The One Place That Captivated Travel Experts’ Hearts

When asked why they chose a career in travel, most travel experts will enthusiastically mention a specific destination that captured their imagination. It might have been the amazing cuisine, the vibrant arts community, or the stunning landscapes that inspired them to think, I want to do this for a living.

While there are countless options, especially for those who make travel their livelihood, deep down, everyone has that one special place that holds a special spot in their hearts. We asked six travel experts to share the destinations that made them fall head over heels for travel.

Sarah Marston Crocker, the founder and owner of Pathways Active Travel in Boulder, Colorado, spent her childhood hiking from hut to hut in the Swiss Alps with her family. However, it was a trip to Northern Italy in 2016, during a career break, that ignited her passion for the travel industry.

The concept for her active travel company was conceived while trekking on the challenging Alta Via 2 hiking trail in the Dolomites, a mountain range in the northern Italian Alps.

“Standing at the highest point on the Alta Via 2, we marveled at the breathtaking scenery as we headed towards Passo Pordoi and the stunning views of the Marmolada Glacier,” Crocker recounted to HuffPost.

Following that, Crocker visited Madonna di Campiglio, a charming ski village, and was captivated by the beauty and accessibility of this part of the Dolomites. This experience cemented her determination to establish Pathways and offer others the opportunity to enjoy such unforgettable hiking adventures.

“I fell in love with the mountains, the welcoming locals, the culture, and the amazing cuisine,” she exclaimed.

Emma Lasiuk discovered Costa Rica during her college years when she volunteered near Manuel Antonio. She was enchanted by the country’s lush greenery, pristine beaches, and stunning sunsets. The local people, known fondly as “Ticos,” captured her heart.

“I had traveled extensively before visiting here but had never experienced such warmth and a sense of safety,” said Lasiuk, now a travel advisor with Costa Rican Vacations. She embraced the Pura Vida lifestyle, spending her days hiking, swimming at the beach in the early morning, and observing wildlife.

When she had to leave Costa Rica and return to the United States, she feared that the memories would fade away, prompting her to promptly book another trip and eventually relocate there permanently.

“Costa Rica offers something for everyone, whether it’s ziplining above the treetops in La Fortuna, strolling across hanging bridges in the lush cloud forests of Monteverde, leaping off waterfalls in the dense jungles of Manuel Antonio, or diving off the Central Pacific coast at Caño Island,” she shared. “I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

Madison Ned Butler, a communications manager with the Rail Passengers Association, has explored much of the country on their long-distance train journeys but one Southern destination left a lasting impression.

“Mississippi is a mix of beauty, complexity, happiness, boldness, and warmth,” they shared with HuffPost. During a trip in 2019, Butler spent time exploring the Gulf Coast and the Delta region, marveling at the state’s rich culture and vibrant communities.

“The culinary, music, and art scenes in Mississippi are exceptional right now. I’ve witnessed incredible emerging talent from the state, which has already produced many of our most celebrated artists,” Butler noted.

One of their highlights was visiting various historical sites and museums, including the The Mississippi Freedom Trail and the Civil Rights Museum in nearby Memphis, Tennessee are highlighted as significant historical sites that everyone should visit according to Butler.

Stephanie Chastain and her husband chose Ireland as their honeymoon destination in 2006, captivated by its scenery and history. They were particularly struck by the local sites and people.

Chastain, now the founder of Infinite Ireland Travel Co., encourages travelers to explore lesser-known spots in Ireland and take the time to connect with locals.

Nick Kembel, a travel photographer, found Taiwan welcoming and enjoyed the local hospitality and natural landscapes like Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge.

Jim Pattiz, a nature filmmaker, had a life-changing experience when he visited Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona during a road trip. The vastness and beauty of the park inspired him to seek similar experiences in his future travels across America’s public lands.