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Turning 30? These Are the Best Trip Ideas to Welcome a New Chapter
Entering new life stages can be scary, but it can also be fun. Treat yourself to a little birthday vacation to celebrate your third decade alive.
Celebrating your birthday is always a good idea. Being grateful for another year of life, spending time with loved ones, engaging in fun activities, and, of course, visiting new places can all be great ways to spend your special day. Going on a birthday trip is one of the best ways to celebrate, especially if you’re turning 30. For many, turning 30 means finally having a sense of what they do and don't enjoy while traveling and, sometimes, less anxiety around money — two things that can help you when planning a trip.
Karen Cicero, Good Housekeeping’s contributing travel editor, encourages travelers to ask themselves these questions: Will this be a solo, self-discovery trip? Or will it be the ultimate friends-getaway? If so, who will you bring with you? And how long do you want to stay?
If you’ve already figured out these logistics, then you’re ready to look at our list of best trip ideas to celebrate your 30th birthday. And when you come back from your trip, don’t forget to check out our list of best travel captions to complement those beautiful vacay photos.
Ibiza, Spain
Whether you want a chill or adventurous celebration, the island of Ibiza (an archipelago of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea) will make turning 30 one of your best memories ever. Go beach club hopping, book a private boat or yacht or party it up at one of the island’s iconic nightclubs like DC10 or Hi.
Room to remember: Pikes Ibiza, on the island's Western coast, isn't just a hotel, it's also a stellar party destination. Three decades ago, singer Freddie Mercury famously celebrated his 41st birthday in room 41, now known as Club Freddie's. The hotel also has an independent party series called “Pikes Presents” in collaboration with the venue 528 Ibiza.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is famous for its bachelorette party trips, but you can have an epic birthday weekend in Music City as well. Picture you and your besties walking around Broadway in cowboy boots or hats—or both—having the time of your lives. Visit some classic country bars like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Robert’s Western World and Layla’s Honky Tonk. Go line dancing at Category 10.
You can also have a bar experience like never before at Play Playground, a gamified bar with attractions like a selfie room, balloon room and fun games that will bring out your and your friends’ competitive sides. Get the party passes for your group and play the night away!
Room to remember: Live out your b-day fantasies at Dream Nashville’s fantastic location in the heart of downtown Nashville, close to top bars and restaurants. "Its art-deco inspired rooms thoughtfully restored from two landmark buildings provide a stylish home base for your birthday celebration," says Cicero.
Walt Disney World, Orlando
"Disney can make your birthday magical with extra attention from characters and some free treats," says Cicero.
First, download the Disney Experience App to customize your reservation. You can order a birthday cake or a floral arrangement for your room on the app. Disney also offers social events like private dinners. You can meet with a member of their staff to plan and curate the birthday celebration of your dreams.
Don’t forget to pick up your special “Happy Birthday” button at the front desk when checking in. By wearing it, you can get a free dessert at restaurants. The characters also "tend to make a bigger deal of you in the meet and greets" when you're wearing it, says Cicero.
Room to remember: Stay at Evermore Orlando Resort, which is off of Disney property, but "has villas and houses that makes it fun for groups," Cicero says.
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Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos are an ideal destination for those wanting to celebrate their special day in a relaxing, warm environment. Swim in crystal-clear waters or, for some action, learn a new water sport on the archipelago. To celebrate with the local community, join the Fish Fry festival, a weekly event featuring live music, local food, dances and colorful costumes.
Room to remember: Enjoy a luxurious and private escape at Rock House, a Grace Bay Resort. This resort This resort's Mediterranean-inspired design and comfort create the perfect environment for a warm birthday vacation.
Chicago, Illinois
Whether you’re a sports fan, a theater-lover, a foodie, or a fine arts enjoyer, Chicago has something for you to celebrate. Depending on the season, you can add a Football (Bears), Baseball (Cubs, White Sox), Basketball (Bulls), or hockey (Blackhawks) game to your itinerary to support one of the city’s elite teams. Watch a Broadway in Chicago show—no better place to watch the Broadway production of Chicago than…Chicago. Indulge in the city’s rich neighborhood-driven food culture, with options like deep dish pizza, hot dogs, Italian beef, sushi and fine dining options.
Room to remember: Palmer House’s classic decoration and atmosphere will make your stay memorable. According to the hotel, this is where the brownie was invented, so don’t forget to eat a few while there. The hotel has various restaurants and bars.
New York City, New York
The city of dreams and opportunity can also be the best place for a birthday celebration you’ll never forget. Start off with bottomless brunch and drinks with your friends at De Mole in Brooklyn. For an intimate dinner at a cozy neighborhood bar, make a reservation at Cafe Skye. If you’re celebrating with a large party, they accept private reservations—you can choose the decoration, curate the menu, and they’ll even make you a custom birthday drink. If you’re celebrating with a smaller party, you can make a regular table reservation. Don’t forget to go to one of New York’s vintage photobooths with your friends. Some examples are Old Friend Photobooth, AUTOPHOTO and Roxy Hotel’s photobooth, among others.
Room to remember: Located near Times Square, Refinery Hotel is ideal for those looking to explore everything New York has to offer on their special day. Book “The Ultimate Birthday Getaway” package for a milk bar birthday cake, a bottle of bubbly and a Refinery signature candle.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Los Cabos is perfect for those looking to celebrate this milestone birthday with a party or two. The nightlife in Los Cabos is noteworthy, but if you and your friend need to recover from last night’s adventures, you can always keep it light and fun and visit some of Los Cabos’ historic sites and architecture in San José del Cabo.
Room to remember: Nobu Hotel Lost Cabos has a birthday package with culinary offerings, a birthday cake, a complimentary room upgrade and more.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is the ideal place for techno lovers. Explore the techno capital’s electrifying nightlife through its post-wall venues. The city is known for repurposing abandoned buildings as nightclubs—like the globally renowned Berghain, a former power plant with three dance floors featuring music that intensifies the higher up you go. You can also grab some cocktails at Booze Bar to try some artisanal mixes you’ve likely never had before.
Room to remember: 25 Hours Bikini Berlin is the place to stay if you wanna bring the party home. This hotel offers fun events throughout the year. We recommend checking their events calendar ahead of booking. The hotel is located opposite Bikini Mall, and is near several shops, galleries and the oldest zoo in Berlin.
Florida Keys, Florida
Nothing compares to a warm, Florida getaway. The Florida Keys archipelago, particularly Key West, is perfect for a memorable celebration. Take a catamaran cruise with your besties—good music, drinks and the beautiful sea will create an unmatched atmosphere. For a nighttime adventure, go bar hopping on Duval Street—stop at Hog’s Breath, Captain Tony’s and of course, the classic Sloppy Joe’s.
Room to remember: The Laureate Key West is the perfect stay for those looking to celebrate their birthday with an adventure of two. Their website offers endless guides for guests who love nature, history and even for those who are book lovers.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Visit some of Las Vegas’ iconic nightclubs like OMNIA (famous for its kinetic chandelier that moves with the music), XS (a gorgeous gold-accented venue), or Hakkasan (known for hosting some of the biggest names in the EDM scene, like Calvin Harris and Tiesto). You can also do some of the staple “Vegas” activities, like trying your luck at one of the famous casinos— The Cosmopolitan, Caesar’s Palace and Bellagio—or go see a Magic Mike Live show, based on the hit film franchise.
Room to remember: Wynn Las Vegas not only offers a luxury experience, but as part of its “Birthday bash” package, its staff helps you customize your stay by choosing your preferred dining and cabana rental.
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Curacao
Have a classy night out with your group at a gorgeous waterfront spot like Harbor Restaurant or a rooftop bar like Cascada. Or, book a private dinner by the sea and enjoy the views and flavors the Caribbean has to offer.
Room to remember: Stay at Liondive Beach Resort to enjoy the best happy hours and live music at the beach with your group.
New Orleans, Louisiana
If celebrating between January and February, catch a Mardi Gras parade with your friends and walk through the French Quarter for good food, live music and a vibrant nightlife on Bourbon Street. Explore the city’s various jazz clubs and Magazine Street’s shops, galleries and restaurants.
Room to remember: Only one block from the French Quarter, The Roosevelt New Orleans will place you right where you need to be to explore New Orleans’ rich history and culture.
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