Around the World in several blog posts- North America

If I had to choose a continent to live in it would probably be North America. Brimming with exciting cities, stunning landscapes and a small but incredibly rich history. The United States comes in for an awful lot of criticism but as a nation they've done a lot in such a short space of time. A country brimming with iconic sights, famous routes and incredible stories.  Quite simply, I love it.

Canada is a country that epitomises the great outdoors but also has some brilliant cities. This is a a list of some of my favourite places I've visited in North America but there are many more I'd love to include.

1. Orlando, Florida

Some would probably say that Orlando isn't the most cultural destination but lets not be snobbish, Orlando is the epitome of fun. Located in the heart of Florida, just an hour from both the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico, a place where the sun shines and the rollercoasters roll. Home to Walt Disney World, an area the size of Greater Manchester, this is a haven for excitement. Disney do things to perfection. Pristine gardens, wonderfully themed rides and captivating shows ensure that no one leaves a Disney theme park or even hotel disappointed. Disney world is suitable for all ages but of course is most magical when youngsters get to meet Micky and Minnie Mouse. If you haven't been don't judge it, the scale and detail of Disney World is simply breathtaking, providing a great holiday destination.

Don't forget Universal Studios is home to the real thrill rides of Orlando, full of loop the loops, plummeting drops and of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

A destination for those who love theme parks and fun. Nonetheless, it offers so much more. A shoppers paradise. A golfers dream. A visit to the Kennedy Space Centre. A tour of 'On the Road' writer, Jack Kerouac's house? The opportunities are unlimited, you'll just have to go.

Taken by myself

If you are looking for places to stay, villas are often the best option. I'd recommend the villa below, it sleeps up to ten, has its own pool, a game room and is located on a golf course within walking distance of restaurants and supermarkets. A perfect place to unwind. For more information visit:

grandfloridianvilla.co.uk

2. Victoria, Canada

A slice of little England. Quaint and picturesque. If you're ever in Vancouver get the idyllic ferry trip to Victoria. Wander down by the harbour and admire the colonial architecture. Victoria is a small town but without a doubt is worth a visit. It is also home to the stunning Butchart Gardens, a must if you ever find yourself in the area.

helmsinn.com

3. Key West, Florida

This has to be one of my favourite places in the world. There is something I love about it that I cannot quite put my finger on. The electric but relaxed atmosphere of Duval Street combined with stunning blue waters and bobbing yachts. Beautiful homes, you'd expect to see in Hollywood movies, line the streets and one of these belongs to Ernest Hemingway. It's different to anywhere else, a mixture of the USA and the Caribbean.

guardian.co.uk

4. Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

Cruises have often been deemed the holiday choice for the elderly. Nevertheless, since I was four years old I have been on cruise holidays as they offer such a great way to see the world. Waking up somewhere different everyday. Several years ago I had the pleasure to visit Alaska and see the salmon jumping upstream, bears wandering in rivers and countless whales. However, one of the highlights was a visit to the Hubbard glacier. This is nature at its most dramatic, a sea of ice advancing into the sea is not only breathtaking but brings home the dangers of climate change.

Taken by myself

5. Las Vegas, Nevada

Now I'm not a gambler and was only seventeen when I visited Las Vegas. I enjoyed every minute though. The hotels are attractions in themselves, canals wind their way through the Venetian, dazzling fountains front the Bellagio and a rollercoaster winds around New York New York. Sin city is city of excitement, like the Big Apple, a city that never appears to sleep. It isn't just slot machines and roulette tables though. I was lucky enough to see LOVE, a Cirque de Soleil performance to Beatles music, an experience I'll never forget.

On top of that, Vegas also is the perfect base to explore the awe inspiring Grand Canyon. We took a helicopter ride over the Hoover Dam and then over the canyon. As we reached the canyon edge, Ride of the Valkyries was played in our ears creating a surreal unforgettable moment.

Vegas isn't everyones' cup of tea but don't dismiss it just because of the casinos. It's got a lot more to offer. Viva Las Vegas!

My next post will display some other exciting destinations somewhere else in the world.