Travel has always been more than just a hobby for me β itβs a part of who I am. Thereβs something exciting about planning the next journey, setting off to new places, and not knowing exactly what Iβll discover along the way. From cross-country adventures to exploring cities across the globe, each trip has shaped the way I see the world. Every destination adds a new layer of experience, and with every adventure, my list of places to explore just keeps growing.
My 50 States ChallengeπΊπΈ
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. Itβs 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, itβs 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, Iβve 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 havenβt completed my 50 States Challenge just yet, but with every trip, Iβm getting a little closer. One of the biggest highlights so far was visiting Alaska β a place that completely took my breath away. That journey didnβt just check another state off the list; it also introduced me to something new: cruising. Sailing through Alaskaβs dramatic fjords and watching glaciers drift by from my cabin balcony sparked a whole new kind of wanderlust β a love for exploring by sea.
Discovering a New Way to Travelπ
Since then, cruising has opened up an entirely new side of travel for me. Thereβs something truly special about waking up to a new view each morning β one day a lively port buzzing with energy, the next a quiet island surrounded by turquoise water. Itβs a different kind of adventure, yet it still captures that same spirit of discovery that keeps me chasing my 50 States goal.
Iβve definitely caught the cruising bug β seven cruises in, and Iβm already dreaming about the next one. Thereβs something magical about falling asleep as the ship glides through the night and waking up somewhere completely new. Even the sea days feel special β slow breakfasts, endless ocean horizons, and time to just unwind between destinations.
πΊοΈ Tracking My Travels
These maps are a snapshot of my travels so far β from the states Iβve explored across the U.S. to the cruise ports Iβve visited around the world. Each dot represents a memory, a story, and a moment I donβt want to forget. I hope they inspire you to celebrate your own adventures, revisit your favourite places, or dream about the ones youβve yet to explore. Join me as I continue to map out new journeys, one memory at a time.
States Visited: 23/50 ππΊπΈ
Click on the Map to Explore
The Journey Continues
Whether Iβm road-tripping across the U.S. to reach my next state or sailing across turquoise waters to a new port, the adventure never really stops. Cruising has become a natural extension of my 50 States Challenge β two different ways of exploring that are driven by the same love of discovery. One takes me across highways and through national parks; the other carries me over open seas and into vibrant coastal cities. Both remind me why I fell in love with travel in the first place.
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!