It’s called the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Nope, not Nashville, but Austin, a Texas city that has helped launch the careers of artists such as the Dixie Chicks, Janis Joplin and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Austin, says travel writer and nationwide adventurer Kathy Petrino, is home to more live music venues than any other location across the United States. But the eccentric Austin is also a quirky city boasting “Keep Austin Weird” alongside a vibrant art scene, vivacious nightlife and top-rated food. The destination has been rated first among places to visit in Texas, as well as one of the cheapest, for places such as Barton Springs Pool, the Lydon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum and the Zilker Metropolitan Park. So whether you visit for a barbecue hotspot or its independently owned yet odd businesses, Petrino says there is something for everyone, old or young, in this strange but beautiful Texan locale.

Kathy Petrino is an enthusiastic traveler, of course, but she has more than a strong desire to see as much of the world as possible while she’s here. Kathy helpfully loves to write about everything she sees, and she loves to post everything on her travel blog for everyone to see. Kathy Petrino knows that’s how you keep travel destinations afloat and appealing to visit again and again.

That includes one of Kathy Petrino’s favorite destinations anywhere, which happens to be Texas Wine Country.When people think about a vacation centered on wine, Kathy knows Texas isn’t usually at the top of their list. That’s why she wants everyone to know that the Lone Star State has been actively trying to improve its reputation as a wine producer. It’s working; Texas Hill Country has been growing some of the nicest grapes in the country and, as a result, dozens of Texas wineries are producing some of the best varietals in the United States. When one travels along Wine Road 290, they will discover a wider range of wines available than they thought possible, including many Tempranillos, Malbecs, and Cabernets. There are hundreds of state-of-the-art tasting rooms, and there are big music, food and wine events throughout the area. Many combine wine with great Texas barbecue with country and rockabilly music to lift your spirits in more ways than one.

Picturesque and boasting approximately five million visitors per year, the Amalfi Coast on the southern shores of Italy is a worthwhile destination sought by many. Writer and travel blogger Kathy Petrino suggests it highly, noting its prime location on the Mediterranean Sea in addition to exquisite views and a stunning climate. As Petrino mentions, this Campania, Italy locale is a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site that is both rich in Italian culture and scenic terrain for vacationers from around the globe.

Thirteen cities comprise the vast Amalfi Coast, stretching more than 35 miles in whole with towering waterside cliffs and vibrant, multicolored towns. Kathy Petrino says this makes the lengthy coastline one of the most photographed regions, including the pastel-colored Positano that serves as Italy’s oldest maritime republic. The breathtaking views, it is said by Petrino and others, often leave tourists “dead in their tracks,” plus with dozens of photographs showcasing the mesmerizing natural beauty coupled with historic homes trickling along the coastline. With tourism as an Amalfi Coast focus, the region has become strong in portraying its pristine beauty of ancient villas and ocean views alongside showcasing regional fare. Municipalities such as Minori have become known for their Italian eats, including serving as home to one of the oldest pastas in the world. Foodies are flooding this seaside spot for vacations that stretch beyond their destination dreams.

In setting sights on the lush green lands of Ireland, travel blogger Kathy Petrino has several recommendations for visitors to this land of history and lore.

At the Powerscourt House and Gardens, 47 acres within Enniskerry, County Winslow, showcases two championship golf courses, shops, a five-star hotel and a restaurant in addition to the remodeled Powerscourt Estate. Also located on the property -- a 22-room dollhouse and children’s museum as well as the tallest waterfall in Ireland, Powerscourt Waterfall. Petrino notes this place is a hidden treasure among some of the country’s better-known features, such as the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin’s Trinity College, the Cliffs of Moher (receiving almost 1 million visitors per year) and the famous Blarney Stone, kissed annually by hundreds.

Petrino, who enjoys traveling and recommends it highly to all -- including adventures to Ireland -- suggests one of the world’s oldest city markets among a journey to this beautiful country. At Cork’s historic English Market, open since 1788, one can find sauces, spices, cheeses, chocolates, meats and more six days per week. It’s worth a stroll and a taste, says Petrino, when in Ireland. And for that knowledge craving? The Dublin Literary Pub Crawl, she insists -- start with a pint at the Duke Pub then actors will guide through the city to the tune of the most famous Irish authors, including James Joyce and Oscar Wilde.