dream destination travel and tourism

37 Dream Destinations to Add to Your 2024 Travel Bucket List

Looking for the absolute best places to put on your travel bucket list? Lucky for us, our beautiful globe is filled with so many stunning destinations that we will never run out of new places to travel to.

So if you need some travel inspiration for your next trip, you are in the right place! From lush tropical islands and majestic mountain ranges to breathtaking metropolises, fairytale small towns, and incredible natural wonders, here is a list of the most breathtaking destinations in the world that you need to visit at least once in a lifetime.

I personally visited all these dream destinations so I can assure you from first-hand experience that no matter which destination you choose from this list, it will surely leave you speechless. Let’s dive right in!

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Table of Contents

Most Breathtaking Dream Destinations in the World

1. petra, jordan.

If we’re talking about the most breathtaking dream destinations in the world, the ancient city of Petra has to feature on top of the list. The rose-colored city of Petra is one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World and no Jordan itinerary is complete without visiting this magical place!

The most famous spot in Petra is the Treasury which you most likely know from the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade movie.

But there are many more interesting sites in Petra, like the Royal Tombs, the Theatre and the Monastery so it’s best to spend at least one full day in Petra.

If you’re looking for the best view in Petra, don’t forget to check out the Treasury from the above viewpoint !

A one-day ticket to Petra costs 50 JD ($70.50 US) per person but if you’re planning to spend more time in Petra, you can purchase multi-day tickets as well.

It’s worth checking out the Jordan Pass  before buying your tickets as it already includes the entrance ticket to Petra besides the mandatory visa for Jordan.

2. Dolomites, Italy

Covering more than 140,000 hectares with 18 peaks rising above 3,000 meters, the Italian Dolomites are one of the most stunning mountain destinations in the whole world.

Jagged peaks, breathtaking viewpoints, emerald alpine lakes, fairytale towns, amazing hikes, and delicious food – you can have it all in the Dolomites!

If you want to discover one of the best places to visit in Italy , make sure to include the Dolomites in your Northern Italy road trip itinerary .

Getting to the Dolomites is a bit tricky as there is no dedicated airport in the area but luckily you can find bigger airports within a few hours drive such as in Venice, Bergamo, or Milan.

Although you can spend weeks in the area, 5 days in the Dolomites will give you enough time to visit the must-see spots, such as Alpe di Siusi, the church of St. Maddalena in Val di Funes or the Seceda ridgeline.

Hiking at Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the best things to do in the Dolomites and if you want to find one of the best viewpoints in the area, you should also do the Cadini di Misurina hike .

Don’t worry, if you’re not much of a hiker you will still find plenty of amazing things to do in the Dolomites!

You can visit the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites such as Lago di Carezza or the Instagram-famous Lago di Braies, and discover charming little towns like Ortisei or Cortina d’Ampezzo (which is one of the best places to stay in the Dolomites ) or just simply enjoy the delicious Italian cuisine while admiring the stunning landscape at one of the restaurants.

3. New York City, USA

New York City is undoubtedly one of the most popular dream destinations and no USA bucket list is ever complete without visiting the Big Apple.

Many people choose summer for their first trip to New York City but since it’s one of the best Christmas destinations in the USA , visiting the city during the holidays is also a good idea.

If you’re planning to visit New York in December, make sure to check out my article about the best NYC Christmas photo spots and the perfect Christmas in New York itinerary !

NYC boasts so many amazing sights that even a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to discover everything, however, you can easily see the best sights in just one day in New York City .

If you’re visiting NYC for the first time, spending 4 days in New York is the perfect amount to get a better feel of the city and visit more interesting places, even outside of Manhattan.

Midtown Manhattan and Lower Manhattan are definitely some of the best areas to stay in NYC and you can also find 3 of the most iconic viewpoints here: the One World Observatory , the Empire State Building , and the Top of the Rock .

No matter which one you choose, the view will definitely leave you speechless!

Seeing the colorful neon lights in Times Square, taking a stroll in Central Park, and visiting the Statue of Liberty is a must when visiting New York. If you love theatre, you definitely need to watch one of the Broadway Shows for an unforgettable experience.

For history and art lovers, there are tons of museums to choose from such as the American Museum of Natural History or the Metropolitan Museum of Art .

4. Provence, France

Visiting the lavender fields in Provence is a true bucket list experience. If you want to see the fields for yourself, you need to be aware of your timing as it can make or break your trip.

The lavender season in Provence generally lasts from mid-June to mid-July, so make sure to plan your trip according to these dates. For seeing the lavenders in full bloom, the best time to visit is either the last week of June or the first week of July.

Although you can find lavender fields practically anywhere in Provence, the most beautiful fields are located around Valensole so it’s worth staying nearby.

The closest towns are Valensole and Riez but since they are really small, it’s better to stay in one of the bigger towns like Manosque where you will find plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from.

The closest airport to the lavender fields is in Marseille. As there is no public transportation in the area, having a car is necessary so the best option is to rent a car at the airport.

This way you can explore the area at your own pace and you can also include visiting some of the most beautiful towns in France like Roussillon, Gordes or Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

If you’re an outdoor lover, you can also visit Gorges du Verdon where you can rent a boat or a kayak, or just simply chill at the beach.

Apart from lavender fields, you can also find many other fields like sunflower, sage, or hay. Provence is really one of the most beautiful dream destinations in the world so it’s worth spending at least 3-4 days there to be able to explore all the beauty Provence has to offer.

5. Bali, Indonesia

The lush tropical island of Bali is certainly the most famous of the more than 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia. Bali is a dream destination to many and it’s easy to see why.

Whether you’re looking for white sandy beaches, forested volcanic mountains, incredible waterfalls, unbelievably green rice terraces, or beautiful temples, Bali really has it all.

There are so many wonderful sights to explore and various activities to do that it’s recommended to spend 2 weeks in Bali if you really want to see all the beauty the island has to offer.

You can rent a scooter to get around the island but if you’re visiting Bali for the first time , it’s better to hire a private driver who can show you around.

The southern side of Bali is the most touristy area on the island and it’s packed with beautiful beaches, posh cafes, fancy restaurants, and cool party places. Canggu is one of the most popular hotspots for digital nomads and as a result, you can find many amazing restaurants and cafes in Canggu .

The central area is the cultural heart of Bali and it is also the most picturesque side of the island. Ubud is one of the best places to stay in Bali as a first-timer and from there you can reach easily reach some of the best sights on the island such as Tegallalang rice terraces, Campuhan ridge walk, and some of the best waterfalls in Bali like Tegenungan or Kanto Lampo.

If you want to see how Bali looked like 20 years ago before it became a tourist hotspot, make sure to visit the nearby Nusa Islands . Nusa Penida is the most famous one thanks to its T-Rex-shaped beach (Kelingking beach) but the two smaller islands – Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan – are worth visiting as well.

6. Budapest, Hungary

If you’re looking for gorgeous architecture, fairytale castles, world-famous thermal baths, cool ruin bars, and delicious cuisine, you need to put Budapest on your travel bucket list right away. The Hungarian capital has a rich history and it offers many unique things to see and do.

Moreover, Budapest is a really affordable destination, which makes it one of the best places to travel for college students or people traveling on a budget.

Spending a weekend in Budapest will give you the chance to visit the most famous Hungarian landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament, the Buda Castle, and the Fisherman’s Bastion, which is undoubtedly one of the most instagrammable places in Budapest .

If you have more time, it’s even better to spend at least 4 days in Budapest so you can get to experience more sides of the city. Whichever you choose, taking a walk along the Danube river and seeing the majestic buildings rising on both sides will be an unforgettable memory!

Summer is definitely the best time to visit Budapest when the weather is perfect for strolling around. However, it’s also the most crowded time of the year so if you would like to avoid the crowds, it’s better to visit in late spring or early autumn.

Winter is also an amazing time for visiting as the city is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and you can find many amazing Christmas markets in Budapest  as well. In case you’re planning to visit in the holiday season, check out these amazing festive things to do in Budapest in December !

7. Santorini, Greece

The whitewashed cliff-side towns, deep blue roofs, pink bougainvillea flowers, and the endless view of the shimmering Aegean Sea definitely make Santorini one of the most beautiful islands in Greece and it’s one of the best dream destinations that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime!

If you’re visiting Santorini for the first time , try to spend at least 3 days in Santorini to be able to properly explore the island. Oia is one of the most popular places to stay in Santorini and if you’re looking for that postcard-perfect view with the blue domes, you definitely need to put it on your Santorini itinerary.

You will find the best sunset spots in Santorini  in Oia along with some of the most instagrammable places in Santorini , so it’s certainly worth staying there at least one night.

Fira is another great place to stay as there are more options to choose from and it’s generally cheaper as well. Apart from Oia and Fira, make sure to visit the cute town of Imerovigli and the black sandy beach in Perissa, and it’s also worth going on a boat tour to see the sunset.

8. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The ancient city of Angkor Wat is considered the largest religious monument in the world and it has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992. The name Angkor Wat translates to Temple City and it feels quite fitting as the 400 square km area comprises more than 1000 temples.

The closest city to Angkor Wat is Siem Reap so if you want to stay close to the temples, it’s best to book accommodation in Siem Reap.

In order to visit Angkor Wat, you need to purchase an Angkor Pass. It can only be purchased at the official ticket center and you buy a 1-day pass for $ 37 US, a 3-day pass for $62 US, and a 7-day pass for $72 US.

If you’re visiting Angkor Wat for the first time, it’s recommended to purchase a 3-day pass to be able to properly explore the area. Apart from the world-famous Angkor Wat, the other temples like Ta Prohm, Bayon Temple, and Pre Rup are also worth visiting. Keep in mind that these are all religious sites so you need to dress accordingly (you need to cover your knees and shoulders).

9. Venice, Italy

Known for its hundreds of canals, gondolas, and footbridges, it’s no question that Venice is one of the best dream destinations in the world. Plan to spend at least 2 days in Venice if you want to visit the best spots and enjoy the delicious food and the super romantic vibe of the city.

As Venice has been built on more than 100 small islands, there are no roads in the city, hence no cars or motorbikes. The only form of public transportation is the Vaporetto boats that move on the Grand Canal of Venice and they can also take you to smaller islands like Burano, Murano, or Lido.

Taking a gondola ride is one of the best ways to see the city but be prepared to pay big bucks for that, as a 30-minute long gondola ride typically costs around €100 ($109 US).

If you love photography, you’re in for a real treat as you can find countless instagrammable spots in Venice , such as the St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, or the Scala Contarini del Bovolo.

10. Dubai, UAE

The futuristic city of Dubai with its majestic skyscrapers, beautiful parks, gorgeous flower installations, never-ending highways, and insanely beautiful views is definitely a place that needs to feature on your travel bucket list.

The scorching heat makes it impossible to enjoy Dubai in the summer so it’s best to visit either in late autumn, winter, or early spring to have the best weather for sightseeing.

Whether you are looking for a laid-back beach vacation or a holiday filled with adventure, you will definitely find it in Dubai. There are countless amazing things to do in the city so if you want to get the best of your holiday, it’s best to spend at least 4 days in Dubai .

The Burj Khalifa with its 830 meters (2,723 feet) height is currently the tallest building in the world. You can admire it from the ground but it’s worth going up to the top as well from where you can get an awesome view of the city.

Want to make your Dubai trip even more memorable? Then make sure to book one of the best hotels in Dubai with Burj Khalifa view !

Other great things to do in Dubai include visiting Dubai Miracle Garden, swimming at Jumeirah Beach, going on a Dubai desert safari tour , and seeing the Dubai Mall Aquarium. Dubai is also a paradise for photographers as you can find many amazing instagrammable places in Dubai .

You can take some amazing sunset photos at Dubai Creek Harbour, snap a picture with the Burj Khalifa at the Wings of Mexico statue or enjoy the beautiful sand dunes at the Dubai Desert.

11. Paris, France

Paris is not only one of the most beautiful cities in France but it’s also one of the most breathtaking dream destinations in the world. You can easily spend there weeks without getting bored but spending 4 days in Paris is a good start to discovering the best of the city.

You can find a wide range of accommodations in Paris, however, if you want to make your stay even more memorable, make sure to book a hotel with Eiffel Tower view !

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time , seeing the famous Eiffel Tower must be on your itinerary. No pictures do justice to how incredible the Iron Lady is in real life!

If you want to take some amazing pictures with the Eiffel Tower, head over to Trocadero on the other side of the Seine river. This beautiful square offers an incredible view of the Eiffel Tower, no wonder it’s one of the most popular Instagram spots in Paris !

Paris is also home to many world-class museums and while many people decide to visit the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa, Musée d’Orsay and Musée Rodin are also worth exploring.

The best things to do in Paris include shopping on the Champs-Elysées, eating countless macarons and croissants, visiting the Sacré-Coeur, wandering through the cute streets of Montmartre, and seeing a show at the famous Moulin Rouge.

If you’re planning to stay longer or you have some extra time, it’s worth considering doing some day trips from Paris . Disneyland and the Palace of Versailles are usually the most popular choices but thanks to the amazing train system, you can easily reach Strasbourg, Metz, or even London within a few hours.

12. Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan, which was once the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful dream destinations you can ever visit.

Located in the Mandalay region of Myanmar, Bagan is mostly famous for its ancient temples and the hot air balloons flying above the temples during sunrise.

Bagan is an absolutely wonderful place to visit and no Myanmar itinerary is complete without spending at least 3 days in Bagan. The area was once home to more than 10,000 temples but unfortunately, a big chunk of them was destroyed during the centuries.

Don’t worry though, you can still find more than 3,800 temples scattered around Bagan that are waiting to be explored.

Temple hopping is definitely one of the best things to do in Bagan, especially at sunrise when you can admire the hot air balloons in the sky above the temples. If you’re interested, you can also go for a hot air balloon ride which is certainly an unforgettable experience.

Since Bagan covers a huge area, you either have to hire a driver with a tuk-tuk or if you want to explore the area by yourself, you can rent an electric scooter.

If you want to stay close to the temples, you can choose between 3 different places. Old Bagan is the closest one to the temples but you won’t find so many accommodation options there, mostly just luxury hotels.

New Bagan is a little bit further but it offers a wider range of accommodations. The last (and in my opinion the best) option is to stay in Nyaung-U, which is quite close to the temples and you can find amazing hotels and restaurants in the city.

13. Hallstatt, Austria

Located in the Salzkammergut area, the picturesque little town of Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria and a dream destination for anyone who loves fairytale villages.

The town is sitting on the shores of Lake Hallstatt at the foot of the Dachstein Mountains so the incredible scenery is guaranteed. Hallstatt is dotted with many beautiful Alpine-style houses and amazing cafes and restaurants tucked away in cute little alleyways.

The best things to do in Hallstatt include getting lost in the small streets of the old town, taking a stroll on the lakefront, renting a boat to see Hallstatt from the lake, and trying the most delicious Austrian treats in one of the cafes or restaurants.

If you’re looking for the best viewpoints in Hallstatt, there are two of them you need to visit. The first viewpoint called Aussichtpunkt Hallstatt is located right by the lake and offers a postcard-perfect view of the town.

The second one, the World Heritage Skywalk is located on top of the mountains where you can get a panoramic view over the entire town, the lake, and the surrounding mountains. The easiest option to get to the World Heritage Skywalk is to take the funicular but if you’re not afraid of a little workout, you can hike up as well.

Hallstatt is really popular among foreign tourists, therefore it’s insanely crowded during the summer. If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, try to visit in the shoulder season instead of summer.

Spending one day in Hallstatt is enough to explore the best places in town and if you don’t want to stay there, you can stay in Salzburg instead, from where you can reach Hallstatt within 1.5 hours.

It also fits nicely into any Austria road trip itinerary so there is absolutely no reason to skip this cute little town during your Austria adventures!

14. Bangkok, Thailand

The vibrant, chaotic city of Bangkok is the most popular starting point of any Thailand vacation or Southeast Asian adventure. While many people only have a short layover in the city and often have only 24 hours in Bangkok , it’s best to set aside some extra days for discovering all the beauty the city has to offer.

It’s worth spending at least  4 days in Bangkok  to be able to see the best places in the city and visit a few attractions around Bangkok as a day trip. From stunning temples like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, or Wat Arun, huge shopping malls like Siam Paragon or ICONSIAM to sprawling markets and countless amazing rooftop bars, Bangkok really has it all.

Bangkok is home to many unique markets, such as the Talad Rot Fai Night Market or the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is currently the biggest open-air market in the world.

You can also visit two of the most unique markets, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Maeklong Railway Market. These are located outside of Bangkok so you will need to have your own scooter or  book an organized tour  in order to get there.

If you want to make your stay in Bangkok even more memorable, make sure to check out these incredible Bangkok hotels with infinity pools !

15. Bavaria, Germany

Located in Southeast Germany, the region of Bavaria is mostly known for its fairytale castles, magical small towns, and incredible landscapes. Bavaria is easily the most beautiful region in Germany and doing a road trip through Bavaria has to be on the top of your Germany bucket list .

One of the most beautiful dream destinations in Bavaria is the Neuschwanstein Castle. Located in a small town called Hohenschwangau close to the German-Austrian border, Neuschwanstein Castle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful fairytale castles in Europe .

You can easily visit Neuschwanstein Castle as a day trip from Munich but it’s worth spending a few days nearby to be able to properly explore the area. You can find many amazing viewpoints at Neuschwanstein Castle and there are some well-established hiking trails in the area as well.

Another unmissable place to visit in Bavaria is Lake Eibsee. The lake is located at the foot of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, so it’s possible to visit both places on the same day. You can take a cog-wheel train or a cable car to the top of Zugspitze from where you can get an amazing panoramic view over the area.

If you’re looking for the best small towns in Germany, you can’t leave Bavaria without visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The town boasts many half-timbered buildings and cobbled lanes so walking through Rothenburg ob der Tauber definitely feels like being in a fairytale.

Berchtesgaden and Garmisch-Partenkirchen are also worth visiting, as well as Munich, the capital of Bavaria.

16. Hong Kong

The lively and vibrant city of Hong Kong is one of the must-see places in East Asia that you should add to your travel bucket list right away.

Located in the southern part of China, Hong Kong is actually a special administrative region of China with a high degree of autonomy. While you need to have a visa for visiting China, luckily most nationalities can enter Hong Kong visa-free.

There is no shortage of beautiful green parks, bustling street markets, huge shopping malls, and world-class art exhibitions in Hong Kong, not to mention all the amazing restaurants and cafes you can find all over the city.

Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon area are the most popular places among visitors but it’s also worth taking a day trip to Lantau Island where you can visit the huge Tian Tan Buddha statue.

Hong Kong boasts many interesting sights to see, therefore it’s worth spending at least 2 days in Hong Kong to be able to see all the beauty the city has to offer.

Some of the best things to do in Hong Kong include riding the Star Ferry, strolling around Victoria Harbour, admiring the Monster Building, exploring the different neighborhoods, and shopping at Temple Street Night Market.

If you want to find one of the best viewpoints in the city, take the Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak from where you can get an amazing panoramic view over Hong Kong. Another great viewpoint is the Red Incense Burner Summit on top of Braemar Hill which also offers an incredible view of the Hong Kong skyline.

17. Jungfrau region, Switzerland

Although the whole country of Switzerland is absolutely wonderful if you only have limited time or you want to concentrate on only one region, make it the Jungfrau region.

Located south of the Swiss capital city, Bern, the Jungfrau region is actually a smaller part of Bernese Oberland and it’s mostly known for its diverse landscape consisting of beautiful alpine lakes, snowcapped mountains, amazing hiking trails, and fairytale small towns.

Interlaken is one of the largest towns in the area, located between two amazing lakes: Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. You will find plenty of things to do around Interlaken, such as going on a boat tour or taking the cable car up to Harder Kulm.

On top of that, Interlaken can also serve as the perfect base for discovering the area, or even as a base for a larger Switzerland road trip .

One of the main highlights of the region is Jungfraujoch, a 3,454 meters (11,330 ft) high mountain peak that was used as a filming location for one of the James Bond movies (On Her Majesty’s Secret Service). Although the view from the top is definitely fascinating, be prepared to pay big bucks for the experience as a return ticket starts from 195 CHF ($221 US).

Grindelwald is another unmissable sight in the Jungfrau region. You can take a cable car up to Grindelwald-First from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the nearby mountains. If you’re up for a little workout, you can do a 3 km (1.8 miles) hike to reach one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland, Bachalpsee.

When in the Jungfrau region, you can’t miss the picturesque fairytale town of Lauterbrunnen. Set in the Lauterbrunnen Valley featuring rocky cliffs and beautiful waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is one of the most beautiful dream destinations in the region and an absolute must-visit on every Switzerland itinerary.

18. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia is definitely a place that needs to feature on every Southeast Asia bucket list. Majestic skyscrapers, historical landmarks, colonial architecture, luxurious shopping malls, beautiful parks, friendly locals, and stylish cafes and restaurants – Kuala Lumpur really has it all.

While most tourists stick to the Golden Triangle – Kuala Lumpur’s main hub that comprises KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Chinatown – the city is actually pretty big and it offers numerous amazing sights to see.

It’s worth spending at least 3 days in Kuala Lumpur but even if you have one week to spend in the city, you will definitely not get bored.

The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the city’s skyline and they are certainly one of the most well-known landmarks and also one of the most Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur . The towers with their 452 meters (1,483 feet) height used to be the tallest twin towers in the world until 1996.

Visiting the Petronas Towers and admiring the beautiful view from the Observation Deck on the 86 th floor is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

If you love panoramic views, you can also visit the 421 meters (1,380 feet) tall KL Tower, otherwise known as Menara KL. Even if you have only one day in Kuala Lumpur , it’s worth visiting the colorful stairs at Batu Caves, a 400 million-year-old limestone cave with a 100-year-old temple.

Other great things to do in Kuala Lumpur include visiting the Perdana Botanical Gardens, taking a stroll in KLCC Park, getting lost in Chinatown, grabbing a meal on Jalan Alor, and taking a day trip to the Cameron Highlands.

19. Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is mostly known for its vibrant nightlife and great bars so it’s undoubtedly a perfect destination for traveling with friends or as a couple, but it can be a great place for a family vacation as well thanks to its laidback vibes.

Like most of the islands in Greece, Mykonos is also well connected to the other islands and Athens by ferry, but since it has its own airport it’s easily accessible by plane as well.

If you’re visiting Mykonos for the first time, it’s best to stay in Mykonos Town which is the liveliest part of the island. You will find the most instagrammable places in Mykonos there, along with many amazing cafes and restaurants.

Windmills are one of the icons of the island, you can find 5 of them lining up next to each other near Little Venice in Mykonos Town. It’s also one of the most popular sunset spots in Mykonos so it’s worth going there in the evening to see the breathtaking sunset colors.

There are many public buses running between Mykonos Town and the most popular beaches so it’s quite easy to get around the island. You can also rent a car or an ATV so you will be free to go around at your own pace.

Spending 3 days in Mykonos is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights of the island but if you’re looking for a more relaxing holiday and planning to spend more time at the beaches, you can easily spend one week in Mykonos as well.

20. Lake Bled, Slovenia

The fairytale-looking Lake Bled with its small island in the middle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful dream destinations to visit in Europe. Surrounded by the snowcapped Julian Alps, the emerald-green Lake Bled is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a family vacation as well.

Lake Bled is one of the most popular day trips from Ljubljana – the capital city of Slovenia – but since it offers countless amazing activities, it’s best to spend at least 2 days at Lake Bled.

Walking around the lake is definitely one of the best ways to explore the area. The lake is quite small so you can easily complete the whole lake circuit in just 1-2 hours.

If you’re up for a little workout, you can climb up to Mala Osojnica, which is one of the best viewpoints at Lake Bled and it offers an incredible panoramic view over the lake and the whole area. The hike can be completed in 45-60 minutes and it’s a fairly easy one, although wearing proper hiking shoes is highly recommended.

Sitting on top of a steep cliff, 130 meters (425 feet) above Lake Bled, Bled Castle is another unmissable sight in Bled. It’s said to be the oldest castle in the country and it’s currently one of the most popular tourist attractions in Slovenia.

When in Bled, you can’t miss renting a boat or kayaking on the lake, and if the weather permits, you can also swim in the crystal clear waters.

21. Rome, Italy

Rome is one of the most popular travel bucket list destinations, for a good reason! The Italian capital is just simply stunning and it’s definitely not to be missed when planning a trip to Italy.

Rome is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and you can easily spend weeks exploring all the beauty the city has to offer. Although it’s possible to see the major landmarks of Rome in a day , it’s best to spend at least 3 days in Rome to be able to fully explore the city.

And of course, to try as many amazing Italian foods as you can!

Some of the best things to do in Rome includes strolling up the Spanish Steps, admiring the Trevi Fountain, visiting Forum Romanum and the Colosseum, exploring Castel Sant’Angelo, wandering around the Trastevere neighborhood, and climbing up to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica from where you can get an incredible panoramic view over the city.

If you’re a first-time visitor in Rome, it’s best to stay in Centro Storico which is definitely one of the best areas to stay in Rome if you want to explore the classic highlights or find the best Instagram spots in Rome .

Other great areas to stay in include Esquilino, Trastevere, and Monti. Monti is the home of the Colosseum so you’ll find many amazing hotels with views of the Colosseum in this area.

22. Siquijor, Philippines

Although the small, charming island of Siquijor is located quite close to the southern coast of Cebu and Bohol, it’s not so popular among tourists which makes it one of the best islands in the Philippines if you want to escape the crowds.

It takes only 1.5 hours to reach Siquijor from Bohol by ferry so it’s worth combining a trip to both islands.

Pristine beaches, dramatic waterfalls, beautiful corals, and friendly locals are just a few of the many highlights Siquijor has to offer. Cliff diving in Salagdoong Beach is one of the most popular things to do on the island, where you can jump from a 10 meters (33 ft) high cliff into the crystal clear water.

If you’re looking for the most beautiful beach in Siquijor, head over to the white sandy Paliton Beach which is also one of the best sunset spots on the island.

Another must-visit is Cambugahay Falls – a three-tiered waterfall offering many pools to swim in and ropes and swings to let your inner child out.

It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places on the island but since it’s also one of the most popular tourist spots in Siquijor , it can get quite crowded during the day. It’s better to get there early to have the place all to yourself!

Since Siquijor is quite small, you will only need 2 full days in Siquijor to explore the best places on the island but if you’re looking for a laid-back, relaxing holiday, you can easily spend up to one week on the island.

The best option for getting around is to rent a scooter but tricycles, private drivers, and organized tours are also available. Most of the tourist spots are located on the southern coast so it’s best to book a hotel in this part of the island.

23. Golden Circle, Iceland

Although Iceland is one of the best dream destinations in the world in itself and it’s worth spending at least a week in Iceland, if you’re short on time then you can concentrate on one of the most popular sightseeing routes in Iceland, the Golden Circle.

The Golden Circle consists of three unique and beautiful sights: the Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

All three sights are relatively close to Reykjavik – the capital city of Iceland – so it’s possible to visit all of them in just one day. The whole route is just under 230 km (140 miles) in length so you can complete it in 3 hours but you will need a full day if you want to enjoy the attractions as well.

You can find countless tours operating on the Golden Circle route but if you rent a car, it’s possible to do the tour by yourself as well.

Start your Golden Circle route by visiting Thingvellir National Park first. Thingvellir was the first parliament of Iceland (and the world’s first parliament as well) and the national park is also famous for being the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

The next stop is usually the Geysir Geothermal Area, where you can find beautiful volcanic landscapes, and the Strokkur Geysir, which erupts every 6-10 minutes. The last stop in the Golden Circle route is Gullfoss waterfall which is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.

It’s worth taking a detour on the way back from Gullfoss waterfall and seeing Kerið crater as well. If you have more time in Iceland, make sure to spend some time in Reykjavik as well and you can also visit the famous Blue Lagoon, located only 45 minutes away from Reykjavik.

24. London, United Kingdom

London is one of the most iconic and well-known cities in Europe, attracting millions of tourists every year. Home to the British royal family and many historical landmarks, London is definitely a city that needs to be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Seeing Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament is a must when visiting London, and no London bucket list is complete without admiring the Tower Bridge and taking a ride on the London Eye.

Apart from the historical landmarks, there are many unique things to do in London. If you’re a Harry Potter fan you definitely need to go for a  Warner Bro’s Studio Tour  where you can explore the wonders of the Wizarding World.

You can also visit the Madame Tussauds wax museum and the London Dungeon or watch a musical at one of the famous theatres in London. Don’t forget to try an authentic English breakfast and fish and chips while you’re in the city!

Spending a weekend in London is a good start but if you want to properly explore the city, you will need to stay for at least 5 days in the city. If you’re planning to do a few day trips from London, you can stay even longer!

25. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Although Dubai mostly outshines Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates is still one of the top dream destinations in the world and it’s very well worth visiting.

Most people only spend one day in Abu Dhabi , either as a layover or as a day trip from Dubai. However, if you have more time, it’s better to spend 2-3 days in the city as it has lots of amazing things to offer.

One of the highlights of Abu Dhabi is the fairytale-looking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the entire world and it also offers some of the best photography spots in Abu Dhabi .

Visiting the Mosque is free but there is a really strict dress code. As a woman, you need to wear an abaya they gave you at the entrance which has to cover your whole body and your hair as well. The dress code is not that strict for men but they still need to cover their arms and knees.

Another must-see place in Abu Dhabi is the Qasr al Watan Palace. It’s a fairly new landmark (opened in March 2019) inside the Presidential Palace and it looks absolutely incredible both from the outside and inside as well.

Most people don’t know that, but you can actually find a Louvre in Abu Dhabi as well. It’s significantly smaller than the one in Paris but if you love museums, you will definitely enjoy it. If you have more time in Abu Dhabi, you can take a desert tour, visit the Ferrari World or enjoy one of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi as well.

26. Florence, Italy

If you love art and culture, you definitely need to put Florence on the top of your travel bucket list. Being the birthplace of the Renaissance, the capital of Tuscany boasts many interesting museums such as the Uffizi Gallery where you can see Botticelli’s Birth of Venus or the Galleria dell’Accademia which is home to Michelangelo’s famous David statue.

It’s recommended to spend at least 2 days in Florence to be able to discover all the beauty the city has to offer. Florence can also serve as a base for your Tuscany road trip as it’s easy to visit the highlights of Tuscany from the city and it also offers countless day trip opportunities.

Apart from the countless museums, visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, otherwise known as the Duomo di Firenze is a must. Other great things to do in Florence include crossing Ponte Vecchio, strolling around Mercato San Lorenzo (the famous outdoor leather market), and visiting the Basilica of Santa Croce.

If you’re looking for the best viewpoint in Florence, head over to Piazzale Michelangelo where you can admire an amazing sunset over the city.

27. Singapore

The vibrant, futuristic city of Singapore is one of the biggest hubs in Southeast Asia and it’s also one of the most beautiful dream destinations in the world.

Singapore is a totally walkable city and all the main sights are relatively close to each other so it’s easy to see all the best spots in just one day in Singapore . This is also good news for budget travelers as Singapore is quite expensive!

The Supertree Grove is the most iconic spot in Singapore and you definitely have to include it in your Singapore itinerary. These Supertrees are actually not trees – they are made of concrete and steel and they work like a vertical garden, giving a home to more than 158,000 plants.

Walking amongst them feels like you are in another world!

The Supertrees look really amazing in the daylight as well but the real magic comes when the night falls. The trees are performing a magnificent music and light show which is an absolutely magical experience to witness.

Another great show to see in Singapore is the Spectra, which is a light and water show performed by many dancing fountains and colorful visual projections.

Singapore has so many unique things to offer that it’s impossible to get bored in the city. You can visit the world’s largest indoor waterfall in the Cloud Forest, enjoy the beautiful tropical plants in the Flower Dome, take a stroll around Chinatown or see the iconic Merlion statue in Merlion Park.

28. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Often referred to as the Venice of the North due to its hundreds of canals, Amsterdam has a truly unique vibe and it’s undoubtedly one of the best bucket list destinations to visit in Europe.

The city is mostly known for the Red Light District and the world-famous coffee shops (aka weed shops) but it has many more amazing things to offer.

You can find many great art museums in Amsterdam like the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum and if you’re interested in Jewish history you can visit the Anne Frank House as well. For the best panoramic views, head over to A’DAM Tower where you can also try Europe’s highest swing on the observation deck.

Going on a canal tour is certainly one of the best ways to see the city and if you want to learn more about its history, you can join a free walking tour as well.

Spending 2 days in Amsterdam is enough to cover the main tourist spots but if you have more time in the city, rent a bike and take a day trip to the nearby Zaanse Schans windmills  as well! It’s worth scheduling your visit in spring to see the tulip fields in full bloom and enjoy the mild weather in Amsterdam.

29. Chiang Rai, Thailand

The small town of Chiang Rai is often overlooked by tourists, however, it’s definitely one the best places to visit in Thailand and a real dream destination for those who love visiting unique temples. Located close to the borders of Laos and Myanmar, Chiang Rai is home to some of the most unique temples you can find in Thailand.

Wat Rong Khun, or otherwise known as the White Temple is the most famous one with its fully white and majestic design. It’s actually no longer a temple but a privately owned art exhibit. The White Temple is filled with Buddhist symbolism and the white color represents the purity of Buddha.

Besides the White Temple, you also can visit the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) which is a relatively new attraction since it’s only been finished in 2016. The deep blue colors against the shiny golden details create a very unique atmosphere and since the temple is free to visit it’s definitely worth including it in your Chiang Rai itinerary .

If you have more than one day in Chiang Rai, you should go up to the nearby hill to visit the Huay Pla Kung Temple. The temple is mostly known for the huge statue sitting on top of the hill which is often mistakenly referred to as the Big Buddha, but it actually represents the goddess of Mercy.

The stairway leading up to the statue is guarded by beautifully designed, white dragon statues and once you are up there, you will have the most amazing view over the city.

30. Cinque Terre, Italy

If you love colorful small towns, Cinque Terre is definitely one of the top dream destinations you need to visit on your next trip to Italy. Cinque Terre (which means ‘Five Lands’ in English) comprises five small villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

Located on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, these five small fishing villages are known for their colorful little houses, incredible vineyards, beautiful harbors filled with fishing boats, and amazing restaurants selling delicious seafood.

You can spend a few days in each village if you want to properly discover them but even if you have one day in Cinque Terre , it’s still possible to see them all.

You can find many amazing Airbnbs in Cinque Terre and if you’re on a budget, La Spezia is one of the best places to stay in Cinque Terre .

Cinque Terre is closed to car traffic but don’t worry, you have countless other options for visiting the small villages. The easiest option is to take a train which connects the five villages with La Spezia and Levanto, a one-day ticket costs €18.20 ($19.80 US).

You can also decide to hike between the villages, in this case, you only need to purchase a Cinque Terre Trekking Card which costs €7.50 ($8.20 US) for one day. In the summer months, it’s also possible to get to the villages by boat but they don’t run as frequently as the train does.

31. Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Located in the southern part of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Mostar is mostly known for its iconic Stari Most, or otherwise known as Old Bridge. The bridge is not only beautiful to look at but if you’re up for an adrenaline rush, you can also jump off from the 24-meters (almost 80 ft) tall bridge.

As Mostar can easily be visited in one day, many tourists are only going there as a day trip from Dubrovnik or Split. However, it’s worth spending at least one night in the city to experience its charming vibes and soak in the beautiful views.

Mostar can be extremely crowded during the day (especially in the summer months) but if you are staying the night you can explore the city the next morning in a much calmer way.

Some of the best things to do in Mostar include visiting the Old Bridge Museum, shopping in the Old Bazaar, and climbing up to the top of Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque which offers an amazing panoramic view.

Mostar also boosts many amazing restaurants – many with an amazing view of the Old Bridge – where you can try some of the best dishes from the Balkans such as cevapi or burek.

32. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Lying on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is definitely one of the best dream destinations in Europe.

Often referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, this charming city has recently become quite famous among visitors as it was the main filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Even if you haven’t seen a single episode, you need to put this city on your travel bucket list right away!

The city is quite small so spending 3 days in Dubrovnik is enough to discover the best places but if you’re looking for a more relaxed holiday, you can easily spend up to one week in the city. Even if you have only one day in Dubrovnik you need to go up to the city walls – the view is just incredible from up there!

If you have more time, you can take a ferry ride or a kayak tour to the nearby Lokrum island , go for a Game of Thrones walking tour , relax at the beautiful beaches or take a day trip to Kotor (Montenegro) or Mostar (Bosnia-Herzegovina).

On a clear day, it’s also worth riding the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ from where you can get an incredible panoramic view over the city.

33. Prague, Czech Republic

Known for its rich architectural heritage and beautiful old town, the city of Prague has become a popular tourist hotspot in Europe over the last few years. The historical center of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exploring the charming little streets in the Old Town is a really unique experience.

Walking across the charming Charles Bridge is one of the best things to do in Prague and if you’re traveling with your significant other, you can also put up a lock on the Love Lock Bridge.

Other great things to do in Prague include taking a walking tour in the Jewish Quarter , admiring the unique Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square,  visiting the Prague Castle , and trying the delicious Czech cuisine.

The Czech Republic is also famous for its world-class beers so if you’re a beer lover you can go for a beer tour or visit the Prague Beer Museum as well. Prague is one of the best weekend getaways in Europe but you can easily spend more time in Prague without ever getting bored.

Located in the heart of the French Riviera, the micro-state of Monaco definitely belongs to the best places to visit once in a lifetime. One day in Monaco gives you plenty of time to explore the country but if you plan to stay longer, there is no shortage of amazing hotels and apartments in (or very close to) Monaco.

If you’re short on time, you can also visit Monaco as a day trip from Nice but if you can stay longer, it also fits nicely into a French Riviera road trip .

When thinking about Monaco, the casino of Monte-Carlo is often the first one that comes to mind. Even if you’re not into gambling, seeing the beautiful building of the casino will surely leave you speechless. Not to mention all the fancy and expensive cars parking in front of it!

Taking a walk around Port Hercules and admiring the gorgeous yachts is another unmissable thing to do in Monaco. After that, head over to ‘The Rock’ – the oldest part of Monaco where you will find plenty of cute pastel-colored houses.

You will get the best views of the marina from there and you can also check out the Prince’s Palace and the Saint Nicholas Cathedral.

35. Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, the fourth smallest country in Europe is a must-visit for anyone who loves alpine landscapes and beautiful medieval castles. Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein covers only 160 km 2  which makes it possible to see all the best places in the country even if you have only one day in Liechtenstein .

Vaduz, the capital city of Liechtenstein is certainly the most popular place to visit in the country. It offers many great sights to see, such as Vaduz Castle, the Kunstmuseum, or the Vaduz Cathedral.

You can find some cute cafes and restaurants in the city so you can easily spend half a day in Vaduz and if you’re interested, you can also get a stamp on your passport at the tourism office.

Apart from Vaduz, it’s worth visiting the mountain town of Triesenberg, the cute little town of Balzers with its majestic castle and the beautiful lake of Stausee Steg.

Although you can visit Liechtenstein as a day trip from either Switzerland or Austria, it’s worth staying there longer, especially if you’re planning to do a few hikes.

36. Barcelona, Spain

Nestled between the beautiful mountains and the inviting coastline, Barcelona is definitely one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe. The capital of Catalonia is mostly known for the famous La Sagrada Familia and the many colorful and breathtaking works of Antonio Gaudi across the city.

Starting from the gorgeous architecture to the most amazing local food, there are just so many things to love about Barcelona!

Although you can see almost all the must-see spots in just 24 hours in Barcelona, it’s worth spending at least 3 days in the city to truly experience its unique vibe.

Walking through the Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter, admiring the unique architecture of the La Sagrada Familia, visiting Casa Batlló and Casa Mila, and seeing the sunset in the Park Güell are some of the best things to do in Barcelona you can’t miss.

If you have more time in the city, you can go up to Mount Tibidabo where you can spend a fun day in the amusement park and have an amazing panoramic view over Barcelona.

Since Barcelona is really popular among tourists, it usually gets very crowded during the summer. If you want to visit without the crowds, try to plan a trip to Barcelona in the off-season.

Since the city is blessed with mild temperatures during winter, it’s also one of the best winter sun destinations in Europe if you want to escape the cold.

37. Kotor, Montenegro

If you’re looking for a beautiful and affordable hidden gem in Europe, you need to put Kotor on your travel bucket list. Located in gorgeous scenery right next to the Adriatic Bay and the limestone cliffs of Mount Lovcen, Kotor is not only a dream destination to visit but it can also serve as a great base for discovering all the beauty Montenegro has to offer.

The Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Old Town, the fortifications, and the bay. Inside the city walls, you will find a maze of cobbled streets with many stone houses and piazzas.

If you’re not afraid of a little workout, you can climb up the 1,350 steps to the Castle of San Giovanni where you can have an amazing panoramic view over the city, the bay, and the mountains. Taking a boat tour and visiting the Lady of the Rocks on an artificial island is another great thing to do in Kotor.

If you want to properly explore the city, you should spend at least 2 days in Kotor but if you’re planning to use it as a base to discover the rest of the country, you can easily stay up to one week.

Some great places to visit close to Kotor are Tivat, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and the Lovcen National Park and it’s also possible to take a day trip to Dubrovnik as well.

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6 thoughts on “37 Dream Destinations to Add to Your 2024 Travel Bucket List”

wow this awoke my wanderlust! wish to visit all these places once in my lifetime 🙂

I hope you will get to see a lot of these dream destinations in the near future! Can’t wait to travel again!

very nice website.

I was expecting to see a few African destinations such as Cape Town or Zanzibar. Much to my disappointment..

Unfortunately, I haven’t been to Africa yet and since I only featured destinations where I’ve actually been to, I couldn’t include anything from Africa. Hoping to change that one day though!

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Dream Destinations For Your Bucket List + Budget Tours To Get There

What’s on your travel bucket list?  All of us have dream destinations that we hope to get to one day.  Find out some of the most lusted-after destinations in the world, and learn how to make your travel dreams a reality with small group tours at prices everyone can afford.

Especially these last few years, looking forward to future travel has kept many of us going.  Perhaps you long for the beaches of Bali, the energy of Tokyo, or to trace the footsteps of ancestors in Italy or Ireland.  But with limited vacation time and funds, as well as family responsibilities, it can be hard to make these travel bucket lists a reality.

The solution: I’ve got dreamy additions to your bucket list, but I’m also sharing REAL recommendations for budget and mid-range tours so you can actually get there. Follow along with awesome travel inspo plus top tour recommendations. Then start turning your bucket list into your favorite memories!

I’ve compiled my list from polls of dream travel destinations as well as up-and-coming spots where I see other bloggers and Instagrammers traveling, including my own favorites.  These itineraries are perfect for solo travelers, friends and couples, plus some options specifically for families or parents with kids and teens. 

Pin these dream destinations and tours to your travel inspo board!

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

In this Guide to Dream Travel Destinations

The Americas  | Asia Destinations  |  Europe Destinations  |  The Middle East  | Africa Destinations  | Oceania | Antarctica | Airfare Tips

What are Small Group Adventure Tours?

Small group tours take care of the planning and logistics of travel, so that you can focus on the experience. They make travel more attainable and affordable, with tour styles at a variety of price points. Adventure tours also take away some of the stresses of traveling solo or to off-the-beaten-path places.

I started out traveling with small group tours, and it gave me the experience and confidence I needed to travel solo later. This is my #1 tip for anyone who wants to get started traveling!

Two of my favorite adventure travel companies are G Adventures and Intrepid Travel. Read my reviews of adventure tour companies to find out why there’s a small group trip right for you.

A Tour? Really?

Yes! These are small group tours based on authentic experiences, not buses depositing you at the Grand Canyon. Plus no one will ever know from your selfies that you’re on a tour. It’ll be your secret when your trip mates help you get the perfect shot at Machu Picchu.

Trip Styles 

In this guide, the tours I recommend will fall into the categories below. Keep in mind that the tours generally don’t include meals or airfare (but I have some airfare hacks for you later in the article) :

• “Original” or “Classic” tours:  budget to mid-range tours for all adult travelers
• “Basic” tours for 18 to thirty-somethings: budget itineraries geared toward younger travelers with active adventures 
• “Family” tours: geared toward families or parents with children or teenagers, with family accommodation and itineraries
• “Sailing” tours: yes, for real – there are affordable sailing adventures in many coastal destinations!

Dream Destinations in the Americas

Machu Picchu, Peru | History & Adventure Dream Destination

UNESCO site and “New World Wonder” Machu Picchu is one of the top dream destinations for many travelers. This Inca city was built in the 15th century but later abandoned. It was lost to the outside world for centuries until “rediscovered” by historian and explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.  Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is mysterious and iconic.  Get the best views of its green terraces and preserved stone buildings from the peak of Huayna Picchu, which a limited number of travelers can climb each day.  

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is in June – September during the dry winter season, although travelers who want smaller crowds and greener landscape can visit when I did, at the beginning of the rainy season in October – November.

Most visitors reach Machu Picchu by train.  But in the last 20 years, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has become a rite of passage for adventure travelers.  I trekked with my sister, and it was one of my most challenging yet ultimately fulfilling adventures yet! 

Discover the mysteries of Machu Picchu yourself with these tour options from $1257:

Inca Trail Trek | Machu Picchu Adventure | Peru Family Experience

Mexico: Maya Ruins & Day of the Dead | Bucket List Destination for Culture & History

Mexico is one of my own favorite travel destinations, with stunning natural landscapes, rich culture and history, and fantastic regional cuisines.  Two Mexico attractions in particular are bucket list items for many travelers: seeing Mayan ruins and experiencing the Dia de los Muertos festival.

Mayan ruins stretch from sites in Cancun throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, with Mexico’s most famous being Chichen Itza, seaside ruins at Tulum , and Palenque set deep in the jungle. There are even ruins you can climb at Ek Balam near Valladolid .

The annual Day of the Dead festival is celebrated at the end of October each year. In particular, Oaxaca and Mexico City are popular places to experience the holiday.  In Mexico City, explore Day of the Dead history and traditions including street festivities and the famous parade.  For Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca , learn about the holiday’s history and culture with traditional cemetery vigils, local parades, and visits to the surrounding villages.

Immerse yourself in Mexico’s history and culture with these tours starting from $1222:

Mayan Encounter | Classic Mexico Adventure | Day of the Dead in Oaxaca | Mexico City Day of the Dead

Galapagos Islands | Nature Dream Destination

The Galapagos Islands are known for their diversity of plant and animal species, including many not found anywhere else in the world. For true nature and adventure travelers, visiting the Galapagos is at the top of their dream places to visit. See sea lions, tortoises, marine iguanas, and an array of birds, plus experience active hiking and fantastic snorkeling in one of the world’s most special destinations.

Check out these pared-down affordable itineraries to make your Galapagos dreams a reality, starting from just $1799:

Galapagos Adventure [18-39] | Galapagos Island Hopping | Family Land Galapagos

Asia Bucket List Destinations

Bali, Indonesia | Beaches, Temples & Culture

Bali is a dream destination for so many travelers.  Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali has long been a place for people seeking balance through meditation and yoga.  It’s also a popular destination for surfing and active adventures.  Explore volcanoes, tour ancient temples, and relax on its beaches: white sand in the south, and black sand on the northern and eastern coasts. 

Much of the tourism in Bali is centered around its cultural capital, Ubud. But throughout the island you’ll discover ornate Hindu temples, lush landscapes, and friendly people. The best time to visit Bali is the dry season, April through October; avoid the rainy season October – March.

I was lucky to get to see Bali’s green rice terraces, Monkey Forest, temples, and waterfalls, as well as beaches and snorkeling in the Nusa islands.  If you’re looking for a destination with nature, culture and adventure, Bali belongs on your bucket list too! 

Bliss out on the beaches of Bali and its close neighbor Lombok with these dream destination itineraries starting from $1089:

Beautiful Bali | Classic Bali & Lombok | Bali Family Holiday with Teenagers

Maldives: Beaches Dream Vacation Spot

It’s hard to think of a travel spot more iconic than the Maldives: a remote tropical paradise with overwater bungalows (ranging from luxury bungalows to affordable water villas !) and unspoiled white sand beaches.  Made up of over 1,000 islands, the Republic of Maldives is a haven for travelers who want to swim, snorkel, scuba, and relax on secluded beaches.  The Maldives are a popular honeymoon destination, but there’s no reason to wait to check this destination off your bucket list.  

Make everyone you know jelly with your Tiktoks from the Maldives. Set off on a liveaboard cruise on a traditional dhoni sailboat priced from $1350:

Maldives Island Hopping | Maldives Dhoni Explorer | Maldives Cruise [18-39]

Vietnam | Classic Backpacking Destination

Vietnam has become a major Asia travel and backpacking destination thanks to its gorgeous natural landscapes, busy cities, and rich cultural and historical sites. 

The country is flanked by rugged mountains bordering Laos and Cambodia in the West, the South China Sea to the East, and the Red and Mekong Rivers in the North and South.  You’ll want to see the colonial architecture of Hoi An, vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, and the dramatic karst scenery and floating villages of Halong Bay.

Vietnam is over 1,000 miles long and the climate varies widely by region, from temperate in the north to a tropical climate in the south.  This makes planning a visit tricky, but generally the best time to visit is spring, from March – April, or October.  Generally, Vietnam has two monsoon seasons, between October and March in the northeast and between April and October everywhere but the mountains. 

Go crazy pho Vietnam (pun alert) with these affordable tours starting at $862:

Classic Vietnam | Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

Thailand | Temples, Beaches & Friendly People

A Thailand and Cambodia trip with G Adventures (then Gap Adventures) was the start of my travel addiction! I always recommend Thailand as a good destination for new travelers. It’s an easy place to travel, including on a budget, and has long been a popular destination on the Asia backpacker trail.

Bustling Bangkok is a must-see, with its iconic temples, canals, tuk tuk rides, and street food. Thailand’s north has its own treasures: ancient capitals, elephant conservation, and experiencing the Thai way of life in local villages. And of course, Thailand’s beaches like Phuket, Ko Phi Phi, and Krabi are the perfect way to end a trip.

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and early April. This is the driest time of year, since the rainy season runs from July – October.

Plan an adventure in the Land of Smiles with these budget tour options starting at $824:

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express | Thailand Island Hopping | Thailand Family Holiday

Cambodia | History + Iconic Temples

Cambodia is home to the temples of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Exploring here feels like stepping back in time, discovering the Khmer temples deep in the jungle. Reliefs and statues seem to tell ancient stories, and tree roots have reclaimed some of the temples, including “Ta Prohm” made famous by Tomb Raider.

Cambodia’s tumultuous recent past can be felt in its capital of Phnom Penh. The brutal Khmer Rouge, a Marxist regime in power from 1975-1979, claimed the lives of up to two million people. Much of the tourism in the capital is centered on this, but it gives an important context to country’s past and the spirit of the Cambodian people.

Along with Machu Picchu, Petra, and the Mayan ruins at Tikal, the temples of Angkor Wat belong on the bucket list of every adventure traveler. Try to visit for sunrise if you can!

Many Cambodia itineraries begin in Vietnam and end in Thailand, which lets you experience the history and culture of the overall region. Check out these super-affordable options starting from $689:

Cambodia Experience | Cambodia: Ancient Ruins

Uzbekistan & The Silk Road | The OG Adventure Route

When I visited Uzbekistan, following in the footsteps of Marco Polo along the Silk Road, I truly felt I had become a traveler.  The Silk Road connected eastern China to what is now western Turkey, a 4,000-mile passage that connected East with West for more than 1500 years. 

Uzbekistan sits in the middle of this route, and includes the ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand.  In the last few years, Uzbekistan has again begun embracing tourism. It’s welcoming travelers to discover its intricately-tiled blue-domed mosques, colorful bazaars with carpets and pottery, and traditional cuisines of plov and shashlik.

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring from April to May, when weather is temperate and flowering trees bloom.  And again in autumn, from September to early November.  It’s best to avoid the summer, when temperatures soar to over 100F.

I loved the history, people, and cuisine of Uzbekistan. Set off on your own Silk Road adventure with these tours from $1399:

Highlights of Uzbekistan | Best of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan

Jaipur, India | Culture & Photography Dream Destination

India has long been a classic journey for travelers, with its array of hectic cities, bustling markets, history sites, and holy places.  And in a country full of colors, Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” is a photographer’s dream. 

But with so many more things to explore – the Taj Mahal, rural life in Rajasthan, the heart of Hinduism in Varanasi, and temples across the landscape – a full trip to India should be on every traveler’s dream places to visit.

The best time to visit most of India is during the cool, dry season, between November and March.  But the country is large, so temperatures can vary by region.  Many travelers wish to visit for the colorful festival of Holi, which occurs in most cities on the day after the full moon in March.

Delve into the history, cuisine, and spiritualism of India (with a side of Bollywood and iconic photo ops) on these budget tours starting from just $639:

Golden Triangle | Essential India

Sri Lanka | Nature & Culture Bucket List Destination

This island nation might be small, but there is a bounty of nature, history, and beauty among the best places to visit in Sri Lanka .  Located just off the Southeast tip of India, Sri Lanka is a destination for beaches, jungles, temples, and wildlife.

A trip to Sri Lanka offers the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat at the country’s national parks.  Visit spice and tea plantations in the central hill country, spend time in colonial towns, and explore temples with thousands of years of human history.  Sri Lanka’s coasts are the perfect place to snorkel and relax on the beach at the end of a trip.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka varies by region: for the southwest coast, visit between December to March, before the monsoon season.  In the East, visit from May – September for less humid weather.

Discover the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ with these tours, priced from $977:

Sri Lanka Express | Sri Lanka Family Holiday   | Sri Lanka: Spice Gardens & Seasides [18-39]

Dream Travel Destinations in Europe

Ireland | History, Landscapes & Culture

So many travelers have Ireland on their bucket list!  Known as the Emerald Isle due to its green landscapes, Ireland was home to writers like Yeats, Joyce and Wilde.  Top Ireland sights include the capital Dublin, the picturesque Ring of Kerry, and dramatic scenery of the Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway. 

Ireland has a maritime climate, with relatively mild winters and summer temperatures in the 70’s.  The best time to visit is from April through until September, but expect rain and cool weather even then!

I haven’t yet been to Ireland. But having met travelers from Ireland around the globe, I definitely want to visit its friendly people and beautiful landscapes. 

Getaway to the “land of Saints and Scholars” with these itineraries starting from $2599:

Highlights of Ireland | Northern and Southern Ireland

Santorini, Greece | Top Dream Vacation Destination

Santorini is a dream island vacation destination in Greece, located halfway between Athens and Crete.  Part of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is best known for its whitewashed cliff top villages with sweeping views of the azure sea. 

But the sea below hides a secret: there was once a single island here until a 16th century BCE volcanic eruption.  The resulting caldera, or crater, is now mostly-submerged and surrounded by dramatic cliffs, picturesque towns, and volcanic sand beaches.

Most visitors to Santorini stay on its largest island of Thira in the towns of Fira, its capital, or best-known Oia.  But there are many wonders to discover here, including the ancient ruins of 3 civilizations like the Minoan town of Akrotiri, black and red sand volcanic beaches, fantastic local wines, and hikes for views of the caldera. 

The best time to visit for warm weather and fewer crowds is April to May and September to October.

Got Santorini or Greece on your bucket list?  Make it happen with these tours including sailing trips starting from $1679:

Best of Greece | Sailing Greece | Athens to Santorini | Ancient Ruins & Iconic Islands

Italy: Rome & Amalfi Coast | History & Landscapes Bucket List

Is there anyone who doesn’t have Italy on their bucket list?  The sights of Rome and charming towns of the Amalfi Coast are some of the most-lusted-after spots in Italy and the world! 

In Rome, must-see sights of course include the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain, as well as amazing food, wine, and world-class art.  The Amalfi Coast has hiking for wooded and coastal views, cliffs lined with colorful Mediterranean architecture, and beaches framed by picturesque towns.

The best months for Italy travel are from April to June and mid-September to October, when temperatures are mild and crowds are less. 

Escape to your dream destination of Italy with these tours priced from $1574:

Tuscany to Cinque Terre | Local Living San Gimignano | Exploring the Amalfi Coast | Italy Real Food Adventure | Sailing Italy to Croatia

Budapest, Hungary | History & Culture Dream Destination

Budapest has jumped to the top of many bucket lists in the last few years.  Bisected by the Danube River, its regions of Buda and Pest are connected by eight bridges, including the iconic 19th-century Chain Bridge. 

In Buda, take a funicular to the top of Castle Hill to reach Old Town. Then explore sights like Buda Castle, St. Mattias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion, a turreted fortress with city views.  

In Pest, visit the Hungarian Parliament, Great Market Hall for snacks and souvenirs, and the Shoes on the Danube memorial.  Be sure to also see St. Stephen’s Basilica including climbing (or taking the elevator) to the top for views of the city. 

Throughout Budapest you’ll also find ruin pubs, the city’s famous hidden bars in abandoned buildings, and historic thermal baths fed by the more than 100 hot springs beneath the city.  The two most popular are the outdoor Szechenyi Baths and indoor Gellert Thermal Bath. The latter is also a prime example of ornate Art Nouveau architecture found throughout the city.

The best time to visit Budapest is between April to September for warm weather. However, I loved visiting in December for Christmas markets and cold weather perfect for the Szechenyi Baths! 

Try these tour itineraries for experiencing the best of Budapest and the region, starting from $1349:

Budapest to Berlin [18-39]| Budapest to Sofia Adventure by Rail | Budapest & Europe Christmas Markets | The Best of Eastern Europe

Portugal | Dream Destination for Beaches, History & Foodies

Named as the Travel + Leisure “Destination of the Year” in 2016, Portugal has seen an explosion of travel in the last few years.  But for good reason: it’s a quick flight within Europe or from the East Coast of the US, and appeals to foodies, culture lovers, wine connoisseurs, and beach-goers. 

Be sure to visit the historic sights in the capital of Lisbon, fairytale palaces of Sintra and Obidos , and tiled churches and port wine houses in Porto. And don’t miss Portugal’s gorgeous Algarve beaches .

The best time to visit Portugal is from March – May, when spring flowers begin to bloom and the crowds are less.  Or visit in autumn in September – October, when days are still warm, the countryside turns golden, and wine grapes are harvested in the Douro Valley . 

Discover the history, culture and cuisine of Portugal with these tour options, from $1407:

Highlights of Portugal | Best of Spain & Portugal | Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas [18-39]

Scotland | Top Dream Country to Visit

Scotland has always been a bucket-list favorite for many travelers. Now, so many more are dreaming of Scotland after getting hooked on Outlander! 

Delve into history in Edinburgh with its famous castle, and stroll the shops and restaurants of the famous Royal Mile to the 16th-century Palace of Holyroodhouse.  Hike to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city and tour the National Museum of Scotland.  In Glasgow, explore its museums, music scene, and Victorian and art nouveau architecture.

But no trip to Scotland is complete without the Highlands and the Isle of Skye for history and stunning landscapes.  Tour the iconic Eilan Donan castle, see the infamous Loch Ness, and visit Culloden Moor, the site of the Jacobite rising of 1745. 

Stay in the picturesque town of Portree, hike the iconic Old Man of Storr, and witness the stunning natural beauty of Scotland at Kilt Rock and Glen Coe.  And don’t forget a whisky distillery tour!  Be ready to take a million photos – when I visited Skye, the scenery was more beautiful with each step I took.

Scotland’s busy tourist season in summer is also its rainy season.  The famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival, is held each August.  I visited in September and had many sunny days,. I recommend the spring or early fall as a great time to visit for less crowds. 

I visited Edinburgh for work and then extended my trip with a tour to the Isle of Skye. There are several short break options like this, and Scotland’s local tour operators have the best ratings I’ve seen in all of my travels. Check out this 3-day Skye and Highlands tour or this 5-day Best of Scotland from Edinburgh .

Or set off on a complete Outlander pilgrimage with these longer tour options from $1675:

Classic Walks of Scotland | Highlights of Scotland

Northern Lights & Iceland | Dream Nature Experiences

The small island nation of Iceland is an adventurer’s dream: hot springs, waterfalls, volcanoes, and even the Northern Lights. 

Most tourists here choose to follow the scenic “Golden Circle” loop, visiting geothermal springs and geysers, the waterfall of Gullfoss, volcanic black sand beaches, and Skaftafell National Park to hike Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier.

For hiking, the best time to visit Iceland is in summer, when midnight sun and warmer temperatures prevail. But to see the Northern Lights, February, March, September and October are typically the best time to visit Iceland.

Escape to the “land of fire and ice” with these Iceland tour options priced from $899:

Three Days in Iceland | Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle | Best of Iceland

Dubrovnik, Croatia | Bucket List Beauty & Charm

Dubrovnik landed on everybody’s bucket lists thanks to Game of Thrones, where it served as the fictional city of King’s Landing.  But Dubrovnik, and Croatia as a whole, does look straight out of a fairy tale even without any CGI! 

Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the Old Town of Dubrovnik is full of cobblestone streets, palaces, and churches, all located within medieval city walls.  Just outside the city, Dubrovnik’s Adriatic beaches make for a good day trip, as does Lokrum Island, with a monastery, botanical garden, and beaches of its own.

Dubrovnik itineraries often include Split, Korcula, and Hvar, more maritime cities brimming with history, charm, and architecture. 

The best time to visit is in May and June or September and October when the weather is sunny and perfect for swimming; avoid the busiest tourist season of July and August.

Fall under Croatia’s spell with these affordable tour options priced from just $1099:

Sailing Croatia | Explore Croatia | Zagreb to Dubrovnik [18-39]

Georgia | Culture & Nature Dream Destination

The buzz about Georgia (the country) as a travel destination has been growing among travelers and Instagrammers.  Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, the Caucasus region has a wealth of cultural, natural, and foodie experiences to explore. 

Wander the cobblestone maze of streets that make up the capital Tbilisi, tour a 12th century monastery, and hike on a glacier, then indulge each evening with Georgian food and wine.  (If you haven’t yet discovered buttery, cheesy khachapuri bread, here’s a recipe to make it from home!)

The best time to visit Georgia is April to May for adventuring in comfortable temperatures, or in September and October for autumn color.  Some tours of Georgia also include neighboring Armenia to fully explore the region.

Check out these affordable tour options starting from $1749:

Georgia Adventure | Best of Georgia & Armenia

Dream Destinations in the Middle East

Egypt | unesco sites & beaches bucket list.

Egypt is home to one of the world’s earliest civilizations and seven UNESCO-designated world heritage sites.  It’s known, of course, for its history and ancient archaeological treasures including the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx.  But some travelers might not realize that it is also famous for its beach resorts and scuba diving!

Travelers to Egypt must visit the buzzing capital of Cairo, the pyramids at Giza, and Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, where treasures from ancient tombs and even mummies themselves are on display. 

But it’s also possible to sail down the Nile en route to see the Valley of the Kings at Luxor.  Then a stop at the Red Sea for some beach time before heading back to Cairo is the perfect way to round out a trip.

Egypt is a destination that I would recommend to be seen with a tour, both based on current travel warnings and because an experienced guide can give important context for history and culture. 

Egypt’s weather is sunny year-round. The best times to visit for more comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists are the shoulder seasons, from March to April and October to November.  Winter is the busiest tourist season. 

Set off on a journey through history with these Egypt tour options starting at $879:

Egypt Boats & Bazaars | Egypt Adventure 8 days | Highlights of Egypt 14 days

Petra and the Dead Sea, Jordan | History & Adventure Travel

After seeing the ancient city of Petra everywhere from travel ads to National Geographic and Indiana Jones, I had Jordan at the top of my own bucket list for a long time.  And when I finally got to visit, Jordan was even more awe-inspiring than I could have imagined. 

Bucket-list sights in Jordan include the ancient Roman town of Jerash, floating in the Dead Sea (yes, it works!) , and visiting the lost city of Petra.  Add on an overnight in a Bedouin camp in the desert, and your adventure-meter will be full.  Also the food is spectacular: you’ll never be happy with grocery-store hummus again!

I traveled to Jordan on my own, but it’s definitely a destination I recommend to visit on a tour or with a buddy. It helps to split the costs, plus women travelers tend to get a lot of attention.  (Not problems per say, just leering, comments, and offers of marriage.) 

The best time to visit Jordan are spring from March to May or fall from September to November, when the days are warm but nights are cool.

Visit Jordan’s wonders including the “Rose Red City” of Petra with tours starting at just $1299:

Highlights of Jordan | Jordan: Women’s Expedition

Dream Destinations in Africa

Morocco | culture & adventure travel destination.

I am not alone in counting Morocco as one of my favorite destinations.  Its mix of cultures, historical sites, and landscapes have made it a top spot for adventure travelers the world over. 

Tour Roman ruins and labyrinthine medinas, then sip mint tea overlooking landscapes out of movies and picture books.  Many tours to Morocco include an overnight in the Sahara via camel, which is one of my top travel adventures to date! 

Be sure also to explore the souks and squares of Marrakech, and its idyllic Majorelle Gardens.

Morocco is definitely a destination where I recommend a tour, to bridge the cultural and language barriers. Plus, overland transport with a small group tour is significantly easier than arranging it on your own or renting a car.

Set off on the adventure of a lifetime in Morocco with these itineraries starting from $659, including the Best of Morocco tour which I chose:

Morocco Kasbahs & Desert | Best of Morocco | Morocco Family Journey

Kruger National Park, South Africa | Dream Safari Destination

Every traveler I know has a safari on their list of dream destinations.  One of the most iconic safari spots is Kruger National Park, a game reserve located in South Africa. 

Here you can spot the “Big Five,” as the top five game animals are called: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.  Enjoy South African cuisine under the stars, head out on game spotting drives and nature walks with naturalist guides, and retire to a comfortable safari lodge.

The best time to visit Kruger National Park is at the beginning or end of the region’s dry season, between April and September. Temperatures during this time are mostly pleasant, with overnight lows in the 40s and daytime highs occasionally reaching into the mid-80s.

Typically, safari experiences don’t come cheap: in addition to offering all-inclusive once-in-a-lifetime experiences, safari operators often fund conservation projects.  But forgoing the typical “luxury” additions of a safari trip can put it within reach for many more travelers. 

Check out these pared down experiences with all of the excitement but less of the sticker-shock of a typical safari, starting from $1312:

Kruger 5-Day Lodge Experience | Kruger In-Depth | Explore Kruger

Dream Travel Destinations in Oceania

New zealand | nature dream destination.

New Zealand made its way onto many bucket lists thanks to the gorgeous scenery of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies.  But many travelers don’t know that there are two islands here to discover. 

New Zealand’s South Island has mountain ranges, glaciers, and forests. While the North is renowned for gorgeous coastlines, geothermal springs, and glowworm caves.  The country also has attractions that allow visitors to explore its indigenous Maori culture and history.  Do I even need to mention NZ’s friendly people and world-famous wines?

The best time to visit New Zealand is during their summer months of December to March, when sunny temperate days provide the perfect setting for visiting beaches and hiking.   I haven’t yet checked New Zealand off my bucket list, but my sister traveled there with G Adventures and had the most amazing trip!

Get to know the charming Kiwis and their stunning country with these tours starting at $1715:

Highlights of New Zealand | New Zealand South Island Family Holiday

Antarctica | Ultimate Bucket List Adventure

For adventurers, Antarctica is truly the ultimate dream destination. Visiting the most uninhabited place on earth offers the chance to see sea lions, orcas, humpback whales, and many types of penguins against an otherworldly landscape.

Most Antarctic expeditions begin at the southern tip of Chile, literally the end of the world. Voyage by ship through the Drake Passage, a notorious body of water that stretches across 500 miles between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands. It’s known for being some of the roughest seas in the world.

Most voyages make landfall in Antarctica at least once, giving you the chance to walk among penguins and sea lions, or hike up for views of glaciers and icebergs. And there are daily “Zodiac” trips, smaller inflatable craft that get you close-up with wildlife and icebergs.

The crew on Antarctic ships includes experts in marine biology, geology, and more, who share their knowledge along the journey. The ships themselves typically offer a bar, library, gym, pool, sauna, and more, to include a bit of comfort along with your once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

A journey to the Great White Continent takes a lot of planning and prep, including an Antarctic packing list and gear. Check out these itineraries from Intrepid Travel, starting from $5795:

Antarctica Classic | Best of Antarctica

Tips to Save on Airfare

You’re probably saying, OK Adrienne, these tours are not a million dollars, but how am I going to get there?

Believe me, I know that one of the most expensive parts of travel is airfare! So if you’re interested in a destination, start researching flight prices now to get an idea of what the average costs are.

Flight Searches and Alerts

My favorite flight search engines are Google Flights and Momondo because they also show trends. I always recommend booking direct with the airline rather than a third-party platform like Expedia, to make it easier to select seats, be clear on baggage allowances, etc. Especially now, I think it’s better to deal directly with the airlines in case of flight schedule changes or cancellations.

You can also set up flight alerts with search engines like Kayak or TripAdvisor to keep a eye on prices.

Gounf [Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights]

Another great resource for flight deals is Going. Sign up for their free email alerts, and get notifications for deals from your local airports. (There’s also a paid service that gives you mistake fare deals, but the free one works great for most travelers.)

Turkish Airlines Layovers & Stopovers

If your home airport is served by Turkish Airlines, be sure to check their flight pricing. By flying through their Istanbul hub, it often makes flights very affordable. You can even schedule a long layover or stopover (a day or more) without an additional charge. Check out the perks they offer for free layover tours or stopover hotels – it’s an easy way to get more from your travel dollars.

New to travel? Be sure to read my 20 tips for new travelers and how to create a packing list !

Ready to start checking things off your bucket list?

I hope this list has given you some ideas of amazing dream destinations and also affordable tours to get there. If you book one of the tours, consider clicking my links before you book. I might earn a small commission percentage, and it helps me know I’m creating content that is helpful to my readers!

Save these bucket list destination ideas for later!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

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200+ Dream Travel Destinations Around The World

Choose your ultimate dream destination for the holiday of a lifetime! Here's over 200 of the most incredible places to visit in the entire world.

Epic Dream Places to Go in the World

We all dream of travelling to faraway places and exploring the world, but it can be hard to decide where to go. That's why we've put together this list of dream destinations you need to visit once in your lifetime.

In this article, we'll share what makes these places the best dream holiday destinations. From the stunning natural beauty of the Grand Canyon to the fascinating historical sites of Rome, whether you're looking for a tropical beach escape or a winter wonderland, we've got you covered.

Best Dream Destinations in EUROPE

Europe has an incredible history and culture that makes it a top dream destination for travellers all over the world. The landmarks in Europe are some of the best known in the world, and the continent abounds in Unesco World Heritage Sites.

From the stunning architecture of Barcelona to the romantic canals of Venice, there's some amazing things to see and do.

London, England

The capital of England is a must-visit for any world traveller. With iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and Westminster Abbey to world-class museums and historical sites, London has something for everyone.

Not to mention, the city is home to some of the best shopping and dining in the world. So, if you're looking for a cultured city break, London should be at the top of your list.

London is one of the most famous dream places to visit. Here's 5 things to see when you are there:

• Westminster Abbey
• The British Museum
• Tower of London

The Cotswolds, England

For a taste of the English countryside, head to the Cotswolds . This region is known for its rolling hills, picturesque villages and idyllic country pubs.

It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and spend some time surrounded by nature. And, with plenty of walking and cycling trails, it's ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Related: Best Nature Quotes

The White Cliffs of Dover, England

The White Cliffs of Dover are often listed among the most famous landmarks in Europe. And, it's easy to see why.

These stunning cliffs offer breathtaking views of the English Channel and France beyond. They're also steeped in history, having served as an important defensive line for centuries.

Today, the White Cliffs are a popular tourist destination and a great place to enjoy the outdoors and incredible scenery.

Stonehenge, England

The ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the most famous historical sites in the world and is a truly magical place. Located in Wiltshire, England, this prehistoric monument is thought to date back to around 2500 BC.

The stone circle is made up of large stones that are placed in a specific way. There are many myths and legends associated with Stonehenge. One legend says that the stones were brought to the site by giants!

Whether you're interested in history or mythology, Stonehenge is a must-see bucket list destination in Europe!

St. Michael’s Mount, England

This small island off the coast of Cornwall is home to a medieval castle, a picturesque village and stunning views.

You can reach the island by walking across the causeway at low tide or taking a boat from Marazion. Once you're there, be sure to explore the castle, visit the village and enjoy the views from the top of the island.

There are many myths and legends associated with St Michael's Mount, one of which involves Jack the Giant Killer !

Isle of Skye, Scotland

When it comes to dream places to visit, the Isle of Skye in Scotland is hard to beat. This island is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, from towering sea cliffs to picturesque lochs.

And, with a variety of outdoor activities on offer, including hiking, climbing and kayaking, it's the perfect place for adventure lovers.

You can visit the Isle of Skye on a 3 day trip from Edinburgh

Glencoe, Scotland

Glencoe is one of the most beautiful and dramatic places in Scotland. This valley is home to towering mountains, stunning waterfalls and picturesque lochs.

The area is also steeped in history. In 1692, it was the site of the infamous Glencoe Massacre, when around 38 members of the MacDonald clan were killed by government troops.

Today, Glencoe is a popular tourist destination and a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Edinburgh, Scotland

The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is among the top dream destinations for many world travellers.

This historic city is home to iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. It's also bursting with culture, from museums and art galleries to lively festivals.

A weekend break (or longer!) is really needed to appreciate the beauty of this city. Best visited in the summer months as winter can be a bit chilly!

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

This 13th century castle is one of the most iconic and popular tourist attractions in Scotland. The castle is located on an island in Loch Duich, in the Highlands of Scotland.

It's a beautiful spot for a day trip or even a longer stay. When you're there, be sure to explore the castle, walk around the loch and enjoy the stunning mountain views.

Snowdonia, Wales

The Snowdonia region of Wales is home to Snowdonia, the highest peak in Wales. This stunning mountain range offers incredible views and a variety of outdoor activities.

While getting to the top of Snowdon is walkable and requires no real technical skill, be careful during the winter. The weather conditions can change rapidly in this part of the world!

Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland

The Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder is made up of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, which were formed by an ancient volcanic eruption.

There are many myths and legends associated with the Giant's Causeway, one of which involves the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool). According to legend, Fionn built the causeway so that he could cross to Scotland to fight a giant.

Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland

The Dark Hedges is a spectacular avenue of trees in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder was created by the Stuart family in the 18th century.

Today, the Dark Hedges is a popular tourist attraction and has been used as a filming location for Game of Thrones .

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

This stunning destination is located on the west coast of Ireland. The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, with around 1 million visitors each year.

The cliffs rise to a height of 214 metres (702 feet) and offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to take a walk along the cliff edge and enjoy the fresh sea air. It feels like being on the edge of the world!

Kylemore Abbey, Ireland

This historic abbey is located in Connemara, on the west coast of Ireland. The abbey was founded in 1920 by Benedictine nuns from Belgium.

Today, Kylemore Abbey is a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to see the stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful gardens and picturesque lake.

Seville, Spain

Over in Spain, the city of Seville is a must-visit dream destination. This lively city is known for its Flamenco music and dance, as well as its vibrant culture and stunning architecture.

Be sure to explore the Old Town, visit the Alcázar palace and take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage. Seville is a city that you'll never forget.

You might also want to read: Warmest places in Europe in November

Milan, Italy

Milan is an amazing location for fashion lovers. This stylish city is home to some of the world's most famous fashion designers and brands, as well as a number of iconic fashion events.

If you're interested in fashion, then Milan is definitely the place for you. Be sure to check out the city's many designer stores and enjoy the unique style that Milan has to offer.

Related: Hottest places in Europe in December

Lake Como, Italy

The sheer beauty of Lake Como has to be seen to be believed. This stunning destination is located in the Lombardy region of Italy and is surrounded by mountains.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing break or an active holiday, Lake Como has something for everyone. Be sure to take a boat trip around the lake to enjoy the incredible views.

Paris, France

When it comes to dream cities for romantic getaway breaks, it doesn't get much better than Paris. This stunning destination is known for its beautiful architecture, world-famous landmarks and romantic atmosphere.

There's so much to see and do when you visit Paris, from taking a leisurely stroll along the River Seine to climbing the Eiffel Tower . In addition, there are interesting museums and art galleries such as the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay to explore.

Related: 100+ Paris Captions For Instagram For Your Beautiful City Photos

Alps, Switzerland

Who wouldn't want to be surrounded by snow capped mountains? The Alps is a dream destination for those who love the outdoors.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Alps, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and mountain biking. In addition, there are many quaint villages and towns to explore, each with their own unique character.

Related: 100+ Best Skiing Instagram Captions, Quotes, And Puns

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is most famous for being the host city of the Winter Olympics in 1976. In addition, the city is home to a number of interesting museums and historical landmarks.

If you're looking for a dream destination that offers both culture and natural beauty, then Innsbruck is the place for you.

Bruges, Belgium

This dreamy destination is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North'. Bruges is a beautiful medieval city that is located in the west of Belgium.

The canals and cobbled streets give the city a fairytale-like quality which is sure to enchant visitors. Be sure to explore the historic market square, visit the belfry tower and try some of the delicious Belgian chocolate.

Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is another beautiful Belgian city that should definitely be on your list of dream destinations. This city is located in the Flemish region of Belgium and is known for its medieval architecture.

There are a number of interesting sights to see in Ghent, including the Gravensteen castle and the belfry tower. In addition, the city is home to a number of museums and art galleries.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

With a reputation as being one of the most relaxed and liberal cities in Europe, it's no surprise that Amsterdam is a popular dream destination.

This vibrant city is known for its canals, museums and coffee shops. In addition, there are a number of interesting sights to see such as the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum.

Related: 200+ Amsterdam Instagram Captions, Quotes, And Puns

Athens, Greece

Known as the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens is a city with a long and interesting history.

The city is home to a number of ancient landmarks such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis .

In addition, there are plenty of museums, art galleries and Orthodox churches to explore. It's also a gateway to vising the fantastic Greek islands !

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is one of the most popular Greek islands and it's easy to see why. This stunning summer destination in Europe is known for its white- washed buildings, blue-domed churches and stunning views. It really is a true dream destination!

As a bucket list place to visit, Santorini can get busy, so consider visiting in early June or late September. There are a number of activities to enjoy in Santorini, such as spending time on the black sand beaches, taking a boat trip around the island, or exploring the many villages. I personally love the hike from Fira to Oia !

Related: Best cities in Greece

Vestrahorn, Iceland

If you're looking for a dream destination that is off the beaten track, then Vestrahorn is definitely worth a visit. This remote location is situated in the east of Iceland and is known for its dramatic landscapes.

There are a number of activities to enjoy in Vestrahorn, from photography and bird watching to hiking and horse riding. Just be sure to wrap up warm!

Related: Iceland Quotes

Ice Caves, Iceland

Iceland really is a country filled with natural wonders! The Ice Caves are located in the Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland. These stunning caves are formed by glaciers and are a must-see for any visitor to Iceland.

The best time to visit Iceland to see the Northern Lights is from September to April so plan to see the Ice Caves at that time!

Rhodes, Greece

The Greek island of Rhodes is a place with rich history and culture. The island is home to a number of ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis of Lindos and the Palace of the Grand Master.

In addition, there are plenty of beaches to relax on such as Anthony Quinn Bay and beautiful villages to explore. Rhodes is definitely a dream destination worth visiting!

Take a look here for day trips in Rhodes .

NORTH AMERICA Dream Destination List

North America is packed with majestic mountain ranges, stunning national parks, and buzzing cities. From coast to coast, there are plenty of dream destinations to explore.

Olympic National Park, Washington, USA

Climbers and hikers love Olympic National Park for its rainforests, mountains, and coastline. With over 73 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

The best time to visit Olympic National Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and dry.

Central Oregon, USA

One of the reasons to visit central Oregon is to experience the landscape of the High Desert. This region is known for its volcanic mountains, canyons, and high desert plateau.

There are a number of outdoor activities to enjoy in central Oregon, from hiking and mountain biking to rock climbing and camping.

The best weather is during the summer months and this makes it a good time to visit central Oregon.

Related: Camping Captions for Instagram

Painted Hills, Oregon, USA

When it comes to geological wonders, the Painted Hills are up there with the best of them. These hills are located in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and are known for their striated layers of red, yellow and black.

The best time to visit the Painted Hills is during the spring or fall when the weather is milder.

Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon, USA

If you are creating a Pacific Northwest bucket list, then Umpqua Hot Springs should definitely be on it. These springs are located in the Umpqua National Forest and offer stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.

Crater Lake, Oregon, USA

Nature lovers will appreciate the gorgeous scenery of Crater Lake National Park. This park is home to a number of hiking trails as well as the deepest lake in the United States.

Samuel H. Boardman, Oregon, USA

If you're looking for a dream destination that is off the beaten track, then Samuel H. Boardman State Park should definitely be on your list. This hidden gem is located along the Oregon Coast and is known for its dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches.

I passed by here when cycling from Alaska to Argentina ! 

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

For spectacular hiking trails, you can't go wrong with Yosemite National Park. This park is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is also home to Half Dome, one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States.

Shasta-Trinity, California, USA

Known for its dramatic landscapes, Shasta-Trinity National Forest is a dream destination for any nature lover. There are all sorts of outdoor activities you can experience here such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding.

Related: California Instagram Captions

Mono Lake, California, USA

The limestone formations of Mono Lake are truly unique and definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. This lake is located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains and is known for its high levels of salt.

Redwoods, California, USA

The giant sequoia trees of Redwoods National Park are some of the largest trees in the world. This park is located along the coast of California and is also home to a number of hiking trails.

San Francisco, California, USA

San Francisco is one of the most popular cities in the United States and it's easy to see why. This city is known for its stunning architecture, Golden Gate Bridge, and cable cars.

Related: Napa Valley Instagram Captions

Los Angeles, California, USA

Few cities in the world are as iconic as Los Angeles. There is so much to see and do in Los Angeles, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few ideas:

• Visit the Hollywood Sign
• Take a walk down the Walk of Fame
• Visit Beverly Hills
• Go on a studio tour
• Visit Disneyland

Death Valley National Park, California, USA

Planning a road trip? Why not add Death Valley National Park to your itinerary? This park is located in the Mojave Desert and is known for its unique landscapes.

Valley Of Fire, Nevada, USA

The Petroglyphs of the Valley of Fire are definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. These ancient symbols are carved into the red sandstone and date back over 2,000 years.

The petroglyphs in the Valley of Fire were carved by the ancient Pueblo people, and they provide a fascinating insight into their culture.

American South West, USA

The American South West is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the United States. From the red rocks of Sedona to the canyons of the Grand Canyon , there is so much to see and do in this region.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA

Have been you dreaming of seeing Old Faithful? Then you need to add Yellowstone National Park to your list of places to visit. This park is located in the Rocky Mountains and is also home to a number of other geothermal features such as hot springs and geysers.

Another place of interest in Yellowstone is the Grand Prismatic Spring, which is the largest hot spring in the United States.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA

Rest assured that when you travel to Badlands National Park, you will be blown away by its beauty. This park is located in the Great Plains and is known for its unique landscapes.

This is a great place to tour with your car or even on a bike, as there are plenty of scenic routes to take.

Grand Tetons, Wyoming, USA

Venture into the wild with a visit to Grand Teton National Park. This park is located in the Rocky Mountains and is known for its dramatic landscapes.

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Grand Teton National Park, such as hiking, biking, camping, and horseback riding.

Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Glacier National Park is most well-known for its glaciers, which are slowly but surely disappearing due to climate change. With more than 700 miles of trails for hiking, this is a great place to explore the great outdoors.

New York City, USA

The Big Apple. The city so nice they named it twice. New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and it's easy to see why.

This city is home to some of the most iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square.

There are also many interesting museums and art galleries to visit, making New York City the perfect destination for culture lovers.

When in New York, mix it up by seeing a show on Broadway, visiting Coney Island, or taking a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Remember to share your photos on Instagram and use these New York captions to go with them!

Related: Brooklyn Instagram Captions

Hanging Lake, Colorado, USA

Walking along the trail to Hanging Lake is like stepping into a fairytale. This lake is located in the Rocky Mountains and is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning scenery.

Keep in mind you can't swim in Hanging Lake, but it's still worth a visit for the sheer beauty of the place.

Related: Colorado Instagram Captions

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Music lovers will enjoy a trip to New Orleans, as this city is known for its jazz scene.

There is also plenty of history to be found in New Orleans, from the French Quarter to the Garden District.

Of course, no visit to New Orleans would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine, such as gumbo and beignets.

Red Sand Beach, Maui, USA

This hidden gem is located on the island of Maui and is only accessible by a short hike. The beach gets its red color from the iron-rich lava sand.

The best time to visit Red Sand Beach is early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Prepare to be amazed by the surreal colors!

Black Sand Beach, Hawaii, USA

A beach with a different kind of beauty, Black Sand Beach is located on the Big Island of Hawaii. This beach gets its black color from the volcanic lava sand.

Na Pali Coast, Kauai, USA

All the beauty in the world seems to be packed in to Kauai's Na Pali Coast. This coastline is home to dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters.

The best way to experience the Na Pali Coast is by taking a boat tour.

Lanikai Beach, Oahu, USA

With its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, Lanikai Beach looks like something straight out of a postcard. This beach is located on the island of Oahu and is known for its secluded atmosphere.

Hoomaluhia Gardens, Oahu, USA

These gardens are a must-see for nature lovers. Hoomaluhia Gardens is located on the island of Oahu and is known for its lush vegetation and tranquil atmosphere.

The best time to visit Hoomaluhia Gardens is in the morning when the flowers are fresh and the crowds are minimal.

Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

Niagara Falls is a dream place for many people. This massive waterfall is located on the border of the United States and Canada.

There are many ways to experience Niagara Falls, such as taking a boat ride, or simply admiring the view from the observation deck.

No matter how you choose to see it, Niagara Falls is sure to take your breath away.

Vancouver Island, Canada

Vancouver Island is a nature lover's paradise. This island is home to towering mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters.

There are also many interesting towns and cities to explore, such as Victoria and Nanaimo.

The best time to visit Vancouver Island is in the summer when the weather is warm and sunny.

CARIBBEAN AND CENTRAL AMERICA Dream Vacation Ideas

Who doesn't dream of taking a cruise through the Caribbean? With its turquoise waters and sandy beaches, the Caribbean is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

There are many islands to choose from, each with its own unique charm.

Some of the most popular islands in the Caribbean include Jamaica, Barbados, and the Bahamas.

We've also included Mexico in this section as it's a popular destination for travelers looking for a mix of culture and beach time.

Cruise ships often stop in Jamaica, and it's easy to see why. This island is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world.

Jamaica is also known for its music and culture. Reggae and dub are popular genres of music on the island, and there are many festivals throughout the year.

Havana, Cuba

Cuba still has an allure of mystery for many people, and Havana is its capital city. This vibrant city is known for its colonial architecture, vintage cars, and lively nightlife.

There are also many museums and art galleries to explore in Havana. The best time to visit Havana is from November to April when the weather is warm and dry.

Yucutan Peninsula, Mexico

If you like mysterious ruins and beautiful beaches, then the Yucutan Peninsula is the dream destination for you. This peninsula is home to the ancient Maya ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum.

The beaches here are also some of the best in Mexico, so if you're after a relaxing holiday why not just take a beach vacation? The best time to visit the Yucutan Peninsula is from December to April when the weather is warm and dry.

Related: Mexico Instagram Captions

Volcán De Fuego, Guatemala

This really must be one of the most unique places on planet Earth! Volcán de Fuego is an active volcano that often puts on a spectacular show of lava and ash.

Tikal, Guatemala

Did you know that Tikal feature in the Star Wars movie?! This ancient Maya site is one of the largest and most impressive ruins in all of Central America.

I've visited Tikal twice now – once when backpacking through central America, and once when cycling through Guatemala . I found it amazing both times, and this ancient city is sure to leave you with a sense of wonder.

Semuc Champey, Guatemala

Semuc Champey is a series of natural pools located in the jungle of Guatemala. This is truly a place of natural beauty, and it's perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the incredible views.

Bocas Del Toro, Panama

Bocas del Toro is an archipelago of islands located off the coast of Panama . This is a popular destination for travelers who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.

There are also many activities to enjoy here such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing.

SOUTH AMERICA Dream Tourist Destination List

The South American continent is somewhere you can spend weeks, months, or even years exploring. There is so much to see and do, and each country has its own unique culture and attractions.

Some of the most popular countries to visit in South America include Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Colombia.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of South America. This ancient Inca site is located high in the Andes Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Hiking along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an experience that should not be missed.

Related: Machu Picchu Captions

Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island is one of the most remote places on Earth. This island is home to the famous Moai statues, and it's a popular destination for travelers who want to experience something truly unique.

I visited Easter Island way back in 2005 (or something like that!). I found that it was one of the most fascinating places I had ever been to.

Rio De Siete Colores, Colombia

Rio de Siete Colores, or Rio Seven Colors, is a river located in Colombia. This river gets its name from the fact that it changes color as you travel downstream.

Tatacoa Desert, Colombia

The Tatacoa Desert is one of the most unique places in all of Colombia. This desert is known for its red-colored rocks and otherworldly landscapes.

It's a popular spot for stargazing, as there is very little light pollution here.

Cocora Valley, Colombia

Cocora Valley is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains of Colombia. This valley is home to the tallest palm trees in the world.

The best time to visit Cocora Valley is from December to March when the weather is dry and cool.

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Does Rio really need an introduction? This world-famous city is located on the coast of Brazil and is known for its beaches, Carnival, and Copacabana.

There is so much to see and do in Rio, and you could easily spend weeks here exploring everything this city has to offer. Many people will want to time their visit to Rio with the world famous Carnival celebrations.

Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil

Lençóis Maranhenses is a national park located in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. This park is known for its unique landscape of sand dunes and lagoons.

The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses is from June to September when the weather is dry and the lagoons are full of water.

Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina

Iguazu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. This waterfall is located on the border of Brazil and Argentina and is truly a sight to behold.

There are many different ways to experience Iguazu Falls, but one of the best is to take a boat ride through the Devil's Throat, which is the largest and most powerful section of the waterfall.

Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat. This unique landscape is located in southwestern Bolivia and is a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.

I cycled through this salt pan when bike touring through Bolivia as part of my cycling route from Alaska to Argentina. The memories I have from wild camping in the Salar de Uyuni will stay with me forever!

San Pedro De Atacama, Chile

San Pedro de Atacama is a small town located in the Atacama Desert of Chile. This town is a popular starting point for tours into the desert and for visits to the nearby geysers and hot springs.

Patagonia, Argentina/Chile

Located at the southern tip of South America, Patagonia is one of the most beautiful and wild places on Earth. This region is shared by Argentina and Chile and is known for its mountains, glaciers, and lakes.

One of the best ways to experience Patagonia is to take cycle through this amazing region.

One of the most thought about dream destinations in the world is Antarctica. This frozen continent is located at the southernmost part of the world and is home to some of the most incredible scenery on Earth.

A trip to Antarctica is more like an epic adventure, but it is an experience that you will never forget.

AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND Dream Destinations

Whether you're after the best beaches in the world, or a perfect country for adventure sports, Australia and New Zealand have you covered. These countries are also perfect for road trips , so hire a car and explore at your own pace.

Some of the best places to visit in Australia and New Zealand include the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, Auckland, Queenstown, and the Gold Coast.

Mackenzie Region, New Zealand

The Mackenzie Region is located in the South Island of New Zealand and is known for its stunning landscapes. This region is perfect for those who love the outdoors, as there are many different activities to keep you busy.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Fiordland National Park is located in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. This park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, including Milford Sound.

Milford Sound is known as one of the most beautiful fiords in the world and is definitely worth a visit.

Queenstown, New Zealand

If there was ever a home for outdoor adventure sports, it would be Queenstown in New Zealand. This small town is located in the Southern Alps and is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and rivers.

Queenstown is the perfect place for activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, and skiing.

Wanaka, New Zealand

Ok, so it has a slightly amusing name, but Wanaka is definitely one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand. This small town is located on the shores of Lake Wanaka and is surrounded by mountains.

Wanaka is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. It's also a great base for exploring the nearby Mount Aspiring National Park.

Mcclaren Park (Glow Worms), New Zealand

If you're looking for something a little different, then head to Mcclaren Park to see the Glow Worms. These worms are only found in New Zealand and glow in the dark to attract their prey.

Wai-O-Tapo, New Zealand

Wai-O-Tapo is a geological wonderland located in New Zealand. This area is home to hot springs, geysers, and mud pools. There are also many different walks and hikes that you can do in this area, so it's perfect for those who love the outdoors.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

The length of the Great Ocean Road is around 243km and it's one of the most popular road trips in Australia . This road winds its way along the coast and provides some stunning views of the coastline.

The Great Ocean Road is also home to some of the best surfing beaches in Australia, so it's perfect for those who love to surf.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

This natural wonder is sadly disappearing, but it's still one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of Australia and is the largest coral reef in the world.

There are many different ways to experience the reef, including snorkelling, diving, and taking a glass-bottom boat tour.

Uluru (Ayers Rock), Australia

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is one of Australia's most iconic landmarks. This huge rock is located in the middle of the desert and is a sacred site for the Aboriginal people.

A trip to Uluru is a once in a lifetime experience and something that you will never forget.

Sydney, Australia

The city center of Sydney is home to some of Australia's most famous landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

This city has a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife. There are also many different museums and galleries to explore.

Whitsundays, Australia

The Whitsundays are a group of 74 islands located off the coast of Australia. This area is known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and lush rainforests.

The Whitsundays is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tropical climate.

Tropical North Queensland, Australia

Tropical North Queensland is located in the north of Australia and is home to the Great Barrier Reef. This area is known for its stunning beaches, rainforests, and wildlife.

There are many different activities to keep you busy in Tropical North Queensland, from snorkelling and diving to hiking and bird watching.

ASIA Destinations

When it comes to dream destinations to travel to, Asia has it all. From the bustling metropolises of Tokyo and Shanghai, to the beaches of Thailand and Bali, this continent has something for everyone.

Some of the most popular places to visit in Asia include China, Japan, Thailand , Vietnam , Cambodia, and Indonesia. They all have some of the best landmarks in Asia .

First though, let's start with a surprising one…

Cappadocia, Turkey

Turkey is a country that spans two continents, and Cappadocia is one of the most unique and beautiful regions. This area is famous for its ‘fairy chimneys', strange rock formations that have been formed over time.

Cappadocia is also a great place to see from the perch of hot air balloons, where you'll get an amazing panoramic view of the landscape.

Related: Hot Air Balloon Captions

The Maldives

If you're looking for a tropical paradise, then the Maldives is the place for you. This country is made up of 26 atolls, and each one is more beautiful than the last.

The Maldives is famous for its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and luxury resorts. It's the perfect place to relax and forget about the outside world.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia, and it's not hard to see why. This island is home to stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs.

There are also many different activities to keep you busy, from surfing and diving to exploring the many temples and rice terraces.

Nusa Islands, Indonesia

The Nusa Islands are a group of three small islands located just off the coast of Bali. These islands are known for their white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush jungle.

The Nusa Islands are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tropical climate. There are also many different activities to keep you busy, including snorkelling, diving, and hiking.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

Located just off the coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands are a group of three small islands. These islands are known for their white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush jungle.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The modern city of Kuala Lumpur is the perfect place to start your Malaysian adventure. This city is a melting pot of cultures, with a Chinatown, Little India, and Arab Quarter.

Kuala Lumpur is also home to some of Malaysia's and Asia's most famous landmarks, including the Petronas Towers and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

Great Wall, China

The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous landmarks in the world, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting China. This huge wall was built to protect the Chinese empire from invaders, and it's now one of the country's most popular tourist attractions.

Beijing, the capital city of China, is the best place to start your visit to the Great Wall. From here, you can take a day trip or an overnight tour to see this amazing structure.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

In recent years, Chiang Mai has become a must go to destination for digital nomads. This city is located in the north of Thailand and is known for its laid back atmosphere.

There are many different things to do in Chiang Mai , from exploring the old city to visiting temples and taking part in outdoor activities. Be warned though – it hasn't got a beach! (You'd be surprised with the amount of people who ask me that).

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is a great place to start your Vietnamese adventure. This city is known for its French colonial architecture, as well as its many temples and pagodas.

There are also many different things to do in Hanoi , from exploring the Old Quarter to taking a cruise on Halong Bay.

Kuang Si Falls, Laos

Located just outside the city of Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Laos. This waterfall is made up of three tiers, and it's surrounded by jungle and bamboo forest.

You can take a dip in the pool at the bottom of the falls, or walk to the top for a better view.

Tham Kong Lo Cave, Laos

Located in the north of Laos, Tham Kong Lo is a huge cave that's over 7 kilometers long. This cave is known for its river that runs through it, as well as its many stalagmites and stalactites. You can take a boat tour through the cave.

Vang Vieng, Laos

Vang Vieng is a small town located in the north of Laos. This town is surrounded by limestone karst mountains and is known for its many caves and rivers.

There are many different things to do in Vang Vieng, from exploring the caves to tubing down the river.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Surrounded by jungle, Angkor Wat is a huge temple complex located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This temple is the largest religious monument in the world, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting Cambodia.

I've visited Ankor Wat twice now, and each time I am amazed by it sheers scale and complexity!

Bagan Temples, Myanmar

Bagan is an ancient city located in central Myanmar. This city is home to over 2,000 temples, making it one of the largest temple complexes in the world.

There are many different things to do in Bagan , from exploring the temples to taking a hot air balloon ride over the city.

Hội An, Vietnam

Hội An is a small town located in central Vietnam. This town is known for its colourful French colonial buildings, as well as its many temples and pagodas.

Bangkok, Thailand

The bustling city of Bangkok is the perfect place to start your Thai adventure. This city is known for its chaotic streets, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife.

Read my guide on how to spend 2 days in Bangkok to kick start your adventure!

Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam

Located in northeastern Vietnam, Hạ Long Bay is a popular tourist destination. This bay is known for its many limestone islands and caves. You can take a cruise around the bay, or explore one of the many caves.

Tokyo, Japan

As the capital city of Japan, Tokyo is a must-visit for anyone travelling to this country. This city is known for its busy streets, high-rise buildings, and delicious food.

There are many different things to do in Tokyo, from exploring the city to taking a day trip to Mount Fuji.

Taroko National Park, Taiwan

Taroko National Park is located in the north of Taiwan and is known for its towering marble cliffs and gorgeous waterfalls. You can hike through the park, or take a bus tour.

Taj Mahal, India

When it comes to iconic landmarks, the Taj Mahal is hard to beat. This white marble mausoleum is located in Agra, India, and it's one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.

If you're visiting India, be sure to add the Taj Mahal to your itinerary!

Mt Everest, Nepal

Many people want to climb Mount Everest, but few actually do. This mountain is the tallest in the world, and it's located in Nepal .

Climbing Mount Everest is a once in a lifetime experience, and it's something that I've always dreamed of doing. You can also take a Base Camp trek if you don't want to attempt the summit.

Africa Dream Tourist Destination List

The African continent is home to some of the most incredible places in the world. From the iconic pyramids of Egypt to the stunning beaches of Mozambique, there is so much to see and do.

Some of the most popular countries to visit in Africa include Morocco, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, and it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tanzania.

You can take a safari through the national park, or attempt to summit the mountain.

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. This waterfall is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting Africa.

There are many different things to do in Victoria Falls, from taking a safari to white water rafting.

The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza are some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. These ancient structures were built over 4,500 years ago, and they continue to amaze visitors from all over the globe.

There are many theories as to how the pyramids were built, but one thing is for sure, they are an incredible feat of engineering.

The Sahara Desert, Morocco

When imagining the enigmatic Sahara Desert, one might picture a vast and empty wasteland. However, the Sahara is actually home to many different animals and plants.

If you're looking for an adventure, be sure to add the Sahara Desert to your list of dream destinations.

Table Mountain, South Africa

Located in Cape Town, South Africa, Table Mountain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain, or hike up one of the many trails. Once you reach the summit, you'll be treated to stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.

Robben Island, South Africa

To get to Robben Island, you'll need to take a ferry from Cape Town. This island is best known as the site of the former prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years.

Nowadays, Robben Island is a popular tourist destination, and it's a great way to learn about South Africa's history.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

One of the best places to see wildlife in Africa is the Ngorongoro Crater. This crater is home to many different animals, including lions, elephants, and rhinos.

You can take a safari through the crater, or go on a hike and explore the area.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

One of the most popular dream destination in Africa is the Serengeti National Park. This park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and elephants.

You can take a safari through the park, or go on a hot air balloon ride for an unforgettable experience.

Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara is one of the best places in Africa to see wildlife. This reserve is home to lions, cheetahs, and elephants.

You can take a safari through the reserve, or even cycle – apparently!

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta is one of the most unique places in Africa. This delta is home to many different animals, including lions, hippos, and crocodiles.

You can take a safari through the delta, or go on a mokoro (dugout canoe) ride for a truly authentic experience.

There are many different dream destinations to choose from, and we hope this list has given you some ideas for your next holiday. Whether you're looking for a tropical beach paradise, dramatic waterfalls, a stunning city, or an adventure in the wilderness, there is something for everyone.

What did we miss? Let us know in the comments below.

Dream Worthy Destination FAQ

Whether you are looking for hidden gems, pristine white sand beaches, or ancient temples om Southeast Asia, I hope this guide has been of some use. Here's some questions and answers you might be interested in:

What is the most popular dream vacation?

According to a recent study, the most popular dream vacation is an African safari. According to the study, 40% of respondents said they would like to go on a safari in Africa. The second most popular destination was Europe, with 27% of respondents saying they would like to visit the continent.

Where is the best place for a dream vacation?

If you're looking for an adventure, be sure to add the Sahara Desert to your list of potential destinations. If you're looking for a tropical beach paradise, head to the Caribbean or South Pacific. And if you're looking to explore some of the world's most iconic landmarks, be sure to visit Egypt or Morocco.

What is the #1 vacation destination in the world?

France is the country with the most international tourist arrivals every year. Spain is in second place.

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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

15 Dream Travel Destinations to Visit After Lockdown

Like the rest of the world, I’m stuck at home for the foreseeable future.

But I haven’t been baking banana bread or getting fit or learning new skills or starting a TikTok account.

No. Instead, I’ve been dreaming of travel and all the places I want to visit when it’s safe to travel again .

My bucket list is always fairly lengthy, and grows every year as I discover more adventures to add. Being in lockdown seems to make me even more impatient to book the trips I’ve always dreamed about.

Distracting myself by reflecting on my dream travel destinations and all the possibilities that lay ahead is keeping me sane during this time, and I hope that this travel bucket list encourages you to start dreaming as well.

If you want to save this list of my dream travel destinations so you can read it later, click on the below images to pin it to Pinterest!

My dream travel destinations

1. australia.

Probably the first place I’ll visit when we can travel again will be the easiest country for me to explore: Australia , my home.

I had grand plans to explore more of Australia , anyway, now that I’m home in Melbourne after 8 years living abroad. Returning home, I realised how little of my own country I’ve seen.

I still haven’t visited Uluru , and would love to do a road trip to South Australia , as well as road trip from the Northern Territory down to South Australia, stopping in quirky towns like Coober Pedy.

We also haven’t even seen friends who live in Sydney since we returned home, so an East Coast Australia road trip is on the cards. This pandemic, following the devastating bushfires of late 2019, is a double whammy to so many businesses that were impacted in east coast regional areas that rely on tourism. They need our support more than ever.

I want to explore more of the many, many cool things to do in Melbourne , and check out all the new restaurants that have popped up since I’ve been away.

A friend and I had planned to hike the Cape to Cape in Western Australia in early May, but those plans have been put on hold. Perhaps something solitary in nature like a hike would be an appropriate first adventure?  

Spain is my spirit country. I feel so alive when I’m there and so comfortable. This is always one of my dream travel destinations, whether there’s a global pandemic or not.

Our incredible southern Spain road trip a few years ago took us through the beautiful Andalucia region . I could easily live in Seville , and eat all the tapas and become gorda .

I’ve been to Barcelona and Madrid, but next time I return to Spain, I would relish the chance to get out into the countryside , especially in the north of the country. I’d love to return to San Sebastián and eat all the delicious pintxos , or try more wine in La Rioja . I’ve heard incredible things about the Asturias region, and all of the coast of Spain looks spectacular.

Also on my bucket list is completing the Camino de Santiago , the famous pilgrimage route. We’d need a month or more to do this.

My husband and I were supposed to visit Italy for our 5 th wedding anniversary in 2019. But because we went on a 5-month road trip around the USA that year, we decided to postpone it until 2020. Now, I guess we’ll just wait and see what happens.

Why do I want to go Italy? I don’t think I really need to explain why it’s one of my bucket list destinations. Italy has so much to offer, but for me, number one is the food . Sitting in a café devouring handmade pasta, or feasting on fresh seafood in an oceanside village or eating all the street food in Naples sounds pretty idyllic.

I would love to visit some lesser touristed places , like Puglia, Sicily or Umbria. But I also want to explore the churches in Rome and more popular spots!

In the meantime, I’ll be satisfied with the pizza that our Italian neighbour hands over the fence and fresh pasta delivered from Melbourne’s abundance of Italian restaurants.

4. Papua New Guinea

I was lucky enough to live in one of the most fascinating countries on the planet, Papua New Guinea (PNG). Papua New Guinea is the most linguistically diverse country in the world, with more than 800 languages spoken. It has mind-blowing festivals that are a riot of colour, song and dance.

From stunning beaches and islands (with few other tourists), to the challenging Kokoda Track hike , to incredible birds and wildlife, Papua New Guinea offers some pretty awesome adventures that are – dare I say it – off the beaten path.

In 2020, I’d planned to go back to PNG for my first visit since I left in 2015. Top of my list of things to do was visit the Ambunti Crocodile Festival , which celebrates the importance of the crocodile to the people around the Sepik River.

I also desperately want to go back to Kavieng and stay in one of the overwater bungalows at Nusa Island Retreat , or maybe even bike the whole way up the island of New Ireland.

If your jam is finding bucket list adventures , you’ll discover quite a few in PNG.

5. New Zealand

For all the fun we Aussies make of our neighbours “across the ditch” and the number of their celebrities that we claim as our own, there’s one thing we can all agree on: New Zealand is unimaginably beautiful .

Our second-closest neighbour (after PNG) is practically an extension of Australia (with a funnier accent), and the Trans-Tasman hop barely feels like you’re “going overseas”.

While I’ve been to New Zealand many times, it’s usually been quick trips to cities for work. In the future, I imagine hiring a campervan and taking a lazy few weeks to cruise around the country, visiting friends, tasting delicious wines and fresh food, and enjoying the splendour of New Zealand’s outdoors .

(Plus, I wish Jacinda was our Prime Minister. Surely she could govern both countries at once?)

Mexico is another country we had on our list to visit in 2020. For years, I’ve never been able to make the timing work so that we could visit during Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which celebrates life and death.

We were planning this year to join in the fun in Oaxaca , one of my favourite cities in the whole world (and another city I’d love to live in during my lifetime). I’m holding out hope, but I guess we’ll wait and see what’s happening in the world in October.

Another favourite city is Mexico City , and if you’ve never been there, you’re really missing out. The food , the architecture, the history all make a visit to Mexico City memorable. And don’t believe everything you hear – it’s actually quite safe to visit.

7. Scotland

My husband’s grandfather was from Scotland, and I’ve always thought it would be wonderful to visit the country of his heritage.

While I’d prefer better weather, the rugged landscape , castles, whisky and cosmopolitan cities would make for an entertaining few weeks of road tripping.

When we were last in Spain we actually met a couple of Scots who told us about Burns Night and Hogmanay . Scots strike me as people who love to have a good time , so I can only imagine the wild fun of celebrating these events with them!

8. The Amazon

Sailing down the Amazon River has always been one of my bucket list adventures. I imagine sleeping on the deck of the boat in a hammock, lazily whiling away the days reading books and playing card games, spotting birds on the shore and pink dolphins in the water.

Who knows if that’s actually what it’d end up being like, but it still remains on my bucket list.

I’ve always wanted to visit the Brazilian Amazon , and sail from Manaus to Belem, but I’ve also read about amazing experiences visiting the Amazon from Peru, Colombia, Bolivia or Ecuador (all of which are also dream travel destinations of mine!).

Before the pandemic, Iran had just started to become a hot spot for tourism . It seemed like everyone and their mother were visiting this Middle Eastern country.

The food, the hospitality , the surprising sophistication all intrigue me. Unfortunately, Iran has been hit hard by the pandemic, so it may be some time before I can visit.

My first – and only – experience of Peru was a few days in Cusco followed by the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu . It was just a taster of a country that has been luring me back ever since.

If you haven’t caught on yet, food is usually what draws me to a country, and with Peru it’s no different. I adore Peruvian food , and if I’m ever visiting a city and I see a Peruvian restaurant, I’ll be there straight away. I also make a pretty mean Pisco Sour if I do say so myself.

The next time we go to Peru, I plan to head to some of the lesser-visited ruins like Chan Chan or Choquequirao, fly over the Nazca Lines, explore historic Arequipa, and spend some time by the beach .

11. Colombia

I’m sad that we never visited Colombia while we lived in Argentina or the United States. We always talked about it but just never got there.

This South American country is stripping off its dangerous reputation, and visitors have been streaming in to discover its beautiful beaches , lush mountain villages and colourful culture .

A hike that’s been on my radar is the Ciudad Perdida trek . This hike is only 44 kilometres long, but the mountainous jungle terrain means it take 4 to 6 days to complete. The reward is arriving at the “Lost City”, ancient ruins buried deep in the interior.

Plus, every Colombian I’ve ever met speaks such clear Spanish, so this dream travel destination is also a great place to learn or practice Spanish.  

12. Malaysia

For Aussies, the first overseas destinations we head to are usually in Asia. Because we’re at the bottom of the world, it’s the closest continent for us to reach – and even if it were harder to get to, we’d still make the effort.

The variety of food, the breadth of cultures, the amazing beaches – Asia does have it all .

One country I’ve only spent a bit of time in and would like to go back to is Malaysia. I’ve visited the capital, Kuala Lumpur, for a few days, but it’s other areas of the country that are drawing me back. Penang for its food (indeed, all of Malaysia for food…), the Perhentian Islands or Langkawi for beaches, and Mt Kinabalu for active views.

There are also so many other places I want to visit or re-visit in Asia : Thailand, Laos, Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan , the Philippines, Vietnam… the list is endless.  

I remember once reading an article about a road trip through Oman , and it sounded like such an adventure.

This small Middle Eastern country is quite surprising. It has lovely cities, ancient sites, expansive rust-coloured deserts, and turquoise-coloured waters backed by jagged beaches. Like other Middle Eastern countries, I expect that it’s filled with amazing food and warm hospitality, too.

14. Argentina

I lived in Buenos Aires , the capital of Argentina, for 18 months and I still constantly think about returning to visit.

The 8 th largest country in the world has so much to offer: a beautiful capital city reminiscent of Europe, an expansive north that’s perfect for road tripping , incredible wine , the vast Patagonia wilderness and friendly people always up for a good time.

I’ve previously written a blog post about how to spend two weeks in Argentina that barely scratches the surface of everything that’s wonderful about the country.

I would love to go back soon to visit Argentina and explore some areas that I didn’t get to, like the Iberá Wetlands – as well as rediscover my favourite parts. Consider putting it on your list of dream travel destinations, too.

15. Ethiopia

A country that sounds so fascinating – and one that’s also become a bit of a hot spot in recent years – is Ethiopia.

The ancient traditions , churches carved out of rock, tribes of the Omo Valley and fiery Danakil Depression have put this intriguing country on my wish list.

With a visit to Ethiopia, I could also tie in a return trip to East Africa with my husband, given we’ll be in the area. I’d love to take a road trip around Uganda , and climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania or Mount Kenya in Kenya. And I’d definitely end the trip with a few days on the beach in Zanzibar again.

This list gives me a lot to dream about ! And with plenty of time to plan, I’m hopeful for some upcoming epic trips , once it’s safe to travel again.

Now it’s your turn! What dream travel destinations do you plan to visit when it’s safe to travel again? Let me know in the comments below.

Pin it for later:.

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

8 thoughts on “15 Dream Travel Destinations to Visit After Lockdown”

Regarding less touristy Italy I strongly recommend Lecce in Puglia and Procida Island off Naples. Lecce is very pretty and the surrounding countryside is worth a drive. Procida is a lovely fishing village with very few tourists when I visited although this may have changed now that it has been voted the cultural capital of Italy for 2022. I would like to forward photos but can’t do that under the circumstances but have a look online and you will see why I liked them so much.

Oh thank you so much Kevin!! I’ll definitely add these to my list. I can’t wait to get to Italy when I can.

Many of the countries you mention here are also on my wishlist. Oman, New Zealand, Peru, Ethiopia, Colombia, Spain, Italy, Iran, and… Papua New Guinea — oh how much I want to see Indonesia’s neighbor to the east! I think when the pandemic is over (or at least under control), overseas travel will be limited by region, before global travel begins in earnest again. So, realistically Southeast Asia might be where I will go in a post-pandemic world.

Agree… but at least there are so many incredible places to visit in SE Asia so you are spoilt for choice! Hopefully I’ll also be able to get over that way soon too!

Omggg! I know what you mean… I am dreaming up so many new vacation ideas. Many new Pinterest boards (lol). We travel for food too, and really want to go to Italy, Spain, and Peru for that reason. Kudos for visiting so many places!

Yes, the food is always the drawcard for me!! And you always make such delicious food. Where else is on your list?

I’m dreaming of travelling again too Bec. Big sigh. Top of my bucket list is the Sepik and, like you, I also wanted to tie it in with the Ambunti Croc Festival this year. Now that looks to be out, but I’m determined to get to the Sepik at some stage before I leave PNG… if that ever happens 🙂 Thanks for this article – some places on there I hadn’t even considered. Sending love to you and yours xx

Ohhh we need to do the festival together then!!

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10 Dream Destinations That Should Be On Your Travel Wish List for 2024

All the travel destinations we dream of visiting – and you will want to travel to – as the world opens back up in 2022 after the pandemic.

Let’s be honest, it’s been a weird couple of years.  It’s impossible to look around and see something that hasn’t been impacted by it. Restaurants, sports, bars, and the list goes on and on. One of the industries that have felt the effects the most has been, the one closest and most dear to my heart, the travel industry.  

It’s not a secret, traveling is my first love. The thing that I discovered in my early 20s that made me feel fully alive for the first time.  I know I’m not alone in my love affair with travel. With everything else going on in the world, not being able to travel doesn’t seem like that big of a deal, but it has made 2020 and 2021 hard for those of us who are used to always being on the go. It almost feels like a part of us is missing.  

But there does seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel and if you’re anything like me, you’re adding ideas to your bucket list and counting down the days until all travel restrictions are lifted and you’re free to go anywhere again.  

With that hopeful thought in mind, I decided to put together my list of the top dream destinations for when that happens and we are allowed to travel again. Everyone has their way of picking places and evaluating destinations. The biggest things I considered when putting together my list of the top 10 post coronavirus travel destinations were:

The Travel Community

The more you travel the more people you meet . The more people you meet the more you hear first-hand experiences about different locations (both good and bad) that you store away for your next trip.  Each top 10 destination is a place that either I’ve been to, loved, and want to go back to (a rarity for me) or has come highly rated from a traveler I know and trust.

Once the quarantine ends, I want to do all the things I haven’t been allowed to do for the past 10+ weeks.  Each destination has something for everyone, but each offers quite a few ‘adventure activities’ which if you ask me, is just what the doctor ordered after over 2 months of being shut-in .

I don’t care what people say, the weather is important.  No one wants to go somewhere where you have to sit inside all day because it’s too cold, too wet, or so hot and going outside feels like stepping into an oven.  The last thing I’m trying to do on my post coronavirus vacation is quarantine myself because of mother nature and poor planning.

Simply put, I’m not made of money.  When I pick a place I’m always aware of how expensive things will be once I get there.  If two places are equal and my dollar will go further in one place over the other that’s usually the one I choose.  It’s tough to not enjoy a place when each time you see the bill you just laugh, shake your head, and can’t give them your money fast enough.

North Coast, Egypt

When Egyptians go on holiday they go to the North Coast and for good reason.  It’s incredible and not a place many non-Egyptians know about. I was lucky enough to go last year with some of my Egyptian friends and simply put, it’s a white sand beach paradise.  

It’s an area of Egypt made of multiple cities and resorts on the Mediterranean Sea. Along with great weather, it offers all the water sports and beach activities you can dream of. When you pair that with the beach clubs and top-notch nightlife it’s exactly the kind of place to flee to once the quarantine ends.     

While it may be expensive, by Egyptian standards, it’s still a super affordable option to any Western and is truly a hidden gem that you have to see for yourself.

Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa – a land of stark contrasts. And nowhere are those contrasts more noticeable than in what is known as the ‘Mother City’ – Cape Town. Nestled between the folds of the iconic Table Mountain and the icy waters of the Atlantic ocean, this picturesque city was once a trading point for the Dutch East India company.

Today, Cape Town has become a vibrant city, with a large variety of cultures that have been crossed with others and adapted to create its own ‘Ubuntu’ style. Traveling around the city and its outlying areas, you will feel strangely at home, but also very much like a foreigner in a foreign land. You will feel it on every corner – that buzz of something coming.

Whether you hear it in the echo of drums from street musicians, taste it in the delicious unique foods, smell it in the salty air along the Waterfront, or see it in the warm smiles and friendly welcoming of the people, you will know that – although the past is never far here, the future is something to look forward to.

There are very few places in the world where you would be able to wake up in the morning in time for an early morning surf, have breakfast and a stroll through one of the largest shopping malls in the southern hemisphere, spend your afternoon tasting some of the finest wines that the world has to offer in the heart of the mountains, and have dinner while on safari looking for the big five. 

Cape Town has that and much more on offer.  You should see it for yourself.

A word of caution though: Searching for the best safari option for you without any prior experience can be a daunting task. So if you are looking for this experience, start by searching safari holidays with Naturetrek or another reputed tour operator. They can help you pick from a wide range of options available to make sure your trip will be as memorable as possible.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

You could go anywhere in Costa Rica and have the time of your life. The country is beautiful, the people are welcoming, and the biodiversity is second to none.

By staying in La Fortuna you have easy access to the things that make Costa Rica so special: Tenorio Volcano National Park – Rio Celeste (the brilliant blue waterfall and great hiking), Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve , and the Hanging Bridges.  

It’s okay If hiking to a crystal blue waterfall through a national forest isn’t your thing, because Costa Rica offers even more. It is one of the best places for white water rafting in the world, has some of the best coffee plantations (and tours), and a top-rate jungle cruise where you’ll see crocodiles, sloths, and monkeys. When you finally decide it’s time to ‘relax’ you’re a short drive to the Pacific Ocean where you can sit on the beach and do nothing but listen to the waves.   

If you enjoy animals and being surrounded by nature you may not find a better place to break out of your quarantine than La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

Ella, Sri Lanka

Ella is a laid-back town in Sri Lanka’s highlands and away from the country’s famous beaches , known for its mountain forests, tea plantations, and cool climate. The Ella area is home to caves, cascades, and secluded temples, but Ella offers so much more. Ella is an outdoor lovers paradise and a perfect place to go after being quarantined for the past few months.

You’ll find the Sri Lankan people amongst the kindest and most genuine in the world and as a Sri Lanka backpacker’s mainstay, you’ll be sure to meet like-minded travelers as well.

From scaling the heady heights of Ella Rock, seeing the famous Nine Arch Bridge; standing on the edge of the roaring Diyaluma Falls (the second tallest in the country), winding through the tea plantations and mountains passes on the famous Kandy to Ella train; many of the top things to do in Sri Lanka are all found in or around Ella which make it the perfect place to check out.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

It’s easily the most popular and “grammable” travel destination for millennials these days and for good reason. The Amalfi Coast comprises several quaint and charming coastal towns stacked along the edge of Italy’s Sorrentine peninsula. Aside from the breathtaking beauty of this tucked-away gem, one of the most unique characteristics of the coast is the vertical farming of, easily, the most lemons you have ever seen.

From hiking The Path of Gods in Ravello to enjoying an afternoon tasting all the gelato you can handle while boutique shopping in Positano, the coast holds something for everyone. You can easily bounce around the various coastal towns (traveled by ferry or bus).

Grab a ferry or book a private boat to Capri and enjoy a view of instant serenity as you jet along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Filled with majestic yachts and the most magnificent grottos, there won’t be a dull moment. If you’re traveling on a budget, the towns encase a range of pricing in accommodation and shopping.

Once the quarantine ends and you’re free to travel – take it from me, the Amalfi Coast is one place you’ll never forget!

Do not wait any longer: Here’s how to travel to Italy without leaving your home

Grand Tetons/ Jackson Hole, USA

Sometimes you want to get away by really getting away. The Grand Tetons offer people who fell in love with isolation a more adventurous way to keep up their new way of life. They are part of the Rocky Mountains and run about 40 miles through Wyoming (the nearest town being Jackson Hole) and is one of my favorite places to go in the United States.  

I’ve gone a few times over the years and always leave enjoying it more and more. The Tetons are a hiker and camper’s dream. You can spend your days hiking through the forest scenery and up the mountain range, on Jenny or Jackson Lake fishing, paddleboarding or kayaking, or enjoying a wild & scenic rafting tour on Snake River.

It’s one of the best places to get away from it all and reconnect with yourself through mother nature.

Denarau Island, Fiji

The ultimate beach bum destination. Nestled among the palm trees and sandy beaches, you’ll find world-class resorts, restaurants, and plenty of things to do if laying on the beach isn’t your thing. Port Denarau may be a little island, but it’s larger than life and a perfect place to soak up the sun and relax.

You’ll find amazing resorts whose entire mission is to pamper you and ensure you are having the time of your life. They mix and match their amenities allowing a wide range of choices in activities, swimming pools, and cuisine.

On Denarau Island, you’ll have easy access to scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, parasailing, and Fiji’s best golf courses. Denarau Island, Fiji is a great place to go if you want to focus more on relaxing than being constantly on the go.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a blend of old Colombia and new. Traditional Castellano and new world. It has world-renowned restaurants, while still having homemade Colombian specialties which allow you to get an authentic feel for the Colombian culture.  

Listed by UNESCO , its walled city is a world-class place with amazing architecture and beautiful churches, hotels, and private residences. It’s a place you can wander around the streets for hours just taking in and appreciating the buildings and the vibe of the city.  It’s the best place in Colombia for amazing events set across picturesque backdrops, chiva tours, and salsa dancing until the sun comes up.

While the city itself is incredible, if you want a quick escape, it is close to numerous beaches and many islands only an hour trip by boat. Truly an amazing place.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

When most people think of Thailand they think of tropical beaches, ornate temples, and the Full Moon Party. But Chiang Mai is pretty much the opposite of that. Tucked away in Northern Thailand, it’s a charming place known for its stunning jungle.

While I love a good beach, Chiang Mai is just special. If I had to live in Thailand, I would choose to live in Chiang Mai. Everything about the place is authentic and makes you feel like you’re in Thailand.  It’s not an overwhelming city that’s easy to get lost in and has started to follow the Western culture.

It’s mostly been unchanged by time and offers unique ways to fill your days.  The cooking classes are top-notch and the jungle allows plenty of space to explore.

Related: My Bucket List and Ideas for Yours

Canguu Bali, Indonesia

It’s no secret how much I love and adore Bali.

Bali is made up of friendly people (both local and expats), a thriving culture, and a diverse and wonderful cuisine (with lots of vegan options) it’s hard to run out of things to do, it’s chock full of adventure from volcano trekking to quad biking and snorkeling to world-class surfing and so much more.

It’s filled with yoga studios and funky cafes, it has crystalline beaches & iconic rice fields. There are ultra-hip stores to go shopping at or places to wind down and get pampered. The options are truly endless. 

Bali is an experience of feelings, feelings you get from little everyday things, everyday sights, sounds, and smells that leave a lasting impression making you never want to leave. It’s the little things that count, that create the journey and for that reason, you need to go there to experience the true Bali. Bali is raw beauty. It has a certain magic to it that makes it feel like home.

T hat’s my list of the top 10 post-pandemic dream destinations. As the quarantine and shelter restrictions are lifted it’s important to get back to the things which make each of us feel whole and happy. Regardless of which destination you chose, I guarantee you will have an amazing trip and make some incredible memories.  

Stay Gold and, meanwhile, make the most out of your home country !

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These 15 places are the best to visit in New Jersey, according to Travel and Leisure

Ready to hang out in New Jersey?

This travel media brand says yes.

TravelandLeisure.com released report on 15 of the best places to visit in New Jersey with the help of local tourism experts: Jeffrey Vasser, executive director, New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism and Diane Wieland, director at Cape May County Department of Tourism.

Between the 130 miles of Atlantic Ocean aligned with beautiful beaches and boardwalks with amusements to more than 50 wineries, these gems of the Garden State are worth a visit.

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week: It's back, with lunch and dinner deals at more than 60 spots

Here are the 15 best places to visit in New Jersey:

Ocean city boardwalk.

Known for amusement rides and arcade games that accommodate all ages, Ocean City boardwalk is a fun-filled destination for the the whole family. “The Ocean City Boardwalk is a famous promenade that’s been a source of entertainment for more than 100 years," Wieland said.

This charming Jersey Shore town set on peninsula is a year-round destination with family-friendly and various oceanside dining.

Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

“Families can spend the entire day on more than 100 rides, splashing around the two water parks right on the beach, and lounging in private cabanas,” Vasser said.

Wildwoods Boardwalk

Composed of more than 70,000 wooden planks, the 38-block oceanfront stretch draws crowds with everything from amusement rides, games, water parks and more.

Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District

The largest concentration of mid-century motels in the country has over 50 vintage motels still stand today within this unique district. “It’s really neat to see all the neon signs and retro details. Walking around Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District is like being transported to the 1950s,” said Vasser.

American Dream

American Dream is the second-largest shopping mall in the United States, and includes restaurants and themed parks that provide endless fun for the whole family. “American Dream is, quite literally, an indoor vacation one-stop shop that’s open year-round,” said Vasser.

Lambertville

Full of rich history, Lambertville has well-preserved federal townhouses, Victorian homes and antique shops that brings history to life. “The charming town also supplies family-owned wineries and photogenic vantage points such as Goat Hill Overlook,” added Vasser.

What's the best? Central Jersey town named best place to live in NJ and one of the best nationally

Beneduce Vineyards

This 77-acre farm with 25 acres of vines are hand pruned, hand harvested and dry farmed in the rolling hills of Hunterdon County. “One of my favorites, Beneduce Vineyards, has great wine and fun year-round events such as live music and food trucks on Saturdays,” said Vasser.

Grounds for Sculpture

Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre landscaped park with 300 contemporary sculptures, an arboretum, and a museum with an indoor exhibitions that features six galleries.

Atlantic City

Known as the East Coast's version of Las Vegas offers travelers casinos, live entertainment, big-name restaurants with more fun attractions at the Steel Pier and the only helicopter ride at the Jersey Shore.

Frenchtown is a vibrant community full of Victorian architecture, art, and culture nestled along the banks of the Delaware River. Vasser recommends visiting during Frenchtown Riverfest. “There are all kinds of street fair activities along the river,” he said.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

The Cape May County Park & Zoo houses over 500 different animals that includes African lions, American black bears, snow leopards and ring-tailed lemurs. The zoo features playgrounds for kids of all ages and both places are free to the public. "It's truly one of the best-kept secrets in the area," said Wieland.

Asbury Park

Asbury Park has become a creative hub and music mecca within the last decade with iconic landmarks like The Stone Pony, Asbury Lanes and Silverball Retro Arcade. Asbury Park combines gaming, bowling, dining, live entertainment and of course swimming and surfing on the shore.

Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium features the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast and protects over 8,000 aquatic species, including penguins and stingrays. Visitors can interact with hundreds of sea creatures at the touch tanks. “It’s a favorite for kids of all ages, especially if you’re looking for an indoor activity,” said Wieland.

Long Beach Island

The shores of Long Beach Island are particularly lovely. Besides its scenic Atlantic Ocean coastline, vacationers go for the water sports, charming towns like Barnegat Light, and the laid-back lifestyle.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Best places to visit in NJ from Travel & Leisure 2024

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What makes oman the middle east’s up-and-coming destination.

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Birds are a big thing in Oman’s Musandam Peninsula. As you walk along, it’s not unusual to catch sight of the flick of a sapphire-blue tail, the glimpse of scarlet-red feathers cloaked by a wing or the pop of banana-yellow on a crooked beak. It’s as if the sky has reacted in rainbow protest to the dusty beige of Oman’s landscape. Here, you wake up to a cacophony of twittering and cooing: Indian Rollers, Bulbuls and Sunbirds forming a dawn chorus.

Six Senses Zighy Bay is framed by the Hajar Mountains on one side and the icy-blue waters of the ... [+] Musandam fjords on the other.

Framed by the Hajar Mountains on one side and the icy-blue waters of the Musandam Fjords on the other, this enclave belonging to Oman, found on the northern tip of the Arabian peninsula, is geographically set apart from the rest of the country (it is separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates). Known as the Norway of the Middle East, and best accessible by four-wheel drive from Dubai, the remote location at times looks lunar, with its barren landscape dotted with flighty goats and hardy Ghaf trees; other times, you can imagine yourself to be in a Polar region, with its glacier-like coastline.

Looking down on Zioghy Bay.

When it comes to tourism, compared to other Middle Eastern ‘big-hitters’ (such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar), Oman has managed to remain relatively ‘under the radar’, escaping the hoards of tourists who are attracted to the ‘bright lights, big city’ mentality that other Emirates in the region offer and giving it more of an ‘adventurer’ appeal.

Josh Peacock, regional destination manager, at luxury tour operator, Scott Dunn says that it is this exact quality that is its allure. “Oman’s allure is absolutely about authenticity, away from the more manufactured neighbour of Dubai. Dramatic landscapes combined with Arabian waters and plenty of culture have seen a rise in interest in the destination.”

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Tristan Williams, Middle East resorts specialist at the company, agrees: “In a region currently negotiating renewed uncertainty, Oman is once again the shining haven of stability, security and unwavering beauty, which so many seek. The destination has stayed true to itself, reflecting the very best of everything this incredible part of the world has to offer, from both a cultural and natural perspective. Whether it’s the striking the mountains, turquoise waters, fascinating cities and hotels to match… it has it all.”

The fjords of Musandam

Proving that the country could soon be the next hotspot in the region, there is a line-up of new hotel brands due to open their doors. First up is Mandarin Oriental Muscat , located in the beachfront town of Shatti Al-Qurum, and on target to open by the summer. Nikki Beach Resort and Spa is also due to open by the end of the year, with its resort found on Yiti Bay (30 minutes from Muscat airport) and overlooking the Gulf of Oman. Also due to open in 2024 is the St Regis Al Mouj Muscat , found on an 18-hole Al Mouj Muscat golf course. It will boast a Guerlain spa and have a culinary focus, with outposts of Coya, Hakkasan and Dubai-based Italian restaurant Roberto’s.

The welcome entrance to Six Senses Zighy Bay.

Presiding over Musandam, however, is one of the original hotels to put down roots in the country: Six Senses Zighy Bay , which opened its doors in 2008. It’s a two-and-a-half hour drive to reach it from Dubai, passing through the Khasab border crossing, as you briefly enter the United Arab Emirates. You’ll pass through tiny towns, such as Dibba, where time looks like it has stood still. Shops display old-fashioned and literal signage, sometimes clumsily translated into English: ‘Clipping and Cutting of Men’s Hair’; ‘Washing and Polishing of Motor Vehicles’.

Soon, the mountains take over, and it’s as though you are squeezing your way through their barren peaks to reach the tip of the peninsula where Zighy Bay is found. Your first sight of the resort is from a dramatic, high point before you descend to its beachfront location. Famously, you can elect to tandem-paraglide into the Six Senses property from this spot, which is perhaps the most spectacular way to say you have arrived for check-in at any hotel.

Inside one of the villas with its traditional features.

Low-rise, and carved out of natural stone, the resort’s 82 villas blend into the landscape so you can barely see it is there. It is a nod to the resort’s strong sustainable values that are woven throughout its whole ethos. Initiatives include a seawater well, which means the resort can filter seawater for use within the resort (and for use in one of its pools); an earth lab where glass is recycled; a lush, organic kitchen garden which supplies the five restaurants and the creation of a protected marine area to safeguard the unique eco-system found here.

“Our main focus when it comes to our operations are plastic free, zero waste, energy conservation and organic farming,” says Six Senses about Zighy Bay. “In total, 80 per cent of our organic and glass waste is recycled or upcycled on site, more than 80 per cent of all single-use plastic has been removed, and 30 per cent of the resort’s energy was saved in 2022 compared to our baseline year.”

For adrenalin junkies, you can paraglide into the resort.

Designed to replicate a typical Omani village, each villa is separated by winding, sandy paths, dotted with an abundance of neem, lemon and date palm trees. Once inside, rough-hewn stucco walls, stone floors and ceilings made of date palm sticks give a tropical-rustic feel. Each comes with a private plunge pool and there are outdoor showers and traditional shady majils (seating areas) to take in the views. Naturalmat beds are deep and cosy and are lined with fine, unbleached cotton sheets topped with ergonomic pillows (there is a choice for total bedtime indulgence). Character is added with heavy, dark wood doors, as if you are entering your own mini castle, pops of colour with burnt orange cushions and tactile, handcrafted lighting.

The resort is rooted in Omani culture.

Once you’ve settled in, this is the sort of place where you’ll kick off your shoes and pad along barefoot to one of the pools; or maybe you’ll hop on your own bicycle to explore the sandy pathways (the hotel’s attention to detail even extends to the bikes’ pedals, which are padded so you don’t even have to wear shoes to cycle). As well as an infinity pool and a saltwater pool, (check out the ice-cream cart for instant cooling-down opportunities), you can try your hand at a line-up of activities, such as mountain biking, scuba diving or, perhaps, a flight in a microlight aircraft. At the Earth Lab, you can book in for candle-making, soap-making and glass crafting.

Sense on the Edge is one of the culinary highlights.

Dining at Zighy Bay is a highlight with five restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, but all ofrering thoughtful (and delicious) references to the destination. Spice Market serves up a huge breakfast feast and in the evenings turns its hand to traditional Arabic barbecues and dishes influenced by the ‘Spice Trail’. Mezzeria offers a fusion of Italian and shawarma dishes; while Summer House is the perfect spot for casual lunches overlooking the beach (think: sushi, wellness bowls and freshly-baked flatbreads and dips). A must is the Shua Shack’s traditional Bedouin dining, which features mezze dishes and slow-cooked lamb prepared in an authentic Shua underground oven. For something spectacular, Sense on the Edge, offers fine dining at a clifftop venue, some 950 feet above the sea, and sees you dine overlooking the resort and the coast below. As the sun dips, the outdoor restaurant is lit by candlelight and lanterns giving it an ethereal feel. For special occasions, book one of the Starlight or Moonlight tables, which are found on their own private terraces.

The organic garden provides ingredients for the restaurants.

Another integral part of Six Senses Zighy Bay’s culture is its work with local communities and schools and the encouragement of guests to get out and explore the local area with a collection of trips and experiences. One initiative is its support of the local Dibba Women Association and guests can meet some of the local women, purchase their handmade craft items, hear traditional Omani music, taste Omani sweets and share aromatic coffee with them, as well as take part in henna painting. All proceeds go towards helping to fund their infrastructure development projects, including nurseries and schools.

The Dhahab sunset cruise.

Despite the amount of things to do and see, time seems to pass slowly here. The remote spot oozes a holistic feel, whether you’ve found a little piece of zen with the sunrise yoga or nodded off at the hands of the exceptional therapists found at the Six Senses Spa. Of course, this being Six Senses, the spa is a signature highlight of the property, with many of its treatments designed to root you in Oman, due to the local ingredients that they use, such as frankincense, honey and rosewater.

The resort is like its own mini oasis.

Not to be missed is a sunset cruise on Dhahab , the resort’s traditional dhow boat, which has been made specially for the hotel and fitted out as a modern, luxury cruiser. As you sail the Musandam fjords, you pass tiny fishing villages perched on the cliffs and can anchor in secluded coves. For those wanting to dive or scuba, the waters are famous for their brightly coloured corals. While on the mountains, this is one of the only areas of the world where the earth’s mantle has broken through, with green ophiolites, part of the earth’s crust, visible to the eye.

When you return to the resort, low-level lighting (to combat light pollution) gives it a tranquil, hideaway feel. As the lights are dimmed on earth, above you, the stars are switching. Look up, it’s a wonder to behold.

From Zighy Bay, you can dive into the Musandam area.

Scott Dunn offers seven nights at Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman, from £8,500, based on a couple sharing on a half-board basis, including return flights from London and private transfers. scottdunn.com

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Khabarovsk, Russia

You are here, about khabarovsk.

Khabarovsk is one of the most significant and beautiful cities of Russia's Far East. It stands on the right bank of the Amur River along the scenic Trans-Siberian railway and almost touches the Chinese border.

The city of Khabarovsk played a crucial role in East - Russian history and is famous for its historic sights, monuments of architecture of different eras, religious buildings, lovely parks, gardens, and artificial lakes which surprise its visitors with impressive fountain shows.

Khabarovsk History

Founded in 1858, the city is now loved by Chinese travelers and those who are going on iconic train journeys along the world's longest railway from Siberia. After days of relentless taiga, people reach this vibrant city with multiple attractions, plenty of historical sights from the tsarist-era, and a number of places to try traditional Russian cuisine. Khabarovsk is indeed a charming city that deserved to be on your travel itinerary. Especially, if you are the legendary Trans-Siberian is on your travel radar.

We suggest beginning your Khabarovsk tour from the famous monument erected in honor of Nikolay Muravyov - Amursky, one of the best-known explorer of East Siberia, a general, and the founder of the city.

Continue your Khabarovsk trip with a riverside walk along the picturesque Nevelsky Embankment and pass through the third tallest church (35 feet) in all Russia - Spaso-Transfiguration Cathedral standing on top of a hill. Take in the spectacular location and view of this Cathedral and its classic golden domes, dominating the city skyline and being visible from a large distance.

Your Trans-Siberian itinerary would become even better if you include a visit to the famous Khabarovsk Bridge as well. The railway bridge goes over the Amur River and is considered to be the longest bridge on the Trans-Siberian route.

Best Things to Do in Khabarovsk

• Stop by the Nikolay Muravyov - Amursky monument
• Visit the gorgeous Spaso-Transfiguration Cathedral
• Take a picture by the renown Khabarovsk Bridge over the Amur River

Top Attractions in Khabarovsk

The Kamchatka peninsula is perhaps one of the most beautiful locations in the world. With about 300 volcanoes, 29 of which are still active, the mountains dazzle visitors.

All Attractions in Khabarovsk

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Must-see attractions in Khabarovsk

Khabarovsk Regional Museum

Located in an evocative 1894 red-brick building, this museum contains an excellent overview of Russian and Soviet history, despite not having a single…

Sikachi-Alyan

The riverside Nanai village of Sikachi-Alyan is 77km northeast of Khabarovsk and makes for a good day trip. Here you can view the Sikachi-Alyan…

Assumption Cathedral

Built in 2002 this striking cathedral rose on the site of a far older church that was knocked down by Stalin during his antireligious campaigns.

Archaeology Museum

Undergoing a full renovation in 2017, this five-room museum displays tools and living essentials from early peoples. Pottery, animal-skin huts, dugout…

Transfiguration Cathedral

This highly impressive church's golden domes dazzle you from all over the city, with its prime location overlooking the Amur River. The cathedral was…

House of Pioneers

Now a 'palace of childhood creation’, the former House of Pioneers (the youngest youth group in the USSR, where children went before the Komsomol) was…

Far Eastern Art Museum

This smart and imposing building hosts a moderately interesting collection of local art, including religious icons, Japanese porcelain and 19th-century…

Tsentralny Gastronom

Style Moderne – the Russian take on art nouveau – defines this mint-green building dating from 1895; it's topped by a statue of Mercury.

Far Eastern State Research Library

This attractive library, the largest in the Far East, dates from 1894 and is one of the most striking pieces of architecture in Khabarovsk.

WWII Memorial

This impressive brutalist memorial to the Soviet Army's losses during WWII stands on a hillside overlooking the river.

Count Nikolai Muravyov-Amursky Monument

This striking monument to Count Nikolai Maravyov-Amursky, an early governor of the Russian Far East, stands overlooking the Amur River that he did so much…

HIGHLIGHTS & SIGHTSEEING IN KHABAROVSK

• The City Tour along wooden and brick houses preserved from the time of the city’s founding will enable you to feel an unmistakable charm of Khabarovsk. The oldest Komsomolskaya Square houses the remarkable redbrick building dating 1901(now the Public Library). Splendid view of the St.Innokenty church – the first church built in the city. During the Stalin’s period, a well known GULAG Camp existed near the Ulakhan village which was located close the city.
• The Archaeological Museum contains over 40,000 artifacts; among them, there are the world famous petrogliphs of Sikachi Alyan and cultural heritage of the Golden Empire of the Jurchen People.
• The Art Museum possesses a unique collection of the Far Eastern aboriginal crafts and arts that includes fish skin outfits, beautiful carpets and bone engraved items. Some wonderful ancient Russian icons and paintings by famous Russian artists Ilya Repin, Ivan Shishkin and Isaac Levitan, as well as works by Western masters, such as Rembrandt, Rubens and Monet are exhibited in the Art Museum.
• The Cruise along the Amur River is might be a beautiful journey within a live archeological museum. The riverside rocks make an unusual display of man-made carvings – petrogliphs that are the images of ancient cultural heritage of local ethnic groups. The Bolshekhetsirsky State Nature Preserve has conifer-broadleaved forests rich in typically virgin nature and genetic stock of organic life. In 30 miles to the southwest of the city, there is the Khekhtsir State Nature Reserve, a unique place where southern lianas, Manchurian walnuts grow side by side with evergreen conifers. Bears, foxes, wolves, elks and tigers could be watched occasionally there. The Badjal Range – one of the most picturesque parts of the Russian Far East with unique flora and fauna is abundant in sable, musk deer and bears.

Khabarovsk, Russia

Tours, Attractions and Things To Do in Khabarovsk

Khabarovsk travel guide.

• 1. Architecture
• 2. Attractions
• 3. Cultural life
• 4. Souvenirs

Khabarovsk, Russia fascinates visitors with its unusual heritage and fabulous untouched nature. Tourists are drawn to the native culture, eclectic architecture and mesmerizing waters in this off-the-beaten-track destination, which promises a unique and memorable vacation.

As the center of Russia’s far eastern region of Khabarovsk Krai, the city offers celebrations throughout the year which are sure to give added flair to your trip, from traditional culture days to large-scale food fests. It is easy to keep a full itinerary during your stay thanks to its many theaters, museums, restaurants, workshops and quest rooms. Guests who want a more relaxed holiday can venture into the serenity of Khabarovsk nature, including the coast of the Sea of Japan or one of the region’s many picturesque lakes .

Khabarovsk Architecture

Khabarovsk architecture surprises with its harmonious blending of varying types and styles. This is due in large part to major changes which the city underwent in the mid-19th-early 20th centuries in conjunction with developments in the political, economic, scientific and technical spheres. The search for new trends in architecture came after the death of the classicism style, which had dominated the Russian Empire and the wider world for centuries. Beginning in the mid-19th century, the practice of mixing eclectic architectural styles began to emerge, leading to an era of amazing stylistic improvisations.

During the final decades of Romanov reign, many educational institutions for architects and engineers were opened. As a result, the face of numerous Russian cities began to change rapidly. Art Nouveau - a new, modern trend that absorbed several preceding styles – had come to dominate the architectural scene.

Many Art Nouveau buildings can still be seen in central Khabarovsk. These include:

• Takeuchi apartment building (5 Muravyov-Amursky Street)
• Esplanade Hotel (18 Muravyov-Amursky Street)
• Luhta apartment building (84 Komsomolskaya Street)
• Zandau apartment building (34 Muravyov-Amursky Street)

Khabarovsk also has many Gothic buildings, a style distinguished by its elegance and attention to detail. Every element of Gothic architecture emphasize a vertical orientation, as seen in the massive walls and columns, round arches and wide windows which contrast with narrow towers, pointed peaks and lancet windows.

Khabarovsk’s Gothic architecture is best represented by the artillery warehouse buildings located at 16 Komsomolskaya Street. Another notable example is the Red Guard Headquarters (105 Komsomolskaya Street), which has been preserved in its original form. The complex consists of two identical two-story brick buildings with unusual motifs containing pseudo-gothic elements.

Also of note is the early 20th-century Treasury Building, a luxurious red brick structure with openwork balconies that exudes an architectural grace.

Khabarovsk also has many Soviet-era buildings which were mostly designed in the constructivism style. Characterized by their enormous size and grotesque shapes, they often occupy most of the block and dominate the surrounding space.

During your Khabarovsk excursion, be sure to appreciate its unique architectural heritage by going for a walk downtown .

Khabarovsk Attractions

The layout of Khabarovsk is very simple: its 3 main streets of Lenin, Muravyov-Amursky and Seryshev pass through the downtown area, while Ussuriysky and Amur Boulevards run perpendicular to them. A distinctive feature of Khabarovsk are its many hills, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes for your walk.

Begin your walking tour of Khabarovsk from the train station, where you can see the monument to Yerofey Khabarov, the famous explorer for whom the city is named. Nearby is a sculpture of a double-headed eagle, erected in memory of soldiers, officers and builders of the Far Eastern Railway. Moving from the station along Amur Boulevard you will reach the central market, just past which is Lenin Square. A spacious area with a granite fountain in the center, it is the main plaza of Khabarovsk and the site of the city’s Christmas and New Year celebrations. Next to the square is Dynamo Park, famous for its three ponds and Ferris wheel.

From Lenin Square, move along Muravyov-Amursky Street to reach Amur Embankment, passing most of Khabarovsk’s famous 19th-20th century buildings along the way. Descend to the embankment via two grand staircases or make a small detour onto Shevchenko Street, where you can follow the slope until you reach the embankment’s main stretch. Among other things, the area is home to the House of Officers and three museums.

As you move along the embankment through a park you will come across the city symbol of Khabarovsk, a building set on a steep cliff above the Amur River. It was at the foot of this cliff that the founders of a military post, the first semblance of civilization in the area, first landed.

After reaching the river and walking along Ussuriysky Boulevard to Turgenev Street, turn right to reach Glory Square. Here you will find another famous Khabarovsk landmark, Transfiguration Cathedral, along with a magnificent view of the Amur River and its dreamy islands. Glory Square concludes the main walking route of Khabarovsk, but from here you can reach any part of the city by public transport or taxi .

Khabarovsk Cultural Life

Khabarovsk entertainment centers around its many theaters and museums. Visit Khabarovsk Museum of Local Lore to get a better glimpse of city and regional life. Children and adults alike will want to visit Fishes of Amur River Museum, an aquarium which is home to some 90 species of the underwater world. To catch the vibe of local artists, head to the Far Eastern Art Museum.

There are several theaters in Khabarovsk, each of which is worth visiting:

• Khabarovsk Regional Puppet Theater;
• Triad Pantomime Theater;
• Khabarovsk Regional Philharmonic;
• White Theater, and others.

In addition, Khabarovsk offers several concert halls, culture houses, cinemas and art institutions .

Khabarovsk Souvenirs

While the city’s souvenir selection is not as diverse as in other Russian cities, guests can still find something suited to their tastes on their tour to Khabarovsk. Amur River and the Sea of Japan offer an abundance of seafood that can be tasted on the spot or brought home in dried or smoked form. Yet it is the rich culture of the local indigenous peoples which provides the largest selection of national souvenirs.

If you’re looking for an original gift, traditional Nanai slippers are comfortable and warm. Sewn from leather or fabric and decorated in a bright, colorful style before being trimmed with fur, they make the perfect house shoes in winter. Traditional decorations include amulets which are made from animal bones, fur or fabrics and decorated with ribbons and colored beads.

Standard souvenirs like plates, magnets, mugs and flasks stamped with images of Khabarovsk or its coat of arms can be purchased in souvenir shops, which are mostly located downtown and at the airport and railway station.