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TravelPicker is the impartial holiday destination guide. We give you handpicked destination suggestions based on your interests and preferences. We’re different from other holiday search comparison websites – because here you don’t need to know where you want to go on holiday . Quite often you won’t know where you want to fly to, and it can be frustrating using other websites that need to know your travel destination in advance.

Here you can simply add a few search terms such as who is going on your trip. A couple would expect a different experience from a family holiday, so we cater for that and tailor your destination suggestions based on your choice.

You can also specify how hot you like your holiday for a chosen month- for example you can find where is hot in January . You might be surprised the temperatures that you can find by visiting places early in the year such as Tenerife and Dubai , where they’re hot in February and March.

Flight time can also be a deciding factor for where to go on holiday . We cater for short-haul flights, which are under 3 hours, medium haul-flights are between 3 to 6 hours and long haul are 6 to 12 hours. Finally if you don’t mind, you can also set no limit for ultra long-haul flights above 12 hours.

A holiday budget is important to stick to, so we recommend to use this option. Travelling on a budget is possible through to luxury breaks.

What you’re looking for on a holiday is extremely important. We feature some amazing places with beaches , so definitely check out that option if you’re just after some hot sun. The city option is great for those who love a cheap citybreak , perfect for a quick weekend away. The countryside option is for those that like to be nearby nature and the great outdoors. If you like art and history then check out the culture option. If you’re looking for a romantic holiday then that’s the option for you. Some people prefer to base their holidays around shopping, so we have some great shopping trip locations for you. Others prefer to party into the night, for those we have the nightlife option. And if above all else you just want to kick back and relax by the pool or beach with a cocktail – check out our luxury holidays.

We’re completely independent and free to use. We don’t sell any holidays, flights or hotels ourselves, we help you choose then link you to some great providers, free of charge. We hope to inspire you and help you find your ideal holiday destination!

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" London, Normandy, Paris was a fabulous trip, especially the year of the 75th anniversary of D-Day! That was our 7th trip with Holiday Vacations. Loved every one of them. The national parks are well worth seeing, as were Hawaii and Cuba. "

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022

From far-flung destinations to hometown favorites, 2022 is the year to get back out there and turn your dream trips into reality.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Planning new adventures as a new year approaches is always a thrill, but finding the best places to visit in 2022 is unique. After two years of border closures, cruise cancellations, and travel restrictions galore , 2022 is the year we hope to get back out there, uninhibited (albeit vaccinated and COVID tested ), return to our favorite destinations, and cross new ones off our lists.

Though the hospitality industry was hit hard by the pandemic, many properties used the forced downtime to renovate rooms, add new amenities, and expand outdoor spaces to offer even more once guests return. 2022 is when many travelers will venture further from home, and even overseas, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, finally reaping the benefits of these valiant efforts.

Although COVID variants remain, regulations are still evolving, and precautions must still be taken, many of the destinations we chose for 2022 offer what we believe travelers are looking for in a post-pandemic world, from hotels with private accommodations to destinations teeming with fresh-air activities . Others, like Las Vegas, are for those who are ready and raring to make up for all the social time they missed — with a few splashy headliners, including Adele and the Raiders, thrown in for good measure.

As cruising makes its comeback , we included unforgettable places to see by water, from Antarctica to the Nile, and as hard-hit destinations like Italy and Asia recover, we found the buzziest reasons to return. Of course we didn't forget about all the stateside gems we got to know while domestic travel was surging, from Alaska and California to Florida and Michigan.

Our 2022 list, organized alphabetically, doesn't hold back, with aspirational trips as far away as India, Mozambique, Qatar, and even space — but we're also including hometown favorites, like Walt Disney World and its new Star Wars hotel ; the wellness retreats of beautiful Sedona; and the simple pleasures of small-town, farm-to-table living in Franklin, Tennessee. Because no matter what type of trip you've been dreaming of, we want to help you turn 2022 into the year you get back out there and make it a reality.

— Edited by Nina Ruggiero and Scott Bay

1. Abruzzo, Italy

Stretching from the heart of the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea on the peninsula's southeastern side, Abruzzo, Italy has long been one of the country's most overlooked destinations despite its unspoiled villages, picturesque Trabocchi Coast, and stunning natural escapes. Over the past few years, however, it has gone from a sleepy underdog to an ambitious harbinger of slow travel, sustainable gastronomy, and conscious hospitality. Villa Corallo , a 19th-century mansion near Civitella del Tronto was transformed into a five-star hotel in 2019. Dimore Montane , an eco-lodge opened in 2020 in Majella National Park, marries glamping with environmentally-friendly facilities with a zero waste policy. Meanwhile, restaurants like Bottega Culinaria in San Vito Chietino and Materia Prima in Castel di Sangro are redefining the region as one of Italy's most exciting food hotspots for their innovative and sustainable takes on local produce and traditional dishes (in case Niko Romito's three-Michelin-starred Reale wasn't enough). And completing construction this Spring is Via Verde dei Trabocchi: a cycling and pedestrian path along the Adriatic sea that's being built on a disused railway route. — Marianna Cerini

With many international borders closed over the last two years, many eager U.S. travelers' eyes turned to Alaska. The vast state, famous for its towering, snow-capped peaks, pristine wilderness, massive national parks, and colorful locals, made for a dynamic destination with no passport required. But as borders reopen, interest in the 49th state is showing no signs of slowing down. Alaska's tourism board said early forecasts are projecting that more than 1.57 million cruise ship passengers could visit southeast Alaska in summer 2022. That's an 18% jump from 2019, the previous record year. Many perennial favorite cruise lines , like Holland America, will be returning to full strength after a non-existent 2020 and abbreviated 2021. Others, like Windstar Cruises, UnCruise, and Hurtigruten are rolling out fresh itineraries or are launching new ships. On dry land, Alaska is set to see myriad new offerings and events. In Juneau, the Sealaska Heritage Institute will open their Arts Campus (where visitors will be able to learn about Alaska Native art and culture) and will host Celebration , one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous peoples. In Anchorage, Fur Rendezvous , Alaska's oldest and largest winter festival, will be back from Feb. 25 to March 6 (which also happens to be peak aurora season ). The event hosts activities like the Running of the Reindeer and the Outhouse Races, before culminating with the 50th running of the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race . — Bailey Berg

3. Anguilla

This easy-going Caribbean gem is simpler than ever to get to with American Airlines launching the first-ever nonstop, direct flight from Miami on Dec. 11. Private charter flights by Tradewind Aviation have also resumed service to the island. And the just-opened Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club has a fleet of jets to ferry guests from key U.S. cities. The sprawling luxury resort will include a few restaurants overseen by chef Abram Bissell, formerly of Eleven Madison Park, The NoMad, and The Modern. Quintessence , a boutique luxury resort with perks like butler service and a 4:1 staff-to-guest ratio, is opening a more affordable annex of suites called Quinn that will debut in 2022 (along with a Champagne cellar tasting room and Art Bar). New Restaurant Uchu at Belmond Cap Juluca is taking inspiration from Belmond's collection of properties in Peru. Named after the Quechuan word for spice, the menu will feature contemporary Peruvian cuisine inspired by three of the country's regions: the coast, the jungle, and the highlands. — Scott Bay

4. Antarctica

The pandemic shutdown created a compelling reason to visit Antarctica in 2022: See how the whales, seals, and penguins react after nearly two years without seeing humans. New polar-class expedition ships and new ways to get to the White Continent are reasons to pack your boots too. Viking Expeditions will be in Antarctica for the first time in 2022 with new, twin 378-passenger expedition ships. Ponant's new 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot introduces eco-friendlier sailing, as the first hybrid-electric ship fueled by liquified natural gas (rather than heavy fuel). Quark Expeditions' long-awaited 199-passenger Ultramarine delivers exciting heli-hiking adventures via two eight-seat twin-engine helicopters. Hit a craps table in between icy exploration on the luxurious new all-suite 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor . Silversea Cruises' posh, 144-passenger, all-suite Silver Explorer returns with a debut travel option: Skip the notorious (for rough water) Drake Passage and catch a private flight directly from Chile to Antarctica to board the ship. — Fran Golden

American travelers have long loved the Bahamas for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunshine just about 50 miles off the coast of Florida, but there are even more reasons to visit the island nation in 2022. Baha Mar on the Island of New Providence has a brand new water park equipped with everything from a lazy river to a surf simulator, and day passes are available for purchase to those who aren't resort guests. For more rest and relaxation, journey to the outer islands of the Bahamas. While charter flights will get you exactly where you need to go, Crystal Cruises is offering a Bahamas-centric cruise that brings guests to some of the quieter and more remote islands. On its mid-July cruise, guests will embark and disembark from Nassau and then be whisked away via "6-star" service to the islands of Bimini, Great Exuma, San Salvador, and Long Island. Beyond the beach, don't forget to indulge in some local food and culture. The Island archipelago is famous for its conch, stew fish, and rock lobster. From late April through early May, Carnival is celebrated in Nassau and back after a pandemic hiatus. Keep an eye out for the famous sound and dance of the junkanoo. — Jamie Aranoff

6. Barbados

Whether you want a relaxing all-inclusive stay or a vibrant vacation filled with dining and nightlife, Barbados has you covered. Nowhere is that more evident than the pedestrian-friendly South Coast, which is teeming with new resorts and restaurants. The O2 Beach Club & Spa is an all-inclusive resort set on the white sands of Dover Beach, with three pools, six dining options, seven bars, and the Acqua spa, featuring the only hammam treatment room on the island. It joins other luxurious South Coast hotels, including Sandals and Sea Breeze Beach House . If you can pull yourself away from the resort pools, head along the coast to Worthing Square Food Garden, an outdoor food hall with 20 vendors serving dishes from around the Caribbean. Or stroll down the mile-long boardwalk for easy access to ocean-front food and drinks at local favorites like Champers, Salt Café, Tiki Bar, and Chill Café & Bar. — Kevin Gray

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A favorite of adventure travelers for its rainforests and divers who explore the Great Blue Hole and expansive barrier reef, Belize offers an abundance of casual spots and a handful of luxe resorts. The latest arrival is Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection Hotel , in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, opened mid-2021 with plans to add to its already extensive guest room, suite, and oceanfront villa accommodations. Major airlines are also recognizing the destination's potential with nonstop flights and convenient connections from most U.S. cities. In addition to United and Delta's nonstop flights from Houston and Atlanta, respectively, Alaska Airlines added nonstop service from Los Angeles and Seattle to Belize City in November, and Frontier Airlines will start weekly nonstop flights from Denver and Orlando. — Patricia Doherty

8. Budapest, Hungary

Very few places in the world capture both old-world charm and elegant modernity like Hungary's capital city, and Budapest's latest 130-room luxury hotel, Matild Palace , is a shining example. The neo-baroque palace-turned-hotel, which opened last summer in the city's District V, is a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city's royalty. The hotel is now home to Wolfgang Punk's famed restaurant, Spago , the first of its kind in central Europe. It also hosts the Duchess bar — a rooftop "liquor library" that mixes craft cocktails using local wines and pálinka, Hungarian fruit brandy, which can be enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the Danube river. Surrounded by 22 wine regions, Budapest is a city for oenophiles. Enjoy a glass of Kékfrankos or Kadarka in the Castle District's newly opened wine bar, Takler Borbár Buda , founded by one of the country's renowned winemaking families. Don't leave the city without visiting Marlou , a biodynamic wine bar near the Hungarian State Opera, and Portobello , an unassuming coffee and natural wine bar around the corner from Matild Palace. — Stephanie Andrews

9. Burgundy, France

The region of Burgundy is known for — you guessed it — its Burgundy wine, but French wine isn't the only reason Burgundy is a must-visit in 2022. In the spring, the region's capital city of Dijon will welcome the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), an expansive complex with a cooking school, a new hotel, a handful of restaurants, and a wine cellar with over 250 by-the-glass offerings. The new project is perfectly situated at the starting point of Burgundy's famed wine route — Route des Grands Crus — which runs from Dijon to Santenay and produces some of the country's most well-regarded wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. — Evie Carrick

10. British Virgin Islands

Within the Caribbean, the 60 islands that comprise the British Virgin Islands have long held the reputation of luxury draped in relaxation. And now it's doubling down on that brand of island spirit with Richard Branson's second private island, the 125-acre Moskito Island that opened in October and sits right across from his first BVI paradise, Necker Island (which received a serious upgrade when it reopened last year after a two-year closure). The new destination will eventually have 10 private estates that can be rented through Virgin Limited Edition , but among the ones already available are Point Estate, starting at $17,500 a night, and Oasis Estate for $19,000. But Moskito isn't the only shiny new reason to visit BVI. Proving the area's resilience following the devastation after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Saba Rock , the private island long known for its diving, went through a complete reconstruction before reopening in October; the Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in December with BVI's first over-the-water bungalows; and Oil Nut Bay will expand in early 2022 with new villas, a watersports center, and spa. Also on tap for 2022, the solar-powered White Bay Villas and new hilltop suites at Long Bay Beach Resort . And with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returning in the spring of 2022 after being canceled for two years, BVI is proving it's truly back and stronger than ever. — Rachel Chang

11. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

You're likely to glimpse Europe's pro athlete and yachting crowds at Marriott's four hotels on the Costa Smeralda, the glitzy Italian destination known for its Caribbean-like beaches and luxury resorts. Its glamorous Hotel Cala di Volpe has gradually been unveiling room renovations alongside new dining options, including its Harrods Suite, with a roof terrace and sea-facing plunge pool, and BeefBar 's first Italian outpost. The entire area is one big " Billionaire Experience ," but Formula One and entertainment mogul Flavio Briatore snagged the term for his new dining and nightlife venue in designer shopping destination Porto Cervo. For more of a low-key, family-friendly escape, the Baglioni Resort Sardinia opened an hour south in San Teodoro in June, overlooking the stunning Tavolara Marine Reserve . — Nina Ruggiero

12. Crete, Greece

The Greek Islands have long been a perennial favorite vacation destination for discerning travelers, and Crete, the largest of the 227 islands in the archipelago, deserves a spot atop your must-see list. Yes, it's a place where you can find the white-washed buildings and blue roofs you've lusted after on Instagram for years, and a spot where you can dive into the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean at every turn. And of course you can dig deep into both history and mythology as humans have lived on the island since the 7th millennium B.C ., not to mention the fact that Crete is the birthplace of Zeus . It's little surprise then, with all this beauty and history, that Crete continues to harbor a rich creative community, mostly centered in the neighborhood of Chania. There, visitors can peruse works in museums like the Mediterranean Architecture Center , or seek out unique pieces in galleries like the Municipal Art Gallery or the Redd Gallery . To visit Crete, hop aboard a sailing with Silversea , which takes guests to Crete and several other stellar islands, or book a stay at the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort , named one of the Top 10 Greece Resort Hotels in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards, 2021. — Stacey Leasca

13. Walt Disney World

The " World's Most Magical Celebration " — Walt Disney World's 18-month-long 50th anniversary event that kicked off on Oct. 1 — continues through 2022 with enchanting touches and highly anticipated ride and hotel openings. Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser will begin offering its immersive, two-night adventures in a galaxy far, far away on March 1. The interactive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will have guests wielding lightsabers, sleeping on the ship, brushing shoulders with Star Wars characters, eating intergalactic cuisine, and maybe even going on a secret mission, making this a truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Other 2022 openings include the Guardians of the Galaxy : Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster at Epcot, slated for summer. — Elizabeth Rhodes

14. Doha, Qatar

As we ask ourselves what cities of the future should look like, we naturally look around for examples. Places like Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York City seem to fit the description on paper, but I'd argue that no city better encapsulates that definition than Doha, the capital of Qatar. There is so much to discover — from East-West/West-East , a series of four steel monoliths created by sculptor Richard Serra to the Museum of Islamic Art , the massive 560,000-square-foot gallery. Eat at Syrian comfort food spot Damasca One, Em Sherif a rooftop spot that serves up authentic regional dishes, and the lively corner restaurant Nourlaya Contemporary for Sri Lankan cuisine. Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Doha or Banyan Tree Doha . (Read Robinson's full dispatch on Doha in the July 2021 edition of Travel + Leisure) — Whitney Robinson

15. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W , designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick , the Market Street hotel , Rusacks St. Andrews , and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal . Gleneagles Townhouse , a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street . And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery , opening in the summer. — Scott Bay

16. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes have bolstered their wellness and culinary offerings in recent years, carving out a name for themselves in the luxury travel realm. Inns of Aurora , comprising five historic mansions, debuted a holistic wellness facility in 2021 — set on 350 acres overlooking Cayuga Lake, complete with hydrotherapy pools, meditation areas, and a farm fresh cafe. Forty miles west of Cayuga, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua — situated on, yes, Canandaigua Lake — recently unveiled the Willowbrook Spa, which boasts lakeside barrel sauna sessions among other innovative treatments. Sandwiched between Cayuga and Canandaigua lakes is Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the Finger Lakes wine trails (this might be riesling country, but don't knock the lighter-bodied reds till you try 'em) and foodie draws like the 14-seat F.L.X. Table . Travelers visiting in the coming year will also see the Finger Lakes festival roster return in full force, including Rochester's Lilac Festival in May and International Jazz Festival in July, as well as attractions for the historically inclined road tripper, like Cayuga County's celebration of Harriet Tubman's birth through a number of walking tours and activations rolled out through 2022. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

17. Franklin, Tennessee

Despite its count of more than 80,000 year-round residents, the very walkable Franklin firmly grasps onto its small-town charms , starting with a quintessentially quaint downtown chock-full of shops and restaurants finding shelter in brick storefronts lining the sidewalks. The uninitiated might know this place for its past — Civil War museums, battleground sites, and historical markers telling the stories of a slave market, race riots, and Black soldiers in the U.S. Colored Troop division of the army all offer points of education and reflection. But the southern city has many modern-day draws as well — for starters, an exciting food and drink scene that includes the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Arrington Vineyards , the largest winery in the region. Musical events and venues abound, too: The Pilgrimage Music Festival is one of the biggest in the state, and the 7,500-seat FirstBank Amphitheater , newly opened inside a former rock quarry, has welcomed the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Santana to its stage. There's also Leiper's Fork , a quirky-cool enclave filled with antique shops and art galleries. Even more brand-new to the scene is Southall , a 325-acre farm and inn with 62 rooms and suites and 16 cottages opening this June. The lush setting amid rolling hills makes active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking), wellness pursuits (a spa, meditation, yoga, and two outdoor pools), and nourishing food (the restaurant uses ingredients grown, raised, and foraged on the property) easy to find. All of this and more lie just a short, 30-minute drive from bustling Nashville, making it tempting to tack onto a visit to the capital city. — Alisha Prakash

18. Galápagos Islands

The world's largest marine biosphere reserve will expand more than 20,000 square miles next year thanks to a recent presidential decree . The conservation measure seeks to combat illegal fishing by offering increased protection to the thousands of species that populate the archipelago's waters as well as a migration corridor stretching up to Costa Rica used by sharks, whales and other sea life. Come January, travelers can cruise this UNESCO-protected region on new nine-day adventures from Hurtigruten Expeditions and outfitter Metropolitan Touring aboard the 90-guest carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II. For a more intimate experience, passengers can book Aqua Expeditions ' seven-suite 164-foot superyacht, Aqua Mare, when it debuts in May. At the end of the year, eco-enthusiasts can sail to lesser-explored islands to spot giant tortoises, sea lions, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas on Quasar Expeditions ' new sustainable yacht — the 18-passenger M/Y Conservation featuring biodegradable amenities, renewable energy and a carbon-neutral footprint. Those with timid sea legs should check into the locally owned and run Montemar in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. — Nora Walsh

19. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs is kicking its signature self-care into high gear in the coming year. Taking a cue from its sister property, Sensei Lanai , the new Sensei Porcupine Creek is converting a 230-acre private estate into a luxury wellness experience in Rancho Mirage in 2022. In Palm Springs proper, Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza will celebrate Indigenous art and history alongside the new Spa at Séc-he , where visitors will soak in approximately 12,000-year-old hot springs. Nearby, Fleur Noire Hotel just opened its adults-only casitas and bungalows, with a speakeasy Champagne bar to follow. Unexpectedly, the desert has a budding surf scene — the former Wet 'n Wild waterpark is becoming Palm Springs Surf Club , with a state-of-the-art wave pool, spa, restaurant, and bar; DSRT Surf is set to open a 5.5-acre wave lagoon in Palm Desert; and Kelly Slater himself is bringing a green energy–powered wave basin to Coral Mountain , a proposed new wellness resort with a hotel and residences, set to open in La Quinta by 2023 pending city approvals. And for entertainment outside the splash zone, the $250-million Coachella Valley Arena will host hockey, concerts, and more live events by the end of the year. — Nina Ruggiero

20. Greenville, South Carolina

Once in the shadow of Charleston and Asheville, Greenville has emerged in recent years as a go-to destination in its own right — and it keeps giving travelers more reasons to visit. In 2022, the city of just over 70,000 people will welcome a luxury boutique hotel, unveil a new public gathering place, and build on its well-earned reputation as a culinary and craft beer hotspot. The long-awaited, 187-room Grand Bohemian hotel is expected to open its doors this spring, complete with a two-story restaurant and bar, art gallery, and spa. The 60-acre Unity Park will feature plenty of greenspace, an observation tower, baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking and biking trails. And recently opened restaurants, including French Laundry alum Drew Erickson's Camp , Urban Wren, Coral, and an outpost of Nashville's famous Prince's Hot Chicken located inside Yee-Haw Brewing will ensure you're well-fed while in town. — Kevin Gray

21. Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique

While South Africa and Uganda grab headlines for African wildlife, Mozambique has been quietly making strides protecting 17 percent of its land — including beaches, coral reefs, and islands — showcasing its dedication to its natural beauty both on land and underwater. Ever since the country's 16-year civil war ended in 1992, the southeastern African nation has been aiming to build back in the right ways. Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. It's here that the eco-luxury Banyan Tree resort chain has developed one of its most ambitious projects yet, a five-star property — accessible by jetty or helicopter — with 40 private pool villas that will be completely solar powered. Add to that a fish market restaurant with a 270-degree ocean view, the brand's trademark Banyan Tree Spa, and world-class diving, all in a too-pristine-to-believe beach setting, and this island escape is sure to draw attention away from its Indian Ocean neighbors when it opens at the end of 2022. — Rachel Chang

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Those wary of traveling internationally in 2022 will find solace in Jackson Hole, a mountain town with endless open space (Wyoming is the least populated state in the U.S.) and plenty to do. In the winter, life revolves around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , home to some of the nation's best skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, plan your trip around the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival (June 23-25) or head to the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. For easy access to the mountain town, travelers can hop on one of Aero's high-end, seasonal flights and stay at The Cloudveil off the Town Square or the Caldera House at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Evie Carrick

23. Kafue National Park, Zambia

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp . Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge . Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic). — Mazuba Kapambwe

24. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, Lithuania has a lofty New Year's resolution. After a century of wars, Soviet rule, and, since the 1990s, independence, this UNESCO Creative City of Design is ready to cultivate a new identity — and it's doing so as one of two European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad, Serbia). The festivities commence in January, with thousands of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year to celebrate Kaunas' history while cementing its path forward . Also this year, Kaunas will welcome the highly anticipated $30 million Science Island, Lithuania's first national science and innovation center designed by UK firm Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). By May, the city's former Magnus Hotel will reopen with sparkly new digs and a posh rooftop under the ibis Styles umbrella . This lively city is also a main stop on the recently unveiled 1,330-mile Forest Trail across the Baltics. And, a host of just-announced Ryanair flight routes, including Madrid to Kaunas, will make visiting this capital of culture a breeze. — Stephanie Vermillion

25. Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu may be less than two hours from Tokyo by plane, but it feels far from Honshū's well-beaten tourist circuit. The southwesternmost Japanese main island is still largely unexplored, providing those willing to venture off the beaten path with a much different Japan than the one they'll find in its cities. As a warm, subtropical island, Kyushu is home to long, golden beaches and some of Japan's best snorkeling and scuba diving. Inland, the country's most active volcano, Mt. Aso, feeds the island's myriad natural hot springs — many of which offer sea views. And while the island has accommodations that include both hot spring resorts and luxury beachfront villas , nothing tops a stay at Hirado Castle , which was recently restored and renovated to welcome visitors overnight . — Evie Carrick

26. Lanai, Hawaii

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort , guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience , offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy. — Patricia Doherty

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Never bet against the house: The pandemic may have put a damper on Las Vegas, but the ever-on-the-move city is back in a big way for 2022. A massive new development on the Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas, opened in June, has three distinct Hilton properties under one enormous roof, not to mention more than 40 restaurants and bars, plus pools (plural), and a handful of $15,000-a-night villas . Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the Cromwell , and downtown's Circa Resort & Casino are also giving visitors fresh options on where to stay. The city's pro sports teams — also now plural — are drawing in fans. And off-Strip "immersive experiences," like the Omega Mart by Meow Wolf and the Illuminarium, both at Area15 , are lending an additional layer of things to do beyond the expected. Not that there's anything wrong with splashing out on dinner and a show after the past two years. Live acts — like Adele's just-announced residency at The Colosseum — are once again hot tickets, as is a table at chic new supper club Delilah , at the Wynn Las Vegas. Some things, thankfully, never change. — Paul Brady

28. Louisville, Kentucky

Your cowboy boots were made for walking the streets of Louisville. Nicknamed "The Bourbon City," an official gateway to Kentucky's bourbon trail, the city is expanding its bourbon footprint in 2022. In October, the Urban Bourbon Trail welcomed the first and only African American–owned distillery in the state, Brough Brothers . Meanwhile, its trailmate, Angel's Envy , will wrap its $8.2-million expansion project complete with a new event space and five tasting rooms in the spring. The city is most well known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby every spring at the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, and the Downs will open the first installment of its multi-year expansion plan, the Homestretch Club , just in time for the 2022 Derby. There, attendees will be able to enjoy the race with an all-new trackside lounge experience. — Hannah Streck

29. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park ) and unparalleled luxury ( Four Seasons Resort , Datai Langkawi ), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900-acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast , a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia). — Alisha Prakash

30. Maldives

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul , a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , debuting in February. — Katie Lockhart

31. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts , most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel , Brenton Hotel , and The Wayfinder Hotel . The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas-based design collective Swoon — the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub-inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto , at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist. — Scott Bay

32. Nile Cruise, Egypt

There is no trip that will convert you to a life of river cruising quite like a sail down (well, technically, up) the Nile. In fact, the world's first river cruises sailed in Egypt, a country designed around the central waterway, where it makes sense that the Nile would act as your home base. A typical Egyptian river cruise sets sail from Cairo to Luxor and then Aswan, with the occasional stop to visit an island temple along the way — complete with sights like the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and Queens, Nefertari's tomb, and the Temple of Kom Ombo. In 2022, there's more than one new river cruise to choose from, between Uniworld's newly launched S.S. Sphinx and AmaWaterways' Amadahlia , both of which sailed their inaugural voyages in fall 2021. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: " Live for More ." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity , the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel , centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. — Stacey Leasca

34. Phuket, Thailand

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass–colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara , featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant , which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket , which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4-bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which just launched a weekly Saturday night show. — Alison Fox

35. Pico, Portugal

The islands of the Azores — a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 900 miles west of Lisbon — are more popular than ever, and for 2022, travelers will want to fix their eyes firmly on the second-largest isle: Pico, an alluring, otherworldly locale covered with black, volcanic rocks. Conquering Portugal's highest peak, the cloud-shrouded, 7,713-foot-high Mount Pico, used to be the island's main draw, but a recent uptick in hospitality infrastructure has allowed for more opportunity to partake of Pico's most important agricultural output: wine. Renowned Portuguese winemaker Antonio Maçanita just opened a new winery that comes with bookable design-forward apartments adjacent to the island's unique vineyards. On Pico, grapes are planted on volcanic terroir that are then protected from Atlantic winds with rock walls. Maçanita's ​​ Azores Wine Company 's mineral, sometimes slightly salty wines could be the perfect celebratory drink after a grueling hike.The crashing waves around Pico are beginning to seduce surfers, too. And there are also ample opportunities to watch for marine life thanks to 20 species of dolphins and whales (including humpbacks and orcas) that can be spotted in these waters. But if you'd rather eat what's in the water: Try lapas, a local shellfish delicacy best served grilled with butter and garlic and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Thankfully, getting to experience all of this has never been easier: Starting July 1, United Airlines will for the first time connect Newark to the island of São Miguel (the Azores' largest island), and from there, it's a quick hop over to Pico. Or you could always get there via direct flights from Lisbon or Porto with Tap Air Portugal's stopover program. — Chadner Navarro

36. Quebec, Canada

After over a year of tight pandemic restrictions, Canada reopened to American tourists in 2021, so now might finally be time to plan that trip to the Great White North, starting with the province of Quebec. From the charming, French-influenced cities of Montreal and Quebec City to the region's snow-capped mountains, there's something new to explore every season. In December 2021, the first Club Med mountain resort in Canada, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , opened, offering all-inclusive ski vacations just a short flight from several major U.S. cities. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering a foliage-packed autumn cruise from New York to Montreal in October. No matter what time of year you visit, Le Capitole Hotel in Quebec City and Humaniti Hotel Montreal are top picks for places to stay in the major cities. — Elizabeth Rhodes

37. Queensland, Australia

Australia's highly anticipated international border reopening will be well worth the wait, especially as more travelers seek nuanced cultural experiences and sustainable stays. The northeastern state has long been the gateway for visits to the rightly beloved Great Barrier Reef, and beginning in 2022, visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecosystem directly from the area's Traditional Land Owners and Indigenous guides during day trips from Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel . Aboriginal elders and Traditional Land Owners are also working with local operator Gudjuda Tours on a daylong excursion to tag and rescue one of the reef's most beloved creatures: sea turtles. Those who want to take a more extended trip to the Whitsunday Islands can look to Elysian Retreat , recently certified as the area's first fully solar-powered resort, or its carbon-negative sister property Pumpkin Island . Back on the mainland, within the verdant Daintree Rainforest UNESCO World Heritage Site, eco-luxury hideaway Silky Oaks Lodge will finally welcome guests back after its $15-million overhaul. — Sarah Bruning

38. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Two hours from L.A., the Santa Ynez Valley is rural, unassuming, and coming into its own. The region has grown grapes for decades and has even made a Hollywood cameo in the movie Sideways. The arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles' and travelers' radars. Start with a private olive oil tasting at Global Gardens and hard cider at Tin City Cider in Los Olivos. Follow with pizza pies at Full of Life Flatbread and vino at nearby female-owned A Tribute to Grace and Casa Dumetz . Detour to Firestone Walker 's outpost in Buellton for a few limited edition craft brews and finish with dishes such as roasted tomato and fennel risotto at the Ballard Inn's Gathering Table . Though it's technically just beyond the boundaries of the valley in Lompoc, The Hilt Estate , is too good to miss. And once it opens this year as an Auberge property, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern will make for the perfect base from which to explore it all. — Tanvi Chheda

39. São Paulo, Brazil

Known for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo , located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200-plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools. — Molly O'Brien

40. Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen-in-amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand-new Thompson Savannah , a slick 13-story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once-industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed-use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting , a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel , countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever-evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard , a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana ; Two Tides Brewing Company , which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super-cool taproom; and Troupial , a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah , a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah. — Paul Brady

41. Seattle, Washington

Few places offer both an urban and a natural escape in one destination — and the Emerald City might be one of the best. The city center is world-class with top hotel accommodations ( Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and Thompson Seattle ), locally focused fine dining, and countless cultural sites. Then, just minutes away from all of that is some of the most stunning outdoor recreation out there. Adding to the city's luster is the newly opened Lotte Hotel Seattle . The 189-room tower is bringing high design and refined service to the area. Charlotte , the hotel's restaurant on the 18th floor, serves up an inventive menu that is sure to become an all-time favorite dining experience. The landmark Fairmont Olympic Hotel recently completed a $25-million historic restoration of its public spaces, quickly becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Plus, its buzzy new culinary showpiece will debut in the months to come. Before leaving Seattle, don't miss a meal at celebrated pasta specialist Brian Clevenger's new restaurant, Autumn . — Scott Bay

42. Sedona, Arizona

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

With tourism already surging thanks to the Instagram fame of attractions like Devil's Bridge, Sedona garnered even more of a following during the pandemic among cooped-up city dwellers enthralled by the destination's red rocks and energy vortexes. In 2022, set your sights on North America's first landscape hotel, Ambiente , home to 40 standalone accommodations (called "atriums"), most with private rooftop decks perfect for stargazing. Opening in May, the sustainability-focused retreat will offer on-site trailhead access — further immersing guests in the Sedona landscape while combating traffic along the city's main highway — and reactivate an ancient waterway to populate a stream running throughout the hotel. Experience Sedona's culinary clout right on property at Ambiente's restaurant, Forty1, housed in a refurbished airstream, or venture next door to Mariposa , the city's must-visit restaurant by chef Lisa Dahl, who pioneered fine dining in this town. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

43. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated American travelers in October 2021 with the introduction of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane . Travelers can fly from the U.S. on Singapore Airlines' vaccine-mandatory flights ; the World's Best airline 26 years running launched Vaccinated Travel Lane flights this fall, and United Airlines plans to follow suit by January 2022. Even in the early stages of reopening to foreign travelers, the city-state is already unveiling new culinary ventures. Recently, chef Julien Royer, behind three-Michelin-star Odette, opened Claudine , and Raffles Singapore unveiled Osteria BBR by Alain Ducasse, while Marina Bay Sands plans to debut chef Tetsuya Wakuda's second restaurant within the hotel in the new year. Of course, there's just as much flavor to be found at Singapore's famed hawker centers, now on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. As tourists return to Singapore, new cultural attractions follow — from the return of Singapore Art Week, beginning Jan. 14, to the recent unveiling of SkyHelix Sentosa , an open-air ride towering 300 feet above sea level, for anyone still in need of thrills after a 17-hour flight over the Pacific. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

44. Southwest Michigan

Beaches with ocean-like views were once the main draw to Michigan's southwest coast, but new high-style accommodations and hyper-local experiences are giving us more reasons to go. Where to stay with so many options? Consider the cool new motel-turned-boutique Lake Shore Resort in Saugatuck; The Fields glamping retreat with new spa tents in South Haven; the revamped, modern Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo; or anywhere along the coast with high-touch Bluefish Vacation Rentals , which has killer lakefront homes now stocked with handmade local goods. Hop on the new pedestrian/bike trail in Union Pier, and definitely shop two new woman-owned standouts: the beautifully curated Haven and Ariane Prewitt's AP Cottage, scheduled to open this spring. Women are showing off the culinary scene, too, with everything from a special saison ale — winner of the 2021 Great American Beer Festival — at woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. , to new herb-inspired cocktails at James Beard-winning chef Melissa Corey's Penny Royal Café & Provisions , to James Beard nominee Abra Beherns' Granor Farm , where dinners return this year in a new glass-enclosed barn. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

45. St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you're on the hunt for glitz, glamour, and powder for days, look no further than St. Moritz, Switzerland. The Alpine ski town has long been considered the birthplace of winter vacationing. Tourists first flocked to the mountain town in 1864 , when hotelier Johannes Badrutt took a few British travelers to the community, promising them bluebird days all winter. It wasn't long until others learned about this hidden winter oasis. Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the mountain, which has now hosted the Winter Olympic Games not once, but twice. It's an ideal place for ski bunnies too, thanks to its luxury shopping, and its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants . This winter, head to St. Moritz for its fantastic events like White Surf (Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 2022), an international horse race that takes place across the frozen Lake St. Moritz, and the Snow Polo World Cup (Jan. 28-30, 2022), which happens to be the world's only high-goal tournament on snow. Book a stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel , which officially reopened on Dec. 3 for the 2021/2022 season and offers guests the chance to try their hand at high-octane winter sports like skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, and even private helicopter tours to the peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. — Stacey Leasca

46. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world , but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the " Gulp Coast ," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride , the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers. — Jessica Poitevien

47. Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido , an all-villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero 's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms — some with private rooftops and plunge pools — open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra , a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree." — Nina Ruggiero

48. Udaipur, India

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") — but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram , an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat — something of a trademark for the over-the-top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open-air restaurant Belvedere Point. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

49. Wales, United Kingdom

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit — and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral , a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle , some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen . Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop ) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts. — Jamie Carter

50. Yucatán, Mexico

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, has emerged as one of Mexico's most popular cities thanks to its lively restaurant scene, a busy calendar of cultural events, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Increasingly, however, travelers are venturing beyond the city to explore the state's unspoiled nature reserves, ancient Maya sites, and sprawling haciendas — a number now converted into hotels. Among the destinations that are drawing travelers to Yucatán are El Cuyo, a quiet beach town that was long a closely guarded secret of windsurfers. Now visitors can also enjoy gourmet Mexican fare at the El Chile Gordo restaurant and boho-chic lodgings at the new Casa Mate . In Espita, a charming colonial town near Valladolid, is the Casona los Cedros hotel which opened in summer 2021. Sisal, a historic port in the western part of the state, has attracted new interest since being named a Pueblo Mágico at the end of 2020. A new highway completed in April now connects Sisal to Hunucmá (and then beyond to Mérida) making it easier for beachcombers to visit, and perhaps spend the night at the cool Club de Patos . — John Newton

51. Bonus: Space

This was a monumental year for human spaceflight — not only did NASA and SpaceX achieve a regular cadence of astronaut launches for the first time since the Space Shuttle was retired in 2011, but space tourism has also lifted off in a major way, making space a top destination to visit in 2022. And it's a realistic trip, too, so long as you have the budget for it. Both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking passengers to space on short suborbital hops this year, and each company plans to ramp up those flights in 2022 — Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 bookings. The price for a quick jaunt to space? A few hundred thousand dollars . If you have an even bigger budget (say, a couple hundred million dollars), you could charter your own orbital flight in a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, as did entrepreneur Jared Issacman with his Inspiration4 mission in September. There are also tourism trips to the International Space Station in the works; Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa launches on his multi-day journey in December, courtesy of space travel agency Space Adventures and Russia's Roscosmos space agency, which plans to take even more " citizen space explorers " to the orbiting laboratory in the near future. Of course, not everyone has pockets deep enough to cover space travel, but more affordable journeys are on the horizon. Startup Space Perspective plans to launch high-altitude balloon rides to the edge of space in 2024 , for the relatively low price of $125,000. Potential dealbreaker, though — the balloons don't actually reach space, maxing out at 100,000 feet in altitude, while space is considered to begin somewhere between 264,000 feet (50 miles) and 327,360 feet ​​(62 miles). But hey, at least there's a bar on board. — Stefanie Waldek

101 Best Holiday Destinations 2024

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Are you looking for some inspiration for your next holiday?

Whether you’re dreaming of a beach getaway or an adventure-packed trip, the world is full of incredible destinations to explore.

We’ve rounded up some of the best holiday destinations around the globe that are sure to satisfy your wanderlust and leave you with unforgettable memories.

From tropical paradises to cultural hotspots, read on for some travel inspiration that will have you packing your bags in no time.

1 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

The city of Dubrovnik is a jewel in Croatia’s crown, and a must-see for intrepid explorers yearning for unique escapades.

Stroll through the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town , where each turn reveals a charming scene, or lose yourself in the mesmerizing vistas of the Adriatic Sea as it sparkles in every shade of blue.

Delve into the city’s storied past as you circumnavigate the majestic city walls, or venture upwards on a cable car to the peak of Mt. Srd , where an awe-inspiring panorama awaits.

For those with a thirst for ocean-bound excursions, a boat tour around the Elaphiti Islands offers a splendid escape.

In the spirit of adventure, pack your walking shoes and wear your best Game of Thrones attire for a tour of the show’s filming locations. In Dubrovnik, the journey is indeed long and replete with wonders.

• Dubrovnik tours

See also: Fun things to do in Dubrovnik

2 – Siem Reap, Cambodia

Bathed in the golden hues of history, Siem Reap is the traditional and cultural center of Cambodia.

Venture into the illustrious Angkor Wat for a journey into another era, or discover the Tonle Sap Lake’s floating villages which serve as vignettes of life on water.

For adrenaline seekers, exhilarating activities such as quad biking and zip-lining are readily available, and ornithologists will find myriad bird-watching opportunities.

Night markets humming with activity will entice shopaholics with their colorful and eclectic merchandise.

Whether you’re a culture connoisseur eager to unravel the stories within the Angkor National Museum and the Artisans d’Angkor, or a gastronome chasing the flavors of Khmer cuisine, Siem Reap is a paradise for discovery.

So bring your camera, don your Indiana Jones hat and plunge headfirst into this Cambodian treasure trove.

• Siem Reap tours

See also: Fun things to do in Siem Reap

3 – Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia, an exquisite gem nestled within the Mediterranean’s azure expanse, is the perfect blend of culture, beauty and adventure.

The island’s allure extends from the translucent waters of the Costa Smeralda to the  ancient towns of Chia and Santa Teresa, providing a feast for the senses.

For history buffs, the enigmatic Nuraghe ruins beckon with their untold mysteries, while a boat trip around the stunning archipelago of La Maddalena reveals nature’s finest masterpieces. Scale the breathtaking Gennargentu mountain, and let your gaze sweep across the panoramic vista.

Sardinia, with its unspoiled coastline, delectable local cuisine, and dynamic markets, is the epitome of the Italian experience. Don’t forget to reserve space in your luggage for the island’s renowned pecorino cheese and cannonau wine — tangible reminders of your Sardinian adventure.

• Sardinia tours

See also: Fun things to do in Sardinia

4 – Orlando, USA

Orlando is a diverse tapestry of excitement and tranquility, perfect for those looking for a dynamic mix of exploits. This city is home to world-famous water parks and theme parks such as Universal Studios , Disney World , and SeaWorld , making it a haven for thrill-seekers.

Besides its theme parks , Orlando’s natural beauty flourishes in wetlands, state parks, and wildlife sanctuaries, while scenic boat rides on the surrounding lakes reveal its quieter charm. Myriad activities — ranging from golfing and fishing to shopping and dining — ensure a holiday that is as versatile as it is unforgettable.

In Orlando, the narrative of your vacation is written in bold strokes of leisurely fun, resulting in an experience that will remain etched in memory.

• Orlando tours

See also: Fun things to do in Orlando

5 – New York City, USA

New York City, a globally celebrated metropolis, is a kaleidoscope of tourist attractions and activities. It pulsates with an energy that is quintessentially its own, from the bright lights of Times Square to the rich tapestry of culture that thrives within the boroughs of Brooklyn .

Immerse yourself in Broadway ’s dramatic flair, venture into iconic stores like Macy’s, or drink in Manhattan ’s stunning skyline from a boat tour. For outdoor enthusiasts, Central Park ’s ice skating rinks, the Hudson River’s bike paths, and the scenic High Line offer a taste of the city’s greener side.

While the city’s parks serve as serene retreats, its dining scene is a gastronomic adventure itself. So journey to the Big Apple, where your sense of direction may get tangled amid the bustling rhythm, but where every experience is one to remember.

• New York City tours

See also: Fun things to do in New York City

6 – Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar, an archipelago adorning the Tanzanian coast, enchants travelers with its flavorful cuisine, rich historical sites and vibrant culture.

Here, you can revel in the crystal-clear waters and lush forests that provide a backdrop for some of the world’s best snorkeling, diving and fishing.

The island’s heartbeat echoes through its lively streets and centuries-old architecture — every corner is a cultural treasure. Be it strolling through the Old Town , basking in a sunset over the Indian Ocean, or taking a sensory journey on a spice tour, Zanzibar promises an encounter with the exotic.

With its mesmerizing beaches and abundant heritage, Zanzibar offers an unforgettable journey into a realm where beauty meets tradition.

• Zanzibar tours

See also: Fun things to do in Zanzibar

7 – Canary Islands, Spain

Made up of eight unique isles, the Canaries are a traveler’s true paradise. From the lively nightlife of Tenerife to the untouched beaches of Fuerteventura , there’s an island for every inclination.

Venture into Lanzarote ‘s volcanic landscape within Timanfaya National Park , or experience the verdant forests and dramatic coastal views in La Palma . Gran Canaria offers a splash of adventure with myriad water sports, while La Gomera’s rugged landscape and hiking trails beckon nature enthusiasts.

With so much to explore, the Canary Islands are a call to every wanderlust-filled heart. Pack your bags, book your flight and prepare to embark on an unparalleled journey.

• Canary Islands tours

8 – Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town welcomes you to a place where turquoise waters gently lap against majestic mountains, with a bustling metropolis in between. Ascend to the peak of Table Mountain via cable car and be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the sprawling city below.

The V&A Waterfront buzzes with restaurants, shops and entertainment options, while a sunset cruise around Table Bay offers an unforgettable end to the day. Wander through the verdant Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden , marveling at its lush greenery and breathtaking mountain backdrop.

For thrill-seekers, the allure of a shark cage dive or a kayak among dolphins is hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for serene beauty or heart-stopping adventure, Cape Town promises a vibrant spectrum of experiences.

• Cape Town tours

See also: Fun things to do in Cape Town

9 – Porto, Portugal

Porto, a city that wears its history with grace and style, offers a kaleidoscope of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy. Exploring the narrow cobblestone streets or enjoying a serene cruise along the Douro River provides a journey into Porto’s captivating past and present.

The city’s architecture, ranging from the Romanesque-Gothic São Bento Railway Station to the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, showcases a skyline as deliciously diverse as its renowned port wine and seafood. Venture outdoors with biking tours and beach trips to the nearby Praia do Molhe Lighthouse.

With its stunning vistas, pulsating nightlife and myriad activities, Porto will weave lasting memories into the fabric of your travel experiences. Bring comfortable shoes and an intrepid mindset because, in Porto, the hills promise adventure and a taste of Portugal’s spirit.

• Porto tours

See also: Fun things to do in Porto

10 – Edinburgh, Scotland

Cradled in the heart of Scotland, the charismatic city of Edinburgh unveils its charm through cobbled streets and ancient attractions. Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle , wander the bustling Royal Mile , or meander through the Old Town, where Gothic architecture and history stand side by side.

Must-visit locations include the National Museum of Scotland and the Palace of Holyroodhouse . The outdoors beckon with the stunning views and hiking trails of Arthur’s Seat. And for food lovers, a taste of tradition awaits at one of the city’s many inviting pubs.

Edinburgh — where good times, great tales and unforgettable experiences are always on the menu. So, come and raise a pint to this Scottish gem!

• Edinburgh tours

See also: Fun things to do in Edinburgh

11 – Rome, Italy

If you’re a history buff, Rome ranks among the best holiday destinations with its ancient ruins and iconic landmarks.

Stride across the echoing chambers of the world-renowned Colosseum , once a stage for gladiatorial bravado, and explore the ghostly ruins of the Roman Forum, a testament to a former world power.

Stroll the picturesque cobblestone streets of Trastevere , where an authentic Italian meal awaits in a plethora of eateries nestled among the charming architecture.

Visit the Vatican Museums to admire priceless artwork and historic treasures, and ascend the holy steps of St. Peter’s Basilica for a panorama of Rome that unfurls beneath you like a masterpiece.

And in the grand finale of your Roman holiday, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain , promising your inevitable return to this extraordinary city.

See also: Fun things to do in Rome , Vatican Museum Tickets Price

12 – Chiang Mai, Thailand

Known for its tapestry of cultural experiences, Chiang Mai invites visitors into a world where traditions come alive amid breathtaking landscapes.

From the pulsating evening markets to the verdant outskirts dotted with venerable temples, there’s an adventure waiting around every corner.

Delve into the city’s historical core with a visit to Wat Chiang Man, or engage with the throbbing energy of its vibrant nightlife. Embark on exhilarating outdoor expeditions like trekking or mountain biking, or learn about gentle giants at the Elephant Nature Park .

Unwind with a traditional Thai massage, and satisfy your gastronomic cravings with mouthwatering local delights from the countless street vendors, making your Chiang Mai experience truly special.

• Chiang Mai tours

See also: Fun things to do in Chiang Mai , best day trips from Chiang Mai

13 – Langkawi, Malaysia

A tropical wonderland of 99 islands, Langkawi lures travelers with its pristine beaches, staggering cliffs and lush rainforests.

Embrace the thrill of adventure, whether it be trekking through the verdant Gunung Raya rainforest or taking a cable car ride to the peak of Mount Mat Cincang.

For an excursion teeming with intrigue, visit the mystic Kilim Karst Geoforest Park with its tangled mangrove forests.

Alternatively, experience the dynamic nightlife and diverse shopping opportunities. Whichever exploit you choose, Langkawi promises a dazzling holiday and a suitcase laden with enchanting mementos.

• Langwaki tours

See also: Fun things to do in Langwaki

14 – Paro Valley, Bhutan

Nestled in Bhutan’s tranquil landscape, Paro Valley captivates visitors with its serene beauty and enthralling history.

Tour ancient monasteries perched amid lush greenery, and meander through the peaceful streets of Paro Town, taking in the rich cultural ambiance.

For those searching for a blend of spirituality and adventure, a visit to the revered Taktsang Monastery offers a glorious experience.

With its pristine rivers, towering mountains and verdant forests, Paro Valley is an adventurer’s dream and a seeker’s sanctuary.

• Paro Valley tours

15 – Jaipur, India

Stepping into Jaipur is like turning the pages of a magical storybook, each chapter more enchanting than the last.

Marvel at the regal Amber Fort and the whimsical Hawa Mahal , remnants of a bygone era. Explore the sprawling City Palace , shop for precious trinkets in bustling bazaars, and revel in a stunning desert sunset from the vantage point of Nahargarh Fort .

Indulge in the local gastronomic delights, ranging from tantalizing street food to rich traditional delicacies.

In the land of maharajas, every moment is a celebration of life and culture.

• Jaipur tours

See also: Fun things to do in Jaipur

16 – Bali, Indonesia

Bali, one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia , is an island paradise, a realm where verdant rice terraces meet azure seas.

Hike to the top of Mt. Batur , greeting the break of dawn with awe-inspiring vistas, or unwind on the sun-kissed sands of Jimbaran Bay .

Browse Ubud Market’s trove of traditional Balinese handicrafts, or experience Kuta’s energetic nightlife.

Test your mettle with white water rafting down the Ayung River, or take a surfing lesson and ride the waves at Balangan Beach.

But be prepared for a flavor explosion, because in Bali the fiery sambal and delectable nasi goreng are the stars of every meal.

See also: Fun things to do in Bali , Best places to visit in Bali

17 – Petra, Jordan

Petra, a city sculpted into the very bedrock of Jordan, enthralls with its age-old magnificence.

Stand in awe before iconic landmarks such as the Treasury and the Monastery, and walk down the Street of Facades, a boulevard of ancient tombs.

Journey into the city on horseback for a unique perspective, and as dusk falls, marvel at the constellation-studded sky from the comfort of a desert camp.

Petra is a treasure trove of Middle Eastern beauty waiting to be discovered.

• Petra tours

See also: Fun things to do in Amman

18 – Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, a winter wonderland like no other, and one of the most beautiful places in the world , offers a magical Arctic experience.

Witness the ethereal spectacle of the northern lights, meet the jolly Santa Claus in his very own village, or enjoy a thrilling husky ride across snow-clad forests.

Plunge into the frosty Arctic Ocean, delve into history at the Arktikum Museum , or try your hand at ice fishing on the shimmering frozen lakes.

Savor local delicacies like reindeer meat and cloudberries, immersing yourself in the vibrant Sami culture.

In Rovaniemi, every moment is an unforgettable Arctic adventure.

• Rovaniemi tours

See also: Fun things to do in Rovaniemi , Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around the Globe , Most Beautiful Places in Europe

19 – New Orleans, USA

In the heart of the South, New Orleans unfolds as a symphony of iconic jazz, hearty Creole cuisine and architectural grandeur.

Traverse the vivacious French Quarter , amble along the Mississippi River, or explore the hauntingly beautiful St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 .

Sample the city’s culinary gems, from traditional beignets at Café du Monde to flavorful po’ boys at charming local eateries.

Indulge in soul-stirring jazz performances or join the city’s vibrant Mardi Gras celebration .

Be ready to go home with a newfound appreciation for the soul of the South.

• New Orleans tours

See also: Fun things to do in New Orleans

20 – Marrakech, Morocco

Immerse yourself in the sensory delight that is Marrakech, set against the backdrop of the majestic Atlas Mountains .

Navigate through the city’s vibrant souks, admire the stunning traditional architecture, and savor the delectable Moroccan cuisine.

Wander the animated Jemaa el-Fnaa square, marvel at the opulent Bahia Palace , or find tranquility within the serene Majorelle Garden .

Relish a traditional tagine or savor mint tea at a local café, barter for gifts within the labyrinthine markets, and let the mesmerizing performance of traditional street artists captivate you.

For an added thrill, soar over the desert in a hot air balloon or embark on a memorable camel trek .

Marrakech is the gateway to an exotic and colorful adventure.

• Marrakech tours

See also: Fun things to do in Marrakech

21 – Dubai, U.A.E

Dubai stands out as one of the best holiday destinations for luxury travelers, boasting extravagant hotels, world-class shopping experiences and awe-inspiring architectural wonders.

Amid the shimmering skyscrapers and pristine beaches lie countless wonders that cater to all whims.

Here, marvel at the tallest structure in the world, the Burj Khalifa , shop at the largest mall on the globe, or ski indoors at Ski Dubai.

Discover the city’s rich cultural heritage at the bustling old town and delight your palate with exquisite international and local cuisine.

Adventure seekers can enjoy a thrilling desert tour or a yacht cruise.

In Dubai, indulgence and excitement are the orders of the day.

• Dubai tours

See also: Fun things to do in Dubai

22 – Krakow, Poland

Krakow, an enchanting city in southern Poland, brims with cobbled streets and striking Gothic architecture.

From the atmospheric Old Town to the lively Kazimierz district , there is something for everyone.

Experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere, savor traditional Polish cuisine, or take a poignant trip to the nearby Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp .

Krakow is the perfect blend of history and culture, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip.

And with the city’s mouth-watering dishes, you’ll definitely need to pack your appetite.

• Krakow tours

See also: Fun things to do in Krakow

23 – Madrid, Spain

Madrid, Spain’s bustling metropolis of endless activities, is the perfect place for a city break.

From the world-renowned Prado Museum to its numerous art galleries, there is no shortage of cultural experiences to relish.

Stroll through the cobbled streets, explore the city’s historical sites such as the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor, or relax at the beautiful Retiro Park .

Whether you’re shopping at the El Rastro flea market, touring the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, or dancing the night away, Madrid will leave you hungry for more!

• Madrid tours

See also: Fun things to do in Madrid

24 – Boracay, Philippines

In search of paradise? Look no further than Boracay. This tiny island boasts of white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and tranquility.

Whether you prefer basking under the tropical sun on White Beach or exploring the laid-back vibe of Puka Beach, Boracay has it all.

Indulge in water sports, dine at beachfront restaurants and bars, or just relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Make sure to savor local delicacies, including fresh seafood and traditional Filipino dishes.

Boracay is your perfect tropical escape.

• Boracay tours

25 – Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia, a nature lover’s haven at the edge of the world, calls to adventures with its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Situated amid snow-capped mountains and the Beagle Channel, it offers boat tours to spot penguins, sea lions, and whales.

For thrill-seekers, hiking and skiing in Tierra del Fuego National Park offer mesmerizing views of glaciers and rugged environs.

Don’t miss the chance to sample local seafood, including the king crab, and delve into the city’s history at the End of the World Museum.

• Ushuaia tours

See also: Fun things to do in Ushuaia

26 – Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the city of a hundred spires, offers a visual and sensory feast.

Wander through the town’s labyrinthine streets and marvel at the historic architecture, including the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock .

Visit the Prague Castle , the world’s largest ancient castle, and soak in the city’s panoramic views.

For a unique twist, relax in a traditional Czech beer spa. Remember, in Prague, all paths lead to a frothy pint!

• Prague tours

See also: Fun things to do in Prague

27 – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora, an emerald gem nestled in the sapphire expanse of the Pacific, is the embodiment of a tropical paradise.

Snorkel or dive into its crystalline waters, teeming with vibrant marine life and friendly sharks.

Hike up to the summit of Mount Otemanu and soak up the breathtaking panoramas, or explore the intriguing underwater world of Bora Bora Lagoonarium.

For a unique experience, stay in an overwater bungalow, allowing the gentle ocean waves to lull you into a peaceful slumber.

In Bora Bora, “Ia orana e maeva” is not just a greeting but a promise of the warm hospitality that awaits you.

• Bora Bora tours

See also: Fun things to do in Bora Bora

28 – Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, the artistic heart of Catalonia, dances to the rhythm of culture, creativity and color.

Walk the lively promenade of Las Ramblas, wander through the alleys of the Gothic Quarter , or marvel at the panoramic vistas from Park Güell.

Admire the genius of Picasso at his namesake museum and the architectural prowess of Antoni Gaudi at the Sagrada Familia .

At the bustling Boqueria market, your taste buds will tango with the freshest produce and street food.

And remember, no Barcelona experience is complete without savoring local wines and tapas, the culinary epitome of the city.

• Barcelona tours

See also: Fun things to do in Barcelona , Sagrada Familia tickets price

29 – Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, a city where tradition meets modernity, encapsulates the heart and soul of Laos.

Venture into its lively night market, where the air is filled with the aromas of laap and khao soi, traditional Lao delicacies.

Journey along the Mekong River to the mystical Pak Ou Caves or witness the beauty of the Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Visit historic temples, like Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Mai, which echo the spiritual heritage of this charming town.

But a word to the wise — keep an eye out for the cheeky monkeys!

• Luang Prabang tours

30 – Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok, the throbbing pulse of Thailand, lures you in with its bustling markets, relentless energy and vibrant nightlife.

Marvel at the architectural majesty of the Grand Palace , Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun , Wat Traimit and the unique spectacle of the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market .

Immerse yourself in Bangkok’s rich culture and tantalizing food scene. Hop on a tuk-tuk for an exhilarating trip through Chinatown and savor the street food in Yaowarat.

Don’t forget to experience a serene boat ride along the Chao Phraya River , offering glimpses of the city’s iconic temples.

And when in Bangkok, a traditional Thai massage is a must — for the more adventurous, a Muay Thai class could prove an invigorating experience!

• Bangkok tours

See also: Fun things to do in Bangkok , best day trips from Bangkok

31 – Toronto, Canada

Toronto, Canada’s dynamic metropolis, is a smorgasbord of culture, entertainment and adventure.

Wander along the picturesque Harbourfront, soak in the city’s magnificent skyline, or ascend the CN Tower for a bird’s eye view of the sprawling urban landscape.

Explore the historic charm of Casa Loma or dive into the artistic wonders of the Art Gallery of Ontario .

Indulge in the city’s mouthwatering street food — the peameal bacon sandwiches and poutine are a must-try!

And for hockey fans, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.

• Toronto tours

See also: Fun things to do in Toronto

32 – Florida Keys, USA

Tucked away at the southernmost edge of the United States, the Florida Keys are irresistible for those seeking tropical bliss.

Drive down the Overseas Highway, pausing at Key Largo , Islamorada, and Marathon to relish fresh seafood and hypnotic ocean views.

Explore Key West , where Ernest Hemingway once found inspiration, or plunge into the underwater wonderland through snorkeling or diving.

Laze around on a sun-kissed beach or conclude your day with a captivating sunset at Mallory Square.

Don’t forget to delight in the local cuisine, especially the seafood and iconic key lime pie. Remember, in the Keys, “Life is too short to drink bad coffee or eat bad key lime pie.”

• Key West tours

See also: Best things to do in the Florida Keys

33 – Florence, Italy

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is an irresistible magnet for connoisseurs of art and history.

Marvel at the stunning Duomo and its captivating frescoes or walk across the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge .

At the Uffizi Gallery , one of the best museums in Florence , lose yourself among masterpieces of the Renaissance period.

Wander around Piazza della Signoria, a gallery of replicas of Michelangelo and Donatello’s sculptures.

After a day of cultural immersion, unwind with a glass of Chianti and surrender to the tantalizing flavors of Tuscan cuisine.

In Florence, it’s often said, “All roads lead to Rome, but all hearts lead to Florence.” It’s a sentiment you’ll no doubt share after a visit to this enchanting city.

• Florence tours

See also: Fun things to do in Florence

34 – Waikato, New Zealand

Waikato, one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions, promises endless adventures amid Mother Nature’s masterpieces.

Explore the Waitomo Caves, where millions of glowworms create an otherworldly spectacle, or bask in the beauty of Mount Maunganui Beach and Raglan Surf Beach.

For ‘Lord of the Rings’ fans, a trip to the Hobbiton Movie Set is a must. Don’t forget to sample the local cuisine, and experience the traditional Māori hangi cooking method.

After a day of exploration, what could be more soothing than a soak in Te Aroha’s natural hot springs?

See also: Fun things to do in New Zealand

35 – Berlin, Germany

Berlin, a city that seamlessly weaves its complex history into the fabric of its vibrant present, offers a multitude of experiences.

Admire the iconic Brandenburg Gate , reflect on the city’s past at the remnants of the Berlin Wall , or get lost in the eclectic charm of neighborhoods like Kreuzberg or Prenzlauer Berg.

Art and history buffs can lose themselves in Museum Island , home to priceless antiquities.

Savor Berlin’s diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional German cuisine to contemporary fusion delights.

And nothing encapsulates Berlin’s spirit better than a Berliner Weisse beer savored in an outdoor beer garden.

• Berlin tours

See also: Fun things to do in Berlin , Best tourist attractions in Berlin

36 – Havana, Cuba

Havana, the rhythmic heart of Cuba, pulses with an energy that’s as colorful as its architecture and as passionate as its music.

Walk along the Malecón, with its kaleidoscope of classic cars, or visit the enchanting Plaza de la Catedral.

Bask on the sun-drenched beaches of Playas del Este and sip a mojito at La Bodeguita del Medio, allegedly where the drink originated.

Watch exuberant performances at the iconic Tropicana Club. Havana is not just a city, it’s an experience that leaves an indelible imprint on your soul.

• Havana tours

37 – Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling two continents, Istanbul is a sensory feast that mesmerizes travelers.

For architecture aficionados, the historic city of Istanbul offers a remarkable blend of Byzantine and Ottoman structures, making it one of the best holiday destinations for admiring stunning marvels.

Explore the grandeur of Hagia Sophia , Topkapi Palace  and the Blue Mosque.

Navigate the lanes of the Grand Bazaar , one of the largest and oldest covered markets globally, or enjoy a boat tour on the Bosphorus Strait .

Relish traditional cuisine — kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight are not to be missed.

And for a unique cultural experience, a Turkish bath is a must.

• Istanbul tours

See also: Fun things to do in Istanbul

38 – Anchorage, USA

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is where urban sophistication meets rugged wilderness.

Browse local crafts and savor delicious seafood at the Anchorage Market and Festival.

Learn more about Alaska’s impressive history and culture at the Anchorage Museum.

Explore the majestic landscape of Chugach State Park , or in winter, witness the magical spectacle of the Northern Lights .

And a visit to Anchorage isn’t complete without spotting its iconic wildlife , including moose and bears.

• Anchorage tours

See also: Fun things to do in Anchorage

39 – Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, an exhilarating amalgam of tradition and modernity, promises an unforgettable journey.

Navigate through the electrifying Shibuya Crossing or find tranquility at the serene Senso-ji temple.

Wander through the Meiji Shrine ‘s tranquil paths or admire the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park.

Behold the cityscape from Tokyo Skytree or experience traditional rickshaw rides in Asakusa .

Be warned, though — Tokyo is the most populous city globally, so prepare for crowds!

• Tokyo tours

See also: Fun things to do in Tokyo

40 – Cancun, Mexico

Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula’s sparkling gem, is a paradise for beach lovers and history aficionados alike.

With the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon at its doorstep, it offers a wide range of activities from snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and scuba diving to exploring the ancient Maya ruins.

The city also teems with a vibrant nightlife, with clubs and bars lining the famous La Quinta Avenida.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting adventure, Cancun and the Riviera Maya has something for everyone.

Remember your sunscreen and, if you’re up for some fun, don’t miss a Mexican wrestling show — it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

• Cancun tours

See also: Fun things to do in Cancun , Best things to do near Cancun

41 – Antarctica

The call of the wild resonates deeply in the frozen expanse of Antarctica, the world’s final frontier.

Majestic icebergs tower over a landscape that has remained untouched since time immemorial, while colonies of penguins chatter away, undisturbed by human influence.

Embark on an expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, and the South Orkney Islands, weaving your way through towering ice formations, and keep a lookout for seals lazing on the ice and whales surfacing to breathe.

Kayak among the icebergs, navigate across vast snowscapes, and capture spectacular photographs of this pristine wilderness.

A visit to Antarctica transcends a mere holiday; it is an exploration of the unknown and a tribute to the relentless spirit of discovery.

42 – Tromso, Norway

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic,’ Tromso is a mosaic of cultural heritage set against a backdrop of dramatic Norwegian landscapes.

Witness the enchanting spectacle of the northern lights painting the night sky in hues of green, purple, and pink.

Ascend the peaks of rugged mountains for panoramic vistas of the city and its stunning fjords .

Delve into Tromso’s vibrant harbor, pay homage to architectural marvels like the Arctic Cathedral, and savor delectable seafood at acclaimed restaurants.

Cruise to Kvaloya Island , visit the amazing Polar Museum, and marvel at the frosty grandeur of the Tromso Ice Domes .

In Tromso, the heart of the Arctic, every moment is a dream come true.

• Tromso tours

See also: Fun things to do in Tromso , Best Places to Visit in Scandinavia

43 – Puerto Rico

A Caribbean gem, Puerto Rico radiates vibrancy through its colorful culture, stunning landscapes and boundless energy.

Wander the narrow, cobblestone streets of Old San Juan , steeped in charm, or journey to the heart of El Yunque National Forest, the sole tropical rainforest in the US National Park System.

Bask in the warmth of the Caribbean sun at the pristine beaches of Isla Verde, dance to the rhythm of the night in Condado and relish the diverse flavors of traditional cuisine.

Ascend the historic El Morro fortress, standing sentinel over the island, and drink in the panoramic views that extend as far as the eye can see.

A journey to Puerto Rico is a celebration of life.

• Puerto Rico tours

See also: Fun things to do in Puerto Rico

44 – Reykjavik, Iceland

The cultural heart of Iceland, Reykjavik is a city that thrives on contrasts.

Surrender to the soothing warmth of the Blue Lagoon and gaze in awe as the northern lights pirouette across the sky.

Navigate the city’s colorful streets, take in the seaside charm of the harbor and enter into Icelandic heritage at the National Museum.

For the foodies traveling in Iceland in summer , savor traditional seafood dishes and lose yourself in the rhythm of local music.

And if you’re visiting Iceland in winter and feeling adventurous, leap into the icy embrace of the Atlantic Ocean.

With its mythical allure and modern charm, Reykjavik promises an unforgettable journey to the edge of the Arctic.

• Reykjavik tours

See also: Fun things to do in Reykjavik , Best things to do in Iceland

45 – Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei, Taiwan’s capital city, is a vibrant blend of history, culture and modernity.

The iconic National Palace Museum stands as a testament to the city’s rich past, while the bustling night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, offer a taste of the city’s dynamic spirit.

Uncover the historic allure of Da’an District, indulge in Taipei’s famous culinary offerings, and find solace amid the natural beauty of Yangmingshan National Park .

Don’t miss the opportunity to glide over the city in a hot air balloon, etching an indelible memory of your Taiwanese adventure.

And of course, relish the island’s famous bubble tea — a sweet ending to your Taipei tale.

• Taipei tours

See also: Fun things to do in Taipei

46 – Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania, Australia’s island state, is a paradise where nature and culture converge.

Venture into the untamed wilderness of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, indulge in local delicacies like the famous Tasmanian scallop pie, and explore the rugged beauty of the Tasman Peninsula.

Find tranquility on the pristine beaches of Bruny Island and encounter the island’s unique wildlife.

From the dramatic landscapes to the warmth of the locals, Tasmania offers a diverse, exhilarating and authentically Australian experience.

• Tasmania tours

See also: Fun things to do in Hobart , Fun things to do in Launceston

47 – Vancouver, Canada

Nestled between towering mountains and the sparkling Pacific, Vancouver is a city where urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure.

Marvel at the city skyline from the Vancouver Lookout, explore the historic Gastown district, or dine at upscale restaurants in Yaletown.

Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding in Whistler , and watch majestic whales in their natural habitat.

With its breathtaking beauty and diverse culture, Vancouver is a destination that captivates at every turn.

• Vancouver tours

See also: Fun things to do in Vancouver

48 – Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is where dreams come to life, glittering under the warm Californian sun.

Stroll down the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk, find your favorite star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or cheer for the Dodgers at their home stadium.

And of course, no trip to LA would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Disneyland Resort, one of best places to visit in Los Angeles for families.

Whether you’re chasing after your dreams or just looking for some fun, Los Angeles has something for everyone.

• Los Angeles tours

See also: Fun things to do in Los Angeles ,  Best museums in Los Angeles

49 – Kruger National Park, South Africa

For wildlife enthusiasts, Kruger National Park is a slice of heaven on earth.

This vast game reserve, one of Africa’s largest, teems with an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, including the renowned Big Five.

Embark on a thrilling safari, capture stunning photographs, and spend nights under the star-lit African sky while camping or staying at a luxury lodge.

Kruger National Park is a testament to the wonders of the wild, a place where nature takes center stage.

50 – Sydney, Australia

Sydney, the city that sparkles by the sea, encapsulates the Australian spirit of warmth, diversity and adventure.

The city offers a wealth of amazing tourist attractions and activities to suit all tastes.

Marvel at the iconic Sydney Opera House , enjoy the bustling ambiance of Bondi Beach , and ferry over to the scenic suburb of Manly .

Explore the artistic streets of Newtown, indulge in world-class dining at Darlinghurst, and don’t forget to snap a selfie with the local wildlife at Taronga Zoo .

In Sydney, the waves lap against golden shores, the sun smiles down on a thriving city, and every day is an invitation to explore and enjoy.

• Sydney tours

See also: Fun things to do in Sydney

51 – The Maldives

The Maldives, with its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts, is often hailed as one of the best holiday destinations for relaxation and indulgence.

Snorkel amid a kaleidoscope of marine life in Ari Atoll, or let the bioluminescent waters of Vaadhoo Island transfix you.

Allow the tranquil beauty to lull you into relaxation with a spa treatment at a luxury resort, or soak in the spectacular hues of a sunset aboard a traditional Dhoni boat.

Amid the intoxicating rhythm of island life, time seems to lose its urgency, and serenity envelops you.

• Maldives tours

52 – Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations, offers unparalleled experiences and stunning landscapes.

Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration, and spot a diverse array of animals including lions, elephants, cheetahs and hyenas.

With a rich biodiversity boasting over 70 mammal species and 500 bird species, a safari in the Serengeti is a front-row seat to nature’s grand spectacle, promising a wildlife experience like no other.

53 – San Francisco, USA

A cultural mosaic with an irresistible gastronomic pull, San Francisco paints a dynamic cityscape.

Experience the best tourist attractions in San Francisco, traverse the towering expanse of the Golden Gate Bridge , learn more about the rich history of Alcatraz Island , or board the city’s historic cable cars.

Explore the vibrant heart of Chinatown , lose yourself in the bustling alleys, and sample succulent seafood complemented by tangy sourdough at Fisherman’s Wharf .

Just remember, the seagulls are as much a part of the city as you are, and they’ve got an appetite to match!

• San Francisco tours

See also: Fun things to do in San Francisco , Best Museums in San Francisco

54 – Santorini, Greece

Santorini, with its mesmerizing sunsets and charming homes overlooking the Aegean Sea, is a dream come true for those seeking the best holiday destinations for a romantic getaway.

Step into the annals of time at the historic Akrotiri archaeological site , rejuvenate in the therapeutic waters of Nea Kameni’s hot springs , or revel in the splendor of Oia ‘s spas.

The island’s distinct scenery, exemplified by the whitewashed buildings of Fira and the backdrop of a dramatic sunset in Oia, promises moments that will be etched in your memory forever.

• Santorini tours

See also: Fun things to do in Santorini

55 – Bordeaux, France

Synonymous with wine, Bordeaux beckons connoisseurs and history buffs alike.

Embark on a journey into the world of wines at the Cité du Vin , or sample the finest Bordeaux blends at the prestigious Château Margaux or Château Lafite-Rothschild.

Wander along the chic Cours de l’Intendance, admire the grandeur of the Grand Théâtre, and ascend the bell tower of Saint-Michel Basilica for panoramic city views.

For an authentic taste of Bordeaux, indulge in a cooking class and master the art of preparing dishes like duck confit or escargots.

In Bordeaux, every moment is savored, like a sip of fine wine.

• Bordeaux tours

See also: Fun things to do in Bordeaux

56 – Singapore

A medley of cultures and experiences, Singapore seduces any traveler with its vibrant tapestry.

Stroll the fantastic Botanic Gardens, marvel at the iconic Merlion statue, and cool off with a dip in Marina Bay Sands ‘ infinity pool.

By nightfall, let the futuristic Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay leave you in awe.

Unleash your inner child at Universal Studios Singapore , or dive into the marine world at the S.E.A. Aquarium — there is no shortage of fun things to do in Sentosa .

For a touch of romance, a ride on the Singapore Flyer promises enchanting city views. Just make sure your date isn’t afraid of heights!

• Singapore tours

See also: Fun things to do in Singapore

57 – La Reunion Island, France

A tropical Eden infused with a sense of tranquility, La Reunion Island promises respite and exploration.

Hike through the verdant forests of the Cirque de Salazie, traverse the rugged landscapes of Piton des Neiges, or wander through the charming town of Hell-Bourg.

Do not miss the island’s signature dish, rougail saucisse, but remember, this spicy delight is not for the faint-hearted!

• La Reunion Islands tours

58 – Vienna, Austria

A treasure trove of art and music, Vienna mesmerizes with its regal architecture and captivating culture.

Explore grand palaces like Hofburg and Schönbrunn , and feast your eyes on art at the Kunsthistorisches Museum .

The city is a symphony for the senses, with concerts echoing from the Vienna State Opera and the Musikverein.

Dine on delectable Wiener schnitzel and sip on a glass of Grüner Veltliner, but save room for the city’s renowned pastries!

• Vienna tours

See also: Fun things to do in Vienna

59 – London, England

London — the city of fog, tea and charming accents.

Discover iconic tourist attractions like the Tower of London , Big Ben, and the London Eye , or venture into quaint neighborhoods like Notting Hill and Shoreditch.

Art aficionados can admire the collections at the Tate Modern and the British Museum .

Visiting London with kids? Go behind the scenes of the Harry Potter movies at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London .

For a spine-chilling adventure, embark on a ghost tour — just don’t be surprised if you end up with a few extra companions on your way back to the hotel!

And remember, when crossing the street in London, check both ways. London’s double-decker buses are not to be underestimated!

• London tours

See also: Fun things to do in London , Best museums in London

60 – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro.

Ascend to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, explore the heights of Sugarloaf Mountain , and sway to the rhythm of samba.

Admire the colorful Selaron Steps , and indulge in Brazilian gastronomic delights, from hearty feijoada to tantalizing churrasco, rounded off with a sweet brigadeiro or pudim de leite.

In Rio, the music will guide your hips and the vibrant energy infuse your soul. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the lively and infectious spirit of Rio.

• Rio de Janeiro tours

See also: Fun things to do in Rio de Janeiro

61 – Hong Kong

Unleashing a dynamic spectacle of striking contrasts, Hong Kong invites you into a realm where centuries-old traditions thrive amid a futuristic horizon.

Conquer Victoria Peak for a mesmerizing view of the sprawling metropolis, and immerse yourself in the pulsating nightlife of Lan Kwai Fong.

Delight your palate with a vast array of dim sum and street food, and shop to your heart’s content in bustling markets like the Ladies’ Market and Temple Street Night Market.

A leisurely boat ride on Victoria Harbour unfurls the city’s iconic skyline, painting a picturesque finale to your day.

Armed with an appetite for delectable cuisine and a zeal for exploration, Hong Kong is a city that will keep you on your toes at every hour.

If you thought New York City never sleeps, wait till you visit Hong Kong.

• Hong Kong tours

See also: Fun things to do in Hong Kong

62 – Montreal, Canada

In Montreal, the exquisite fusion of French and English heritage creates a tapestry of historic allure and vibrant city life.

Saunter through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal , taking in the stunning architecture, and delve into the city’s rich culture through its numerous art galleries and museums.

Savor the local favorite, poutine, a hearty dish that epitomizes comfort food.

For those in search of humor, the world-renowned Just for Laughs comedy festival promises an unforgettable experience.

Montreal is a city where history converges and laughter echoes, offering a memorable Canadian escapade.

• Montreal tours

See also: Fun things to do in Montreal

63 – Malta & Gozo

The sun-kissed islands of Malta and Gozo serve as the ultimate Mediterranean getaway, where azure seas meet golden sands and ancient temples whisper tales of old.

Immerse yourself in the architectural marvels of Valletta and the allure of Mdina, and book a boat tour to the stunning Blue Lagoon.

A visit to the charming Popeye Village offers a whimsical flashback to the beloved Robin Williams film.

Whether you’re seeking an idyllic beach retreat or a historical exploration, Malta and Gozo promise a holiday drenched in sun, history, and unforgettable experiences.

• Malta & Gozo tours

See also: Fun things to do in Malta & Gozo

64 – The Azores, Portugal

The Azores, an archipelago brimming with nature’s bounty, are the perfect refuge for nature enthusiasts.

Explore volcanic landscapes, swim in the pristine waters of Furnas Lake, or embark on a thrilling whale-watching expedition off the coast of Faial.

Venture into the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angra do Heroísmo in Terceira, and indulge in local gastronomic delights such as cozido das furnas, cooked with volcanic heat.

The Azores promise an eruption of joy, an adventure where every moment is a beautiful surprise.

• The Azores tours

See also: Fun things to do in The Azores

65 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a charming confluence of canals, tulips and bicycles, emanating an ambiance that is uniquely Dutch.

Jump on a scenic canal boat tour , soaking in the city’s architectural grandeur, and visit the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum for a glimpse of Dutch art and culture.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Leidseplein and the trendy neighborhoods of Jordaan and De Pijp, and make sure to venture into the infamous Red Light District .

Satiate your sweet tooth with delicious Dutch stroopwafels, but remember — in Amsterdam, it’s always best to enjoy life’s pleasures in moderation.

• Amsterdam tours

See also: Fun things to do in Amsterdam

66 – Santiago, Chile

The bustling city of Santiago offers a melting pot of culture, history, and spectacular scenery.

Delve into the city’s rich heritage at the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, and soak in the vibrancy of the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, adorned with colorful street art.

Ascend Cerro San Cristobal for panoramic city views, and treat your palate to the hearty, flavorful Chilean empanadas.

Santiago is a dance of culture and flavor, promising to keep your senses engaged and your spirits high.

• Santiago tours

67 – Whitsundays, Australia

The Whitsundays, a stunning constellation of 74 tropical islands off the Queensland coast, are a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a snorkeling adventure, glide over the azure sea on a jet ski, or soar above the islands for a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful paradise.

The world-renowned Whitehaven Beach, with its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, is an attraction that should not be missed.

The Whitsundays offer an idyllic escape where every day is a beach day.

68 – Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, nestled between the Alpine peaks and the Adriatic Sea, is an enchanting blend of history, culture and picturesque architecture.

Stroll through the Old Town , with its historic buildings and charming bridges spanning the Ljubljanica River, and ascend to Ljubljana Castle for a breathtaking panorama of the city.

For the foodies, the city’s Central Market is a gastronomic delight, offering fresh local produce and charming crafts.

Ljubljana promises a taste of Slovenian charm, a city where history meets the modern, and each corner offers a delightful surprise.

• Ljubljana tours

See also: Fun things to do in Ljubljana

69 – Paris, France

Paris, known as the ‘City of Love,’ and considered as one the best places to visit in Europe , remains a timeless choice for couples seeking the best holiday destinations to celebrate their romance.

Stroll along the Seine River , with the Eiffel Tower standing as a magnificent sentinel in the distance, or lose yourself in the artistic treasures housed within the Louvre Museum .

Satiate your palate with gourmet French cuisine at a chic Marais bistro, or sip on a comforting café au lait amid the timeless ambiance of a classic Parisian café.

Indulge in the iconic city’s allure and be prepared to carry home a piece of its romance in your heart, and perhaps a few extra pounds from the irresistibly delicious pastries!

• Paris tours

See also: Fun things to do in Paris , Best Museums in Paris

70 – Barbados

Barbados, a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history and vibrant culture, is a holiday destination that caters to every type of traveler.

Revel in the sun on famous beaches such as Crane Beach and Bottom Bay or hike to the island’s highest peak, Mount Hillaby, for stunning views.

Relish the local cuisine, including specialties like flying fish and cou cou, and indulge in the island’s famous rum punch.

But remember, while the island’s charm might make you want to stay forever, the potent punch is enough to make you forget your own name!

• Barbados tours

See also: Fun things to do in Barbados

71 – Cairo, Egypt

Cairo — a city where the essence of antiquity meets the rush of modernity, a stage on which history’s most fascinating tales unfold.

The Giza Pyramids , those colossal emblems of Egypt, bear testament to the grandeur of the ancient world, their magnitude a spectacle to behold. Traverse the desert on camelback, absorbing the awe-inspiring structures from this age-old perspective.

The Egyptian Museum , a trove of relics, beckons with its treasure-filled corridors, where Tutankhamun’s precious artifacts radiate an almost ethereal glow.

Enjoy a boat tour on the Nile River in a traditional felucca, basking in the golden hue of the sunset as the Cairo skyline comes alive with twinkling lights.

No journey to Cairo is complete without a foray into the labyrinthine Khan El-Khalili market, a shopper’s paradise where intricate handicrafts, aromatic spices and delectable street food promise a memorable sojourn.

• Cairo tours

See also: Fun things to do in Cairo

72 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Welcome to Copenhagen, a delightful blend of historical charisma, contemporary dynamism and rich Scandinavian heritage.

Traverse the fashionable districts of Vesterbro and Nørrebro, a haven of trendsetting boutiques, avant-garde cafes, and an eclectic culinary panorama.

Bask in the architectural beauty of the Royal Danish Opera House and the iconic Round Tower, and experience serenity at the meticulously maintained gardens of Frederiksberg Palace.

Indulge your senses in the city’s gastronomic delights, from mouth-watering pastries and scrumptious hot dogs to traditional smørrebrød sandwiches.

Experience the city’s pulsating cultural scene through its museums, galleries, and notable landmarks, immersing yourself in the vibrant fabric of Copenhagen life.

• Copenhagen tours

See also: Fun things to do in Copenhagen

73 – Fiji

Fiji, an archipelago of more than 300 islands, is a paradise filled with sun-kissed beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, verdant rainforests and vibrant coral reefs.

Discover the enchanting Mamanuca and Beqa islands, where water sports, expressive dances, and the mesmerizing art of firewalking evoke a truly Fijian experience.

Adventure seekers will be thrilled with zip-lining tours, shark dives, and exciting kayaking trips, while those seeking tranquility can rejuvenate in soothing hot springs, pamper themselves with indulgent spa treatments, or bask in the radiance of romantic sunsets.

Fiji’s rich cultural heritage offers a captivating window into traditional ceremonies and authentic Fijian village life, making it an ideal destination for adventure, relaxation and exploration.

74 – Seoul, Korea

Seoul, a city where ancient traditions and futuristic visions coexist in harmonious synchrony, captivates its visitors with its unique charm.

Traverse the time-worn elegance of Gyeongbokgung Palace and the rustic beauty of Bukchon Hanok Village , or immerse yourself in the innovative architecture of the bustling Gangnam District.

Treat your palate to delightful Korean cuisine, from the comforting bibimbap and spicy tteokbokki to the delectable Korean fried chicken.

Wrap up your day with panoramic city views from the heights of Namsan Mountain, or take a serene stroll along the tranquil Han River.

And when it’s time to hit the dance floor, Gangnam Style still rules the roost in the vibrant Seoul nightlife!

• Seoul tours

See also: Fun things to do in Seoul

75 – Providencia, Colombia

Off the coast of Colombia, Providencia Island emerges from the Caribbean Sea like a hidden gem.

Engage with the island’s unspoiled natural beauty through thrilling treks to lofty peaks or invigorating boat tours to nearby cays.

Discover the local culture in the charming town of Santa Isabel, visiting historic landmarks like the San Felipe Fort and the delightful Santa Catalina Church.

The island’s crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants make Providencia an irresistible destination for those seeking an unexplored paradise brimming with adventure and relaxation.

76 – Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, promises a tropical retreat that caters to every type of traveler.

Explore pristine beaches like Patong and Bang Tao, embark on an enchanting boat tour to the Phi Phi Islands , and discover cultural landmarks like the Wat Chalong temple .

Relax with a traditional Thai massage or a revitalizing yoga session at wellness retreats.

Experience the island’s vibrant nightlife, indulge in retail therapy, and sample the delectable local cuisine.

Top off your Phuket adventure with breathtaking views at the renowned Promthep Cape, taking home memories of a paradise that truly has it all.

• Phuket tours

See also: Fun things to do in Phuket , best day trips from Phuket

77 – Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, an Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes, beckons with its air of mystique and grandeur.

As you wander among the ancient ruins, marvel at architectural wonders such as the Temple of the Sun and the Royal Tomb.

Don’t miss the opportunity to ascend to the Sun Gate for stunning panoramic views of the site or to scale the formidable Wayna Picchu.

For the ultimate Machu Picchu experience, consider hiking the Inca Trail, a journey through breathtaking landscapes that culminates at the gates of this awe-inspiring ancient city.

See also: Fun things to do in Cusco

78 – Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, a destination that seamlessly weaves nature’s splendor with a deep historical narrative, invites you to a unique and enthralling holiday experience.

Witness the magical sunrise over a landscape dotted with hot air balloons and whimsical fairy chimneys, or delve into the underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli .

Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum to marvel at ancient cave churches and stunning frescoes.

Saddle up for a horseback ride through the valleys, or get creative with pottery-making in traditional workshops.

A visit to Cappadocia promises a memorable and inspiring journey unlike any other.

• Cappadocia tours

See also: Fun things to do in Cappadocia

79 – Jamaica

Jamaica, one of the most popular Caribbean destinations , offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and rich culture.

Experience the majesty of the cascading Dunn’s River Falls, or relax on the immaculate sands of Doctor’s Cave Beach.

Pay homage to the country’s musical legacy at the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston, and indulge your taste buds with Jamaica’s famous spicy jerk chicken or explore its lush coffee plantations.

For an unique experience, top off your Jamaican adventure with a trip to a rum distillery in Montego Bay, immersing yourself in the flavor of this spirited island.

• Jamaica tours

See also: Fun things to do in Jamaica

80 – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, the pulsating heart of Vietnam, presents a vibrant canvas of cultural riches and historical narratives.

Explore the renowned Ben Thanh Market, savoring a feast of street food flavors, or learn more about the country’s turbulent past at the War Remnants Museum .

Explore the city in a traditional cyclo for an authentic Vietnamese experience, or simply soak up the dynamic energy of its bustling streets.

Ho Chi Minh City, with its striking contrasts and diverse offerings, is a must-visit destination on any Vietnamese journey.

• Ho Chi Minh City tours

See also: Fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

81 – Lisbon, Portugal

Perched atop seven hills, Lisbon cascades towards the teal expanse of the Tagus River, each winding street revealing a canvas of charming yellow trams, fantastic tourist attractions , historic districts and a thriving food scene.

Experience Alfama’s nostalgic allure as it tells tales of the city’s Moorish past through tile-adorned buildings and labyrinthine alleys.

Belem Tower stands guard at the water’s edge, echoing the age of discoveries, while the Jeronimos Monastery unravels Portugal’s maritime history in its ornate Manueline architecture.

Sample iconic pastel de nata pastries as the soulful strains of fado music provide the perfect soundtrack to your Portuguese journey.

Lisbon, the city of oceanic explorations and cultural revelations, promises an enchanting sojourn to each visitor.

• Lisbon tours

See also: Fun things to do in Lisbon

82 – Kotor, Montenegro

Nestled in the heart of a dramatic fjord-like bay, Kotor is an unspoiled gem, where the past whispers from every stone and the natural beauty awes at every turn.

Stroll the cobbled streets of the Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage site, teeming with ancient fortifications, grand palaces and the stately St. Tryphon’s Cathedral.

For the more adventurous travelers, conquer the meandering hike to the Castle of San Giovanni, from where the views of Kotor Bay are a sight to behold.

Explore the charming seaside town of Perast and make a pilgrimage to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks.

Kotor, with its unique fusion of Montenegrin culture and Venetian influences, is a beacon of Adriatic charm.

• Kotor tours

See also: Fun things to do in Kotor

83 – Chicago, USA

Chicago, the Windy City, dazzles with its stunning skyline, rich cultural fabric, and gastronomic delights.

Stand atop Willis Tower’s SkyDeck , taking in panoramic vistas of Lake Michigan and the city’s architectural masterpieces.

Wander through Millennium Park, where the gleaming Cloud Gate sculpture mirrors the city’s vibrant pulse.

For the art lovers, make a stop at the Art Institute of Chicago , home to an array of priceless masterpieces.

And for the foodies, relish the legendary deep-dish pizza while explore the city’s dynamic neighborhoods that thrum with energy and diversity.

Chicago, a city of many charms, welcomes visitors to discover its spirit of innovation, creativity, and culinary excellence.

• Chicago tours

See also: Fun things to do in Chicago

84 – Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site in North Vietnam, astounds with its ethereal seascape of towering limestone islets draped in lush greenery.

Book a Ha Long Bay cruise on a traditional junk boat, weaving through the jade-green waters, and delve into the mystic tranquility of hidden caves and lagoons.

Be awe-struck by the intricate formations within the Thien Cung Cave, each stalactite and stalagmite a testament to nature’s artistry.

Ha Long Bay, a destination that mesmerizes and enthralls, promises an adventure steeped in natural wonder and cultural richness.

And with the bustling city of Hanoi a stone’s throw away, your Vietnamese escapade will be nothing short of extraordinary.

• Ha Long tours

See also: Fun things to do in Hanoi , best day trips from Hanoi

85 – Hawaii, USA

Hawaii, an archipelago of lush tropical beauty and vibrant culture, serves as a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Experience the diverse landscapes of Maui , with its verdant valleys and cascading waterfalls, and delve into the pulsating heart of Oahu , teeming with iconic landmarks like Pearl Harbor and Waikiki Beach .

On Big Island , stand in awe of the mighty Kilauea Volcano, and venture into the wilderness of Kauai to witness natural wonders like Waimea Canyon and the Napali Coast.

Savor the taste of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture and the Aloha spirit.

Hawaii is a tropical treasure, each island a unique gem that beckons to be explored.

• Hawaii tours

See also: Best things to do in Hawaii

86 – Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza, the crown jewel of the Balearic Islands, paints a vivid picture of azure waters, whitewashed towns, and a pulsating nightlife.

Navigate the historic lanes of Ibiza Town, filled with vibrant markets and striking cathedrals, or take a boat tour on the Mediterranean to uncover secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Experience the gastronomic delights of the island, from the hearty bullit de peix to a fragrant paella, and as night falls, step into the electrifying world of Ibiza’s renowned club scene.

Ibiza, a symphony of sun, sea, and beats, promises a Mediterranean escapade like no other.

• Ibiza tours

See also: Fun things to do in Ibiza

87 – Beijing, China

Beijing, where antiquity and modernity meet, promises an adventure filled with rich history and vibrant culture.

Stand in the monumental expanse of Tiananmen Square , explore the imperial splendor of the Forbidden City , and seek serenity within the verdant landscape of the Summer Palace .

Head to the Great Wall of China , a testament to human resilience and creativity, and bask in the spiritual ambiance of the Temple of Heaven .

Indulge in Beijing’s culinary scene, from the succulent Peking duck to delectable dumplings.

And if you’re looking for a truly unique piece of memorabilia, why not get your name written in Chinese characters — just make sure you double-check the translation before getting it tattooed!

• Beijing tours

88 – Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, the “Paris of the East,” enchants with its rich history, architectural marvels and the romantic allure of the Danube.

Ascend to the majestic Buda Castle , offering panoramic views of the city and a journey through Hungary’s royal past.

Admire the cultural treasures housed within the Hungarian National Museum, and marvel at the architectural grandeur of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife in the Jewish Quarter, home to the unique “ruin bars,” and indulge in the rejuvenating waters of the city’s famed thermal baths.

As night falls, embark on a cruise along the Danube, the twinkling lights of the city painting a magical canvas.

Budapest, a fusion of charm, culture and cuisine, promises an unforgettable European escapade.

• Budapest tours

See also: Fun things to do in Budapest

89 – Cinque Terre, Italy

Nestled along the picturesque Ligurian coast, Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a sublime blend of natural beauty and rustic charm.

Trek the famed paths connecting the five villages, each offering breathtaking vistas of the azure sea and the vibrantly colored homes.

Explore Monterosso’s old town, a treasure trove of history and culinary delights. Savor the flavors of Liguria, from the fresh catch of the day to the region’s famous pesto alla Genovese.

Cinque Terre, a destination steeped in tradition and teeming with panoramic views, promises a slice of authentic Italian life.

• Cinque Terre tours

See also: Fun things to do in Cinque Terre

90 – Sicily

Sicily, a Mediterranean gem, captivates with its rich heritage, gastronomic excellence, and natural splendors.

Start your journey in Taormina , where the ancient Greek Theatre and panoramic views of Mount Etna leave you spellbound.

In Catania , immerse yourself in the city’s bustling fish market and stunning Baroque architecture, and savor the taste of local street food.

Explore Palermo , the island’s pulsating capital, where vibrant streets and historical landmarks, like the Palermo Cathedral, await.

Try Sicilian gastronomy, from fragrant arancini to sweet cannoli. For movie enthusiasts, embark on a tour retracing the iconic scenes of the Godfather . Sicily, a timeless island where history and culture endure.

• Sicily tours

See also: Fun things to do in Sicily

91 – Buenos Aires, Argentina

Unfold the enchanting tales of Buenos Aires, South America’s very own Paris, where European sophistication meets Latin American passion.

Dance through the vibrantly painted streets of La Boca , swaying to the rhythm of tango, and pay a visit to the Recoleta Cemetery , where Argentine luminaries lay in peace.

Soak up the hip ambiance of Palermo Soho, its corners bursting with trendy eateries, bars, and cafés.

Be sure to relish the renowned Argentine steak paired with a robust Malbec wine.

As the city hums into the night, let Buenos Aires sweep you off your feet with its pulsating energy.

• Buenos Aires tours

See also: Fun things to do in Buenos Aires

92 – Doha, Qatar

Doha, Qatar’s shimmering capital, is a fusion of opulence, heritage and innovation.

Wander along the Corniche, absorbing panoramic vistas of the Persian Gulf, and ascend the Aspire Tower for the ultimate selfie backdrop.

Culture enthusiasts will be thrilled by the splendid Museum of Islamic Art, housing artifacts spanning centuries.

Dive into the bustling Souq Waqif , haggling for keepsakes amid traditional shops, cafés, and eateries. Just don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills!

Here in Doha, luxury goes hand in hand with cultural discovery.

See also: Fun things to do in Doha

93 – Corsica, France

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Corsica, the “Island of Beauty,” where idyllic beaches and untouched nature reign supreme.

Try some of the best boat trips in Corsica . Venture into the awe-inspiring Calanques de Piana, framed by towering red cliffs and turquoise waters, and discover the scenic town of Bonifacio, its citadel perched on a cliff overlooking the sea.

Adventure seekers can conquer the Aiguilles de Bavella mountain range, a spectacle of granite peaks and verdant forests.

Finally, treat yourself to the island’s exquisite charcuterie, seasoned with fragrant herbs.

Corsica is an island teeming with natural splendor and culinary excellence.

• Corsica tours

See also: Fun things to do in Corsica

94 – Arenal, Costa Rica

In the heart of Costa Rica lies Arenal, a destination that balances the thrill of adventure and the bliss of relaxation.

Unwind in the soothing mineral-rich waters of Tabacon’s hot springs, or hike through the exotic wilderness of Arenal Volcano National Park.

Zip-line across the rainforest canopy or brave the white waters of the Rio Toro.

Arenal is a place where nature and adventure come together, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

See also: Fun things to do in Costa Rica

95 – Las Vegas, USA

Welcome to Las Vegas, the world’s entertainment capital and a city that thrives in the twilight.

From the dizzying heights of the Stratosphere Observation Deck to the bustling nightlife of Fremont Street, the city’s spectrum of experiences leaves nothing to be desired.

Wander down the dazzling Las Vegas Strip , dotted with extravagant casinos, or venture to the Grand Canyon by helicopter for an unforgettable spectacle.

Night owls can catch a show from world-famous performers or dance the night away in the city’s iconic clubs.

And remember, what happens in Vegas… will probably end up on Instagram anyways.

• Las Vegas tours

See also: Fun things to do in Las Vegas

96 – Kyoto, Japan

Step into the past in Kyoto, a city that embodies Japan’s rich heritage with timeless elegance.

Marvel at the golden Kinkaku-ji temple, or find serenity in the bamboo groves of Arashiyama .

Dress in a traditional kimono and visit a teahouse for an immersive cultural experience. Savor authentic Japanese delicacies like tempura and ramen, or learn the art of sushi-making.

Time your visit to coincide with the cherry blossom season and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas.

Kyoto is a symphony of tradition and beauty, waiting to be explored.

• Kyoto tours

See also: Fun things to do in Kyoto

97 – Mauritius

Mauritius, a jewel in the Indian Ocean, is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Dive into the crystalline waters of the Blue Bay Marine Park to swim with dolphins, or hike in the Black River Gorges National Park in search of the elusive pink pigeon.

Marvel at the Seven Coloured Earths in Chamarel, a mesmerizing phenomenon of multi-colored sand dunes.

In Port Louis, the bustling capital, explore vibrant markets and sample street food bursting with Indian, Chinese, and Creole influences.

Whether you’re basking on pristine beaches or exploring lush landscapes, Mauritius promises an unforgettable tropical retreat.

• Mauritius tours

98 – Interlaken, Switzerland

Nestled amid the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is an adventurer’s haven and a nature lover’s dream.

Hike the emerald trails of the Bernese Oberland, boasting pristine lakes and verdant forests, or ride a cable car to the Schilthorn summit for panoramic vistas.

For the thrill-seekers, paragliding, skydiving, and canyoning beckon, while those seeking tranquility will find solace in charming Swiss hamlets and delectable local fare.

In Interlaken, every snapshot is a postcard from paradise, especially if you’re posing with a massive block of Swiss cheese!

• Interlaken tours

See also: Fun things to do in Interlaken

99 – Melbourne, Australia

Delve into the myriad wonders of Melbourne, Australia’s cultural heartbeat.

Roam through bustling laneways adorned with street art, unwind in the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens, or catch a thrilling game at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground .

Indulge in Melbourne’s renowned food and coffee scene, boasting a multitude of world-class cafes and restaurants.

Explore the city’s eclectic neighborhoods like Fitzroy and St. Kilda, and catch a breathtaking view from the Eureka Skydeck .

When in Melbourne, immerse yourself in a city that celebrates diversity and vibrancy at every turn.

• Melbourne tours

See also: Fun things to do in Melbourne

100 – The Bahamas

With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and warm tropical climate, the Bahamas is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.

Plunge into an array of water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing, or discover colorful coral reefs and underwater caves.

Away from the beach, visit landmarks such as the Queen’s Staircase and Fort Charlotte, or immerse yourself in Bahamian culture and cuisine at Nassau’s lively markets and festivals.

Feeling lucky? Try your hand at the casino — who knows, you might just win your own island!

• The Bahamas tours

See also: Fun things to do in The Bahamas

101 – Kiruna, Sweden

Venture into the Arctic Circle and arrive at Kiruna, Sweden’s northernmost city and a wonderland of winter activities.

Witness the enchanting Northern Lights at the Aurora Sky Station, dog sled across frosty landscapes, or embark on an ice fishing expedition.

Explore the world-renowned Icehotel, where icy sculptures form the fabric of your stay, or take a snowmobile to Abisko National Park , famed for its Northern Lights display.

Just remember to pack your warmest clothes — after all, this is the Arctic we’re talking about!

• Kiruna tours

See also: Fun things to do in Kiruna

Final thoughts

And that’s a wrap, folks! We hope that our list of the best holiday destinations has inspired you to discover new corners of the world.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

As always, happy travels!

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World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

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You’ve probably got one or two of these destinations on your list of dream vacays. What can we say? People love them—and for very good reason.

The Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.

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The Top Holiday Travel Destinations Of 2023

From sunny beaches to snowy slopes, these are our picks for the best year-end holiday destinations, both domestic and international

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Whether traveling to be with family, get away from family, or to visit the sunny shores of Costa Rico or the slippery snowy slopes of Vail, Colorado, odds are you won’t be alone during this most wonderful time of the year. Data has revealed the top holiday travel destinations of 2023, so you can see if your vacation destination made the list. 

Traveling for the holiday season is bigger than ever this year, with AAA  predicting over 115 million Americans traveling 50 miles or more from home over the 10-day year-end holiday travel period — from Saturday, December 23, 2023, to Monday, January 1, 2024. That’s a 2.2% increase over last year. AAA's data collection also including finding the most popular travel destinations, based on flight booking information.

And since this is the season for spreading good cheer, it’s nice to know that gas prices and airfares are projected to be the same or even a bit less than last year. 

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According to AAA, the average price for a roundtrip ticket to Orlando this holiday season is $613, down from $735 last year. A roundtrip ticket to Las Vegas is now $508 compared to $705 in 2022. 

Meanwhile, U.S. gas prices are projected to be in the $3.10 and $3.20 range, while international petrol prices can range from $2.30 up to $8.50 per gallon. 

Here are the top travel destinations in 2023

Not sure where to go? Thanks to AAA’s flight booking data, we now know the top year-end holiday destinations, both domestic and international.

Take a look here:

Looking for travel destination inspiration?

If you’re strapped for cash but getting away from the hustle and bustle is just what you need, Kiplinger handpicked five bargain vacation destinations off the beaten path just in time for the holidays. 

Instead of pricey Barcelona, which hosts more than 30 million visitors each year, chose Lima, Peru. Or, bypass Vail, Colorado, and get away to Snowbasin, Utah, located just an hour’s drive from the Salt Lake City airport. 

Longing to build a sandcastle instead of a snowman? Florida has dozens of attractive destinations that are more affordable than Miami. Two of the best are St. Petersburg and Delray Beach. St. Petersburg for its "lively downtown, clubs and bars, and Delray Beach for its "thriving life with lots of restaurants, great street scene and beautiful beaches.

Kiplinger also checked in with a professional skier for recommendations on where to ski this winter , if you're looking for those thrills. 

And if you're traveling in retirement, we've got you covered too, with suggestions of great holiday destinations for retirees to check out this winter . 

When you're talking "let's pack our bags and get the heck out of here" kind of traveling, just remember that roadways and airports are unusually crowded during the holidays, so plan ahead — you don't want to get your tinsel in a tangle.

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For the past 18+ years, Kathryn has highlighted the humanity in personal finance by shaping stories that identify the opportunities and obstacles in managing a person's finances. All the same, she’ll jump on other equally important topics if needed. Kathryn graduated with a degree in Journalism and lives in Duluth, Minnesota. She joined Kiplinger in 2023 as a contributor.

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The 23 Best Places to Go in 2023

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2023—find more travel inspiration here .

In any given year, the exercise of assembling a definitive list of the best places to travel is both exciting and daunting. After all, we’re never short on inspiring places and experiences we hope to cross off. And so, every fall, when we convene to start the process of creating this list, we do so with great care, enlisting our extensively traveled network of writers from around the world—and for the first time this year, editors from other  Condé Nast Traveler markets—to pitch, endorse, defend, and eventually align on the places we believe that you, as our readers, will most want to travel to over the next 12 months.

Our 23 best places to travel in 2023 is a mix of old favorites worth visiting anew, and lesser-trammeled, even once-forbidden, regions ready to welcome travelers—yet they are all unified by highly anticipated new offerings and evolutions. There’s something here for every kind of traveler, whether you seek extraordinary excursions through ancient rainforests, a blossoming terroir-driven culinary scene, or dazzling cultural calendars packed with world-class music and rare art exhibits. We also believe that there’s more that binds than separates these places: an opportunity for richer engagement with local communities, slower travel, and more meaningful—and joyful—human connection. What could better speak to what we hope for in the year ahead?

Here are the 23 destinations—vetted by  Condé Nast Traveler editors from the U.S. U.K. , Spain , and India —to plan your 2023 travels around. Let them guide your next adventure. —Arati Menon and Megan Spurrell

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Places to Go in 2023

Auckland, new zealand.

Go for: Cultural and sporting events, new hotels, improved flight connectivity

Auckland will be one of nine cities to host the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023. 

In June 2023, Qantas will begin running non-stop flights from New York City to Auckland. 

Widely praised for its containment of COVID-19, New Zealand held out until September of this year to finally eliminate travel restrictions introduced during the pandemic. Needless to say, the island nation is mightily gearing up for the throngs of foreign visitors anticipated in the coming year, especially in the city of Auckland .

Air connectivity with the U.S. has never been stronger. Nonstop flights are currently running from six American cities; the world’s fourth-longest leg, Air New Zealand’s nearly-17-hour flagship from New York City, debuted in September. Australian carrier Qantas has also announced its own direct flight to New York City, coming in June 2023.

Meanwhile, Auckland’s jam-packed events calendar seems to be making up for lost time. After a three-year hiatus, the popular Lantern Festival will be held in February 2023 to celebrate Chinese New Year. Pasifika , the largest Pacific Island cultural festival in the world, is returning in March 2023 after a two-year pause. And, in July, the quadrennial FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will swing down under to nine host cities across New Zealand and Australia, with Auckland’s games held in Eden Park.

Aside from Auckland’s newest attractions that outsiders have yet to experience—like the $350M eco-sensitive Te Wānanga waterfront development on Quay Street—three years’ worth of flashy hotel openings also await. There’s the Park Hyatt , QT Auckland , the charming Hotel Fitzroy , and Hotel Britomart , New Zealand’s only 5-Green-Star certified hotel. Stays in the city pair perfectly with newcomers in Auckland’s rural periphery, like the Scandi-inspired Parohe Island Retreat and golf-centric Te Arai . Should you journey further into Aotearoa, new multi-day tours by luxury rail operator Great Journeys depart from Auckland Rail Station. From the looks of it, 2023 will—finally—give Auckland its time to shine. —Paul Jebara

British Columbia, Canada

Go for: New Indigenous-led experiences and wilderness lodges

The newly opened Klahoose Wilderness Resort invites guests to learn about Klahoose First Nation Culture—and experience fantastic wildlife viewing—in British Columbia's remote Desolation Sound. 

The province of British Columbia is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, from the Rockies to the storm-battered islands of Haida Gwaii , and new Indigenous-led experiences are connecting travelers to the cultures most closely tied to the land. At Haida-owned and -operated Haida House —which launched its new longhouse-style oceanfront cabins in May 2022—guests will explore Haida Gwaii while learning about the Haida worldview of Yah’guudang, meaning “respect for all living things and the interdependence that binds us.” Haida House guests will visit the islands’ ancestral village sites—including The Village of Queen Charlotte, which was recently restored to its Indigenous name of Daajing Giids, in an unprecedented move.

Further east, in the interior Chilcotin region of B.C., Indigenous-owned and -operated Nemiah Valley Lodge will open for its first full season next June. The lodge marks the first tourism venture on Tsilhqot’in title lands after a landmark ruling awarded the First Nation rights to their traditional territory. In 2023, they’re adding a sweat lodge experience and kayaking on Chilko Lake—Canada’s highest-elevation freshwater lake—led by Tsilhqot’in cultural ambassadors from the local Xeni Gwet’in community.

Back on the coast, Klahoose Wilderness Resort is also new on the scene, with a focus on Klahoose First Nation culture and wildlife viewing in remote Desolation Sound. There’s also Tofino Wilderness Resort  in Quait Bay on Vancouver Island , which will open under Ahousaht First Nation ownership in 2023. But Indigenous culture will also make its mark in the bustling heart of British Columbia: Salmon n’ Bannock , Vancouver’s only Indigenous restaurant, is opening Salmon n’ Bannock on the Fly at the Vancouver airport, the first Indigenous restaurant in a Canadian airport—and a welcome way to bookend a trip to the region. —Chloe Berge

Central California Coast, U.S.A.

Go for: New wine country stays, standout tasting rooms and restaurants

New accommodations like The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection, are making the central California coast one of the state's hippest food-and-wine-focused getaways—and there's even more to come in 2023. 

A patchwork of laid-back beach towns , trail-laced redwood forests, and vineyards producing standout Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, the Central Coast has been on our radar for a while now. Yet, all at once, it seems the region’s lesser-known destinations are taking on cooler second lives. In the Santa Ynez Valley , cowboy towns like Los Alamos and Los Olivos float on the same intriguing whispers that Joshua Tree did a decade ago (known, but not too known). The valley has emerged as the hippest new getaway for Angelinos, with its mix of funky tasting rooms like disco ball-decorated Future Perfect Wines , casually chic restaurants such as seafood tavern Bar Le Côte , and new accommodations, most notably the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern . Auberge Resorts Collection recently resurrected the latter, a beloved 19 th century landmark with a cabana-lined pool, a spa curated by New York City’s cult outfit The Well , and four restaurants, including a smokehouse that juxtaposes open-fire cooking and Shanghainese flavors. One hour north, Paso Robles , has finally shed its serious oenophiles-only image. Tin City , an approachable collection of wineries and breweries set within an industrial market, feels reminiscent of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone , and boasts San Luis Obispo County’s only Michelin-decorated restaurant, Six Test Kitchen . Next year, the revival whizzes at Nomada Group will reopen two historic hotels—Farmhouse Motel, a 1940s spot downtown, and River Lodge, set at the entrance of Route 46 minutes from top wineries. They’ve even made the unassuming frontier town of Pozo, 30 minutes from downtown, Insta-cool by recently reviving the Saloon , where Willie Nelson once played, and adding airstreams and glamping tents as crash pads. —Jen Murphy

Go for: One-of-a-kind archaeological museums, waterfront resorts, cruises

The much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, pegged to be the world's largest archaeological museum, is set to finally open in 2023 with all objects excavated from Tutankhamun’s tomb.

A far more hopeful period is afoot in Egypt after a decade of upheaval catalyzed by the Arab Spring. This year marked the centennial of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb—and in November 2022, Egypt hosted the United Nations Climate Summit, COP 27.

Long-laid plans will finally come to fruition in the year ahead, with many high-profile projects, including the much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, set to open at last. Pegged to be the world’s largest archaeological museum, the space—slated for a 2023 opening—will contain priceless items, including all objects excavated from Tutankhamun’s tomb. Further touristic draws, Egyptology-wise, stem from the exciting return of certain artifacts from the Metropolitan Museum of Art , as well as the relocation of the nation’s vast collection of royal mummies to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo .

Grander transformations are afoot, with new infrastructure—and a new capital—rapidly taking shape. A development not without its controversies, Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, to the east of Cairo, will replace the current one as the country's governmental center, boasting Africa’s tallest tower and the 22-mile-long Green River Park, designed to look like the Nile River . On that note: Viking River Cruises have expanded their fleet yet again, with the Viking Aton due to launch in August 2023, sailing their popular  Pharaohs & Pyramids  itinerary. Meanwhile, the opening of eco-resort The Chedi El Gouna on the Red Sea is penciled in for December 2022—yet another reason for a multi-stop journey through Egypt. —Gilly Hopper

Galilee, Israel

Go for: Charming boutique hotels, vineyards, improved connectivity

Pereh Mountain Resort is one of several new boutique hotels to have recently opened in this part of Israel, drawing international tourists to the rural food and wine destination. 

Perched atop a hill and surrounded by olive groves and orchards, the Pereh Mountain Resort underscores why Galilee has earned its nickname as the Tuscany of Israel. 

For decades, food and wine aficionados from Tel Aviv have been making the windy drive north to Israel’s Galilee region, where the landscape unfolds into lush green hills and valleys. For locals, this fertile corner filled with fruit farms, organic dairies, and family-run wineries, has long been revered as Israel’s own Tuscany.

And now, international tourists are discovering the region’s bounty as well: A flurry of new boutique hotels have opened over the past year, including the Pereh Mountain Resort , perched atop a hill and surrounded by olive groves and orchards; and the Galei Kinneret , reborn with a kitchen led by celebrity chef Assaf Granit. At The Farmhouse , which also opened in 2021, guests sleep among vineyards, and after Watsu pool therapy and jeep tours, are invited to pair local wines with artisanal cheeses and local produce. Tiberias, the Galilee’s largest city, is also set for a facelift with a new promenade along the same shores where Jesus is said to have walked on water—and new direct flights to Israel from Atlanta (Delta; starting in May) and Miami (American; beginning in October) will make access in 2023 easier than ever. —Debra Kamin

Go for: City hotspots, island getaways, and dazzling safari lodges

Take advantage of new openings in Nairobi and the Lamu archipelago, then check in to Angama Amboseli, a new lodge in Amboseli National Park opening in November 2023. 

​​ Kenya has long been a big draw for safari travelers, but there’s much more to see beyond the Masai Mara—and there are compelling new reasons to crisscross the country. While Nairobi was often relegated to one-night layovers en route to the bush, innovative new hotel concepts like The Social House Nairobi , which opened just before the pandemic, are beckoning visitors to linger awhile. The 83 sleek rooms are brimming with local products, like Kenyan coffee and toiletries, and the four restaurants and café are hot spots for Nairobi’s creative set to converge. Nairobi’s restaurant scene is also thriving, with creative kitchens like the farm-to-table Cultiva , the brainchild of Ecuadorian chef Ariel Moscardi, who fell in love with Nairobi during a short visit; he’s now at work on an experimental chef’s-table offshoot called Aya set to open next year. Plus, on the heels of opening her home to guests as the art-filled Eden Nairobi in 2021, designer Anna Trzebinski has now set her sights on the coast. She’s taken over three apartments in the beguiling island archipelago of Lamu , filled them with furniture and decor she designed, and will unveil them as Jannah Shela in 2023. With gorgeous indoor-outdoor spaces and a rooftop bar with the best views in Lamu, this is a chic hideaway for a new wave of travelers—both Kenyan and international. For those who can’t get enough of Angama Mara ’s dazzling details, the November 2023 opening of Angama Amboseli brings its contemporary African design to Amboseli National Park further south, where 10 tented suites come with sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro . — Sarah Khan

Loire Valley, France

Go for: New hotels and restaurants in historic châteaux, luxury train journeys

Gatronomic getaways like Fleur de Loire, opened last July, are proving that the Loire Valley has more to offer than historical châteaux (though there are plenty of those). 

Fleur de Loire from Michelin-star chef Christophe Hay has two restaurants, a pastry shop, and a 2.5-acre garden from which his ingredients are sourced. 

The Loire Valley has always banked on its abundance of royal châteaux and lush landscapes to draw in travelers. But it wasn’t until very recently, thanks to the initiative of hoteliers, creatives, and chefs, that the region sought to go beyond its picturesque historical marvels to establish new reasons to visit.

That effort began in 2020, with the gastronomic and nature-inspired getaways offered at Loire Valley Lodges and Les Sources de Cheverny , and has shown no signs of stopping. Raising the bar in a big way has been Fleur de Loire , double Michelin-star chef Christophe Hay’s fine-dining-led hotel in Blois, overlooking the Loire River, which opened last July. Hay restored a former 17th-century hospice to set up two restaurants, a pastry shop, a Sisley spa, 44 elegantly appointed rooms, and a 2.5-acre garden which supplies all of the produce for his cooking.

Yet there is also novelty for those who can’t shake the urge to sleep within the majestic confines of a castle. The Château Louise de La Vallière is a new 5-star Relais & Châteaux offering in forestland tucked between Tours and Amboise, open as of October 2022. Occupying a 16th-century château set within a 47-acre park that served as the first holiday residence of Louise de la Vallière, the first official mistress of Louis XIV, the 20-room property has been restored and redesigned by Jacques Garcia to its centuries-old glory: it approximates the style and customs of the era, down to the period dress sported by staff, in addition to original paintings, tapestries, decorative pieces, and even mealtime rituals.

It makes for a suitable home base to visit the Royal Château of Amboise in 2023 when the Saint-Hubert chapel, the resting place of Leonardo De Vinci, reopens after nearly two years of renovations. The Château will also host a new, year-long exhibition dedicated to Louis XI on the 600th anniversary of his birth.

But the newest way to make a stopover arrives next summer with the inaugural Le Grand Tour experience from Puy du Fou. The six-day luxury train journey spans a more than 2,000-mile tour of France in a Belle Epoque carriage, bringing guests to Chenonceau for a night, with private visits to the namesake château. —Lindsey Tramuta

Marrakech, Morocco

Go for: New riads in the city, desert stays, art and design exhibits

In addition to buzzy new hotel openings in central Marrakech, the Burning Man–inspired Habitas Agafay has just begun welcoming visitors to the Agafay Desert, a mere 45-minute drive from the city's medina. 

Marrakech has a dizzying energy that pulls you in, spins you around, and leaves you wanting more. All good reasons to make sure you have a soothing home for the night—and you will, thanks to a handful of exciting openings. Dreamy riad El Fenn has just added ten new rooms in the hotel’s signature style, mixing intricate artisanal details, bold colors, and striking contemporary art. On the other side of the medina, two new spots are coming this spring. Firstly, Rosemary , a bijou new riad with a calming courtyard and sunny rooftop, from Laurence Leenaert, the designer behind the LRNCE brand of ceramics and textiles. In the leafy Hivernage neighborhood, home to some of the city’s best nightlife, a new Nobu hotel will breathe new life into the former Pearl Hotel. Out in the Agafay Desert, a 45-minute drive from the medina, Habitas has just opened the Burning Man–inspired Caravan Agafay . Don’t go expecting rolling Sahara-style dunes—the stone desert here looks more lunar than sandy—but do expect boho tents, swimming pools, moon gazing, and plenty more. 

Marrakech itself continues to be a magnet for artists and designers: The new Monde des Arts de la Parure showcases 3,000 pieces of jewelry, ornaments, and textiles from more than 50 countries in a three-story wood-and-brick space lit by a dramatic octagonal skylight. At the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL), Malagasy artist Joël Andrianomearisoa’s “Our Land Just Like A Dream” explores traditional Moroccan creative knowledge, filling the museum’s spaces with works made exclusively in Marrakech through July 2023. —Nicola Chilton

Melides, Portugal

Go for: Lesser-known beaches, design-forward stays

The Manuel Aires Mateus-designed Pa.te.os has just opened in Melides, with four discreet houses that blend into 80 acres of Mediterranean landscape. 

Comporta’s lesser-known sister has been quietly simmering for some time now, but 2023 is set to become the year Melides emerges as the Portuguese beach spot to know. Its alluring landscape of white-sand beaches, pine forests, and rice fields will soon welcome exciting new properties, including Christian Louboutin’s much-awaited Vermelho this coming spring. The designer discovered the charm of Melides early—he’s been visiting for 10 years to design his winter collections, even naming one of his shoe lines Melides—and the boutique property will celebrate Portuguese artisanship and design traditions.

And there are others: Spatia —the Comporta resort frequented by travelers looking for minimalist design and quiet respite—will open a second hotel in Melides in 2023, while Umay’s otherworldly villas, inspired by the geometry of seashells, will follow in 2024. Also new to the area is the recently opened Pa. te .os , consisting of four discreet houses on 80 hectares of land, designed by famed Portuguese architect Manuel Aires Mateus to blend into the Mediterranean landscape.

Hotels aside, other 2022 openings like the Melides Pottery Museum, which celebrates Portugal’s rich ceramic history, and beach-front restaurants like À Toa on Praia de Melides , add to the excitement around this buzzy destination. —Abigail Malbon

Memphis, Tennessee

Go for: New public spaces, restaurants and hotels that highlight the city's heritage

The Memphian Hotel is an eye-catching marker of the city's hotel boom—it's just one of eight new properties opened in 2022. 

The Memphian Hotel shines a light on the city's heritage through design and cuisine, much like the city's coolest new restaurants.

Nashville claims a lot of national buzz, but the city of Memphis has been quietly reshaping itself to be the hottest destination in Tennessee. Over the past decade, its downtown has invested billions in revitalization projects—and now, visitors can begin reaping the benefits.

An upgraded Tom Lee Park will open downtown in 2023, and in time for Memphis in May , a month-long festival celebrating the city’s culture with the famed Beale Street Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. The $60 million transformation will add new pavilions, meditative paths, riverfront seating, sound gardens, and the Canopy Walk connecting the park to downtown—all a fitting tribute to the park’s heroic namesake, a Black Memphian who, nearly a century ago, rescued passengers from a sinking steamboat on the Mississippi River. Next up: The Walk on Union , said to be the largest new mixed-use development in the Southeast, will play host to retail businesses, green spaces, and two new Hilton hotels as it opens in phases over the next few years.

Memphis is experiencing a hotel boom, with eight new properties in 2022 and more on the way. Recently opened are the funky  The Memphian and Hyatt's first  Caption concept, both of which shine a light on the city’s heritage through design and cuisine, much like the latest crop of Memphis restaurants. Barbecue still reigns, but the city’s trendiest spots are lightening things up: Raw Girls now has two brick-and-mortar smoothie and juice bars, Food Network star chef Tamra Patterson will open a new vegetarian spot in 2023, and craft cocktail bar Cameo , opened this year, serves up sophisticated mocktails. —Kelsey Ogletree

Mendoza, Argentina

Go for: Women-led food experiences, new lodges on iconic vineyards

At the foot of the majestic Andes, a crop of stylish new restaurants and hotels—many spearheaded by women—are giving travelers a new reason to raise a glass in Argentina's wine capital. 

Toasting with Malbec in front of the majestic Andes is how people celebrate in Mendoza , and a slew of stylish restaurant and hotel openings—many of which are spearheaded by women—provides ever more reason to raise a glass in Argentina’s Great Wine Capital (it is just 90 minutes by plane from Buenos Aires , after all).

Mendoza’s new bodega wining and dining experiences are many. There’s chef Patricia Courtois’s 5 Suelos at Durigutti Family Winemakers (opened April 2022), sommelier Camila Cerezo Pawlak’s Ruda restaurant in Tupungato Winelands (January 2022), and Catena Zapata’s opulent Angélica named for the family matriarch (November 2022).

Zonda at Bodega Lagarde—an organic, B-Corp certified winery that marks its 125th anniversary in 2023—stands out, however, for showcasing the best of Mendoza, from fantastic vintages down to its hard-carved teaspoons. Owner Sofia Pescarmona shares her family’s terroir with guests, who gather herbs and veggies and get a little messy making empanadas during Zonda’s immersive garden-to-table experience. Efforts are rewarded with a nine-course regional tasting menu paired with Lagarde wines, including the refreshing Proyecto Hermanas White Blend that Sofia makes with sister Lucila.

Plus, the latest venture of Susana Balbo—Argentina’s trailblazing female oenologist who helms her namesake winery—saw her lovingly refurbish a mansion with daughter Ana Lovaglio, unveiling it as the seven-suite SB Winemaker’s Lodge & Spa in April 2022; chef Flavia Amad Di Leo runs both the bodega and the hotel’s restaurants. Invigorated by in-room massages and asado by the pool, adventurous guests can then hire the lodge’s VisionAir seaplane, Argentina’s only such aircraft, and explore hidden corners of the world’s eighth-largest country. —Sorrel Moseley-Williams

Mustang, Nepal

Go for: Luxury mountain retreats, rare experiences in a remote destination

From design virtuoso Bill Bensley, the all-inclusive Shinta Mani, set in the remote, once-forbidden region of Mustang, is arguably Asia's most anticipated hotel opening of 2023. 

For decades, Nepal has been the Himalayan destination of choice for backpackers and trekkers drawn to its deep-rooted spirituality, endless adventure offerings, and those sky-piercing peaks. This hasn’t been the case for many luxury-minded travelers, though, who often chose neighboring Bhutan for its superior clutch of upscale mountain lodges. That will change in 2023 as Nepal unveils a wave of first-rate boutique accommodations and experiences.

Much of this shift is courtesy the recent update of Mountain Lodges of Nepal , a family-owned collection of deluxe accommodations scattered around the ultra-scenic Annapurna and Everest regions. By the end of 2023, they will introduce 15 premium, intimate lodges—a mixture of refurbished sites and new builds combining tradition (stone walls and colorful cultural motifs) with modernity (like dramatic floor-to-ceiling glass windows)—while offering multi-day treks, wild honey hunting, and helicopter rides to a Mount Everest-facing Champagne breakfast.

Come 2023, the 29-suite Shinta Mani Mustang, a Bensley Collection , arguably Asia’s most anticipated hotel opening, will open in the remote, once-forbidden ancient kingdom region of Mustang. Spearheaded by design virtuoso Bill Bensley, the all-inclusive mountain retreat brings together Tibetan design (incorporating upcycled materials), traditional wellness programs, unique experiences—like guided explorations of the mysterious, ancient “sky caves”—and unparalleled access to one of the Himalaya’s last frontiers. —Travis Levius

Ollantaytambo, Peru

Go for: Old-meets-new food and drink experiences, eco-stays

Ancestral earthen oven cooking known as pachamanca is offered to guests at El Albergue Ollantaytambo, part of the region's growing effort to showcase Andean food and drink traditions to a wider audience. 

The 100-year-old El Albergue Ollantaytambo also functions as a quintessential home base for travelers in the Sacred Valley, proving the village of Ollantaytambo is more than a pit stop en route to Machu Picchu.

Ollantaytambo is best known for its archeological site, a hillside Incan fortress that draws travelers off the train to Machu Picchu. But of late, the village has also become a terroir-driven culinary epicenter in the Sacred Valley, with local entrepreneurs placing a new era of the Andean food and drink traditions on the world stage. Taste herbaceous high-elevation rums, or infuse your own, at Destilería Andina ; sip Andean coffee, or roast souvenir beans, at Cafe Mayu ; and sample craft beer flavored with local fruit at Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado . Old and new continue to meet, through farm-to-table fare paired with creative cocktails at Chuncho ; meanwhile, tradition takes precedence with ancestral earthen oven pachamanca cooking in El Albergue Ollantaytambo ’s farm tour meals. And look for Destilería Andina’s new location with a full-service bar, opening in mid-2023, near Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado.

Don’t make the mistake of hopping on the train after a meal, either—unique hotels further the case for staying the night. The 100-year-old El Albergue Ollantaytambo is a classic home base, but you can also pamper yourself at the Qolqas Eco Lodge (spa included), or sleep perched in a mountainside capsule with valley views at Skylodge Adventure Suites . The latter opened in 2013, but the brand’s new Starlodge Adventure Suites and onsen are 2022 additions.

Plan your trip around cultural moments for the full experience: The Señor de Choquekillka festival, 50 days after Easter, honors the village’s patron saint with food, music, and dance; locals celebrate the winter solstice in June; and the entire village revels during Ollantaytambo’s anniversary every October. —Nico Vera

Queensland, Australia

Go for: Indigenous-led experiences, swanky new hotels

Queensland has returned thousands of acres to Indigenous groups over the last two years, a shift that has yielded special new experiences for travelers. 

New Indigenous-owned and -run experiences include moonlit spearfishing in Daintree National Park, alongside Eastern Kuku Yalanji guides, and Torres Strait Islander-led day trips from Cairns.

Australia is making an effort to return land to its native people, and Queensland has been leading the way, with thousands of acres going back to Indigenous groups over the last two years. For travelers, this shift is yielding new experiences guided by the insight of the original stewards of the land.

The ancient rainforest of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Daintree National Park was part of a parcel returned in 2021, and now the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people are managing the national park alongside the state government. At the newly opened Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre , an ecotourism hub operated by mostly Indigenous staff, visitors walk the land with traditional custodians as guides; Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours include night walking, crabbing, and spearfishing under the moon; and on Walkabout Cultural Adventures , Indigenous plants and medicines are highlighted on guided rainforest excursions.

Further north, lands near the Torres Strait Islands—there are at least 274 in the strait between Australia and New Guinea—were returned to Torres Strait Islanders of Aboriginal, Melanesian, and Australian background last year. Now, local Indigenous entrepreneurs have launched companies like Strait Experience , which offers a first-of-its-kind day trip to the islands from Cairns, making the destination more accessible than ever.

Bookend your adventures with a night in any of the chic hotels and resorts set to call Queensland home in 2023, including the Mondrian Gold Coast and the Ritz-Carlton Brisbane, part of the Queens’ Wharf project that is transforming the river’s edge. These join a new luxury hotel faction including The Langham Gold Coast and Dorsett Gold Coast , both of which opened last summer.

Lastly, don’t skip a visit to Queensland’s capital: Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium will host eight games in July and August for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand. Good thing getting to Queensland is easier than ever, thanks to three weekly nonstop flights between San Francisco and Brisbane, added by United Airlines in October 2022. —Devorah Lev-Tov

Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Go for: Landmark art and architecture events, atmospheric new hotels

The Sharjah Biennial opens in February to celebrate its 30th anniversary, with works from more than 150 artists from 70 countries (above, an installation at the 2017 event, by Joe Namy).

While it might seem like Dubai continues to monopolize much of the U.A.E.’s glitz and buzz, neighboring Sharjah has been quietly asserting itself as the cultural capital of the Emirates. On the heels of striking new galleries from the Sharjah Arts Foundation and architectural marvels like the Foster + Partners–designed House of Wisdom library, the Sharjah Biennial opens in February, on its 30th anniversary, with works from more than 150 artists from 70 countries. Also on deck is the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, curated by Nigerian architect Tosin Oshinowo in collaboration with visionaries like India’s Rahul Mehrotra and Brazil’s Paulo Tavares. The most atmospheric place to stay in Sharjah is the Chedi Al Bait , a tangle of 53 rooms and eight suites spread across a series of ocher courtyards in the historic district. This year, it gets a refresh with the addition of a 12-room boutique wing built in a 100-year-old family home. There are plush new ways to explore the less-explored emirate’s natural splendors as well. Lux Resorts and Hotels, known for its swanky digs in Mauritius , the Maldives , and China , is making its Middle Eastern debut with two new retreats in Sharjah coming in 2023: Lux Al Jabal is a beach escape overlooking an untouched stretch of the Gulf of Oman, while Lux Al Bridi will be a safari camp brimming with wildlife in the sprawling Al Bridi Nature Reserve. —Sarah Khan

Srinagar, India

Go for: New infrastructure for easier road tripping, elevated nature retreats

Srinagar, an alluring and once hard-to-visit destination in the Kashmir Valley, is opening up to travelers in a big way in 2023, with new roadways making it easier than ever to get in and around. 

In the heart of the Kashmir Valley, the gem of Srinagar—with its winding waterways and colorful houseboats—is equally alluring and challenging to plan a visit to. Yet the destination seems to be shifting gears, with the government greenlighting development projects that will benefit travelers.

Srinagar has some vibrant new openings:  Karan Mahal , a swanky, intimate stay in the historic residence of Kashmir’s former rulers and amid nearly 60 acres of orchards and woods, launched last year, while  Qayaam Gah , a stylish, Sufi-inspired nature retreat in the Zabarwan Hills, with unfettered bird’s-eye views of Dal Lake, opened this summer. Additionally, Indian Hotels Company Limited (also behind the Taj Hotels) will bring its affordable brand, Ginger Hotels , to Srinagar in the first half of 2023.

The capital is also about to get a boost in accessibility, with a spate of highways and tunnels planned to open in 2023 that will, among other connections, make it easier to drive from Kashmir—across breathtaking landscapes—to neighboring Ladakh, even in winter. Other side trips that will be easier to reach, thanks to the new infrastructure: Sonamarg (which translates to “golden meadow”), a stunning hill station that is poised for substantial tourism development in the years to come, and Pahalgam, an idyllic getaway that has long drawn travelers to its pastoral charms. The latter will see, in early 2023, the opening of  Shepherd’s Barn , a cottage stay by Ramneek Kaur (whose family owns the Bollywood-favorite  Pahalgam Hotel ), which will add rooms to an existing program of craft tours and local activities under the auspices of the Shepherd Crafts Cultural Centre. With so much change underfoot, there is no better time to experience the area— and before everyone else starts to do the same. —Saumya Ancheri

Go for: The performing arts center, two years' worth of hotel and restaurant openings

After a decade of construction, the Taipei Performing Arts Center has finally opened—just as the country has begun welcoming international visitors again. 

Elegant towering teahouses, otherworldly landscapes, and culinary excellence have long tempted travelers to Taiwan . Now, after more than two years, the island nation has reopened its borders to international visitors—and there’s quite a bit to catch up on.

One decade of construction later, the Taipei Performing Arts Center is finally open, with three performance spaces housed within sleek geometric buildings. A few kilometers south, the stylish Hotel Resonance Taipei recently unbolted its doors with 175 fresh guest rooms, offering sweeping city views and sleek modern interiors. Just before borders closed, the Taipei location of The Place hotel—equal parts polished and relaxing, with a teahouse in its lobby—opened in Nangang, and a design-forward branch of the Kimpton set down roots in the Da’An District. There’s even more to come, with the Sotetsu Grand Fresa Taipei Ximen slated to open in 2023 in the bustling Ximending, which was just named one of the “51 Coolest Neighborhoods In The World” by Time Out. Plan your meals around any of the five restaurants that earned Michelin stars in 2022: Shin Yeh Taiwanese Signature, Holt, Yu Kapo, Paris 1930 de Hideki Takayama, and Sushiyoshi.

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan, has been attracting travelers who hop on the high-speed rail, headed for one of the 44 restaurants that earned Tainan its addition to the 2022 Michelin Guide . Also making it worth the trip: Anping Tree House, an abandoned warehouse that has been swallowed by banyan trees; the colorful and artsy Shennong Street; and when you’re ready for a nap, Mao House , a chic bed and breakfast that stands in stark contrast to its architecturally staid neighbors. —Ella Quittner

Turks and Caicos

Go for: Easier access to remote islands, cruise upgrades, sleek resorts

Big-deal infrastructure enhancements are making it easier to reach Turks and Caicos’ less frequented outer islands, changing what it means to have an exclusive experience in the archipelago.

The exquisite white sands and blue waters of Grace Bay Beach have long been the coveted endgame for visitors to Turks and Caicos . Lately, though, a wave of new hotels and developments in more remote parts of the island chain are changing what it means to have an exclusive experience here. 

Leading the way, the 46-unit Rock House opened this past May, with its sleek Mediterranean style (a departure from the archipelago’s traditional colonial aesthetic), private plunge pools, and sustainability efforts that preserve native foliage and limestone. But Rock House’s real magic is undeniably in its location: a clifftop perch above a secluded beach on Grace Bay’s north shore, where you can while away your days snorkeling in a protected marine sanctuary. More properties slated to come in 2023 include the 31-acre South Bank Turks & Caicos , a residential resort and marina, opening in March, at the top of Long Bay Beach with 18 waterfront villas and a five-acre swimming lagoon. The Strand Turks & Caicos will follow later in 2023, 20 minutes south of Grace Bay, with oceanfront residences and what feels like its own peninsula on Cooper Jack Bay.

Big-deal infrastructure enhancements are also making it easier to reach Turks and Caicos’ less frequented outer islands. On Grand Turks, a $25 million dock extension is set to welcome larger cruise ships in 2023. And on tiny South Caicos, a significant upgrade to the single-runway South Caicos Airport is scheduled for completion in June, meaning improved access to the least populated of the islands—like the uber-luxe Sailrock Resort , a favorite of celebs like Justin Bieber and Regina King. —Nina Kokotas Hahn

Go for: A revived cultural calendar, dazzling new hotels

In 2023, Vienna will welcome the return of the Viennese ball season after a two-year hiatus. 

Vienna has long been a European capital of groundbreaking art and music, and in 2023 the city has several landmark anniversaries on its cultural calendar.

After a two-year hiatus, the 2023 Viennese ball season promises lush nights of live orchestral music and dancing in black-tie. Two of the year’s sparkliest, the Vienna Opera Ball and the Vienna Philharmonic Ball, are also marking their 65th and 80th anniversaries, respectively. The latter is returning  on January 19 with performances by the legendary orchestra. Meanwhile, the Opera Ball, to be held  on February 16 , will host dancing “Under the Sign of Solidarity”—the night’s theme—in collaboration with  Österreich hilft Österreich (Austria Helps Austria) to fundraise for those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Belvedere, home to Gustav Klimt’s famous  The Kiss , is celebrating 300 years since its completion with a year-long exhibition, “ The Belvedere: 300 Years a Place of Art ,” paying homage to the museum’s impact on Viennese art history. Also not to be missed in 2023: “ Klimt. Inspired by Van Gogh, Rodin, Matisse… ,” a collaborative exhibit by the Belvedere and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, showcasing the prominent artists who influenced the master of Viennese Modernism.

Kick your feet up at Vienna’s chic new hotels. The  Rosewood Vienna , which opened in 2022, will welcome its first full year of guests with the new Asaya Spa. Then, in late 2023, The Hoxton is set to open a 196-room hotel featuring an events auditorium (a first for the hotel brand) honoring Vienna’s legacy as a hub for live entertainment and culture. —Matt Ortile

Go for: Locavore food experiences, forest hotels and saunas

In lush Wales, a foodie renaissance is taking place—drawing travelers to terroir-driven restaurants, distilleries, and revived pubs in untrammeled areas. 

A Welsh foodie renaissance has, admittedly, taken a while to arrive. But a new generation of chefs are digging into their terroir and emerging with handfuls of truffles, scallops, and cheeses, from James Sommerin’s Home restaurant in Penarth, to SY23 in seaside Aberystwyth, headed by Great British Menu finalist Nathan Davies. There’s also been the rise of hard-to-reach destination restaurants determinedly doing their own thing, such as Annwn in deepest Pembrokeshire, where Matt Powell forages most of his ingredients from the shoreline (the project is currently on hold as it relocates), and Gareth Ward’s Ynyshir in the Dyfi Valley , which was just awarded a second Michelin star. Ward’s empire will grow in 2023 with the opening of eight-seat Gwen—named after his mother—with sourdough pizzas on the menu. Paternoster Farm , meanwhile, set in a former Pembroke cowshed, is doing wondrous things with Porthilly oysters, Welsh Mountain lamb, and sea beet—with its Five Mile Feasts, a special menu, gathering up all sorts of local treasures. 

In Cardigan, the Albion Aberteifi —certainly the coolest hotel to arrive in Wales in years—is set to open a Scandi-Japanese restaurant on the river bank in 2023, along with a woodland onsen and spa. Wales seems to be turning into a hub for the UK’s thriving outdoor sauna scene: Snowdonia-based Heartwood Saunas is launching a new forest project this December, where groups of up to 10 can use a wood-fired sauna before jumping in the pools of the River Dulas (or head to the yoga deck), all while surrounded by old oak trees and natural pools. In Carmarthenshire, the seven-mile stretch of Pendine Sands is enjoying a revival. Caban hotel is opening in the spring alongside the Museum of Speed , which celebrates the many land-speed records made on the beach—including one by actor Idris Elba in a Bentley Continental GT. Reducing the speed a notch, a new slow-travel route of roads and walking paths, The Wild Drovers’ Way , unfurls over 180 miles from the foothills of the Cambrians into the Brecon Beacons—a lovely way to appreciate some of Wales’ rural highlights.

If you need somewhere to toast all this, you could head to Swansea, where Penderyn will open its new whisky-distillery experience in March, while in Cardiff, the St Fagans Museum of National History has been rebuilding the iconic Vulcan pub (beloved of Manic Street Preachers) on its grounds, set to open in 2024. Lechyd da! —Rick Jordan

Western Japan

Go for: Expedition cruises in the Seto Inland Sea, new onsen experiences

Luxury small ship company Ponant will launch a first-ever expedition cruise from Osaka in 2023, exploring old feudal towns and traditional fishing villages on Japan's oldest sea route. 

New luxury openings and a world’s-first expedition cruise are among a plethora of reasons to head for western Japan in 2023. In the Seto Inland Sea, which separates Japan’s main island of Honshu from the islands of Shikoku and Kyushu, luxury small-ship company Ponant has announced a first-ever expedition cruise from Osaka in 2023, which will sail along Japan’s oldest sea route. Exploring old feudal towns and traditional fishing villages on the coast of Honshu, as well as Inland Sea islands such as Inujima—once a copper mining hub and now one of the famous contemporary “Art Islands”—the 264-guest Le Soléal will chart a seven-night course towards the Sea of Japan, starting in May 2023. Also in the Seto Inland Sea, in a forest on Awaji Island, wellness retreat Zenbo Seinei just opened its doors. Designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Shigeru Ban, it features a 21-meter-long gallery for zazen meditation and a restaurant celebrating Japan’s culture of fermented foods.

On Kyushu island , the new Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen now conveniently connects cosmopolitan Nagasaki to Japan’s vast bullet train network. Good thing, as there’s a new Ritz-Carlton coming in the summer of 2023 to the vibrant, gateway city of Fukuoka ; and in the hot-spring town of Yufuin, Kengo Kuma—the architect behind the Japan National Stadium for the Tokyo 2020 games—has completed a new gallery at Comico Art Museum to house works by Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami, and Hiroshi Sugimoto, among others, as well as two exclusive-use “Art Houses” with private onsen baths. Nearby, Kuma has also created the gorgeous KAI Yufuin , a contemporary onsen ryokan with views of Mount Yufu and enveloped in rice terraces whose beauty changes with the seasons. —Kate Crockett

Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Go for: Design-forward boutique hotels amid the region's jungle and waterways

The Yucatán Peninsula is already an easy-to-love destination—its food heritage just one of the reasons to visit—but a boom of design-forward stays are upping the ante. 

Just outside of Mérida, above, travelers will find the new Galopina, a five-bedroom, family-run guesthouse from Mexican owners Elisa Navarrete and Guillaume Galopin.

With a boom of design-forward stays opening their doors—in an already easy-to-love destination marked by verdant jungle and brilliant waterways—the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico’s southeastern bounds is poised to be one of the most enticing areas to visit this year.

The 22-bungalow Boca de Agua is set to open in April in Bacalar , with suites designed by architect Frida Escobedo, who was recently tapped for the forthcoming contemporary art wing at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City . North of Bacalar, tucked within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is Casa Chablé , which will open in December 2022 with 10 rooms and bungalows. Guests take a 40-minute boat ride through lush mangrove forests, to arrive at the resort’s 12 acres of tropical jungle fronted by white-sand beaches. Plus, situated in the tranquil Xpu-ha cove, between the two bustling towns of Tulum and Playa del Carmen, the ultra-luxurious boutique property Hotel Esencia opened in November as one of the most refined offerings in Riviera Maya: the Esencia Mansion, a four-bedroom private hideaway with its own speakeasy, cinema, and rooftop infinity pool. And just outside of Mérida is the new Galopina , a five-bedroom, family-run guesthouse from Mexican owners Elisa Navarrete and Guillaume Galopin. After a stint in Paris , they returned to their home country and created their dream homestead in the jungle with miles of trails, organic gardens, and guest rooms offering meditative terraces. In May 2023, Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , will reopen on the Riviera Maya with 10 new waterfront suites, a culinary program overseen by chef Daniel Camacho, and a new look that will showcase Mayan culture and design with work by local artisans. —Michaela Trimble

Zamora, Spain

Go for: Romanesque architecture, dazzling lakes, and improved access from Madrid

Zamora, which is known for having the most Romanesque architecture in Europe, is becoming a European World Heritage Site in 2023—perfect timing, as a new high-speed train from Madrid makes it easier to reach than ever. 

Few know—even in Spain —that Zamora is the city with the most Romanesque architecture in Europe, but it was reason enough for UNESCO to make Zamora a European World Heritage Site for 2023. Additionally, its proximity to Madrid —an hour away thanks to a new high-speed AVE train, inaugurated just a year ago—put this underrated town high on our must-visit list.

But there is more to Zamora, such as its enormous modernist legacy and its Lagunas de Villafáfila, a collection of lakes that are home to thousands of migratory birds each season. There’s even more to see, scattered throughout the province: Lake Sanabria is the largest glacial lake in the Iberian Peninsula, and just a few miles away, Puebla de Sanabria is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Towards the east you will find Toro, the epicenter of bold red wines—and home to critically acclaimed winery Numanthia that’s credited with putting the wine region on the map. Not far away, in the heart of Tierra de Campos, snag a table at Lera , which got its Michelin star in 2022, and is a favorite among wild game enthusiasts.

Finally, to the south, Arribes del Duero shows that Zamora province has it all—even fjords. Beautiful crags and cliffs mark the border with Portugal in a natural park that has become a center for viticulture and attracts reputed international winemakers. Olive, citrus, and other fruit trees, artisanal ceramics, and stunning natural beauty turn this secluded corner into a Mediterranean paradise. Consider the luxurious Hacienda Zorita Natural Reserve , and the Castillo de Buen Amor (refurbished in 2021) in Salamanca, just a 30-minute drive away, the perfect setting for your quaint Zamora escape. —David Moralejo

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Five sunny holiday destinations that won't break the bank!

If you're in search of some sunshine, Simon Calder is taking us through some of the best blue sky holiday destinations that you could have booked in days.

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SIMON’S 5 HOLIDAY HOTSPOTS

All five locations can be booked departing Wednesday 1st May for under £1,000 per person packaged holiday. (Including flights with a decent luggage allowance)

1. LAS PALMAS, CANARY ISLANDS

Jet2 Holidays from Edinburgh to Gran Canaria, staying at the Caybeach Meloneras: £398 per person, room only.

2. SHARM EL SHEIKH, EGYPT

Tui from London Gatwick: £494 all-inclusive, staying at Jaz Sharks Bay hotel all inclusive – also includes transfers.

3. NICE, FRANCE 

British Airways Holidays from London Heathrow: £510 per person including breakfast, staying at the Ibis Styles in Antibes – one of the most glamorous locations on the Cote d’Azur, with gorgeous beaches. 

4. YUMA, ARIZONA

Expedia from Manchester: £983 staying at the El Rancho Motel, though with a long old flight: 28 hours via New York and Phoenix. 

5. DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Emirates Holidays: Newcastle to Dubai: £997 per person staying at Jumeirah Creekside. 

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

‘Spectacular’ Greek island named Europe’s cheapest holiday destination

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If you want a budget-friendly summer holiday, look no further than the Greek island of Kalymnos.

New research by Which? named it the cheapest destination for Brits to book this year, with the average price of a week’s break (including flights and transfers) in August coming in at £847 per person.

Greece nabbed the first three spots in the consumer champion’s ranking, followed by the Costa Brava in Spain and Venetian Riviera in Italy .

Surprisingly, given their reputation for value , no resorts in Turkey or Portugal made the list, and popular locations in Mallorca or the Costa Del Sol were absent from the top 10.

While the study didn’t take every travel operator into account or factor in differing standards of accommodation, its findings do suggest you can get a better deal by looking beyond the standard tourist traps.

Europe's cheapest package holiday destinations

• Kalymnos, Greece: £847pp
• Thassos, Greece: £862pp
• Lefkada, Greece: £935pp
• Costa Brava, Spain: £952pp
• Venetian Riviera, Italy: £965pp
• Amalfi Coast, Italy: £977pp
• Skopelos, Greece: £985pp
• Costa de la Luz, Spain: £994pp
• Campania, Italy: £998pp
• Malta: £1,006pp

Which? analysed the prices of 4,558 package holidays across 15 countries from the UK’s biggest tour operators – Jet2holidays and Tui – in March 2024. The average price is based on two people sharing a standard double or twin room over seven nights, including flights and transfers, departing on or around August 3.

Kalymnos, for example, is far quieter than a number of Greek islands, offering holidaymakers the chance to beat the crowds without breaking the bank.

That’s not all it has to offer either.

Part of the Dodecanese group, alongside Rhodes and Kos, Kalymnos is known for its limestone cliffs and sunny – yet not uncomfortably hot – weather.

‘Rugged Kalymnos is characterised by its dramatic mountains that draw hardy climbers from all over the world,’ commented Lonely Planet . ‘Its western flank is particularly spectacular with skeletal crags towering above dazzling blue waters.’

Visitors also praised the scenery and authenticity here, including Tripadvisor user GHCedar who wrote: ‘I would certainly return. I particularly enjoyed our village walks around Panormos, which was surprisingly green and rural.

‘We discovered some interesting places to eat and have drinks, but there was no tourist centre or strip… it had a very good feel.’

Things to do in Kalymnos

With its rocky landscape and variety of caves, Kalymnos is famed for its climbing. You’ll find a number of clubs where you can give it a go on the north side of the island, and the International Climbing Festival takes place here every year.

Kalymnos also has a history of sponge-diving, and while islanders don’t do so for a living anymore, the Sponge Factory in Pothia Town allows visitors to learn more about the tradition.

If that’s your thing, you can also visit the Folklore Museum and Kalymnian House Museum in Pothia Town, or the Sea World Museum (also known as St Valsamidis) in the quaint village Vlychadia.

The Monastery of Agios Savvas and the Medieval Castle of Chryssoheria are also worth a trip if you’re into history, which Kalymnos has in spades.

One must-do is a trip to the neighboring islet of Telendos, which is car-free and features naturists beaches, secluded coves, and traditional settlements. It’s easy to get to via a 10-minute water taxi, and makes for a unique day out.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Greek holiday without some relaxing on the beach. Myrties, Kantouni and Massouri are the two most popular with tourists, but if you have a car or moped you can explore more remote seaside spots like Vlychadia  beach (which is great for scuba diving) or Ton Toicho beach (which is about as secluded as it gets).

How to get to Kalymnos

There are no direct routes to Kalymnos from the UK, so flights tend to include a change (either to a connecting flight or a ferry) at Kos, Rhodes or Athens.

If you book a package holiday via Jet2, for example, you’ll depart from either Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds Bradford or Manchester, and take a ferry from Kos to Kalymnos to get to your destination.

The journey from the UK to Kos takes around 4.5 hours, with the drive to the port and boat to Kalymnos taking around an hour extra.

@dr.somaskin Greece’s secret island #kalymnos #greece #travelguide #traveltiktok #sunscreen #fy #greecetravel #fypage #dermdoctor #traveltips ♬ Paporaki – Manos Loizos & Bouzouki Kings

Weather in Kalymnos

According to Holiday Weather, Kalymnos enjoys ‘long dry summers with high temperatures, and mild winters with moderate rainfall.’

During the summer months, you can expect uninterrupted sunshine with temperatures of between 28°C and 31°C. At night it’s still balmy at the 20°C mark, but not hot enough to leave you feeling sticky and unable to sleep.

Late May and early October sees temperatures in the mid 20s, while the evenings cool off to around 16°C. This is when a number of Greek tourists visit ; to beat the uncomfortable heat experienced elsewhere in the country. Spring and autumn are also peak times for climbers.

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The wettest months are December and January, where sunshine hours in Kalymnos go from highs of 14 hours to around five or six hours a day. It’s alsoquite wet, often overcast and somewhat unpredictable – although likely warmer than the UK.

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Beat the heat: The ‘cool’ European destinations to visit in summer 2024

Here are the temperate alternatives to european hotspots that keep it cool – even in peak season, article bookmarked.

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Shade seekers can rejoice, holiday travel trends are changing and tan-refreshing, sunbed-stewing summer getaways are on the decline.

In light of the ongoing climate crisis , Brits – habitually inclined to boil abroad – are redirecting their wanderlust to European shores where they won’t be a prisoner to a hotel room’s air-conditioning or sweat over the midday UV index.

The shift to more moderate climates comes as no surprise. A furnace of Mediterranean holiday heavyweights, from Rhodes to Gran Canaria , were ablaze with wildfires during peak travel season 2023, and temperatures are continuing to break record highs year on year.

Now’s the time to swap searing Andalusia in mainland Spain for the cooler Canaries , trade Portugal ’s Algarve for Poland ’s Baltic coast, and replace big-hitting Greek islands with German variations.

With chasing scorching sun on the backburner, here are the destinations bringing a breeze to summer holidays from wind-whipped islands to northern Europe’s fine coastline.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The Spanish islands with sun and volcanic peaks that you should make your next holiday destination
• Greece travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go
• The best things to do in Valencia, from beach hopping to exploring by bike

Ostend, Belgium

• Average high in August: 21C
• Average low in August: 15C

Though best known for its chocolate, beer and the hub of EU democracy that is Brussels , it would be foolish to turn your nose up at Belgium ’s beach resorts. Let Flanders’s largest, Ostend , sweep you away to its golden sands this summer for mornings spent kitesurfing and afternoons filled with fresh oysters on the Albert I Promenade – all without the need to retreat from the heat.

Oslo, Norway

• Average low in August: 13C

The Norwegian capital is a tangle of hip districts – specifically buzzy Grünerløkka – boutique stores and al fresco dining spots fringed with by thick Marka forest (where you can go for active pursuits, including zip lining and mountain biking). Slick museums on the Oslo Pass, such as the Munch Museum, meet the culture criteria for a city break while taking a dip in seawater pools and drying off in Nordic saunas nails the R&R element of a standard summer holiday.

La Gomera, Canary Islands

• Average high in August: 28C
• Average low in August: 21C

While mainland Spain sizzles, an Atlantic onshore breeze blows through the Canary Islands , blessing balmy year-round La Gomera with inviting 20C days for holidaymakers to indulge in hiking, black-sand bathing and foodie feasts of melon lobster and marmalade rabbit. The bearable heat doesn’t sacrifice sunshine, with around nine hours of vitamin D on offer in August.

Tartu, Estonia

• Average low in August: 11C

Inevitably laden with sweaty vista climbs, winding refreshment queues and daily step tallies in the thousands, comfort is key on a city break, and the 2024 Capital of Culture , Tartu has just the climate for exploring Estonia . There is an elegant Town Hall Square primed for mass kissing events (yes, really), the sleek Estonian National Museum, and timber barges on the Emajõgi River for a sailor’s view of the peaceful landscape.

Sopot, Poland

• Average high in August: 22C
• Average low in August: 12C

Seafront Sopot, in the Tricity region of the “Baltic Riviera”, is an affordable alternative to the beloved big names further south  and  at its warmest come August. A short train ride from all the history of Gdansk , 4km of tempting beaches, Europe ’s longest wooden pier and stylish health spas dot the fairy tale-esque facades and locals hail Sopot for its beachfront nightlife scene and, of course, decadent waffles.

Sylt, Germany

• Average high in August: 20C
• Average low in August: 16C

A magnet for the German elite, the North Frisian Islands’ mild microclimate, pinstriped strandkorbs (hooded wicker seats wide enough for two) and pristine pale sands understandably attract travellers to Sylt’s west coast. A Michelin-rosette gastronomy scene, thatched cottages and lighthouse-scattered peninsulas make this balmy under-the-radar beach break one to add to your list.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia ’s most famous attraction sparkles under the summer sun and Lake Bled’s inviting turquoise glacial waters will help you keep your cool on climbs up to the medieval Bled Castle and romantic rows around the fantasy island. Where the legendary lakes of Garda and Como sweat with crowds in Italy , Bled’s slice of the Julian Alps, though inevitably busy, offers forest trails suited for secluded alpine hikes.

Machico, Madeira

• Average high in August: 26C

Leave the scorching Algarve for a more temperate Atlantic alternative on Portugal ’s Madeira archipelago. Sandwiched between mountains, far east Machico has a wave-battered artificial beach with golden grains imported from Africa , well-groomed gardens and a vision of terracotta roofs dotting its landscape. 

Pori, Finland

On Finland ’s west coast, the city of Pori is a centre for jazz music, Finnish street eats (including  porilainen,  an elevated sausage sandwich), and, star of Scandinavia, Yyteri Beach: 6km of white sand geared for windsurfing, bird watching, beach volleyball and barbecues. With the Kokemäenjoki River and Bothnian Sea National Park, this diverse destination has mastered sub-30C summer culture.

Haarlem, Netherlands

• Average high in August: 19C

Head to Haarlem for tulips, vinyls, hidden  hofje  courtyards and a fair share of canals. Amsterdam ’s less-crowded neighbour serves a slice of Dutch cool without the sweaty shoulder brushes with strangers. It has a popular shopping scene as well as a brewing culture backdating to the 14th century, and active pursuits can be found in the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. 

Skagen, Denmark

On Denmark ’s northeastern peninsula, the port town of Skagen has art museums and fine dining to rival the country’s effortlessly cool capital Copenhagen . Whisps of cloud paint the skies and wild nature patrols the pale grains of the Grenen sandbar that straddles the Baltic and North Sea. Better still, August’s T-shirt and light-layers weather is ideal for exploring this stretch of the Rabjerg Mile – a migrating coastal sand dune.

Hoping for a balmy UK summer? Here are the best secret UK beaches to visit for some peace and quiet

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China’s Golden Week Holiday: What’s Driving Outbound Travel

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 24th, 2024 at 3:30 AM EDT

Understanding what Chinese travelers want is crucial for stakeholders in the tourism industry to tailor offerings and experiences that match these changing preferences.

Peden Doma Bhutia

Destinations in the Middle East are emerging as favorites for China’s upcoming May Day holiday, commonly known as Golden Week.

Overall outbound travel from China during this year’s holiday is still lagging behind 2019 levels by 13%. But travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has surged by 66%, and Turkey has experienced a significant growth of 56%, according to ticket sales data from ForwardKeys.

Increased seat capacity from Africa and the Middle East, which is set to expand by 75% in the second quarter, has led to this surge in travel.

Corresponding increases in seat capacity to China have backed the travel growth rates of 56% to Turkey, 19% to Italy, and 12% to the UK.

Last month, Trip.com, China’s biggest online travel agency, announced record bookings in Abu Dhabi, exceeding 57,000 room nights over the past 12 months. From 2022 to 2023, outbound travel orders across all products from Chinese travelers to the UAE surged by more than threefold.

Chinese outbound travel to Middle East had already reached pre-pandemic levels during the Chinese New Year period in February.

Pre-Pandemic Travel Patterns

ForwardKeys anticipates that the May holiday will witness notable travel peaks around April 27 and May 1, closely resembling pre-pandemic travel patterns.

In the Asian region, Malaysia has emerged as the top-performing destination for Chinese travelers, with flight bookings currently 42% ahead of 2019 levels. Because of more lenient visa policies, including visa-free travel to Malaysia and Singapore, and streamlined procedures for South Korea, travel to these destinations is expected to surpass 2019 levels in May.

These findings align with insights from Dragon Trail’s Chinese Traveler Sentiment Report , releasing later on Wednesday. According to the report, visa-free policies, direct flights, and simplified application procedures are also making outbound travel more appealing and accessible.

According to ForwardKeys, a notable shift in passenger profiles is the decrease in group travellers, which has dropped by 53% compared to 2019 levels. In contrast, solo travellers are showing a strong interest in exploring Asian destinations, with a 9% increase.

The Dragon Trail report also highlights growing preference for independent travel among Chinese tourists. Travelers also prefer, semi-self-guided travel and boutique groups of 6-10 people, which offer flexibility and convenience.

Value-Oriented Approach

Along with flexibility and convenience, Chinese travelers are also seeking relaxation and comfort in their trips.

Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and China’s economic downturn in 2023, Chinese travelers are prioritizing relaxation and comfort in their trips.

The economic pressures have led to a value-oriented approach to travel planning, with a majority carefully considering their spending to maximize value and opting for affordable travel options.

Around 20% of respondents who said they would not travel outbound in 2024 cite limited income as a barrier. Only a small percentage (11%) are willing to pay a premium for superior products and services.

Most travelers allocate less than 20% of their income for travel, with budgets typically ranging from RMB10,000 to RMB30,000 for upcoming trips.

Despite budget-consciousness, shopping remains an integral part of outbound travel, with more than two-thirds of travelers spending a minimum of RMB2,000 (US$276) per trip. Local foods and souvenirs are the primary shopping categories, followed by cosmetics, clothing, shoes and bags.

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Tags: asia monthly , budget travel , china , china outbound , golden week , middle east , shopping , turkey , uae

Photo credit: Overall outbound travel from China during this year's May holiday is 13% behind 2019. Florence Lo / Reuters

Middle East: Is it safe to travel to holiday destinations as tension escalates?

Are you going to Turkey, Egypt or Israel on holiday? The Foreign Office has warned travellers to several countries to monitor advice after an Iranian attack on Israel pushed tension in the Middle East up another notch.

Thursday 18 April 2024 08:13, UK

Tension in the Middle East has ratcheted up again after Iran's attack on Israel, as the world waits to see how Benjamin Netanyahu's government will respond. 

With the threat of widening conflict, people due to travel through or over the Middle East may be asking if their plans may be impacted.

On Saturday, flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Here is what airlines are saying and the latest safety advice to travellers.

EasyJet scraps Tel Aviv flights

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

Wizz Air customers could see schedule changes

Wizz Air cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April before resuming its schedule.

But it said customers could experience schedule changes as it closely monitors the situation.

British Airways operating as normal

British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said its flights were continuing to operate as planned, but it too was monitoring the situation.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is a popular holiday destination for people from the UK with the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism saying that last year 3.16 million Britons made the journey there, according to Travel Weekly.

Yet, it borders a number of countries that the Foreign Office advises against travel to.

The vast majority of the country is considered generally safe for tourists, with some exceptions.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria , and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

Some parts of Israel are considered "red zones" by the Foreign Office, with the government advising against all travel there.

For the rest of the country - including East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - the advice is to travel only if it is essential.

Tourist Israel says around 220,000 Britons usually go to the country every year and the Foreign Office is advising against travel close to the border with Gaza, within 5km of the border with Lebanon and within 500m of the border with Syria.

You can see the full updated list of "red zones" on the Foreign Office advice pages.

Occupied Palestinian territories

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Gaza and the West Bank.

Don't travel to Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon or Syria - Foreign Office

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

It advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), where it advises against all but "essential travel".

Can I safely go on holiday in Egypt?

The main tourist areas in Egypt are generally considered safe, including the capital Cairo, cities along the Nile and Red Sea resorts.

Over 1.5 million British Nationals visit Egypt every year, according to analysts Gitnux, and the areas the Foreign Office warns not to travel to include the Governorate of North Sinai, where the Rafah crossing to Gaza is located, and within 20km of the border with Libya.

Read more: Are we heading for World War Three? Experts give their verdicts What are Iran's military capabilities - and where could it strike?

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Check advice on other Middle East states before you travel

Following Iran's attack on Israel, the Foreign Office issued a warning relating to several countries in the surrounding area, telling travellers to check for the latest information.

Included in this are popular destinations like Dubai (visited by more than a million Britons last year according to Travel Weekly) and Marrakech.

"On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast," the FCDO said in a statement.

The countries covered by the warning include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Jordan and Oman.

Anywhere else of concern?

Cyprus is near the region and has a large UK airbase but, as yet, there is no change in travel advice to the popular country.

Related Topics

• Israel-Hamas war
• Middle East

How to have a sustainable holiday in Clare

The county is on course to become ireland’s first certified sustainable tourism destination.

The Armada Hotel, at the top of the beach in beautiful Spanish Point, is currently the only hotel in Ireland to have achieved B Corp certification.

Ten years ago I visited Copenhagen for the first time. Our hotel was carbon-neutral thanks to a giant wind turbine in the car park. Our five-year-old son viewed the city from the front of a cargo bike as we navigated the extensive cycle lanes and cycle bridges of what was the greenest capital city in the world back then. Oslo has since moved into pole position.

These days a Nordic adventure is no longer needed to experience cutting-edge environmental practices while on holiday. Instead, travel west to County Clare, which has recently broken into the top 40 on the Global Destination Sustainability Index.

The Falls Hotel in Ennistymon may not have an on-site windmill but instead it generates up to 100 per cent of its power from a turbine installed in the surging river that flows metres from its front door.

Hotel Doolin became Ireland’s first carbon-neutral hotel in 2019. While Clare can’t compete with Copenhagen’s cycle lane network, this hotel offers a 10 per cent discount to guests hardy enough to arrive by bike.

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The Armada Hotel, at the top of the beach in beautiful Spanish Point, is currently the only hotel in Ireland to have achieved B Corp certification. Considered one of the most trustworthy metrics for sustainability, it can take years of hard work to achieve this impressive environmental accreditation. Intrigued, I visited the hotel over Easter with my wife and son to meet John Burke, the indefatigable owner, and experience first-hand the strides the hotelier has made to future-proof the business.

The road from Ennis to Spanish Point passes a wind farm strewn across a hillside, I’d read that 39 per cent of Clare’s electricity comes from renewables. Climate change is increasingly impacting our weather systems and sadly March 2024 was one of the wettest on record. Luckily the sun comes out as the Armada comes into view, firing-up the 264 solar panels neatly lined along the roof.

Lunch awaits in Aileen’s Restaurant. A wraparound wall of glass perfectly frames the endless view of the Atlantic. The room, with its adjacent Ocean Bar, has to be one of the most glamorous dining spaces in Ireland. It would be a shame not to try the hotel’s own Mist + Moss gin created with juniper berries from the Burren and locally foraged botanicals.

The Armada Hotel, Spanish Point, Co Clare.

Low-impact seafood is a well established feature of the restaurant menu. I order local hake with vegetables grown at the Armada’s own farm up the road, and cooked to perfection on newly installed induction hobs powered by the same solar panels we spotted earlier on the roof.

John Burke took over the reins of this hotel in 1999 from his father and, being no stranger to a challenge, having ascended the summit of Mount Everest, he took on the mission to improve the Armada on every level for both staff and guests.

He explains that B Corp certification is equally focused on employee wellbeing and community engagement, along with the more obvious environmental initiatives. Conferences at the hotel are encouraged to offset their travel footprint by supporting local dune restoration and native tree planting at Armada Farm. All the hotel’s art is by local artists. A wall of beautiful black and white photographs of local surfers and creatives offers guests a portal into the community that makes this corner of Ireland so special.

That night we sleep with the curtains and windows open, not wanting to miss out on the joy of our Atlantic view. I wake before dawn to a daub of yellow moon hovering just above the skyline. Several books about the area are left by our bedside and I read that Dusty Springfield’s ashes were scattered after her death beneath the Cliffs of Moher. This was Dusty’s favourite place in the world, and I can see why.

There’s no single-use plastic in our room and I fill our jug at a water station in the hallway. Coffee is made with compostable pods and I manage to convince my sleeping family to join me for an early morning swim as the beach is tantalisingly close. No chlorinated pool can compete with the thrill of a cold plunge into the ocean from a West of Ireland beach. A seaweed bath back in our room soon has us warm again and ready for the day.

After breakfast I set off inland beyond Miltown Malbay to visit Sam Gleeson at his workshop at the end of a twisting country road. Sam makes exquisite knives that are coveted by chefs, museums and food lovers all over the world. Using recycled steel from Sheffield he scores the polished metal with a decorative patina before adding a handle fashioned from beach plastic or local wood.

A knife in Sam Gleeson's workshop. He makes exquisite knives that are coveted by chefs, museums and food lovers all over the world.

Sam leads me through his vast warehouse, talking me through plans to open Under One Roof, an on-site community crafts and cookery school where cutler skills will be passed on and his partner Niamh Fox will share her wizardry in the kitchen.

He points me towards Moyhill Farm, just over the hill, where organic produce will be sourced for their school.

Fergal Smith realised it was no longer sustainable to travel the world as an elite big wave surfer and instead he and his wife Sally Smith focused their attention on a 65-acre regenerative farm that is very much at the centre of this tight-knit, west Clare community. We haven’t arrived on the right day for a farm tour but instead pick up some veg from the honesty box that’s open on Thursday until Sunday.

Google Maps leads us up a back road towards Doolin with views across to the Aran Islands and Connemara. Some years back the Irish artist Dorothy Cross made an extraordinary video of a boy soprano singing under the third largest stalactite in the world at Doolin Cave. I have wanted to visit ever since.

Doolin Cave

The guided tour down into the 7.3 metre shaft, complete with hard hats, doesn’t disappoint. Discovered in 1952 by two student cavers, this 500,000-year-old beauty at the centre of a pitch black chamber is a jaw-dropping natural wonder. The visitors centre has a green roof for local wildlife, and a range of beautiful ceramics made from clay dug from the cave. Impressively, every possible environmental practice has been implemented to run the business sustainably.

Oysters form part of the delicious menu in the Ocean Bar at the Armada Hotel, Spanish Point.

The Burren Ecotourism Network supports the local business community to adopt green initiatives along with rolling out car charging infrastructure and water refill stations. Even the small clubhouse of Doolin Pitch and Putt has solar panels. My wife is persuaded to pick up a golf club for the first time but even the backdrop of the Cliffs of Moher can’t convince her to carry on beyond the first nine holes. Nagle’s campsite across the road has had a similarly sustainable makeover but as it’s still March we’re glad to be heading back to the warmth of the Armada.

We make a pit stop in Lahinch for a sandwich at Hugo’s Bakery before a sign leads us down a lane to the Irish Chandler candle shop. The welcoming owner, Lisa Barnett, whose birthday it is when we visit, pours her own natural soy candles with fragrances inspired by the region and has even created a candle for our hotel drawing on the scents of the sea.

Back at the hotel, it’s time for the energy and buzz of the Ocean Bar for dinner. Tequila and lime oysters, sizzling skillet prawns, cocktails and great chats with Alex our Spanish waiter make for a lively evening. We even put our heads around the door of Johnny Burke’s pub for some trad music and a nightcap of the hotel’s own Armada 50 Whiskey before walking outside and marvelling at the blaze of stars in the sky at the edge of the Atlantic, soundtracked by the waves on the nearby beach.

Before sleep, I pick up local filmmaker Ken O’Sullivan’s book Stories from the Deep and lose myself until the early hours in his epic tale of tracking whales and marine life in the North Atlantic. Social media on occasion has its merits and before long I’m messaging back and forth with Ken to relay my envy of his aquatic adventures.

Sadly, we need to get back to Dublin the next morning. An American family are the only other early birds joining us for the impressive breakfast buffet at 7am. We fuel up for the trip with chia seed pudding, local eggs cooked to perfection, and freshly baked bread.

Before leaving I speak over coffee to Bernard Cahill, the Armada’s wellbeing manager. Bernard explains that the hotel bought 250 copies of Ken’s book for all of the bedrooms which also can be bought at reception. Supporting the local community is paramount to the hotel, with most of the Armada’s 250 suppliers located within an 80km radius of Spanish Point.

Kermit the Frog famously crooned ‘it’s not easy being Green’. The people I have met in West Clare have shown me that’s not necessarily the case any more – and easy or not, they are doing it anyway.

Fergal McCarthy was a guest of the Armada Hotel, doubles from €180: www.armadahotel.com

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