If you had unlimited money, where would you go? I collected responses from Academic Magnet students and asked them why they would want to go to that particular place as well.

Personally, I want to go to the Swiss Alps for the beautiful green landscape and Germany for its history, specifically the Neuschwanstein Castle and other historical sites. French Polynesia looks like a great place to relax and explore as well. 

That’s enough about me, let’s hear it from the students!

Asia

Japan (Hokkaido, Gunma, Tokyo, Hakuba, etc) – For some, the outdoor appeal lies in backcountry skiing and snowboarding. They explain the environment is filled with beautiful cultural and natural landmarks that are both visually stunning and historically rich. Tokyo itself was a popular choice because of its futuristic vibe and technological advancements that students want to explore. 

“I want to explore my favorite districts in Tokyo and meet so many people, eat lots of noodles and gorge on a bunch of sweets!! I’d like to go sometime later in March or early April so I can go to the cherry blossom festivals!”

One student explained their personal connection to Gunma as it is their mother’s hometown and their extended family still lives there. They note that they rarely get to see them and would like the opportunity to travel there. The overall culture and language of Japan is tempting for many.

China – One student has family in China and explains that it is brimming with interesting activities and places. Another student provided a very thoughtful explanation:

“I would like to visit China and venture into one of its most rural parts. It doesn’t have to be too desolate, just sparse, with little in terms of infrastructure. I don’t care where, just somewhere where one can be alone with nature and mountainous terrain. A place where the thoughts within your head have no need to bounce around ferociously, and just seep out from every pore. And a crisp summer heat perforates your skin and leaves you sprawled out across the floor.”

South Korea – A student describes that “South Korea has a lot to offer: magnificent cities, beautiful countryside, rich culture, amazing food, so much to see and do, and it’s also very safe.”

North Korea – “The experience” of North Korea was appealing to one person. I agree that it would be interesting to experience from an inside perspective.

The Maldives – The bioluminescense and how warm and clear the water is brought people to choose the Maldives.

Mongolia – “I love Mongolia” one student stated simply. The “various cultures through the country” as well as the “Mongolian throat singing” were other motives of students.

Thailand – Once again, students miss their family overseas and wish to build a relationship with them. In addition, the beauty of the country makes it appealing.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The futuristic setting of Dubai appeals to one student.

Africa

Morocco – One student wants to go to Morocco “for the food, language, culture, scenery.” I agree, it looks really beautiful!

Europe

Italy – Sometimes food is the main motive—especially for students who want to go to Italy. One student reminisces on the memories and wants to go back to enjoy the country again.

Greece – “It is beautiful and full of rich history” notes one student. The unlimited money aspect influences their want to explore “in style.”

Switzerland – One student sums it up perfectly:

“I would throw my phone out the window and live with the mountain cattle farming folk next to a waterfall and spring.”

Others agreed that the hiking would be amazing and beautiful, especially the mountains and lakes.

Prague, Czech Republic –

“Prague has a very rich history and has several very interesting historical places and artifacts and I think it would be very fun to go and learn about it.”

Nordic Countries and Iceland – A student explains their reasoning which is

“to see their natural landscape of fjords and mountains, see their “smart” cities, and see all they are about. It seems to be more secluded and very beautiful.”

I agree that the landscape of the Nordic countries and Iceland is very unique and beautiful.

Another student wishes to venture to Iceland “for the hot-springs and the volcanoes/volcanic beaches” and another explains that the 24-hour sunlight is a motive.

Paris, France – A student in French class explains their movies:

“I have wanted to go there for a long time and it seems like a beautiful place with amazing food and art. I have dreamed of traveling to Paris since 7th grade…I love the architecture and I really love the Eiffel tower in particular. I also love a lot of french food so it seems like the perfect place to travel.”

Germany – The old architecture and diversity of Berlin appeals to one student.

Australia/Oceania

New Zealand – “The nature there is underappreciated, and it isn’t as overcrowded as other options.” I agree, especially that one view of foxgloves in front of the lake and mountains. 

Antarctica

Antarctica – “To see the southern lights (prettier than the northern lights) and penguins.” I haven’t really heard of the Southern lights, but I looked them up and I have to agree that they are beautiful!

North America

USA –

“I would go to Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco, California on February 7th 2016 at around 9:30pm to dive on Cam Newton’s fumble in the Superbowl.”

• Hawai’i – “I would want to then go to Hawai’i and take surfing lessons there. I would lay out on the beach all day.” Another student mentions the hiking and waterfalls available there. Hawai’i is also on my list of dream destinations.

• New York – One student’s dream is “to watch the World Cup Final” in New York!

• Puerto Rico – One student wants to go to Puerto Rico to see their family and admire the beauty. Hopefully they get the chance to go!

Caribbean –

“I would want to go to the Caribbean. I’m born and raised in the south and I’ve always wanted to see clear water. I would love to go on a cruise to the Bahamas; they are so pretty and I really want to go on a cruise.”

Tropical landscapes are a definite factor that influences students’ decisions!

Around the World

• “I’d visit mostly African countries, as well as places in Asia and South America—I’ve never been to any Asian country outside of the Middle East, and I believe we are often fed misinformation about foreign countries. I want to go somewhere completely different from home to be exposed to perspectives extremely different from my own.”

• I agree! It’s important to travel out of the country (if you have the means to) and experience different cultures! It can shape your mindset in a positive way and make you more open to the diversity and beauty of other countries.
• Others chose tropical islands, and some even outsmarted me, taking full advantage of the “unlimited money” aspect and had the idea to go everywhere.

  • “Since I want to travel everywhere, unlimited funds would make that possible. I plan to backpack across Europe next summer and see where my family immigrated from, starting in Europe as a safer, more basic place to travel alone, before expanding my adventures worldwide. Places on my list include Greece, Singapore, New York City, Tokyo, and Morocco. I want to experience the cultures and cuisines.”

• One student would go “on a billion-dollar yacht, I would even go island hopping across the world with a stop in Monaco—it has unlimited range and is also just cool.” Another specific but valid answer.