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These are our best travel photos of 2021

Travel is a touchy subject these days. While it may seem impossible to get out there and see the world with some of the travel restrictions these last couple of years, there are still areas of the world that are either remote enough, or still safe to travel on a solo trip or with a companion. While a global pandemic has made a lot of us think about all the catastrophes in the world, we wanted to show you some of the beauty that is still happening all around us. All one has to do is look for it. If a busy life is keeping you from filling up your passport, these photos will still take you to another place.

Lilac blooms in Hyogo, Japan

A known fact is that the different shades of lilac represent different things. White lilacs represent purity and innocence, while a more purple hue represents spirituality. If you’re feeling blue, don’t worry! Blue lilac represents happiness and tranquility. No matter the shade, these are all positive attributes. And let’s not forget the scent of the lilac flower. If you’re looking for something light and sweet, like a sugar dusted confection, then you’ll want to take in a breath of fresh lilac

Lilac blooms in Hyogo, Japan by @godive2000
Lilac blooms in Hyogo, Japan by @godive2000

Cottages on the countryside

Maybe you’re looking for something that’s not quite rural, but a little further removed from the suburbs. The Cotswolds, in South-Central England is home to a number of small cottages that oversee rolling hills and rivers. What sounds better than hiding away in a small cozy village, but also having the comfort of being able to get into town for supplies. Buses run through the roadways, but some are infrequent. So if you’re looking for a secluded getaway, then look no further.

Cottages on the countryside by @cumacevikphoto
Cottages on the countryside by @cumacevikphoto

The power of the Atlantic in Iceland

Melville once said that when he finds himself growing “grim about the mouth,” and feeling the urge to “knock people’s hats off,” he “quietly takes to the sea.” While he wasn’t talking about Iceland in Moby Dick, it’s clear what he was talking about. Much like outer space, the sea is monolithic, awe inspiring, and seemingly endless. Is there a better place to lose yourself than the sea? The same waters that preceded us, will be here long after we’re gone. It’s humbling to stare out into the endless rolling waves, and watch them crash into themselves in harmonious vibration.

The power of the Atlantic in Iceland by @arnarkristjans_photography
The power of the Atlantic in Iceland by @arnarkristjans_photography

Halfway between Norway and Iceland isn’t just flyover territory

The Faroe Islands are home to many spectacular views, and not so densely populated. While the climate is on the cooler side, one could always dress in layers because the hiking is primo. Or maybe you’re not about exerting yourself, and you just want to take in some views. There is something awe inspiring about looking down on a village from the coastal cliffs as you find a good place to sit and watch the day pass you by.

Halfway between Norway and Iceland by @patheight
Halfway between Norway and Iceland by @patheight

Who said the trees couldn’t be made of gold?

The Ginko tree is a reminder that while the world can sometimes feel gray, there is still a vibrancy that won’t quit. The Zhongnan Mountains in China are the home to the golden tree of the Gu Guanyin Buddhist Temple. Some say that a tree can seem like the highest form of consciousness. They’re not wrong to think that. Imagine sitting in the same place for over 1400 years. Gives you a lot of time to think.

The golden tree of the Gu Guanyin by © Han Fei
The golden tree of the Gu Guanyin by © Han Fei

To wine or to dine? To sit in the countryside? Why not all of the above?

Tuscany, Italy is a great escape. It’s remoteness lets you get away from it all, but you also have access to museums, rolling hills, beautiful infrastructure and architecture, and let’s not forget the food! There’s a little something for everybody here. And the view is absolutely stellar from wherever you may stand.

Tuscany, Italy by @ilhan1077
Tuscany, Italy by @ilhan1077

When the foundation is the side of a mountain

This Greek Orthodox monastery is located in the Pontic Mountains in Turkey. The structures are sturdy but seem impossible. Not only are you overlooking the Altindere valley, but the monastery itself is a marvel in and of itself. The architecture alone makes your head spin when you realize the engineering that went into building a temple on the side of a mountain.

Trabzon Province, Turkey by @admbrs
Trabzon Province, Turkey by @admbrs

Move over, Yellowstone!

Did you know that Turkey has 44 different national parks? In an effort to preserve the natural beauty, these parks have been set up to keep nature alive. Should you want to view the mountainsides, or get lost in the lake, climb up the mountainside, or travel the trails, you’ll have plenty to do if you decide to book a trip to Turkey.

Turkey by @cumacevikphoto
Turkey by @cumacevikphoto

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