I've solo-traveled to 90 countries. Here are the 5 most beautiful places I've been.

• Wānaka, New Zealand, has an incredible natural landscape.
• I loved the architecture in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay.

One of my first stops was Oedolgae, a unique rock formation that’s believed to have been formed by a volcanic eruption. As I walked there from my hostel, I passed plenty of waterfalls and witnessed early signs of the island’s blooming cherry blossoms.

When I arrived, I watched as the waves crashed into Oedolgae and the other massive volcanic rocks that jutted from the ocean’s floor.

This story was originally published on April 18, 2025, and most recently updated on August 26, 2026.