Once you’ve punched your timecard for the last time, it’s time to start planning for the future. Aside from taking a much-needed break from waking before the crack of dawn, you’re eager to start this next chapter of your life. If traveling was always something you wanted to do but couldn’t due to work demands, now’s the time to make up for it. Most people want to see the world, and why wouldn’t they? There are so many places to visit, both local and abroad. But before you start packing, you need to decide where exactly you want to go. Here are five places every retiree should visit.

​Il Bel Paese is probably one everyone’s bucket list. Italy is a country rich in culture with breathtaking landscapes and beaches. If you’ve always wanted to visit Italy, there’s never been a better time. Your Italian itinerary should include Rome, Milan, Florence and of course, Venice. If you don’t speak the language, you can hire a tour guide or scoop up a package vacation that includes all the top places you need to see.

​The Land Down Under is another hot spot you should consider. In addition to the infamous Sydney Opera House, you can also trek through the outback and see all the wildlife Australia has to offer. It is important to note that flights to Australia are between 16 to 21 hours, so you might want to upgrade your seat. You can find phenomenal deals at certain times of the year. However, even with rock-bottom prices, traveling can add up quickly.

If you don’t want to spend over your set budget, you can always tap into your home’s equity. There are plenty of online guides about finding home equity lines of credit lenders that give insight into both the application and approval process, which can also help find you the best deal. Using your home’s equity can give you enough money to travel to multiple locations without having to return home in between.

​Scottsdale has become the place to see and be seen in recent years. Even A-list celebrities pack up and spend their summers there. In Scottsdale, you can stay in a luxury resort, like the Andaz, and be treated like royalty. While there, you can also check out the Museum of West and Museum of Contemporary Art. Since it can get pretty hot in Arizona, you should plan to visit in the fall or early spring when you can walk around comfortably.

The Northern Lights is another place that you should think about visiting. Keep in mind that there are specific times of the year that offer better visibility. September through March are the best months to go, especially since the nights are longer and the weather may be milder at certain times.

​If you love all things Irish, you really need to visit Ireland during the springtime. With rolling hills as far as the eye can see, friendly locals and bottomless craft beer, Ireland won’t disappoint. If you plan on driving, just remember that everything is reversed there, so you need to stay on the left side of the road.