without fundamental knowledge of the Civil War. I recommend Antietam in Maryland--poignant and beautiful.
2
Edinburgh is amazing.
1
Just took a 4-hour tour of Antietam this past week. You are absolutely correct. This experience should be Civics 101 for all of us, not just 20-somethings.
Hamburg, yes, my favorite German city. So beautiful -- more canals than Venice and Amsterdam combined.
Scotland -- Edinburgh is great. But so is Glasgow. And be sure to explore the Highlands -- spectacular mountains -- and the Hebrides -- Skye, a magical place, a true honeymoon destination, as well as Lewis & Harris.
What about the South Bronx, East Philly, or South Central? Do these cities while your still young.
17
Touche.
1
Some of the readers' comments are rather sad. Don't have the money to travel. It depends on how you travel. I traveled during my college summers saving money from workstudy program. The biggest expense was airfare, but then, there was Airhitch. Anyways, nowadays you can find pretty cheap European low cost carriers that will get you across the pond. Clearly, no four star hotels and no meals in restaurants. Youth hostel scene was a blast, meet travelers, exchange tips, and then bump into the same people rather unexpectedly. Museums are free in Europe, and students get discount on transportation. Asia is even cheaper, other than the airfare. You really get to appreciate what the dollar can buy. However, if you want to stay at the Ritz Carlton where the old f-rts do, then you have to wait until you become one, and then miss on all the fun.
33
Yes, very sad. It seems that in the comment section today, if you eat at a high end restaurant, travel abroad, etc. you are a 1%. I'm not and I do both, frequently. It all depends on what your priorities are. Some peoples favorite hobby is complaining about those that do the things they won't or can't. Great article despite all the Debbie Downers in the comment section.
1
You are spot on. Any travel involves research and planning. I found internships that didn't pay but provided housing including a flat in London for 6 months. I flew to London with a ticket I "earned" from another internship- no pay but in exchange for "x" hours they gave me a return ticket anywhere in the world.
1
WHICH museums are free in Europe?
2
As others mentioned, this list is more for Donald Trump's kids than for regular Americans.
Go to the developing world. Eat what the locals eat. Stretch your world view.
When I was 25, I traveled overland by train from Singapore to Berlin including the Trans-Siberian across Russia Combined the trip took me 3 months, took me through 11 countries and cost a grand total of $900.
I learned more in that trip than 6 years of Ivy League education.
Go to the developing world. Eat what the locals eat. Stretch your world view.
When I was 25, I traveled overland by train from Singapore to Berlin including the Trans-Siberian across Russia Combined the trip took me 3 months, took me through 11 countries and cost a grand total of $900.
I learned more in that trip than 6 years of Ivy League education.
29
Sounds dreamy but today's "developing world" is dangerous and virus-filled. Eat what the locals eat and you will get very sick.
2
Isn't the list a bit tame and European? I'd list Alaska, Zanzibar, southern Africa, Ethiopia, Indonesia. Maybe anywhere in Latin America that's NOT Costa Rica or Mexico or Belize. anywhere in North Africa that's not Morocco. But a couple of my best 20s trips were loosely planned weeklong bike trips with a buddy - in Vermont and in Switzerland/Italy/France. Maybe the point I am stumbling toward is that your 20s are a good time to skip these headline destinations where everyone goes, and find your adventure in some less heavily traveled place.
41
There are a whole lot of twentysomething Times readers who won't be able to afford most or any of these trips-- we are the generation of the Great Recession, after all. For those who can afford to take a vacation, I wish you had offered some more adventurous options-- all of these are well-known, top travel destinations, many of them suitable for people of any age. Furthermore, most of them have a tourist infrastructure designed to cater to young, Western tourists. How boring is that?! Once you get older and start having kids, high-pressure jobs, and/or mobility issues, traveling off the beaten track can be much more difficult. Why not encourage young people to save New Orleans or California for later and visit a place that promises more adventure and more surprises?
20
There is no off the beaten track anymore. Wherever you go in the world you will be faced with zombies blindly following their lonely planet on a gap year adventure.
The excitement of international travel has long since receeded into the ennui of modern existence because of the ubiquity of easy insulating lifelines: online lists like this, google maps, mobile phones, ATMs, air bnb, couch surfing, molly fueled EDM international love ins.
How about this travel advice. Go where you want to go. Don't worry how "exotic" it is or if it is sufficiently "off the beaten path." Shut off your instagram and your facebook account. Nobody cares where you are and you're wasting your time trying to impress other people.
Leave your mobile phone at home so you can't be reached, so you can't reach your parents for emergency funds, can't consult Yelp for your daily meal recommendations, and can't book an Uber or GoJek motorcy taxi.
The excitement of international travel has long since receeded into the ennui of modern existence because of the ubiquity of easy insulating lifelines: online lists like this, google maps, mobile phones, ATMs, air bnb, couch surfing, molly fueled EDM international love ins.
How about this travel advice. Go where you want to go. Don't worry how "exotic" it is or if it is sufficiently "off the beaten path." Shut off your instagram and your facebook account. Nobody cares where you are and you're wasting your time trying to impress other people.
Leave your mobile phone at home so you can't be reached, so you can't reach your parents for emergency funds, can't consult Yelp for your daily meal recommendations, and can't book an Uber or GoJek motorcy taxi.
36
Well put!
This may be the most depressing commentary on international travel I've read in years. "The excitement of international travel has long since receded"? Seriously?? That's news to me -- and note that I've been fortunate enough to visit 50+ countries on all seven continents before the age of 40. (And no, I'm not "rich." I am, however, well-schooled on how to travel on the cheap.)
I also wholeheartedly disagree with the notion that "there is no off the beaten track anymore." How about Bhutan, where Western travelers were all but forbidden to visit until the past decade? Yes, it's now home to a few shockingly expensive Western "retreats," but 99% of the country remains largely unspoiled. Ditto Myanmar, which was also largely closed off for years. It's very different from Bhutan, but houses scores of epic ancient ruins on par with the likes of Siem Reap.
How about Eastern Europe? No, I don't mean Prague or Budapest: I'm talking about places like Albania, Macedonia, Serbia and Slovakia -- and Slovenia, while I'm at it -- that may as well be invisible as far as American tourist destinations go. (They're also mostly free of European ones.)
That said, I do agree about leaving certain "lifelines" at home. Don't take your mobile phone with you and post every "interesting" moment to Instagram or Facebook. Ditch the Lonely Planet guides. (Instead, ask LOCALS where to eat and what to do.) "Plan" as little as possible in advance. Embrace both the spontaneous and the unknown.
I also wholeheartedly disagree with the notion that "there is no off the beaten track anymore." How about Bhutan, where Western travelers were all but forbidden to visit until the past decade? Yes, it's now home to a few shockingly expensive Western "retreats," but 99% of the country remains largely unspoiled. Ditto Myanmar, which was also largely closed off for years. It's very different from Bhutan, but houses scores of epic ancient ruins on par with the likes of Siem Reap.
How about Eastern Europe? No, I don't mean Prague or Budapest: I'm talking about places like Albania, Macedonia, Serbia and Slovakia -- and Slovenia, while I'm at it -- that may as well be invisible as far as American tourist destinations go. (They're also mostly free of European ones.)
That said, I do agree about leaving certain "lifelines" at home. Don't take your mobile phone with you and post every "interesting" moment to Instagram or Facebook. Ditch the Lonely Planet guides. (Instead, ask LOCALS where to eat and what to do.) "Plan" as little as possible in advance. Embrace both the spontaneous and the unknown.
1
If i could go back to my early twenties and visas and money were not an issue, I would have explored much more at the raw level. I have been to most of these places in my thirties but not the same fun and surely will always feel the loss. So many wonderful youth never see the world mostly because of visa restrictions and consequently remain closed down. Sad
15
"We've left out the obvious classic places ... New York, London, Paris...."
As a modestly traveled person, thinking back to my 19-year-old self planning carefully for my first outside of the US travel, I find this list disappointing. I would have liked to see some of the "classic places" represented. Then again, if the article is aimed at 20-somethings with loads of disposable income, for whom the classic places are already a matter of "been there, done that," okay, this list might make sense.
As a modestly traveled person, thinking back to my 19-year-old self planning carefully for my first outside of the US travel, I find this list disappointing. I would have liked to see some of the "classic places" represented. Then again, if the article is aimed at 20-somethings with loads of disposable income, for whom the classic places are already a matter of "been there, done that," okay, this list might make sense.
14
Sorry but as a 20-something reader of the Times, can't say that I have the luxury of travel right now as I am over 28k in student debt and earn $10 an hour. Maybe I'll bookmark this one in case things change in a decade.
This is so out of touch, NY Times.
This is so out of touch, NY Times.
109
Haha. I agree. I'm a new physician in my mid 30s and I just travelled to half those places because I finally have the money to do this. And I have to admit, I wasn't reading the Times in my early 20s.
19
Out of touch with many groups and I don't mean the deplorables. Why don't they pony up some funding for student grants for such travel. The fact the author did not consider that fact is sad. He must be a 1%er. Also Vietnam is not as cheap as stated as Asia goes. A better trip would be to explore the national parks in Malaysia.
3
A dollar for a bowl of Pho and ten dollars is not cheap?
I've been to almost all these places and wouldn't think of limiting them to people in their twenties. In fact, in my view travel is enjoyed more after you've knocked around a little. Traveling is so precious, why waste it on the young at all?
28
Huh?!! There's no limited pool of travel to "be wasted"on the young. Young people need to travel! This is so important to developing an understanding of the world! Americans travel so little compared to countries with similar levels of wealth -- and sadly our current climate shows it!
17
"Places for privileged, wealthy white people to go in their 20's"
102
Nothing like an incendiary comment to really further the conversation, right?
I don't understand how an article suggesting places in the world to visit became something about "white people". That said, people who interact with other cultures tend to be more accepting, understand, tolerant, educated etc than they were prior to these experiences. Since you clearly have some disdain for "white people", isn't this an experience that should be encouraged?
The title doesn't mention that these are for the budget traveler, but many of the destinations listed are very budget friendly. The cost of a 7 day pass to Yosement is $15. Hiking and camping are very cheap and are done all the time there. I recently visited Vietnam. My first meal there was pho (noodle soup) and 2 beers and it cost me a little under $3. Budget hotels can be had for $4/night. My round trip airfare was $820 - not cheap, but attainable for most people who decide they want to save up for a trip over a number of months or years.
Argentina, Morocca, Mexico, Cuba, Costa Rica, Croatia - all relatively cheap.
So I guess you can be bitter towards "priveledged, wealthy white people", or choose to go explore the world. It's your call.
I don't understand how an article suggesting places in the world to visit became something about "white people". That said, people who interact with other cultures tend to be more accepting, understand, tolerant, educated etc than they were prior to these experiences. Since you clearly have some disdain for "white people", isn't this an experience that should be encouraged?
The title doesn't mention that these are for the budget traveler, but many of the destinations listed are very budget friendly. The cost of a 7 day pass to Yosement is $15. Hiking and camping are very cheap and are done all the time there. I recently visited Vietnam. My first meal there was pho (noodle soup) and 2 beers and it cost me a little under $3. Budget hotels can be had for $4/night. My round trip airfare was $820 - not cheap, but attainable for most people who decide they want to save up for a trip over a number of months or years.
Argentina, Morocca, Mexico, Cuba, Costa Rica, Croatia - all relatively cheap.
So I guess you can be bitter towards "priveledged, wealthy white people", or choose to go explore the world. It's your call.
6
yeah, I had a difficult time with this one as well. and it's the top recommended comment? Emily from Wisconsin sounds about as white bread as well, white bred. BTW, the privileged wealthy don't hang in any large numbers in these Top 20 locations.
There are ways to travel without being over the top wealthy or white.
Sheesh.
There are ways to travel without being over the top wealthy or white.
Sheesh.
2
#1 is national park aka affordable for all races
I am an avid traveler, and have visited all of these places with the exception of Costa Rica. It's a good list. However, I disagree with Vietnam being on here rather than Japan: it is a superb country to visit because it's very well-developed, easy to get around, with incredible diversity in landscape, so much culture ranging from the ancient era to cutting-edge fashion and electronics, and finally it's safer. I cannot say the same for Vietnam.
Also, I assume most Millenials reading NYT live in America. Please explore our country. I am shocked how few people my age have seen all 50 states. In fact, some call the places they haven't been to as 'fly-over' states or mistakenly assume they have nothing to offer vs. NYC or LA. At the risk of sounding like an insular person, our country offers so much value and diversity from Alaska to Maine to Hawaii. If there is only one country you can thoroughly explore due to time and lack of money, you can't go wrong with America. Japan, as much as I love it, is very mono-culture and secretly racist, however America's spectrum is much more vast and welcoming. It's a shame that most people have only seen one-fourth of our country or less.
Lastly, I would remove Lisbon and substitute either Iran, Turkey, or South Africa in its place. These three offer so much more than Portugal (which is similar to Spain) since they are very different from this Europe-centric list.
Also, I assume most Millenials reading NYT live in America. Please explore our country. I am shocked how few people my age have seen all 50 states. In fact, some call the places they haven't been to as 'fly-over' states or mistakenly assume they have nothing to offer vs. NYC or LA. At the risk of sounding like an insular person, our country offers so much value and diversity from Alaska to Maine to Hawaii. If there is only one country you can thoroughly explore due to time and lack of money, you can't go wrong with America. Japan, as much as I love it, is very mono-culture and secretly racist, however America's spectrum is much more vast and welcoming. It's a shame that most people have only seen one-fourth of our country or less.
Lastly, I would remove Lisbon and substitute either Iran, Turkey, or South Africa in its place. These three offer so much more than Portugal (which is similar to Spain) since they are very different from this Europe-centric list.
46
It would be a mistake to remove Lisbon in favour of destinations further afield. I disagree it's like Spain. Have you been to either? Lisbon is luxuriously laid back, inviting and still exciting to young visitors in a way no Spanish city I've seen. If anything Barcelona is overrated, although more accessible to the traditional European capitals, although it can be teamed up with other European destinations at low cost, whether overland or by air.
While I agree the US and Canada have a diversity and spectacular sites, the kind of traveling you suggest is of an entirely different quality. You will not find both the challenges of navigating in what is essentially an alien environment. You won't face foreign languages, mores and customs, as well as the camaraderie of shared experiences with others in the same boat, on route 66 nor in the great parks of the west.
Perhaps you could make an op-ed travel submission of your own?
While I agree the US and Canada have a diversity and spectacular sites, the kind of traveling you suggest is of an entirely different quality. You will not find both the challenges of navigating in what is essentially an alien environment. You won't face foreign languages, mores and customs, as well as the camaraderie of shared experiences with others in the same boat, on route 66 nor in the great parks of the west.
Perhaps you could make an op-ed travel submission of your own?
2
Turkey? The Turkey that is in the midst of a barely-disclosed revolution? You stand a good chance of being arrested and accused of being a journalist-spy just because you are American.
1
This is a fairly random bucket list. If I were in my 20's again, I'd focus much more on Mexico, Central America, and Canada - reachable for the shorter duration vacations that are the norm and for less money than a jaunt to New Zealand or Iceland. And then some epic gap year journey around south east Asia or India or South America. But where ever it is, make sure it isn't Vegas or one of the other cliche American destinations. There is so much more to see and do. And if you are like me, the tolerance for sleeping in a tent or a cheap hotel is going to fade when you are out of your 20's...so go to those shoestring locations while you can really enjoy them.
12
Good list for all ages; our parks are stunning and so affordable ;
21
Any lists of places to go or things to do at certain ages are bound to be arguable but are fun to remember as we and our teens have been to many of these. So many more to add to this list. Message should be... just get out there kids.
8
Get out of your comfort zone, truly learn a new language, learn to live among others with a different culture and only then will an experience, a journey truly change you. Only then will you learn about yourself and how your circumstances have shaped you.
23
I was just talking to a friend I had met in my 20s about how we used to have so much daring fun windsurfing in Maui, and how glad we did it while young (and daring). Maui is gorgeous, there are plenty of reasonable rentals for young people, a 10,000-foot high volcano, warm waters, rain forests, mountain biking...and now kitesurfing, which has replaced windsurfing in popularity.
7
Go to rugged regions of the world while you're younger, healthier and adventurous. Think India, Peru, New Guinea, Alaska, Nepal or Suriname.
Wait or save the easier to travel places until you're middle aged or older.
I'd consider half of the suggestions here could wait until later in life. In particular the cities. Go further off the map while you can. Hiking around Machu Picchu can be hard on your heart after 60. As are all mountain tops. Get going, now! Don't wait until it's too late or you'll never do it.
Wait or save the easier to travel places until you're middle aged or older.
I'd consider half of the suggestions here could wait until later in life. In particular the cities. Go further off the map while you can. Hiking around Machu Picchu can be hard on your heart after 60. As are all mountain tops. Get going, now! Don't wait until it's too late or you'll never do it.
62
Excellent advice!
2
This list is "starter kit"? I know plenty of good-earning baby boomers who would consider these 'trips of a lifetime' not 'starter vacations'. This whole article has overtones of one-percenter condescension....
I spent my 20s paying off student loans, kickstarting retirement savings, finishing graduate school, getting married, and saving for a house downpayment. You know, regular plebeian things. My passport collected a lot of dust in the process. Now at 35 I'm on a decent footing where I can almost afford the trips in this article. I am happy I made the trade-offs I did.
My '20s vacations' were all road trips with a tent. Inside the US. Lots of ramen soup and diners. Some national parks but mostly state parks which are cheaper with fewer international tourists.
I met some people with a few more years and a lot more wisdom than me. Note: It's good to drop the Instagram and talk to a perfect stranger once and awhile. It's called acting like a grown-up. While you rarely see it, it's something you should try to accomplish in your 20s.
Those strangers 'changed my perception of the world' far more than an obsequious tour guide who barely speaks my native language could ever manage.
Kids, don't listen to Trump or the NYT travel writers. America is still great!
I spent my 20s paying off student loans, kickstarting retirement savings, finishing graduate school, getting married, and saving for a house downpayment. You know, regular plebeian things. My passport collected a lot of dust in the process. Now at 35 I'm on a decent footing where I can almost afford the trips in this article. I am happy I made the trade-offs I did.
My '20s vacations' were all road trips with a tent. Inside the US. Lots of ramen soup and diners. Some national parks but mostly state parks which are cheaper with fewer international tourists.
I met some people with a few more years and a lot more wisdom than me. Note: It's good to drop the Instagram and talk to a perfect stranger once and awhile. It's called acting like a grown-up. While you rarely see it, it's something you should try to accomplish in your 20s.
Those strangers 'changed my perception of the world' far more than an obsequious tour guide who barely speaks my native language could ever manage.
Kids, don't listen to Trump or the NYT travel writers. America is still great!
67
My husband and I got back from Prague and Budapest. Great places to visit in your 60's and 70's too. Nothing like exploring multi-generational destinations! Budapest is especially special....friendly and vibrant!
17
I suggest younger adults pursue more adventurous or physically demanding trips while youth and health are still on their side. For example, multiple day desert treks with camping in the Sahara, or volunteer vacations in Cameroon, white water rafting on the Colorado, climbing Kilimanjaro. Do the rough trips early in life and save the touring and food/wine for your later years.
67
An awfully lot of focus on the art of dining here, but maybe today's young people are sofisticated gourmands? If so, I guess there are plenty of options avalible that takes less burning of dinosaur bones. Even visiting the different parts of New York by rail may show a greater diversity (both cultural and gourmet-wise) for a young middle class person than visiting a few European cities?
14
Walk and drive on the well-trod path in Vietnam.
10
Late 20s Millenial here. So far in my twenties I have been able to explore six of these places: many national parks, Oaxaca, Montreal, Costa Rica, Vietnam and the California Coast. My professional achievements (bachelor's of science, completing medical school and starting residency) haven't derived me not nearly the same personal satisfaction as sharing traveling with my family, friends and significant other. Looking forward to traveling in my thirties when they arrive.
27
Very impressive Alex.
I am an oncologist ( now 42) who spent most of my 20s in a blur of sleep deprivation, devoid of life outside of the green/grey walls of hospitals and moving from India to US and then moving from the south to the mid Atlantic to Connecticut to New York and finally the Pacific North West which is now home. I stated traveling at 32 and have been to half the places listed. And 21 countries so far.
I find my fellow physicians devoid of thirst for travel, culture, art, language and creativity, being satisfied instead in working abnormal hours and buying large cookie cutter homes in suburban utopia.
I am impressed with how much you have traveled in the midst of your training.
Getting time off for travel is excruciating difficult amidst the unrelenting "work only"culture in the US.
But it's possible to be a committed physician, build your family and expand your horizons and learn with travel.
I am an oncologist ( now 42) who spent most of my 20s in a blur of sleep deprivation, devoid of life outside of the green/grey walls of hospitals and moving from India to US and then moving from the south to the mid Atlantic to Connecticut to New York and finally the Pacific North West which is now home. I stated traveling at 32 and have been to half the places listed. And 21 countries so far.
I find my fellow physicians devoid of thirst for travel, culture, art, language and creativity, being satisfied instead in working abnormal hours and buying large cookie cutter homes in suburban utopia.
I am impressed with how much you have traveled in the midst of your training.
Getting time off for travel is excruciating difficult amidst the unrelenting "work only"culture in the US.
But it's possible to be a committed physician, build your family and expand your horizons and learn with travel.
37
Or maybe the are just tired.
2
I like to travel and do my fair share of it, but it is also true that some people just don't travel well despite living otherwise enriched lives. Nothing wrong with it.
2
Shouldn't people in their 20s be going somewhere that doesn't have a lot of English speakers and expats? I guess it depends on whether you want fun and photos instead of an education.
25
There are a lot of places in that list where English is not the main language. I can see Spanish (Barcelona, Costa Rica), Portuguese (Lisbon), Croatian (the Croatian coast) and German (Berlin) - and also French in Paris, mentioned before the list of 20.
10
Add Icelandic to the list that I wrote earlier.
9
yes, going in January for the northern lights I hope.....
1