Maybe international travel isn’t on your list of things to do right now. We get that. You want to finish college and get ahead in your career so you can enjoy travel like a prince with some money in the bank later in life, rather than a pauper when you’re fresh out of school. The only problem with that logic is that life will always get in the way as you get older. Here are eight cities you need to visit before you’re 30. Your life will be so much better if you do—we promise.
1. Los Angeles
For the pretty girls from the movies, head to Southern California. L.A. is huge so there’s a ridiculous amount of things to do from sightseeing, nights out, beaches and parties to the amazing beaches – each with its own vibe. Definitely try out Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach for some very different, but very cool spots. If great food is on your list, L.A. is a must visit. Ask a local for advice and avoid the tourist traps.
2. New York
Manhattan may be smaller than L.A., but it is certainly packed to the brim with things to do. You have to see all the different neighborhoods, Central Park, museums for every interest, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and so much more. On the nightlife side of things, shops stay open late and there’s a plethora of bars and clubs to choose from, ranging from honky tonk to guest-list ritzy. Manhattan is a different lifestyle from the rest of America with its fast-paced walking and talking and heavy international presence.
3. Miami
Amazing nightclubs, amazing beach parties, and great looking women everywhere the eye can see. Sounds pretty awesome, doesn’t it? Welcome to Miami, Florida. When you do visit, you definitely have to go when it’s beach weather and hit the gym because everybody is rockin’ that bod in swimsuits all day long. After that, get some authentic and delicious Cuban cuisine and drink cocktails and beers all day—the locals do it, after all.
4. London
There’s a lot to do here. Like L.A., the footprint is huge and there’s a lot to see: Big Ben, London Eye, Camden Market and Covent Garden, to name a few. People say Leicester Square is touristy for nights out, but you should go there because you’ll definitely have fun. There’s a great mix of pubs, bars and clubs. England has the type of cuisine you’ll probably want to skip, but London has a ton of international options, so the food is great!
5. Tokyo
Fast-paced and small quarters, Tokyo will show you a life you never imagined and, bonus for any male traveler, Japanese girls are adorable! Amazing nights out and amazing Japanese cuisine also await you. Bottom line: Japan is nothing like anywhere else in the world so you have to go see it for yourself to really understand the nuances. If you’re average height in the western world, you’re generally going to be really tall in Japan—just don’t do your Godzilla impression too often.
6. Rio de Janeiro
It’s always party time in Rio! Unlike all the previously mentioned places, living it up in Rio won’t break your bank! Make sure to hang out at the legendary Copacabana beach and Sugar Loaf Mountain. Why? Because the beach is awesome and also so you can take a selfie with giant Jesus at the top of the mountain! If you manage to get there in 2016, you’ll also be able to witness the Summer Olympics. Regardless of when you go, you’ll be able to savor awesome Brazilian cuisine and the best organic fresh fruit. Also, head’s up: Brazilian women are beautiful and not afraid to flaunt it.
7. Rome
Every human being on Earth will be humbled and amazed by the magnitude of the sights in this city – especially the Coliseum. Every guy knows about gladiators and this is where it all happened. Aside from absolutely incredible food, real gelato and wine for days, there’s plenty to see (Coliseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, the neighborhoods and more). You’ll also want to check out the great nightlife with all the cool bars and clubs that are packed with gorgeous Italian women!
8. San Francisco
Sure, it’s the US, but this city has a culture of its own. Many Americans who aren’t from California don’t realize the eight-hour driving distance from L.A. to S.F. separates entirely different cultures. There’s plenty to see and do (Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Baker Beach, Union Square, Haight/Ashbury, Lands End and more). San Francisco has an excellent selection of bars (there’s a handful of nightclubs, but the majority of locals definitely hangout at bars and a lot of bars have dancing). You won’t want to miss on the great day trips nearby at Redwood Forest, Sausalito and Napa Valley.
With these eight trips under your belt, you’re sure to come home with a whole new world in your consciousness. You’ll have more culture, more understanding of the past and different ways of life. You’ll also have a lifetime of stories to tell well into your retirement.
