Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to take a break and recharge on vacation. If you’re seeking a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and a deep dive into history, this travel list is for you.
Why You Should Be Traveling
Traveling is not just a means of relaxation; it is an opportunity to expand horizons, broaden perspectives, and connect with the world on a deeper level.
As security clearance professionals, traveling to historical destinations offers unique advantages. Of course, if you go outside the U.S., don’t forget to keep up with self-reporting guidelines.
Being immersed in history can give insights that enhance your understanding of the past, present, and future. So go see the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs that have shaped societies. And many trips can offer a new source of career inspiration, as well as, a firsthand experience reflecting on lessons learned from the past. It’s one thing to read about something on paper. It’s another thing to actually try to re-live it.
Your Next 10 Vacation Destinations
Here are the must-have vacation spots you must visit as a security clearance professional:
1. Washington, D.C., USA
If you don’t already live and work in the D.C. metro area, do yourself a favor and add it to your places to visit. You don’t have to be on a school field trip to take a moment to immerse yourself in the heart of American history in the nation’s capital. Explore iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Capitol, and the Smithsonian Museums, while gaining insights into the birth and growth of the United States.
2. Normandy, France
Walk in the footsteps of heroes by visiting the beaches of Normandy, where the Allied forces landed during World War II. Pay tribute to the soldiers who fought for freedom and explore the D-Day landing sites, museums, and memorials commemorating this pivotal historical moment.
3. Gettysburg, PA, USA
Step into the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg, the site of one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park, witness the battlefield, and gain a deeper understanding of this turning point in American history.
4. Hiroshima, Japan
Reflect on the devastating impact of nuclear warfare by visiting Hiroshima, the first city to be struck by an atomic bomb. Explore the Peace Memorial Park, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and pay respects at the Atomic Bomb Dome, symbolizing peace and remembrance.
5. Berlin, Germany
Delve into the history of the Cold War by visiting Berlin, a city divided by the Berlin Wall for almost three decades. Explore Checkpoint Charlie, the East Side Gallery, and the Berlin Wall Memorial, gaining insights into the struggles and triumphs of the era.
6. Pearl Harbor, HI, USA
Commemorate the events that drew the United States into World War II by visiting Pearl Harbor. Tour the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum, honoring the bravery of those who served and reflecting on the attack’s impact.
7. Boston, MA, USA
Experience the birthplace of the American Revolution in Boston. Walk the Freedom Trail, visit the historic sites of the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere’s House, and explore the museums that preserve the stories of the city’s role in shaping the nation.
8. Athens, Greece
Discover the cradle of democracy and philosophy by visiting Athens. Explore the ancient Acropolis, home to the iconic Parthenon, and wander through the Agora, where ancient Greek thinkers and philosophers debated and shaped the foundations of Western civilization.
9. London, England
Travel across the pond to London, a city closely intertwined with American history. Visit the British Museum, where you can find artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone, and explore landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London.
10. Vienna, Austria
History, culture, and global influence all blend together in Vienna. From Schönbrunn Palace to museums to United Nations headquarters, this historical hub offers both great views and deeper insights into the complexities of international relations for national security professionals. Visiting Vienna provides a valuable opportunity to explore the historical events that shaped Europe that continue to influence global affairs today.
