I’ve been to more than 50 countries, but there are just 3 I keep going back to again and again

As a travel writer and photographer, I’m incredibly lucky to have ventured to so many special corners of the world.

From hiking with goats in Austria and camping on the snow in Antarctica, to completing an eight-day solo pilgrimage trek in Japan, and going lobster fishing in Newfoundland, I’ve had no shortage of wild adventures.

Having been to all seven continents and more than 50 countries so far, one of the questions I’m most often asked is, “What’s your favorite place that you’ve been?”

I find it nearly impossible to answer, because I truly believe that every destination has something to offer. There are a few places, though, that have captured my heart in such a tight hug that I’ve been lured back into their embrace heaps of times.

Places that fulfill me the most are a joy to photograph, have a fantastic food and beverage scene, and offer show-stopping outdoor endeavors, small towns meant for slow wandering, and opportunities to connect with the local culture, people, and nature in meaningful ways.

These are the three countries that regularly fuel my daydreams, and I can’t resist going back to them again and again.

Everything feels cooler in Iceland

On day one of my first trip to Iceland, I fell head over heels, and I’ve returned several times since, with no plans to stop anytime soon.

I’ve always been a huge fan of road trips, and this country is made for them, down to the incredible gas station hot dogs (no, seriously). The otherworldly landscape, endless waterfalls, rich Viking history, and oh my goodness, the natural hot springs and swimming culture — I love it all.

Each season has something different to offer, from spotting puffins in the summer months to watching the northern lights flaunt their winter moves above.

Having explored on my own several times, I’ve always felt super safe and believe Iceland is a fantastic destination for solo travelers. My camera gets a serious workout in Iceland — it’s exceptional for photography with endless beauty at every turn.

Although I’m not a huge city person, Iceland is also home to my favorite capital: Reykjavik. The food and culture scene is out of this world, and if you get the chance to ring in the New Year there like I did this past year, it’ll blow your mind.

I can’t get enough of Italy

At this point, Italy feels like a second home to me, and not just because I have family heritage ties to the country.

My very first trip there more than a decade ago sparked an obsession and a longing to visit nearly every year — I even spent a summer teaching English at a small school in Tuscany.

I’ve walked in the footsteps of my maternal grandfather in the small village where he was raised, and explored everywhere from the Lake District, Tuscany, Liguria (where I attended a fish festival), Puglia, the Dolomites, the Amalfi Coast, and, most recently, Sicily.

My top place from a two-week vacation with my partner was the Aeolian Island of Salina, where we experienced a delightfully slow few days at the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in, Principe di Salina.

I’ve found that each region offers something different, plus there are numerous festivals and events throughout every season. Every nook and cranny feels like a history lesson and living museum between the tiny medieval hilltop villages, ancient ruins, arts, and culture.

Don’t even get me started on the food and wine! Italy is a mecca for everything I crave.

Switzerland is such a special place

The first time I set foot on Swiss soil, I was starstruck. I was also somewhat lost, in all senses of the word. Physically, I was looking for a cog train; mentally, I was figuring out my next life chapter.

It turns out that spectacular scenery, a change of pace, and hiking with sheep can do wonders to clear your head. So, Switzerland will always hold a special place in my heart.

Although I’ve visited the country more than seven times since that initial trip, I’m still enamored by the crisp Swiss air, spectacular outdoor adventure opportunities, and chocolate.

I’ve criss-crossed the country on the incredibly efficient and scenic trains, trekked to peaks, through small villages, behind waterfalls, and valleys, and even raced down a mountain track on a Super Mario-style cart.

Although I’ve spent time in many of the diverse regions, Switzerland’s sunny Ticino may be my favorite. This region on the edge of Lake Maggiore blends the best of Swiss and Italian food and culture, and is the perfect alternative to Lake Como, away from the crowds.