That's fair enough. I guess when you live on a west coast island, going to an even smaller island can feel constricting rather then relaxing.

Recently I took the harbour float plane from Victoria to vancouver, which does a low flyover of many of the San Juan and gulf islands. Some amazing spots out there for sure.

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Long Chile was a silly place.

Sometimes we take our home area for granted. I've been guilty of it. I spent some time in New England cycling last fall, and hooked up with some local groups. I was astonished at the beauty, yet some of the local people had lost perspective as to what they had just out their driveway. The Gulf Islands (Canadian San Juans) are breathtaking even if you do have to wear wool 9 months out of the year.

Last summer.

Took the family to Europe, started in Germany and ended in Italy, 18 days, only 3 in Germany and 2 in Switzerland, bulk of time in Italy, Florence, Venice and Rome. Planned the whole trip myself using Airbnb for places to stay. It was a ton better than staying in hotels. Drove from Munich, Germany to Lugano, Switzerland and then trains the rest of way.

My son proposed to his finance in St. Mark's Square in Venice, ate better than I probably ever have. Beautiful scenery and just great family time.

I would love to take about 2 weeks and just drive through Germany.

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TEAM HD
Each day is what you make of it so make it the best day possible.

+5. My first time through here was via a small guided tour but next time I'd probably rent a car so that I can 'linger' at some of these battlefields a little longer.

And if it hasn't been mentioned already, Cuba and the ladies in white will welcome you with open arms. ;)

- We spent two weeks hiking around Reunion Island in 2013. It was really spectacular.

- Bergen, Norway

- Drake Bay, Cost Rica

- Germany has a lot to offer, but I am biased because I live in Berlin

Ahhh, that's my dream to do the India thing - I love reading Paul Theroux

To the OP: Hawaii, twice. Once to Kuaui and once to the big island. Both were amazing. Going to Maui in four weeks. Can't wait!

Kauai - Incredible hiking, beaches, waterfalls, snorkeling, kayaking, etc. Way more laid back than the other HI island I've been to (Oahu, Maui) although Maui is a close second. Can't go wrong on HI unless you stay in Honolulu.

I'm also a history geek, and did 9 countries in 19 days in Europe. It was awesome as well, but for different reasons.