Travel has always been more than just a hobby for me โ itโs a part of who I am. Thereโs something exciting about planning the next trip, setting out somewhere new, and not knowing exactly what youโll discover along the way. From road trips across the U.S. to exploring cities abroad, each journey has shaped how I see the world. Every destination adds a new layer of experience, and with each adventure, my list of places to explore just keeps growing.
My 50 States Challenge๐บ๐ธ
The 50 States Challenge is a personal or travel goal where individuals aim to visit all 50 states in the United States at least once in their lifetime. Itโs a way to explore the incredible diversity of the country, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, and experience the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of each state. For some, itโs a leisurely lifetime goal, while others turn it into an adventurous race to see how quickly they can complete all 50.
For me, this adventure started with a trip to Florida in 2000, which sparked my love for exploring new places. An American West adventure in 2010 deepened my passion for travel and inspired me to take on the challenge of visiting all 50 states. Living in the UK, Iโve managed to mix work commitments with vacation time in the U.S., making every trip a chance to explore more of the states. Each journey has brought unique experiences, from breathtaking landscapes to memorable encounters with people along the way.
I havenโt completed the 50 States Challenge just yet, but each trip gets me a little closer. One of the highlights so far was visiting Alaska โ a place that truly took my breath away. That trip didnโt just tick another state off the list; it also gave me my first taste of cruising. Sailing through Alaskaโs stunning fjords and watching glaciers from the cabin balcony, sparked something new in me: a love for exploring by sea.
Each Morning, a Different View
Since then, cruising has opened up a whole new side of travel for me. Thereโs something truly special about waking up to a new view each morning โ one day a bustling port full of life, the next a quiet island surrounded by turquoise water. Itโs a different kind of adventure, but one that still captures the same spirit of discovery that drives my 50 States journey.
Iโve definitely caught the cruising bug โ seven cruises down and already dreaming about the next one. Thereโs a magic to falling asleep while the ship glides through the night and waking up somewhere completely new. Even the sea days have their own rhythm โ lazy breakfasts, ocean views that stretch forever, and time to simply unwind between destinations.
Whether itโs island hopping in the Caribbean or exploring the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast, cruising has become a natural extension of my love for travel โ another way to keep exploring, learning, and experiencing the world from a whole new perspective.
Follow Along on My Journey
Twenty-three states explored, seven cruises sailed, and adventures across some of Europeโs most beautiful cities โ and Iโm only just getting started. Every trip adds another piece to the puzzle, from road trips across the U.S. to wandering cobblestone streets in Europe and waking up to new horizons at sea. Cruising has become the perfect way to blend my love of travel with the thrill of discovering somewhere new. Each journey brings new experiences, memories, and moments that keep my love for travel growing.
States Visited: 23/50 ๐๐บ๐ธ
Click on the Map to Explore
Join Me on This Adventure!
Whether youโve travelled to every U.S. state or are just starting your own journey, Iโd love to have you along for this epic adventure. Feel free to explore the blog, leave a comment, or share your own tips for navigating the U.S. My 50 State challenge is ongoing, and the adventure is far from over!
One of my goals is to visit as many states here in the US as well. There are so many things to see and do. It will take many years to accomplish. But the earlier the better. Thank you for being our guide.
Ahhh I wish I lived closer! I would love to travel around all these States! A long road trip!