Recently, while I was out distributing GT, one of the concierges saw the cover on the January 2009 issue and remarked that he just had to get to Hawaii sometime in his life. He then asked me what city I would like to visit. I said I would really like to visit Chicago. Of course, I was joking (being that we were in Chicago), but part of that is the truth, as I have not really seen enough of this great city.

After the conversation, I started to think about where I would like to visit. I decided to spend a few days thinking about this and come up with a legitimate list of places I would like to visit.

The first one is easy. I had to agree with the concierge. Ever since I saw Hawaii on the infamous “tiki” episode of The Brady Bunch, I have wanted to visit our 50th state. I would like to immerse myself in the culture, food, beauty and warmth of the islands.

The next selection is a bit murky and will take some investigating to narrow down before I actually get there. I have heard so much about the Carolina coast. The warm temperatures, the Atlantic Ocean and the southern hospitality are of interest.

My next choice is Montreal. Last week, I wrote about my fondness for Toronto. I would like to visit Canada’s second-largest city to see if I feel the same way. The blend of history with modernization, the French influence and commitment to tourism are some highlights. Like Toronto, tourists coming from virtually everywhere brings an interesting international flavor to the great city.

I have heard so many great things about Seattle that I feel I must include it as well. I can’t honestly say there is any one specific thing about Seattle that draws me in, but all I ever hear from people who have been there is that it is a place I should see.

My final choice for now is the Grand Canyon (and not because of the Brady Bunch episode there). I would like to experience it all. Hiking, white water rafting, mule rides and camping would be great natural activities. Of course, I’d want to do the touristy things too, like the guided tours, the helicopter trip and the overnight stays at one of the comfortable hotels there.

I can’t say that I will reach any of these places in 2009 or even anytime soon. Still, just making a definitive list makes it more real. I had always wanted to see Los Angeles. Last year when the opportunity came up for some work there, I jumped at it and squeezed some pleasure into the work trip. Now, I will be on the lookout for such opportunities to visit these areas and if such opportunity arises, I’ll be there.
-John Wroblewski, distribution specialist