Bailey’s 2024 Travel Recap

As 2024 comes to a close, I'm taking a moment to reflect on what has been another unforgettable year of travel. This year took me to some incredible destinations, each offering unique experiences and memories. From the historic streets of Europe to the sun-drenched shores of Mexico, and the rugged beauty of the American Southwest, I spent a good chunk of the year exploring, learning, and discovering new corners of the world. Whether I was soaking in the rich culture of Italy, sailing the turquoise waters of Greece, or immersing myself in the natural wonders of New Mexico, each trip added something special to the year. Here’s a quick recap of the highlights from my travels in 2024:

Italy

Boat ride in Capri

Italy in 2024 was a dream come true, filled with both history and adventure. I planned a two week journey to one of my favorite countries. While I have been there many times, it was my partner Andrew’s first time at this European classic. I wanted to balance a mix of new things for me but hit some of the “old faithfuls” for Andrew. Our journey began in Naples where we tried the famous pizza shop - l’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. We then went on an all day tour of Pompeii (Something I have been fascinated in since I was a child). From there we went to Sorrento, where we set sail on an unforgettable all-day boat tour to Capri, exploring its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and the famous Blue Grotto. From the shores of Sorrento, we made our way to Rome, immersing ourselves in the awe-inspiring ancient architecture—the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon left us speechless. Florence was equally unforgettable, especially during a sunset music party perched above the city, watching the golden hour bathe the iconic Duomo. The cultural treasures continued in Turin, where we caught a Juventus game, adding an electrifying sports experience to our Italian escape. Finally, we finished our Italian adventure by touring the Ferrari factory and flying out of Milan in time to make it back to the United States to catch a good friend's wedding!

The Colosseum, Rome

Greece

Acropolis in Athens

Our Greek adventure kicked off  with a day tour of Temple of Olympian Zeus and lunch on the beach.  From Athens, we chartered a private yacht to explore the islands, each more beautiful than the last. The highlight? Cliff jumping off the rugged shores of Milos, where the turquoise waters beckoned us to dive in. We also spent our days jet skiing and e-foiling, zipping around the islands, feeling the wind and saltwater against our skin. Greece, with its stunning landscapes and unbeatable energy, gave us the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure—one that will remain etched in our memories for years to come. After departing the boat we spent two more action-packed days in Athens, where we delved deep into the country's rich history with tours of the Acropolis and other historical sites via “fat tire bike”. This was a huge win because we covered a ton of ground during the august heat.  Between the historic sites, we indulged in the city’s culinary delights, with gyros at nearly every corner (the best we’ve ever had!)

Cliff jumping in Milos, Greece

Punta de Mita, Mexico

Post-surf beers in Punta de Mita

Punta de Mita, Mexico, is our go to home for relaxation. Mornings started with surf sessions, catching the perfect waves just off the coast, while afternoons were spent indulging in the finest local cuisine, with a taco tour through the town being an absolute highlight. We also explored the area’s lush greens, teeing off at a world-class golf course overlooking the ocean. Every day was a reminder of the laid-back luxury that this part of the world offers. Whether we were taking in the tropical vibes on the beach or savoring authentic Mexican flavors, Punta de Mita proved to be the ultimate escape for  those looking to unwind.

Surfing in Punta de Mita, Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Trail ride through Saguaro National Park

For Thanksgiving, we embarked on a road trip from Scottsdale, AZ to Santa Fe, New Mexico, marking the perfect escape into the southwestern landscape. Along the way, we visited two incredible national parks: Saguaro National Park, where we experienced the desert on horseback, and White Sands Dunes National Park, where we watched the sun dip behind the white gypsum sands—an experience that felt like stepping into another world. Santa Fe itself, with its rich culture, adobe architecture, and stunning art scene, offered a perfect end to our journey. From the breathtaking landscapes to the rich history, this road trip not only checked off two national parks from our list but also provided a deep connection with the heart of the American Southwest.

White Sand Dunes National Park