I am all "Churched" and "Museumed" out! Help!!

by spachick
(USA)

When I was 20, I did the Europe thing. I went to an over abundance of churches and art museums. So much so, that I'm kind of sick of them. I am thinking about going to Panama City, Panama on my next adventure in Feb/Mar 2011.

I am looking for some new destination ideas. I've done the learning another language thing and the volunteer thing.
What I like about learning a new language was that a) it didn't take up a lot of my time, b) still had my independence while meeting other people. But I am looking for something new when the exploring and shopping is done. Any ideas??

Answer: The world is full of fabulous destinations that don't involve shopping or sightseeing. In fact, most destinations fall into this category!

A quick word about Panama City first - of all the fabulous destinations in Panama, the capital is probably the least interesting. It's worth taking a drive up to the Panama Canal and watching the ships go through, or better yet, getting on a ship yourself but I'd stay away from the city. If you can, Bocas del Toro is a wonderful destination, especially if you like Caribbean culture and the waterfront. I would also explore some of Panama's forest reserves and if you're so inclined, hike the Quetzal Trail, which I did a couple of years ago and thoroughly enjoyed.

But back to destinations: it depends on what you like. If natural habitats are of interest, extend your Panama trip into Costa Rica's cloud forests. Another great forest and wildlife destination is Brazil, both the Amazon and the Pantanal. Of course there are plenty of organized photo safaris in Africa if you enjoy wildlife.

If you're interested in offbeat destinations that aren't really on the tourist track, you could try someplace like southern Africa - either Mozambique or Namibia, each of which is special in its own way. Further north, Ethiopia will make you feel like you're in another world.

If you want something tamer, have you ever been to Southeast Asia? There's Thailand of course, but right next door are Cambodia and Laos, both of which remind me of Thailand 20 years ago, before everyone arrived.

If you'd rather stay in Europe, there are some less traveled places that are more about natural beauty than museums, especially in Scandinavia.

I'm biased, of course, but here are my own top 10 travel destinations.

Comments for
I am all "Churched" and "Museumed" out! Help!!

Click here to add your own comments

What interests you?
by: gwen@algarveexperiences.com

I think there are many of us who have traveled extensively and had many 'traditional' travel experiences who are now looking for something new and different.

If you were my coaching client I'd encourage you to create a couple of lists; the first being a list of your interests in life. Mine would include gardening, cooking, reading, camping, hiking, personal growth, and cultural shifts. The second being a list of what feels like a 'mystery' to you at this stage of life. Mine would include: how do individuals choose between tradition & 'progress'; what are other women my age REALLY thinking about; what alternative approaches to ageing successfully exist.

I'd then start exploring what's out there that seems to map to the interests on my combined lists (cities, countries, conferences, courses/retreats, package deals). There are all kinds of 'modern retreats', learning holidays and cultural exploration opportunities available in today's world. Yes, you won't likely find these opportunities in a glossy brochure at your travel agent, but one of the joys of the Internet is just how easy it is to find out about non-traditional travel experiences to off-the-beaten-track locations.

I'm a big fan of Twitter and follow a lot of folks in the travel business. I'm constantly amazed, excited and astounded by the richness and variety on offer to those who seek it out. Best of luck. Hope you let us know where your explorations take you.

Things to do when you are churched out...
by: Laura

I understand the need for a 'goal' or a focus when travelling, it provides structure to your day and it gives you something to aim for--and you dont necessarily have to follow the plan--its just there ' in case'.

I am an avid reader, and my destination when I hit a new city is to head to the main library. Some of them are ancient, and are housed in some of the most beautiful buildings....alternatively, I search out quaint 'bookstores' too.
Check out this link to see what I mean!

Roma, Italia
by: Marcella M.

I love to travel and in Rome I have many museu and monument so I like to discover the cuisine. I learn to cook everywhere! In Thailand I take a cooking course in Bangkok and in Paris I also take a course. Best way to know people is through their food!!!

Ed. Note: I couldn't agree more! Have a look at the page on
cooking schools in Europe to get more inspiration or ideas about chasing cuisine around the world!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Solo Travel Questions

Still DREAMING about taking that first big trip?
What's stopping you from DOING it?

If you're nervous about setting out on your own, if you find yourself making all sorts of excuses, if there are a million reasons why right now is not the right time...

Then you really need the Art of Solo Travel ! This book is made for you. Whatever is holding you back, The Art of Solo Travel takes the obstacles away, relieves your fears and insecurities, and gets you on the road!

Find out more