Regardless of the outcome of Sunday’s game, the New England Patriots are already making dreams come true.Shelly Sepulveda, a local NICU nurse, has been battling cancer for the last two years. The mother of six, five of whom were adopted, has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer three times since 2024.”I know I have limited time here on this Earth, so I created a bucket list and one of the things on that bucket list was to go to a Pats game,” she said.Sepulveda didn’t go to just any game; she went to last week’s playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers.”I got to go on the field, I got to go in and see the players up close and personal,” she said. “I cried when I went on the field. It was just an amazing experience.”The game was a highlight for Sepulveda in what has been an unimaginable two years.The Kraft Foundation heard she was a fan and invited her to the game. And the excitement didn’t stop there.Kraft gifted her a ticket to the Super Bowl. “I’ve been on Cloud Nine ever since, even though I had some unfortunate news,” Sepulveda said.This past Tuesday, she found out her body is no longer responding to chemotherapy.She’s now trying to get into a clinical trial.The Super Bowl ticket is giving her hope and inspiration as she fights this disease.”I know that it’s a gift from them, but I don’t know really if they really understand how much it impacts me mentally, physically,” she said. “I want them to know how much this is keeping me going. And I have the Pats to thank for that.”
Regardless of the outcome of Sunday’s game, the New England Patriots are already making dreams come true.
Shelly Sepulveda, a local NICU nurse, has been battling cancer for the last two years.
The mother of six, five of whom were adopted, has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer three times since 2024.
“I know I have limited time here on this Earth, so I created a bucket list and one of the things on that bucket list was to go to a Pats game,” she said.
Sepulveda didn’t go to just any game; she went to last week’s playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
“I got to go on the field, I got to go in and see the players up close and personal,” she said. “I cried when I went on the field. It was just an amazing experience.”
The game was a highlight for Sepulveda in what has been an unimaginable two years.
The Kraft Foundation heard she was a fan and invited her to the game.
And the excitement didn’t stop there.
Kraft gifted her a ticket to the Super Bowl.
“I’ve been on Cloud Nine ever since, even though I had some unfortunate news,” Sepulveda said.
This past Tuesday, she found out her body is no longer responding to chemotherapy.
She’s now trying to get into a clinical trial.
The Super Bowl ticket is giving her hope and inspiration as she fights this disease.
“I know that it’s a gift from them, but I don’t know really if they really understand how much it impacts me mentally, physically,” she said. “I want them to know how much this is keeping me going. And I have the Pats to thank for that.”
There’s something about the idea of Lapland in winter that has captivated me for years. Maybe it’s the promise of landscapes so pristine they look photoshopped, or the chance to experience a kind of magic that feels increasingly rare in our hyper-connected world. Whatever it is, this Arctic wonderland sits firmly at the top of my travel bucket list, and here’s exactly why.
Chasing the Northern Lights
Let’s be honest—this is probably number one on most people’s Lapland wish list, mine included. The Aurora Borealis has been dancing across my Instagram feed for years, but seeing those ethereal ribbons of green, purple, and pink light with my own eyes? That’s a different story entirely.
Finnish Lapland offers some of the best Aurora viewing conditions on the planet, with roughly 200 nights per year when the lights make an appearance. I’m dreaming of bundling up in thermals, lying back in the snow, and watching the sky put on a show that no amount of screen time could ever replicate. The best viewing months run from September through March, with December through February offering the darkest skies and longest viewing windows.
Sleeping in a Glass Igloo
Here’s where my bucket list gets seriously cozy. I’ve been obsessing over those glass igloos—heated domes with panoramic ceilings that let you watch for the Northern Lights from the warmth of your bed. Imagine sinking into crisp sheets, hot chocolate in hand, while the Arctic sky performs above you. No setting alarms for midnight Aurora alerts, no trudging outside in the cold. Just pure, comfortable wonder.
Places like Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort and Arctic SnowHotel have perfected this concept, combining the raw beauty of the wilderness with just enough comfort to make it unforgettable rather than merely survivable.
Meeting Real Reindeer (and Maybe Santa)
I’ll admit it—part of me is still that kid who believed in Christmas magic. Lapland is the official home of Santa Claus, and Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus Village lets you meet the man himself year-round. Cheesy? Maybe. But also kind of wonderful.
What really draws me, though, is the chance to learn about indigenous Sámi culture and their relationship with reindeer herding. These animals have been central to Sámi life for thousands of years, and I’d love to experience a traditional reindeer sleigh ride through snow-laden forests, learning from people who’ve mastered life in this extreme environment.
Husky Sledding Through Frozen Forests
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re in a Jack London novel, husky sledding is your answer. I can already imagine the rhythmic panting of the dogs, the whisper of runners on powder snow, and the absolute silence of a frozen forest broken only by the sound of the sled.
Most tours let you take turns driving the sled and being a passenger, and many include time to bond with these incredible working dogs. It’s not just a ride—it’s a partnership with animals bred for thousands of years to thrive in these conditions.
Trying a Traditional Finnish Sauna and Ice Plunge
Finland has more saunas than cars, and the traditional smoke sauna is a cultural experience I’m genuinely excited (and slightly nervous) to try. The Finnish sauna ritual isn’t just about getting clean—it’s about social connection, mental clarity, and the incredible contrast between extreme heat and cold.
The real test? Following up a 180°F sauna session with a plunge into an ice-cut hole in a frozen lake. Yes, it sounds terrifying. Yes, I absolutely want to do it. The Finns swear by the rush of endorphins and the feeling of being completely alive in your body.
Experiencing the Polar Night
Between early December and early January, the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon in parts of Lapland. Called “kaamos” or polar night, it’s not complete darkness—instead, you get these magical twilight hours with blue and purple hues painting the snow.
While some might find the darkness oppressive, I’m intrigued by how it might change my perception of time and space. Plus, those extended “golden hours” make for absolutely stunning photography, and the darkness enhances Aurora viewing opportunities.
Staying in an Ice Hotel
For one night—because let’s be real, that’s probably all I could handle—I want to sleep in a hotel carved entirely from ice and snow. These architectural marvels are rebuilt every winter by artists who create everything from the beds to the drinking glasses from ice.
The SnowVillage in Kittilä features ice sculptures, an ice restaurant, and even an ice chapel. Sure, it’ll be cold (despite the thermal sleeping bags and reindeer hides), but how often do you get to sleep in a work of art that melts away each spring?
Tasting Lapland’s Wild Cuisine
My food-loving heart is ready for Arctic flavors: smoked salmon, reindeer stew, cloudberry desserts, and leipäjuusto (Finnish squeaky cheese). I want to try traditional Sámi dishes, forage-to-table restaurants that serve lichen and wild mushrooms, and maybe even ice fishing for my own dinner.
There’s something appealing about eating food that’s so connected to place—ingredients that can only come from this specific environment, prepared using techniques passed down through generations.
Finding Complete Silence
Perhaps what I’m most looking forward to is something Lapland offers in abundance: silence. Real silence—the kind that’s increasingly hard to find. No traffic hum, no neighbor’s TV, no notification pings. Just the crunch of snow underfoot and maybe the distant call of a raven.
In winter, even the landscapes seem to hold their breath under blankets of snow. I’m craving that reset, that chance to hear my own thoughts without competition.
When to Go
While Lapland is magical throughout winter, timing matters for different experiences:
November to January: Darkest period, best for Northern Lights and polar night
February to March: More daylight, still reliably snowy, slightly warmer temperatures
December: Peak Christmas atmosphere if you’re visiting Santa
Making It Real
Is Lapland easy to reach? Not particularly. Is it budget-friendly? Definitely not. But some destinations earn their bucket list status by offering something you simply can’t find anywhere else. For me, Lapland represents a chance to step completely outside my everyday life and into something that feels both ancient and utterly unique.
So yes, it’s still on my bucket list. And with each passing year, the pull of those snow-covered forests, dancing lights, and crystalline silence only grows stronger. One day soon, I’m trading the familiar for the extraordinary—and finally experiencing Lapland’s winter magic for myself.
Every year, I like to put together a “travel bucket list” with inspiration for the coming year…a mood board for adventures, if you will. In looking at Expedia Group’s Unpack ’24 report, it was really fun to see that so many of our thoughts about travel line up.
“This year’s leading trends include Tour Tourism, Dry Tripping, and Go-ccasions!”
I can get behind that!
With that in mind, most of these bucket list items are not destination-specific, so I encourage you to use them as a launching pad for ideas, essentially some “choose your adventure” inspo!
As you plan your next big trip and cross things off this list, use Expedia’s Price Tracking tool to find the best flight prices for your 2024 trips!
From jet-setting around the globe to places where your favorite TV show or film is set to renting vacation homes and taking that long overdue girls’ trip, here is my travel bucket list for 2024!
Tour Tourism
In 2023, Taylor Swift’s Eras and Beyoncé’s Renaissance tours’ cultural impact was undeniable, driving ticket sales and travel and tourism. Expedia predicts that Tour Tourism will continue to thrive in 2024.
Cultural and music festivals have always been a big part of my international travels; I’ve been to Tomorrowland in Belgium and Ultra Japan in Tokyo. And I have 4 Burns (including Burning Man and AfrikaBurn) under my belt!
If you’ve got a major concert or cultural experience on your bucket list, make 2024 your year to experience it!
With over 60,000 attendees, Burning Man is not as simple as just showing up. Here is a beginner’s guide to Burning Man on how to survive in Black Rock City!
Going on a solo trip is a rite of passage. It’s a unique way to travel; you can experience a destination on your terms and timeline.
You can see what you want, eat where you want, and you’ll be able to meet locals along the way. It’s a great way to boost your confidence and see the world all at the same time.
As a solo female traveler, I’ve learned so much about myself and the world when I’ve traveled to destinations alone.
If the thought of going solo on an international trip is daunting, start small! Check out a neighboring state or county, or even try a dinner date in your hometown—party of one!
In the United States, you will find lots of exciting and safe spots to explore as a solo female traveler. Here are the best cities to travel alone in the USA!
For the film and TV buffs out there, have you ever considered traveling to the location of one of your favorite shows or movies? This trend is from Expedia Group’s Unpack ’24 report, and I admittedly have a few destinations on my bucket list for this reason!
Harry Potter: As you may know, I’m a huge fan of Harry Potter, and there are so many Harry Potter filming locations in England and the UK!
Lord of the Rings: There’s a Lord of the Rings Tour in New Zealand for those who would rather spend days exploring The Shire.
My obsession is a bit of a Sirius problem…but don’t worry, I’m Neville gonna stop. Are you a diehard Harry Potter fan like me? You might just have to plan your next trip to one of these destinations!
I’m a big believer in getting credit card points to work for you and using points to fly for free!
I’ve flown Emirates First Class and booked round-trip economy flights across the country and one-way business class flights worldwide. I’ve even booked week-long rental cars for epic road trips.
And I didn’t pay for any of it. These flights were all booked for “free” using credit card points.
This isn’t to brag—it’s a wake-up call. If you aren’t using travel reward credit cards, it’s time to start! Travel reward credit card points are a GAME CHANGER.
While the points & miles game can seem extremely mysterious and almost too good to be true, I’ve created a few guides on how to demystify the process, including examples of when I’ve redeemed points, how I did it, and how much it’s saved me.
NOTE: You also DON’T need a credit card to start earning travel rewards. Expedia’s One Key travel loyalty program is free, AND you can rack up points and tier credits on eligible bookings for pretty much everything related to your travel escapades like cozy Hotels.com stays, awesome Vrbo vacation rentals, and a whole lot more on Expedia.
Want to fly around the world for free? Here’s my guide on how to choose a travel credit card, start earning miles and redeem your points for airline miles!
The number of gorgeous national parks in North America is a blessing.
From Rocky Mountain National Park to Banff to Yellowstone and beyond, you could spend a lifetime exploring the most impressive national parks and still not get around to seeing them all.
National parks are some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world and offer a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, there’s a national park out there for you.
Banff is one of the most beautiful places in Canada, with it’s breathtaking scenery and epic hiking trails. Don’t miss my ultimate travel guide to Banff!
With so many stunning trails to traverse, it is time to dig out your hiking boots. Ready to hike the backcountry of Yosemite but don’t know where to start? Here’s my weekend guide!
If you’re wanting to explore all the beauty of Moab and the surrounding area, this is for you! Here’s the ultimate wellness and hiking guide for Moab, Utah!
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good hotel stay, but having the space and comfort of a home-away-from-home when traveling with a toddler (and often our dog) is our priority these days!
With separate bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and living spaces, you can cook meals together, enjoy movie nights, and spend quality time together without feeling cramped or confined.
There’s no better way to bond with your closest friends and recharge your batteries than by taking a girls’ trip. And in 2024, there’s no better time to plan one!
Are you itching to travel, but none of your friends are up for the adventure?
I’ve been running all-female tours for seven years in some of the world’s most incredible bucket list destinations!
Experience safari in South Africa, sail on a luxury Nile cruise in Egypt, witness the Petra in Jordan, go glamping in the Sahara Desert in Morocco, and discover one of the most remote wildlife destinations on earth, The Galapagos Islands!
Most of our guests come solo and leave with a new group of travel-loving besties!
There’s so much of the world that is better to see with your friends by your side. Plan your trip to these destinations to visit with your best friends!
Through my years of experience in traveling solo and planning countless girls trips – I now love sharing my female travel experiences and tips with you!
A wellness trip is a great way to prioritize your physical and mental health and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Why not make this the year you prioritize yourself and invest in a wellness getaway?
A wellness trip can take many forms, from yoga retreats and spa vacations to fitness and adventure trips. If you’re not a big planner, it can be as easy as traveling to a destination that is known for wellness and finding experiences once you’re there.
The endless options can be tailored to suit your interests and needs.
Here are some great places to go on a wellness trip:
Bali, Indonesia: Bali is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, but it’s also a haven for wellness-seekers. Bali has everything you need to soothe your mind and body, from yoga and meditation retreats to detox and spa treatments.
Costa Rica: This Central American paradise is the ultimate destination for adventure and wellness. With its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and active volcanoes, Costa Rica is perfect for those who love to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.
Tulum, Mexico: Tulum is a beautiful and bohemian coastal town known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. It’s an excellent destination for those looking to unplug, recharge, and indulge in various wellness experiences, from yoga and meditation to spa treatments and healthy dining.
Want to find the ultimate relaxation spot for you? Find the perfect hotel to rest, reset, and rejuvenate so you can come back feeling refreshed.
Even if it’s just a weekend at home or a mini-break in the next town over, it can do you some serious good. Here are a few things that will elevate your girlfriend-getaway into a wellness retreat.
Some of the best destinations on the planet are below sea level. Why not experience the beauty of the deep blue beyond with an adventure at sea?
If you’re ready to dig deeper, consider learning how to dive. Admittedly I was a bit nervous to take the plunge myself but it’s been so worth it. Getting myscuba diving certification opened up a whole new world for me.
See the planet from another side! Rather than exploring the architecture and landscape, why not see something different on your next adventure? Scuba dive!
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, commonly known as UNESCO, continually works to preserve and highlight the best of the best around the globe.
Visiting the Seven Wonders of the World is an opportunity to explore some of the most iconic structures and natural phenomena in history and to learn about the cultures and civilizations that created them.
Each of the wonders provides a unique and awe-inspiring experience, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of humankind, and they are symbols of human achievement that stand the test of time.
There’s so much to see in The Rose City of Petra. This ultimate Petra travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to one of Seven Wonders of the World!
It took us four days of trekking the Inca Trail to finally reach Machu Picchu. It was one of the most incredible and challenging experiences of my life.
Going on safari in Africa is one of the top things on any bucket list! From exploring Gondwana Private Game Reserve with my TBA Escapes Tour to heading deep into the bush in Botswana and Kenya—it’s an experience that never gets old.
One of my favorite things about living in Cape Town was the opportunity to explore many parts of Africa.
When is the best time to go on safari? Because there are so many places to choose from and seasonal differences, I’m breaking it down by month and place!
PSA: not all safaris are created equally. If you’ve haven’t been, it’s probably hard to imagine how many different types of safaris there are. So, grab your binoculars and read up on how to choose an African safari for you!
New research by Vrbo has uncovered an emerging trend for 2024: the “Go-ccasion,” revealing that one in four people are looking for ANY excuse to take a trip with friends or family!
While anniversaries and milestone birthdays are obvious things to celebrate, don’t downplay the excitement of a puppymoon, first-date-anniversary, or work promotion getaway!
Some of our favorite trips have been with our cockapoo pup in tow!
Hey, future mama! Are you ready to carve out some time for yourself before the little one comes along? Here are the best babymoon locations from around the world!
Visited, the popular Travel App publishes the Top 10 Most-Visited Surfing Destinations Based on User Data
TORONTO, March 12, 2023 (Newswire.com)
– The travel app Visited by Arriving In High Heels Corporation has published a list of the top 10 most visited surf spots in the world. Scenic Biarritz in the south of France tops the list as the most sought-after surf destination.
According to users of the Visited world map app, these are the most popular surf spots around the globe:
Biarritz entices surfers from far and wide to come enjoy the hollow waves along the picturesque south coast of France.
North Shore Oahu in Hawaii, U.S., serves up big waves and pro surfing contests along more than 7 miles of beaches.
Daytona Beach, Florida is a popular surfing destination that offers plenty of beginner-friendly beaches and ride-able waves in the southern U.S..
San Sebastian located in northern Spain’s Basque country is a prime surfing spot for all ability levels at Zurriola Beach.
Nazare is a top surf destination along the coast of Portugal serving up big waves that attract top-level surfers.
Uluwatu and Kuta in Bali, Indonesia, have some of the best surfing waves in the world, attracting intermediate and advanced surfers.
Byron Bay on the southeast coast of Australia has a wide range of beaches and waves as well as surfing lessons for all levels.
Honolua Bay in Maui, Hawaii, is renowned for its big waves including hollow, powerful, and long waves.
Canggu, Bali is a resort village in Indonesia featuring a variety of waves and beginner-friendly places to learn to surf.
Apollo Bay in Victoria, Australia, has scenic surfing for beginners as well as bigger waves north of the harbor for more advanced surfers.
To see over 50 travel lists with bucket list destinations, get a customized travel map, and set travel goals, users can download Visited on iOS or Android.
Visited, a travel App publishes the top 10 most-Visited places for Whale Watching Based on User Data.
TORONTO, February 26, 2023 (Newswire.com)
– The popular travel app Visited by Arriving In High Heels Corporation has published a list of the most popular whale watching spots in the world. The Maldives top the list as the most visited whale-watching location in the world.
The Visited app allows users to mark off where they’ve been, get a personalized travel map, and discover new bucket list destinations. The most popular whale-watching locations in the world according to Visited users are:
The Maldives is the top destination for whale watching, with plentiful marine life, including blue whales, humpback whales, whale sharks, sperm whales, and dolphins.
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, has ample whale watching, with humpback whales, orcas, harbor seals, and steller sea lions.
Husavik in Iceland has many marine species, with minke whales, humpback whales, blue whales, dolphins, killer whales, and fin whales.
Hermanus in South Africa is a favorite whale-watching destination with humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, African penguins, dolphins, and southern right whales.
Tromsø in Norway features killer whales, humpback whales, and harbor porpoises for incredible whale-watching experiences.
Lahaina is a warm whale-watching destination located in Maui, Hawaii, in the U.S.
Kaikoura located on the South Island of New Zealand is renowned for its sperm whales and New Zealand fur seals.
Tadoussac in Quebec, Canada, draws tourists with marine species including humpback whales, blue whales, fin whales, minke whales, and beluga whales.
Provincetown in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, U.S., is a renowned destination for fin whales, humpback whales, and right whales.
Nanaimo in British Columbia, Canada, is home to Southern Resident Orca Whales, humpback whales, gray whales, transient orca whales, and minke whales.
To see over 50 bucket lists of the most popular places to travel, browse top destinations, and get personalized travel stats, users can download Visited on iOS or Android.
The travel app takes a deep dive into the most visited lakes in the world based on user data.
Press Release –
Dec 6, 2022 09:00 EST
TORONTO, December 6, 2022 (Newswire.com)
– The travel app Visited by Arriving In High Heels Corporation has published a list of the top 10 most popular lakes in the world based on user data.
Visited, available on iOS or Android, is a travel app with over 1.5 million users who check off places they’ve traveled to around the world. Users can discover new places, set travel goals, browse top 10 lists, get printed custom travel maps, and more in the Visited app.
The top 10 most popular lakes in the world include:
Lake Como in northern Italy offers breathtaking views of the Alps and Renaissance-era architecture in the nearby villages of Bellagio and Como.
Lake Garda is a popular vacation destination in Italy that features water sports and family-friendly activities.
Lake Geneva in the northern Alps serves up stunning mountain views and luxury shopping, spas, and upscale resorts.
Lake Zurich in Switzerland features serene mountain views in the Alps as well as water sports and proximity to nearby attractions in the city of Zurich.
Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland is nestled in the Alps and borders the town of Lucerne, which includes medieval architecture.
Lake Michigan borders Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin in the U.S. and includes 26 miles of shoreline along the city of Chicago, including beaches, waterfront paths, and Navy Pier.
Lake Maggiore offers beautiful mountain views along the southern Alps in Italy and Switzerland.
Lake Constance at the foot of the Alps borders Germany, Austria, and Switzerland and offers sailing, windsurfing, swimming, and serene natural views.
Loch Ness in Scotland features stunning views and beautiful hiking as well as legendary tales of the Loch Ness Monster.
Lake Bled located in Slovenia in the Julian Alps features breathtaking views and medieval history.
To see the full list of the most popular lake destinations and over 50 top ten lists of the top attractions in the world, download Visited on iOS or Android.
Visited, the travel app, has published the top 10 most visited capital cities as per their international traveling users.
Press Release –
Jun 28, 2022
TORONTO, June 28, 2022 (Newswire.com)
– Arriving In High Heels publishes Top 10 most visited capitals as per Travel App’s Visited international users. Visited is a travel app that helps keep travel memories alive as well as inspire future travel. With the app, users can access travel lists that align with their travel goals and get personalized stats. The new list feature, features popular places to visit such as Ancient Sites, as well as travel list for adventures such as places to go diving and for those that travel for the food even culinary experiences. New lists are being added on a monthly basis and lists are constantly being updated to ensure that any changes in travel destinations are reflected in the top 10 list.
The top 10 most visited capital cities as per the app’s users are all found in Europe:
Paris, France – Is the most visited capital in the world. Paris has endless sights to visit, which is no surprise why it is the most visited capital in the world.
London, England – The city is probably best viewed from the London Eye observation wheel.
Rome, Italy – Visitors come from all over the world to see the many ruins and excavations including the famous Colosseum.
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Amsterdam is a city best visited by taking the water canals or cycling through its multiple bike paths.
Prague, Czech Republic – Is home to the famous Charles Bridge which was build in the medieval ages and crosses the Vltava river.
Berlin, Germany – Berlin has a vast history and multiple palaces and has become known in the art scene.
Vatican City, Vatican – Is home to the biggest church in the world the St. Peter’s Basilica, the same church which is home to the pope.
Vienna, Austria – Vienna is known for its museums, there are over 60 of them! It is also the capital of music.
Brussels, Belgium – Brussels is famous for its Moules-frites, beer and chocolate which makes a visit to this capital extra sweet.
Budapest, Hungary – With the famous parliament building and Chain bridge, visitors can also bath in what is known as a capital of thermal baths.
For more stats and interactive list travelers can download Visited on iOS or Android.
To learn more about the Visited app and its latest feature update, please visit https://visitedapp.com.
