1. Aitutaki, Cook Islands

I could not give this place a higher compliment, other than this is where I chose to go on my honeymoon ...

... If you want total relaxation, somewhere that caters for a variety of budgets and to totally flop and have a cultural experience this is my pick.

• Read more about Aitutaki, Cook Islands

2. The Ningaloo Coast

We all have a travel bucket list and this is currently at the top of mine: swimming with the whale sharks and Ningaloo.

It’s a once in a lifetime experience, a little challenging to access, often booked out but I believe it is so worth it.

3. Canada

I love a multi-generational cruise with the grandparents, and a passage through the Canadian and Alaskan Rockies is a truly unforgettable experience.

And it’s not just about the untouched beauty of the landscape. I adored the history, visiting quirky towns, hearing fascinating stories. And if you happen to swing by Dawson City, Yukon - be calm if you are confronted with a bear - and you must try the famous sour toe cocktail (it’s exactly what it sounds like).

4. The Kingdom of Bhutan

The magical, mystical kingdom where the King believes that gross domestic happiness is more important than gross domestic product - what a wonderful ethos. 

... It was a genuine cultural experience that altered me as a person (hopefully for the better). Again, this one is a little bit difficult to get to but for me as a traveller it was an absolute game-changer.

5. Egypt

You could say that Egypt was my first love. As a teen my ancient history teacher Mr Wannen convinced our parents to “make our text books come alive” and I think that love of history is the yoke that pulls me through all of my getaways to this day. Just go!

Above, Catriona Rowntree in Egypt, one of her favourite destinations on earth.

• You can read more about Rowntree's love of Egypt here.

6. France

I often say to my children if, I mean, WHEN, I win lotto, I’m buying a place in France. I just love everything about it. All senses working overtime all the time. I would happily return every year and still discover something new.

7. Greenland

This part of the Arctic took me by surprise. My mind was blown by the history, visiting the indigenous locals who live in arguably the most remote village in the world, Ittoqqortoormiit. The memory of kayaking through Iceberg Alley as the bergs carved around me brings a smile to my face every time I think about it.

It makes my heart soar for how grateful I am to have the opportunity to travel.

Catriona Rowntree is Compare the Market's travel expert.