exotic travel destinations 2022

Wander-Lush

35 Unusual Holiday Destinations for Alternative Travellers

The very best quirky, unconventional and unusual holiday destinations for travellers who love to go their own way.

Do you consider yourself an unconventional tourist, or are you happy enough to stick to the path well travelled?

‘Off the beaten track’ is one of the most overused phrases in travel writing. In this day and age, there are few destinations truly worthy of such a title. But it’s also true that there’s never been a better time to break from the crowd and travel off the radar.

Also read: 25 best alternative city breaks in Europe .

Some of these holiday destinations are considered unusual because they’re remote and difficult to reach. Others have a harsh climate or are misunderstood, while some are simply overlooked for more touristy alternatives.

Whether it’s pristine nature, complete solitude or authentic cultural encounters you seek, this list has something for you. Compiled by a list of expert travellers, each of these places is utterly underrated and more than worthy of your consideration as an alternative holiday destination.

Browse the full list or use the links below to find a favourite.

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35 unusual holiday destinations that should be on your radar

With the help of my favourite travel bloggers, I scoured every continent to find the best unusual travel destinations worthy of a mention. Here’s what we came up with!

If you have anything more to add, please leave your suggestions in the comments section at the end!

1. Azerbaijan, the land of fire

Editor’s choice

Azerbaijan is a strong contender for the world’s most underrated holiday destination.

Compared to its more-popular neighbours, Georgia and Armenia , Azerbaijan’s relatively strict visa policy has been a deterrent for many travellers. But an e-visa introduced in 2017 now makes it easier than ever to travel to Azerbaijan .

Baku, the biggest city, is one of the most curious capitals in the world . Enriched by decades of oil wealth, it boasts ambitious architecture and large-scale civic projects including the Bulvar, a massive seaside boulevard along the Caspian, and the world’s largest flag pole. Icherisheher , Old Baku’s historic core, is a complete contrast, with its Zoroastrian tower and stone caravanserais.

Beyond the city, the otherworldly landscape of the Absheron Peninsula includes mud volcanoes and flaming hillsides (a result of all that subterranean oil). Go mountain hiking, visit the small towns of Guba and Lahic where artisans ply their traditional trades, and visit Sheki , home of the legendary UNESCO Site , the Palace of the Sheki Khans.

2. Oman, for a Middle Eastern road trip

The Middle East is the last place most people think of when planning a road trip. But Oman is the perfect place for self-driving.

New highways, cheap fuel and a surplus of things to see make this the perfect spot for an adventurous holiday. If you’re on a budget , you’ll be pleased to know that it’s perfectly legal to pitch a tent almost anywhere you fancy in Oman. A night of glamping in one of the country’s desert camps is also a must.

Start your road trip in Muscat, where you’ll find Oman’s premier cultural institutions and the lively Muttrah Souq, before making your way down the coast. At Ras Al Jinz, the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, you can visit one of the world’s most active turtle nesting sights.

Inland, Oman offers sweeping deserts, dramatic mountains and valleys for hiking, and a variety of historic fortresses. Drop into some of the many wadis and sinkholes as you go to cool off from the desert heat.

Don’t judge Oman by it’s location on the map – this is an overwhelmingly safe, relatively budget-friendly and abundantly beautiful country with a strong tradition of hospitality and a vibrant, well-preserved cultural heritage.

3. The far north of Vietnam

Aside from super-popular Sapa and Bac Ha , far Northern-Vietnam is home to a number of lesser-visited national parks and alternative trekking spots. Second or third-time visitors to Vietnam should prioritise spending time in the north.

Ha Giang and Pu Luong both offer underrated landscapes largely free of crowds, while the charming colonial port city of Hai Phong has a similar vibe to Hanoi but with a much slower pace of life. Picking tea in Thai Nguyen, trekking in Moc Chau during spring bloom or tea-picking season , taking a boat out on Ba Be Lake and gazing up at the vertiginous rice terraces around Son La are just a few of the totally unique experiences you can have in Northern Vietnam.

Treat yourself to a local homestay while you’re there – this is far and away the best strategy to get an inside look at some of Vietnam’s many ethnic minority cultures. In Da Bac , yet another hidden gem in the far-north, you can stay with the community in traditional wooden houses while using the small villages as a base for trekking.

4. Transnistria, a breakaway state in Eastern Europe

By Luda from Adventures with Luda

Transnistria is an unconventional travel destination for two reasons. First, it’s referred to as ‘a country that doesn’t exist’. Even though it has its own constitution, army, currency, and citizenship, no other sovereign nation actually recognises it as such.

Secondly, Transnistria feels as though it’s stuck in time thanks to the Soviet posters, Lenin statues and 60s-style Khrushchyovka buildings sprinkled around town. Many travellers have called it a ‘Communist theme park’ because of how well-preserved everything is.

Transnistria is the perfect place for travellers who are interested in Soviet history and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s easy to reach from Chisinau, Moldova or Odessa, Ukraine and can be part of a day trip or a longer journey.

The majority of things to do in Transnistria are in Tiraspol, the capital. Start off with a walk along October 25th Street, the main road that runs through the city, before stopping at the colourful House of Soviets. See the historical moments on Suvorov Square and take a peek inside the City Library, which still has its Soviet-era murals.

5. Nicosia, the world’s last divided capital

By Helen from Helen on her Holidays

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the world’s last divided capital city.

Since 1983, the city has been split by the ‘Green Line’, a border between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus.

The border was completely sealed and crossed only by UN peacekeeping forces for decades, but in 2008 the restrictions were relaxed. Today it’s possible to visit both parts of Nicosia . The border crossing and distinct character of the two sides of Nicosia make it one of the world’s most unusual city breaks.

The Greek-speaking Republic side of the border is much like other European capitals, with Starbucks, McDonalds and H&M all present. But at the end of the main shopping street there’s a border crossing, and if you cross into North Nicosia it’s immediately clear that you’ve stepped into a completely different culture.

Both sides of Nicosia have interesting sights, but North Nicosia has the edge in atmosphere and attractions. Don’t miss the stunning mosque set in a former cathedral and the medieval caravanserai.

6. Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, a hidden gem in Canada

By Lee & Stacey from One Trip at a Time

Most visitors to Nova Scotia will likely visit Halifax, the South Shore, or drive the Cabot Trail. Those who are a little more adventurous might hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton , part of the coastal road that encircles the island.

If you’re looking for somewhere less travelled, check out the Annapolis Valley , which may be more than you expect!

History buffs will find places to learn about this part of Canada including the Grand-Pré, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the tragic story of Acadian expulsion, and Port-Royal, the first European settlement in Canada founded in 1605.

Food and wine lovers can savour the flavours of the region: Taste hand-picked berries, take a wine tour and tasting at one of the many vineyards, and try the apples the Valley is known for. Locals have been celebrating the annual Apple Blossom Festival here since 1933.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. You can go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, hike along coastal cliffs or forest trails leading to waterfalls, or canoe and back-country camp in one of the province’s parks or wilderness areas.

All of this is just a taste of what this vibrant region of Nova Scotia has to offer.

7. Mississippi Gulf Coast, the ‘secret coast’

By Charles from McCool Travel

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is one of America’s most underrated destinations and should top every intrepid traveller’s wish list.

This relatively undiscovered area – also called Coastal Mississippi (or The Secret Coast) – is located between New Orleans and Mobile Alabama, and highlighted by gorgeous beaches (with magnificent sunrises and sunsets), abundant waterways, fresh seafood, and a quirky culture.

Popular Coastal Mississippi outdoor activities centre around the USA’s largest man-made beach and largest free-flowing river. At 26 miles wide and 200 feet deep, the continuous beach from Pass Christian to Biloxi is a constant enticement for travellers on the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway. Explore the Pascagoula River on a guided McCoy’s Swamp Tour or rented kayak from Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

Mississippi Gulf Coast is a wonderfully unique and rare coastal ecosystem because of its magnificent live oak trees which magically enhance its two phenomenal small beach towns, Ocean Springs and Bay St Louis.

During your Coastal Mississippi visit, try every version of shrimp and grits and savour as many sunsets as you can.

8. Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the ‘singing sands’

By Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

Despite being the most popular destination in Mongolia (which really isn’t saying much considering how few tourists make it there), most travellers still know very little about the sprawling natural beauty of the Gobi Desert .

Fascinating and diverse, it features an impressively desolate and atmospheric desert, along with the 300-metre high ‘singing sands’ of Khongoryn Els, the tallest and most picturesque of the country’s extensive series of wild sand dunes. But there is far more to the Gobi than just desert.

The most efficient way to visit is by rustic-but-adventurous jeep tour. On a typical 7-day, 6-night excursion, you can try horseback riding through the steppes and camel riding through the dunes, enjoy cosy nights and typical Mongolian BBQ in traditional gers , and explore the Flaming Cliffs, the Olgiid Khiid monastery, Yolyn Am gorge, and the deceptively named White Stupa (which is actually a set of stupa-like rocks).

Needless to say, the Gobi Desert has a little something for everyone, except maybe those looking for a decent toilet.

9. Lithuania, a history buff’s dream

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Lithuania is a little-known country in Eastern Europe filled with castles and forests, shore line and old-town charm.

The capital city of Vilnius was the first of four places in Lithuania to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. A charming blend of old and new, Vilnius is a city of contradictions that any traveller can fall in love with.

Many of the notable sights in Vilnius, Lithuania are completely free to visit. St. Anne’s Church offers an amazing example of architecture, with its stunning gothic-style facade, and the Cathedral Square with its tall white bell tower is stunning. So much of the city’s history can be discovered on a walk around Old Town Vilnius .

An extensive bus system covers the country and can take you to locations such as Trakai Castle, the port town of Klaipeda, and – reachable by ferry – the unbelievable Curonian Spit.

Thirty percent of the country is covered with forest and nature. Between the unspoiled wilderness and the charm of the historical cities, there is truly something for everyone in unexpected Lithuania!

10. The Bahamas Out Islands, an unconventional island paradise

By Jackie from Enjoy Travel Life

If you’re thinking of a tropical getaway to the Caribbean but feel discouraged by overcrowded beaches and towering resort chains, look to The Bahamas Out Islands. This collection of small islands south of the popular Grand Bahamas offers deserted beaches, unspoiled nature and secluded bungalows.

Here you’ll find an exclusive, unconventional island paradise.

Perhaps you’ve heard about The Abacos or Eleuthera, but as you travel further south along the archipelago, the islands become almost unknown: Cat Island , Crooked Island and Ackins each offer unique island beauty. 

You’ll enjoy the laid-back beach vibe, fruity rum drinks and delicious Bahamian seafood dishes – try Conch and Grouper! If you’re seeking more adventure, you can scuba dive along the islands’ rich coral reef or kayak through the mangroves. You might even try bonefishing or wind-sailing.

Be sure to pack several bathing suits and leave your laptop behind. While some resorts may have Wi-Fi in the common areas, it’s spotty at best. Rest assured, there’s no better place for a digital detox.

11. The High Canadian Arctic

By Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper

Nunavut is a seldom traveled destination, but one that deserves a place on any traveller’s bucket list. The largest territory in Canada, Nunavut covers one fifth of the country and extends into the High Arctic, nearly reaching the North Pole.

This land is vast, characterised by rolling tundra and meandering icebergs, ragged cliffs and frozen sea ice. As one of the most remote regions on the globe, activities out on the land are varied and plentiful, including snowmobiling, dog sledding, hiking and kayaking.

Travellers on a budget can explore the capital city of Iqaluit and experience a taste of life north of the 60th parallel. Those with larger budgets can join wildlife safaris and witness wild animals including polar bears, narwhals, beluga, walrus and caribou.

Regardless of the type of trip, any time in Nunavut will leave you craving more. Its magical environment is one that lingers long after the flight home has landed.

12. Lichtenstein, a tiny country with big heart

By Derek & Mike from Robe Trotting

An amazing destination in Europe that doesn’t attract a lot of tourism is the micro-state of Liechtenstein. One reason this tiny country is so unconventional is the fact that it’s doubly land-locked by Austria and Switzerland. It’s also a mere 25 kilometres long. 

While it may lack territory, there are surprisingly a lot of things to do in Liechtenstein . There are five castles to visit, two of which have been fully restored and three more that are ruins. The royal family also maintains a vineyard and wine cellar in Vaduz, the largest city and capital. Visitors can enjoy a walk-in tasting and wine dinners can be arranged for larger groups. 

In Liechtenstein you’ll also discover beautiful natural wonders. Hiking is one of the most popular activities and Eschnerberg Trail is one of the most-hiked trails in the entire region. The views of the Alpine Rhine and mountains are reason enough to visit Liechtenstein.

13. Iran, the home of hospitality

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

Iran is often portrayed in the media as a dangerous destination, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s one of the most diverse countries in the world, which makes it a great destination for any kind of traveller.

In Iran, you’ll find rich history, nature, architecture, culture and adventure. But what defines this country is its people. The hospitality you experience has no comparison; it’s simply reason enough to book a ticket.

The country is big, so dedicate as much time as possible to explore it. In a couple of weeks, you can fit in the main sights: Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, the Silk Road city of Shiraz and Persepolis. If you have more time, add Kerman and the Lut desert to the list, the ancient citadels of Rayen and Bam, and Qeshm and Hormuz islands for stunning nature.

If you want to go absolutely off the beaten path and experience the nation’s hospitality at its very best, also include Iranian Kurdistan in your itinerary.

14. Iraqi Kurdistan, a diverse corner of the Middle East

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Iraqi Kurdistan  is not a well-known travel destination due to the negative portrayal and misconceptions fuelled by the media. First of all, it’s crucial that we understand that Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region recognised by the Republic of Iraq.

It means that Iraqi Kurdistan has its own borders and their own government and military. Therefore, when you hear something about Iraq in the news, that’s most probably not valid for Iraqi Kurdistan.

To see the reality, we have to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraqi Kurdistan, similarly to Iran, is an extremely safe travel destination.

The first thing that you will learn about in Iraqi Kurdistan is Kurdish hospitality. Hospitality is definitely running in the veins of Kurdish people. They cherish their visitors like a precious jewel and treat them with utmost respect and care. People are so friendly and deeply kind that Iraqi Kurdistan will just get under your skin and you will not want to leave. One feeling that this place can give visitors is that the world would be a much better place just by simply being kind to each other.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, there are tons of mind-blowing places to visit.

Kurdistan offers a plethora of natural beauties such as the Rawanduz Canyon, Halgurd Mountain and Dukan Lake which are perfect hiking destinations as well. You can also witness a lot of cultural diversity in Iraqi Kurdistan. You can learn about Muslim, Christian and Yazidi cultures.

The capital, Erbil, is one of the oldest cities in the world where you can find historical sites, old bazaars, cosy cafés where you can get to know friendly locals.

Some of the oldest Christian monasteries of the world, namely Mar Mattai Monastery and the Rabban Hormizd Monastery are to be found in Iraqi Kurdistan. Another iconic and very important cultural site is Lalish, the most sacred place of the followers of Yazidi faith, where you can only enter barefoot.

15. Pakistan, mother nature at her finest

By Samantha from Intentional Detours

Pakistan might just be the most underrated holiday destination in the world. Dozens of record-breaking mountain peaks, lush green valleys, hundreds of kilometres of coastline, a rich cuisine that constantly awes the tastebuds – plus some of the friendliest people in the world – all make this South Asian destination a traveller’s dream.

Perhaps the best thing about Pakistan is that it yet remains mostly undiscovered by foreign tourists. Though numbers are steadily increasing, it’s not uncommon to go weeks without meeting a fellow foreigner when you’re on the road.

Pakistan’s mountains are its crown jewel, and no trip to the country would be complete with a visit to Gilgit Baltistan. Though the Hunza district gets all the glory, don’t be afraid to get a bit off the beaten path and explore places like Ghizer Valley, a beautiful hamlet filled with the bluest lakes and rivers you could ever dream of.

It’s easy to get lost in the mountains, but skipping out on Pakistan’s historical places would be akin to a crime. The country boasts thousands of years of human history, and cities such as Lahore reveal pieces of the Mughal Era everywhere, from the 300-year-old mosques to summer pavilions, tombs, and vast gardens.

The southern province of Sindh is also teeming with historically and culturally important sites and should not be missed, especially when it cools down come October.

16. Sumba, a Bali alternative

By Sarah from Hotels & Hand Luggage

Sumba is a relatively unknown Indonesian island that’s just an hour and a half flight from Bali.

The landscape is teeming with beautiful photo spots including deserted beaches, dancing trees, rolling hills, traditional villages and hidden lagoons. Unlike Bali however, it’s likely you’ll arrive at these enchanting places without any other tourists around.

Sumba is larger than Bali so hiring a driver is a must if you want to make the most of your time here. The island is divided into east and west, with the locals on each side holding different ancient traditions.

There aren’t many hotel options on the island and most offerings are still very basic, but the lack of comfort is worth it to experience a place still steeped in tradition. One accommodation option well worth a visit is Maringi Eco Resort by Sumba Hospitality Foundation, a small, eco-friendly hotel and restaurant that trains young Sumbanese students in hospitality.

17. Small-town Slovakia, one of the most unusual holiday destinations in Central Europe

By Kami from Kami & the Rest of the World

Slovakia isn’t exactly the most popular country in Europe Even if tourists decide to visit, they usually only go to the capital city, Bratislava. But Slovakia has so much more to offer. There are so many amazing yet lesser-known places to visit in Slovakia that you should visit before everyone else does.

While Bratislava is a nice place to see, the second-largest city, Kosice offers even more attractions – from historical monuments to amazing cultural spaces and a wonderful food scene.

In Slovakia, you can find one of the most beautiful and impressive mountain ranges in Europe, the High Tatras, with its highest peak Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 metres AMSL. The nearby Spiš Castle is one of the largest castles in Central Europe and a truly remarkable site.

If you like to visit charming Central European towns, you’ll find plenty of them in Slovakia. Bardejov, Banska Stiavnica and Levoca are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

18. Grenada beyond the beach, for a unique holiday in the Caribbean

By Michele from A Taste for Travel

Although famous for its white-sand beaches, this fertile mountainous island might be one of the most overlooked destinations in the Caribbean when it comes to outdoor adventure and cuisine. And while beautiful Grand Anse beach does deserve its many accolades, unconventional travellers will discover it’s well worth exploring beyond Grenada’s beaches.

Top things to do include trekking to sky-high crater lakes, jumping into Concord Waterfall or snorkelling among coral-draped statues within the Underwater Sculpture Museum. After a full day of outdoor adventure, it’s possible to relax in comfort at one of the luxury hotels in Grenada where accommodation options include beach bungalows with plunge pools, hilltop suites and contemporary villas overlooking the sea.

Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean where all-inclusive resorts promote mass tourism, many of Grenada’s hotels are independently owned and operated. They offer travellers a way to experience the island’s unique rhythm, character and local cuisine.

Must-try dishes and drinks to try when visiting the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ include rum punch topped with freshly-grated island nutmeg, oil down (a hearty stew featuring callaloo, root vegetables, coconut milk and chicken), bean-to-bar chocolate and doubles, a savoury spiced snack.

19. Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth

By Dalya from Sweet Little Journey

If you love extreme, unique and completely remote holiday destinations, the Atacama Desert should definitely be on your list.

Located on the northern tip of Chile and spanning over 40,000 square-miles, this is the driest place on Earth. Walking through the landscape will make you feel like you’re treading on a completely different planet. In fact, given its uncanny similarity to the surface of Mars, NASA uses this terrain to simulate conditions when testing their rovers!

Aside from the extraterrestrial landscapes, you’ll find various volcanoes, red and pink lagoons , salt lagoons, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. There’s only one small town in this whole desert, San Pedro de Atacama , which serves as the perfect home base for exploring all the different attractions here.

Given that there are no other settlements for many miles aside from San Pedro, the Atacama Desert has the clearest night skies on Earth.

20. Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley, prime hiking country

By Stephen from MonkBoughtLunch

Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley is off the beaten track even for a relatively un-touristed country. While most international travellers head primarily to the Pamir Mountains in the east of the country, the Fann Mountains in the northwest offer just as much in terms of scenery – and are arguably even better for trekking.

Of all the treks in the region, camping in Kulilkalon is one of the most popular – and for good reason. A string of sparkling mountain lakes that stretch across Kulikalon are fed by glacial streams that run down the valley, and on every side towering snow-capped peaks and a handful of beautiful glaciers dominate the view.

Though transport options are limited and expensive in rural Tajikistan, Kulikalon is made even more attractive by proximity to a rough road. It’s possible to hike up and back as a day trip from the nearby Artuch camp or to make a multi-day trek over the Alaudin Pass and down to the eponymous lake below, returning to a different trailhead in the Alaudin Valley or pushing on deeper into the heart of the Fann Mountains.

21. Asturias, Spain’s cheese capital

By Dagney from Cultura Obscura

The Asturias region of Northern Spain is definitely one of the most underrated parts of this otherwise highly touristed country.

For visitors from outside of Spain, the most likely reason for visiting is the Camino, which passes through the Asturian countryside. In general, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The countryside is full of picturesque towns and beautiful lakes.

However, there is so much more to see and do here. Foodies in particular will love Asturias. The region produces over 50 different cheeses, while nearly every town and city has at least one local cider.

Oviedo, the capital of the region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city, you’ll find La Iglesia Skate, a church that’s been converted into a skate park and is full of beautiful, vibrant paintings.

In Gijón , another major Asturian city in Spain , you can visit the Universidad Laboral, the biggest building in Spain, or head to the International Bagpipe Museum.

22. Palestine, the heart of the Middle East

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Palestine is a terribly underrated destination, and many who travel to the Middle East decide not to visit for fear that it may be dangerous or unwelcoming. It’s actually quite the other way around.

People in Palestine are the epitome of friendly, and they go above and beyond to make visitors feel like guests of honour. Add to that the rich, intricate history, the archeological sites, the natural wonders and the delicious food (and even wine and beer!), and it’s easy to see why this is a place you should not skip when you’re in the region.

Among the highlights of visiting Palestine there’s exploring the city of Bethlehem, where you will find the Church of the Holy Nativity, the Chapel of the Milk Grotto and the West Bank Separation Wall that has been adorned with many murals. There also are also a few Banksy pieces scattered around. Not far from Bethlehem, the Israeli-controlled Palace of Herodion is another very interesting site.

Hebron, a city terribly fought over by Jews and Muslims, should also be visited. Similarly, Ramallah – the current administrative centre – is a city thriving with life. Finally, make sure to go to the Baptismal Source at the River Jordan for a truly mystical experience.

The easiest way to get into Palestine is from Jerusalem. Take bus 231 from the bus station near Damascus gate. Be sure to bring your passport with you and the Israeli custom slip you get at the airport, as you’ll need it to get back into Israel to continue your journey.

23. Gopeng, Malaysia’s little-known heritage town

By Marco from Penang Insider

Gopeng is only 20 km south of Ipoh , but it’s shamefully overlooked, notwithstanding being one of West Malaysia’s top adventure eco-tourism destinations.

Set on a bend of the Kampar river, Gopeng is tiny but boasts natural wonders including Gua Tempurung and Gua Kandu, two of the country’s biggest caves, and tall waterfalls such as Ulu Geruntum, a popular abseiling spot. There are plenty of eco-friendly activities around, including stand up paddle boarding and a tree-top obstacle courses offered by Nomad Adventure.

Further inland is Ulu geroh, an orang asli (Malaysian aboriginal) village from where you can strike out on a short trek to see the Rafflesia in bloom. The world’s biggest flower can be a bit smelly, but the packs of rare rajah Brooke butterflies you’ll spot along the way make up for the stink big time.

Back in town, don’t forget to visit the Heritage House for a dive into the area’s colonial history, and the Gopeng Museum for a simple yet informative look at the town’s tin mining past.

24. Bhutan, for time-honoured traditions and unspoiled landscapes

By Sonakshi & Mainak from Places In Pixel

Bhutan is a tiny landlocked country perched in the Himalayas. Due to its location and restrictions around tourism, Bhutan remains an under-explored destination even today. But it’s exactly this reality that makes Bhutan scenically spectacular and a must-visit unconventional destination.

Apart from the usual things to do and places to visit in the major cities of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha, Bhutan has a lot to offer travellers who are willing to try something different. The most unique things to do in Bhutan include:

• Hiking up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery – nestled high on a precarious cliff, it’s said that a Buddhist Master (Guru Rinpoche) flew on a ‘flying tigress’ and meditated here for months.
• Trying Ema Datchi (Chilli Cheese) – the national dish of Bhutan is a deliciously spicy stew made of chilli peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.
• Watching the ‘flag down’ ceremony in Thimphu – this takes place every evening at 5pm with great honour and traditional flair.

25. Benin, the birthplace of Voodoo

By Helen from Helen in Wonderlust

Benin is a magical place full of mystery and superstition. Whilst West Africa is a notoriously difficult area to travel to due to the heat, visa restrictions and lack of tourist infrastructure, Benin is an incredibly rewarding destination for the intrepid traveller.

It is also the birthplace of the Voodoo religion.

Voodoo is one of the oldest and most complex religions in the world. It’s often demonised in popular culture, and yet there’s a lot more to this ancient way of life than meets the eye. The word Voodoo itself means ‘spirit’; practitioners believe that everything is alive and connected spiritually.

As well as discovering the ‘secrets’ of Voodoo , there are plenty of other things to do in Benin. You can gain an insight into the trans-Atlantic slave trade on the Route des Enclaves, relax on the beaches of the south coast, see a very different way of life at the Ganvie Stilt Village, and learn about the history of the powerful Dahomey Empire in Abomey. 

Benin is a French-speaking country, therefore having a good understanding of the French language or having a guide that can translate for you is essential.

Go with an open mind and prepare to be blown away.

26. Northern Tunisia, for unusual beach holidays

By Stephanie from The Africa Cookbook

While most travellers think of Sousse and other popular beaches in Tunisia when they start planning a vacation, anyone who heads to the north instead of the south will find a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

The white-washed town of Sidi Bou Said on the water has a Greek-island feel, while Lake Ichkeul is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also head to Cap Angela, the northernmost point in the country, where you’ll find a beautiful lighthouse and a statue of the African continent as well as some gorgeous seascapes.

If you’re interested in Carthaginian and Roman history, you can visit the ancient city of Utica, which you’ll find practically empty for much of the year. Yes, you can walk around a millennia-old city and imagine what it would have been like in its heyday without competing with noisy, modern crowds.

Be sure to enjoy the local Tunisian cuisine, which is both tasty and economical.

27. Greenland, for remote adventures

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

There are many myths and stereotypes about Greenland , simply because it’s not the first country most people think of for a holiday.

Technically a territory of Denmark, it’s a challenging destination to visit due to expensive flights and limited availability. There are so few visitors that some airports don’t even have a baggage carousel.

However, if you can manage to get there, you’ll find this is a country full of colourful buildings, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture.

Although it’s one of the least populated capitals in the world with only 16,000 residents, Nuuk is the busiest and most active of all Greenlandic cities. Somewhat surprisingly, it’s filled with art and museums as well as nods to Greenlandic history and mythology in its various statues and memorials.

In Greenland, the availability of activities varies entirely based on the seasons. Summer offers hiking and festivals , while winter brings snowmobiling, sledding, and amazing displays of the Northern Lights.

28. The Falkland Islands, for extreme wildlife encounters

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The Falklands Islands, or Islas Malvinas as they’re also known, are a destination like no other. They’re a place where you can truly get away from daily life and enter a world that seems unencumbered by modern distractions.

Here, the wildlife rules, and you’ll get well-acquainted with many species as you tour some of the islands that make up this Southern Archipelago off the coast of Argentina. The penguins of the Falkland Islands are the main drawcard, and there are five different species to discover – from the regal King Penguins to the curious little red-eyed Rockhoppers.

Then there are the formidable elephant seals, the talkative sea lions, the hundreds of different birds, and a few unlikely additions too. Both reindeer and foxes roam on two of the islands.

Wildlife aside, the islands are an amazing place to go trekking, explore untouched beaches and enjoy old-school hospitality. Get around by using the Falklands’ dedicated air service, FIGAS, to island-hop.

29. Montenegro’s national parks, beyond the bay

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Most visitors to Montenegro spend their time in the Bay of Kotor. While undeniably beautiful, there is so much more to discover beyond the coastline.

Take the scenic and winding Kotor Serpentine to the village of Njegusi to visit the humble home where Njegoš, Montenegro’s most influential poet-philosopher, was born. Head further up to Lovcen National Park where you can hike and visit the mausoleum of Njegoš. Stop by the old Montenegrin capital of Cetinje to visit the iconic monastery and admire the architecture.

Lake Skadar National Park is another must-visit in Montenegro . Boat tours are available from Virpazar or the sleepy village of Rijeka Crnojevica. The surface of the lake is covered with lily pads, and you can see any number of birds here.

Up north, Durmitor National Park , the only UNESCO-designated park in Montenegro, offers stunning vistas and the chance to do some epic hikes. Go river rafting on the Tara River and visit the Tara Canyon Bridge, which spans one of the deepest canyons in the world.

30. The Faroe Islands, A self-governed archipelago in Europe

By Supriya from Fun Travelog

Europe has thousands of island destinations to choose from, but the Faroes still remain relatively unspoiled thanks to their location.

The Faroe Islands is an independent nation comprised of 18 small islands located between Iceland and Norway. Governed by Denmark, it’s a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers particularly.

Begin your journey by flying into the small and vibrant city of Torshavn, the country’s capital, which is connected by short flight from Copenhagen , Paris, Reykjavik, Bergen or Edinburgh . Make your first stop at the Gásadalur to see the famed waterfall from a marked trail.

From there, every moment of your journey in this small country will be replete with awe-inspiring sights. There are lots of hikes in Faroe Islands , but the most beautiful ones are definitely on the coast of Vagar Island and in Gjógv.

For a completely unique experience, take a 30-minute boat ride to the island of Mykines, which is home to thousands of puffins. They aren’t at all perturbed by human presence and watching them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

31. Ukraine, for budget-savvy travellers

By Inessa & Natalie from Through a Travel Lens

There are only a few destinations left in Europe that still remain under the radar. Ukraine is definitely one of them. 

Geographically one of the biggest countries on the continent, Ukraine offers something for every travel taste, from sunbathing by the Black Sea in Odessa to hiking in the Carpathians, wandering the magical streets of old Lviv, and exploring the caves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Pechersk Lavra in Kiev.

It’s best to save at least two weeks to explore Ukraine’s most popular locations. Kiev alone deserves at least four days, let alone the numerous great weekend breaks and trips you can take from the capital. In addition to the aforementioned Odessa, Lviv, and Kiev, smaller towns such as Uzhgorod, Chernihiv, Kamyanets-Podilsky, and Chernivtsi are also highly recommended.

Besides being an underestimated and unconventional destination, Ukraine also remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly travel adventures, with the daily budget for food, accommodations, transportation, and activities remaining under 30 USD.

32. Latvia, the lesser-visited capital of Art Nouveau

By Eden from Rock a Little Travel

Home to a historic city centre, a thriving arts scene and vast countryside dotted with castles, Latvia is one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations.

Visitors to Latvia should experience Riga , the lively capital city best known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. In fact, Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings, examples of which are on display across the city.

Riga’s walkable centre also features local boutiques, cafes , restaurants, bars, and even a few city parks. Riga Beer District is home to several local breweries that serve a variety of craft beers. This is the perfect destination for a night out and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Outside the capital, visitors to Latvia can tour the country’s many medieval castles and fortifications. Those looking to spend some time outdoors can head to Latvia’s beaches along the Baltic coast, or to one of the country’s many national parks.

33. North Macedonia, home of Europe’s Quirkiest capital city

The tiny nation of North Macedonia is quirky even by Balkan standards. Formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, it may have undergone several name changes in its recent history, but it’s status as a unique destination in Eastern Europe has endured.

North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, is a mix of archaic Ottoman architecture (the Old Bazaar is one of the largest in Europe) and brand new, shiny sculptures and facades installed as part of Skopje 2014, a huge project to give the city a facelift. The result is a Disneylandesque mix of styles that pushes the ambit of imagination.

Skopje makes for a wonderfully offbeat city break, but when visiting North Macedonia , you should also explore beyond the capital. Lake Ohrid is the biggest tourist draw, while the second-largest city, Bitola , and the alpine town of Krusevo – with its wonderful spomenik – both promise off-the-beaten-path, history steeped travel experiences.

34. Piacenza, a hidden gem in Northern Italy

By Helga from ShegoWandering

Piacenza is a small Italian city located near the Po river in Emilia Romagna. While still easily accessible by train from Milan or Bologna, it remains a hidden gem.

This town boasts over 1,000 years of local history. Discover the beautiful historic centre of Piacenza with its colourful houses and beautiful passages. Make sure the Piazza Cavalli, home to the town’s most famous landmark, the Palazzo Gotico, is also on your list.

Piacenza has some of the oldest, most important Romanesque churches in the region, including the Duomo di Piacenza, the St. Antoninus Basilica, and the Church of San Francesco. Another important landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, an immense palace now houses a collection of museums.

The region of Emilia-Romagna is famous for its food products. Be sure to sample Salame Piacentini , Coppa Piacentina and Pancetta Piacentina .

35. Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania

By Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander

The Transylvanian town of Brasov, Romania is tucked away in the Carpathian mountains just 2.5 hours from the capital on the way to Transylvania .

Since many people travel to Romania to explore Bucharest or relax on the Black Sea coast, the smaller Romanian city of Brasov often gets overlooked. But for travellers interested in great hiking, quirky historical sites and a bit of Dracula folklore, Brasov can’t be missed. 

Explore the 14th century Black Church, which got its name after being scorched in a fire, a 15th-century citadel that also served as a prison, and Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in the world.

Brasov is just a short drive from Bran Castle, a fortress that dates back to the 1200s and is famously also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’.

When in Brasov, make sure to take the Tampa Mountain Cable Car up to the prominent Hollywood-style ‘Brasov’ sign for the best views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Unusual holiday destinations: Share it on Pinterest

Wow, that’s a great guide.

That was an amazing article. Good work Keep it up!

Lichtenstein castle (named after the family) pictured above is in Germany and not in The Principality of Lichtenstein and hence that part of the article is misleading. One visiting Lichtenstein (the country) will not find this castle how hard one looks.

Good pick up, PK! That is my fault – I will update it immediately. Thanks for letting me know!

This was so helpful, I’m doing a school project and I have to find a unique travel destination. Got lots of ideas

Awesome Tshia, glad I could help!

Fantastic list! Considering many of your picks are also on my own list, I have a feeling we are of the same mindset. As I sit at home travel planning for a post-Covid-vaccine world, you have helped to add more places I hadn’t thought of but was searching for in concept.

Thank you and stay healthy!

So glad to hear you found this post inspiring, Nancy! Thanks a lot for the feedback. Happy future travel planning 🙂

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The Best Destinations in the World: The Gold List 2022

By CNT Editors

There are three great lists annually in  Condé Nast Traveler,  all of which have changed due to the events of the last two years: the Readers’ Choice Awards , which you, our beloved audience, select; the Hot List , which compiles the new and notable of the previous year; and this one, which is ultimately about the places and experiences our editors carry in their hearts. This year, when we say  our editors,  we mean  CNT ’s entire global crew, working in locations from California to Beijing ; we’ve also expanded the parameters of the list to include not just the hotels and cruises you’ve seen in years past, but also the destinations we treasure. The Gold List is, more than ever, made by humans for other humans—something we need more than ever in this day and age. Here, our favorite destinations in the world.

Read the complete set of Gold List winners   here .

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

Puebla, Mexico

I love when I can feel familiar with a new place in 48 hours. In Puebla , Mexico’s historic, fourth-largest city, all the spots you want to hit are walking distance within its center, itself a tidy sprawl of bright pink and yellow villas and small plazas. That includes food markets for a crispy cemita (a schnitzel-­style sandwich with all the fixings); the gilded Capilla del Rosario and the city’s famed talavera, or ceramic houses; I stayed for close to an hour watching the row of artisans hand-paint and hand-fire their mugs, plates, and vases at Uriarte Talavera. Before the pandemic, tourism was just starting to happen here, and the city was in that sweet spot of supporting a new breed of traveler, like with the artisanal-inspired Cartesiano hotel, but without muting any of its essence for international business. I liked that I had to use my shoddy Spanish with barkeeps and store owners. And that sitting in those plazas meant a front-row seat to daily Poblano life: vendors selling sliced cucumber spices with cayenne, old-timers playing dominos. Puebla felt like a special somewhere on the verge of discovery in a country with pockets already turned over to the masses. My guess with all that’s happened this past year is that it still does. —Erin Florio

Rio de Janeiro

If you were to hook the city of Rio de Janeiro up to a cardiogram, the needle would swing off the page. The city thrums with live samba and bossa nova at all hours of the day; the bustling streets, bookended by the dramatic rise of granite monoliths on one end and the pounding waves of the Atlantic on the other, have a pulse all their own. It's easy to feel this when you're amid throngs of colorfully clad cariocas —I feel it most swaying to the live music at Pedra do Sal on Monday nights, or when, perched in the leafy hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa, I hear people in neighborhoods below lean out their windows to cheer when Flamengo scores a goal. It's a complicated city, with plenty of issues—insecurity, corruption, inequity, to name just a few—but there's a premium on joy and celebration that isn't reserved for Carnaval . There are few places in the world where you know you couldn't possibly be anywhere else, and whenever I hear the whole of Arpoador beach break into applause as the sun sets in summer, I'm reminded that Rio is one of them. —Megan Spurrell

Alentejo, Portugal

I call the road to the sea through Portugal’s Alentejo region the place where the beatniks read Pessoa; you can imagine Kerouac breezing through its small hotels, surf camps, and villages scattered with craft shops, markets, and bohemian bars. For me it’s a place of happiness. There are boutique hotels like São Lourenço do Barrocal and Dá Licença and olive groves, cork oaks, and infinite horizons. The road ends at Vicentine Coast National Park, a wild, protected coastline in southern Europe. A paradise for surfers , it has electrifying sunsets, but the icy waters stop it from ever getting too crowded. —David Moralejo

Svalbard, Norway

Arctic Svalbard —whose capital, Longyearbyen, is the world’s northernmost town—is like nowhere else I’ve been. On the one hand, it’s a deep-nature Scandi fantasy of snowmobiles, Northern Lights, ski-touring along glacial valleys, and surprisingly smart boutiques with stacked wine cellars. But there’s also a compelling strangeness to this international settlement, where no one is born and no one dies. There are the Soviet mining towns with their Lenin busts, whether abandoned or (even weirder) still working; the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, which preempts a coming apocalypse; it’s advisable to leave Longyearbyen with a shotgun, in case of polar-bear attack. As much as a destination, it’s a journey into the heart of the climate crisis, with academics from across the world doing game-changing research here. I’m itching to go again—to escape but also to think and connect, which is what happens in all the best places. —Toby Skinner

My first trip to Goa as a college student was wrapped in dreams of homemade chorizo and reliving moments from the cult Bollywood coming-of-age film Dil Chahta Hai . Many trips and feni cocktails later, Goa remained a respite for my city-weary bones. The state straddles its multicultural past and present, trading up ’60s hippie markets for hipster boutiques while keeping its old-world Indian and Portuguese traditions intact. Simple fish-curry plates, aunties doing an impromptu jig to fado, old-timers squabbling over their favorite Goan soccer club, and the right freshness of bread coexist with edgy global menus, alt-music gigs, and all that is artisanal and arty. The ocean changes color from one season to the next, the multi-color sunsets never repeat, and like many travelers, I continue to return and find my salve in sunshine, sea, and susegad —the quintessential Goan idea of the slow, easy, and good life. —Diya Kohl

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Plettenberg Bay is South Africa's summer playground, and I, a Capetonian, would drive the 186-mile coastal path along the scenic Garden Route each year to join the fun. The bohemian seaside town sits atop a sheltered bay, where a jumble of hipster coffee shops, seafood restaurants, and kitsch boutiques tumble down onto fynbos-covered cliffs—where a slew of new hotels like The Robberg Beach Lodge sit beside grandes dames like The Plettenberg Hotel . Pretty young things like to celebrate the end of matric student exams, where hedonism sweeps across the bay, while dolphin and whale watches come during the languid, warm winter months. Venture just outside Plett to find the luxury Tsala Treetop Lodge , a manicured Gary Player golf course, indigenous Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, the Plett Polo Club on the Kurland Estate, and a host of animal sanctuaries to meet cheetahs, elephants, and monkeys. But above all, come for the glorious golden beaches. Central Beach—dotted with bars—surfy Lookout Beach, and the eerie, mist-covered sands of Robberg Nature Reserve. Search hard enough and you might stumble on a sand dollar—the symbol of Plettenberg Bay, thought to bring eternal luck. —Isabella Sullivan

When I can’t take another minute of winter, I head to Scottsdale. As, historically, do the day-drinking spring breakers and the far less rowdy snowbirds. Recently, though, the Valley of the Sun has come into its own, claiming its stunning desert setting and Southwest culture in new ways. If I’m bringing the kids, the 1929 Frank Lloyd Wright–designed grande dame The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (on the border of Scottsdale and Phoenix), is my place. It has sprawling grounds and seven pools, one with a legitimate waterslide, and just underwent a much-needed facelift. Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort , terraced into the side of its namesake adobe-hued mountain, has my favorite spa in town. Its adults-only pool on weekends and easy access to sunrise hiking give me plenty of excuses to leave the kids at home. Solo or with family, I can always bank on sunshine, a great exhibit at Phoenix’s nearby Desert Botanical Garden, and excellent Sonoran-style Mexican food. —Rebecca Misner

Val Graziosa, Italy

I am a frequent traveler to Val Graziosa, a valley near the Pisan mountains and a part of Tuscany relatively unknown and terribly beautiful. Here there is Monte Pisano—“ che i Pisan veder Lucca non ponno, ” the poet Dante said, a small group of mountains that hides Lucca from Pisa and makes it impossible for the Pisan locals to see the city of Lucca. There are olive trees everywhere, producing the best olive oil on Earth in a splendid countryside. I love to walk around the surroundings of Montemagno—please read the book Maledetti Toscani, by Curzio Malaparte, and you will understand a lot about Italians from this region. I love to go to the grocery store in Patrizia for a glass of wine (the one and only épicerie of the village) and then to Certosa di Calci, a 14th-century monastery, and one of the many secret beauties in my crazy country of Italy. —Maddalena Fosati

Chiang Mai, Thailand

When I first went to Chiang Mai, I intended to stay a couple of nights and ended up staying more than a week; for me, that trip is a reminder of travel at its most impulsive and impetuous: the freedom to move on when you feel like it. There’s no beach pressure here, and inland Thailand always feels more interesting than the obvious hits of the beachfront. And, away from the beaches, there's the sense of a modern Thai city where young creatives are carving out a contemporary aesthetic, with the energy that a large student population gives a city. —Rick Jordan

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11 of the most exotic places to travel in the world

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written by Lucy McGuire

updated 11.07.2023

When you’ve had your fill of history, culture and man-made wonders, sometimes sun, sea and sand is all you need. Desert islands like Fiji and Maui top the bucket lists of many a traveller, with all the ingredients for the perfect exotic holiday: tropical climes, swaying palms and blissful white-sand beaches. Closer to home, the Canary Island of Fuerteventura and Vis in Croatia make getting away from it all as easy as pie. Whether you're after some serious escapism or want to marvel at mother nature, Lucy McGuire picks some of the most exotic places to travel in the world. And for more inspiration, read our where to go when alternative month-by-month guide .

1. Maui, Hawaii

2. puerto rico, 3. fuerteventura, canary islands, 4. tayrona national park, colombia, 5. vis, croatia, 6. french polynesia, 7. the yucatan, mexico, 8. koh rong samloem, cambodia, 9. whitsunday islands, australia, 11. madagascar.

With a legendary surf scene and golden crescent beaches that span more than 120 miles, there are attractions everywhere you turn in Hawaii . Maui, known as "the Valley Isle", is a favourite for its misty peaks, gorgeous sunsets and bamboo forests. Relax on Kaanapali Beach or see the red sands at Kaihalulu – it’s like no other beach in the world.

Where to stay

Best hostel: Friendly Tiki Beach Hostel is the perfect surfer hangout for travellers on Maui. The beach is just moments away, while the communal areas are great for socialising with other guests. Rooms can be booked either indoors or outdoors; all come with indoor bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and communal kitchen facilities. There's a Women's Dorm ("Wahine"), too. Group activities – such as Friday night BBQs – add to the fun.

Best beachfront hotel: Napili Kai Beach Resort is a dazzling beachfront property where you can eat, sleep and play to the sounds of the ocean. The resort has its own putting green, four swimming pools, two whirlpool hot tubs, several outdoor BBQ areas and even two shuffleboard courts. Whether you want to put your feet up or while away the days with more active pursuits, it is all possible here.

Best to stay active: Maui is a tropical wonderland, laced with tremendous trails and hiking routes. Book onto a 5h Waterfall and Rainforest Hike to take in a range of breathtaking 10–40m-high waterfalls. You'll have the chance to swim in natural pools, enjoy a fresh picnic lunch and learn all about the culture, flora and fauna of the area from your experienced naturalist guide.

Best to relax: A Luxurious sunset cruise is an enchanting way to see Maui in the colourful tones of the evening. Drink in the sunset views from a luxury catamaran, while your award-winning chef prepares your dinner. Experiences don't come better than this.

Maui, Hawaii, seen from above © Joe West/Shutterstock

With a tropical climate, secluded palm-fringed beaches and topography as varied as a patchwork quilt, Puerto Rico is arguably the most exotic island in the Caribbean. Spot tree frogs in the dense jungle of El Yunque, take a night-time swim in the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay and admire the country's abundance of beautiful golden sands.

Best for spa & golf: The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort is a luxurious four star with all the amenities you'd expect from a world-class resort hotel. There are two championship golf courses, while the Mandara Spa takes its inspiration from Bali and features meditation areas, a salon and several steam rooms. Bedrooms, meanwhile, are light and airy with splashes of colour.

Best budget option: Aside from being kind on the wallet, Chalet Olas del Sol sports superlative sea views. There's a garden, too, as well as a number of great hikes in the area. With two bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen, Olas del Sol is a great option for small groups or families on a budget.

For water enthusiasts: Active travellers shouldn't miss the chance to kayak in Fajardo . Taking to the waters of Bio Bay Laguna Grande Nature Reserve comes with a twist. After a full safety briefing, you'll head out in your kayak for a sunset to remember; after dark falls, the magic really begins. Marvel at the bioluminescent bay as the water's surface comes alive with twinkling sparkles created by tiny organisms. It is the perfect reminder that Puerto Rico is among the world's the most exotic holiday destinations.

For hiking: El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest registered by the US National Forest System. It offers fantastic hiking, with dense foliage, tumbling waterfalls and gushing rivers. The best way to learn about the area and its native flora and fauna is to take a guided tour to El Yunque .

Also, in our detailed guide you will find more different things to do in Puerto Rico .

El Yunque national forest in Puerto Rico © Dennis van de Water/Shutterstock

If you're looking for exotic destinations close to home, this one's for you! Fuerteventura m ight just be the most interesting island in the Canaries, thanks to its deserted beaches, crystal-clear water and hippy vibe. Steady trade winds make it prime territory for watersports. Alternatively, if you’re looking for an all-over tan, join the naturists who flock here for its famed nudist beaches. For more information check out our guide to the Canary Islands .

Best for families: The all-inclusive AluaVillage Fuerteventura is the perfect base for families in Fuerteventura, with a dedicated children's pool, children's area and a chock-a-block entertainment programme. While the kids are happily amused, adults can take advantage of the spa – complete with steam bath, whirlpool tub, saunas and sundeck.

Best for spa & wellness: The Royal Palm Resort & Spa - Adults Only welcomes guests who are sixteen and older, making this an excellent choice for couples after some serious pampering. The spa includes an indoor pool, landscaped sauna area, gym and even a salt cave. As you might expect, there's an extensive list of cosmetic and wellness treatments on offer, too.

Best for spectacular landscapes: Book onto a Dune Buggy Tour to take in the gorgeous scenery of Fuerteventura in a PGO 600 buggy. Petrol heads and adventurers are in for a wild ride, with most of the tour spent exploring off road.

Best for ocean tours: If a Dune Buggy Tour sounds like a bit too much adrenaline, plump for a Dolphin & Whale watching tour instead. Seeing these beautiful animals breaching the waters is a breathtaking experience.

Fuerteventura's desert-like interior © leoks/Shutterstock

Azure water, swaying hammocks and hidden beaches can all be found in Colombia – a country that until recently has escaped the tourist trail. Hike through Tayrona National Park , an eco-traveller’s dream destination and hands down one of the most exotic places to travel in the world. It’s the perfect place to stay in a beach hut, feast on exotic fruits and explore beautiful lagoons.

Best for beachfront vibes: With an outdoor pool and a sun terrace literally overlooking the beach, Senda Casa Tayrona Los Naranjos enjoys a stunning location. The characterful thatched roof and dark-wood shutters give the whole place tropical tiki vibes.

Best hostel: Shuttles from Simon Bolivar airport can be arranged directly to Viajero Hostel Tayrona & Ecohabs , making this a very accessible choice. But ease of access isn't the only thing going for Viajero Hostel. There's also a stunning pool, hammocks strung up under the palms and bookable activities including surf classes. The restaurant, meanwhile, serves up delicious dishes of fresh seafood. Why not wash it down with a tropical cocktail?

Tailor-made travel

If you're thinking of visiting Colombia – let us know . We can pair you with a local expert to plan and book a fully personalized trip.

Tayrona National Park in Colombia © streetflash/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

The secret’s out; the Croatian island of Vis has some serious pulling power among island hoppers, thanks to its dramatic cliffs and exotic beaches. This gem in the Adriatic is a short boat ride away from the Croatian town of Split , yet its secluded coves would look right at home in the tropics. Take a boat to Stiniva, a hidden beach that’s often heralded as the best in Europe.

Best for staying in the historical centre: Hotel San Giorgio is a friendly place with kind and helpful staff and a charming garden courtyard. Rooms are clean, colourful and come in the form of standard doubles plus junior and deluxe suites. The latter comes with a jacuzzi – perfect for special occasions and anniversaries.

Best sea-front spot: Mira Sea Front Guesthouse offers a good range of self-catering apartments on Vis. The studios and apartments are found in two different locations, both in the small village of Komiza. True to the name, all have sea views.

Rough Guides has paired with local experts in Croatia to offer personalized holidays – find out more! You could take a sailing trip along the Adriatic coast or explore the Dalmatian coast from two bases .

Be prepared for spectacular beaches on Vis © ninopavisic/Shutterstock.com

French Polynesia is undoubtedly one of the most exotic places to go on holiday, where emerald lagoons sparkle and the scents of vanilla, coconuts and Tiare Tahiti flowers fill the air. Yes, it's as beautiful as you've heard. You won’t be able to cover all five archipelagos (a total of 118 islands), so head to Maupiti: "the untouched island". Its beaches are whiter-than-white, it’s sprinkled with mystical caves and Mount Te’urafa’atiu offers breathtaking views.

In Bora Bora: The Maitai Bora Bora offers a range of accommodation, from classic overwater bungalows to beach bungalows and ocean- and garden-view rooms. Located near to Matira Beach, the only public beach on Bora Bora, the hotel also has two restaurants and two bars. Settle in to your new luxurious surroundings before taking to the waters to get up close and personal with the island's dazzling marine life.

In Tahiti: Vanira Lodge , in the village of Teahupoo on the Tahiti peninsula, faces the ocean on one side and is backed by dense forest on the other. For exotic locations, this is the spot to beat. Choose from "nature", "spa" or "terrace" bungalows. All are exquisite, but the Maara nature bungalow is particularly atmospheric; raised on stilts at the edge of the forest, it's a far cry from the bungalows back home.

In Bora Bora: Explore the underwater world of Bora Bora on a Shark & Snorkeling Safari and seek out black tip sharks, moray eels, sting rays and other tropical marine life. Knowledgeable guides will help you spot colourful fish. Warning: searching for sharks, naturally, isn't for the faint of heart.

In Moorea: Booking a Half-day 4x4 Safari Tour will allow you to discover a number of island highlights in style. From visiting a tropical garden to admiring an old volcano crater from the island's pineapple fields and visiting a distillery, travellers will be captivated from start to finish.

French Polynesia has that true "pinch-me" quality as one of the most exotic places in the world © Daboost/Shutterstock

This southeast corner of Mexico which separates the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea has all the ingredients for an exotic holiday. Explore Tulum’s wide beaches, cool off in unique limestone cenotes and swim with whale sharks off Isla Holbox. The Mesoamerican reef just offshore – the world’s second longest – boasts a wealth of marine life.

In Tulum: If you love art and design, look no further than Casa Malca . This luxury hotel oozes contemporary charm, while modern art is hung throughout the rooms, hallways and communal areas. The spacious suites are works of art in themselves, making this a popular spot for weddings.

In Playa del Carmen: The philosophy at Palmaïa - The House of Aïa Wellness Enclave All Inclusive is all about being in harmony with nature. The concept is played out in everything from "vegan suites" to hand-crafted dishes in their restaurant and an innovative "Architects of Life" programme that promotes spiritual growth. Yoga, meditation, healing ceremonies or transpersonal astrology, anyone?

In Tulum: Tulum isn't all about white-sand beaches. The area's long history and rich culture is showcased in the wealth of Mayan ruins here – best explored with the help of a local guide. Visit the archaeological zone and a cenote on a guided tour to get beneath the skin of the area's culture before cooling off in a gorgeous cenote.

In Playa del Carmen: It would be criminal to stay in Playa del Carmen without visiting world-famous Chichén Itzá . The massive El Castillo pyramid that once dominated the old Mayan city remains the undisputed highlight. On a guided tour you'll not only benefit from the knowledge of your guide, but you'll save time by skipping the lines, too.

Consider combining the Yucatán with a visit to Mexico City or head to Chiapas and the famous Sumidero Canyon before relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Playa del Carmen . Contact our local expert today for your personalized quote.

Caribbean coast and Mayan ruins in Tulum © DC_Aperture/Shutterstock

This paradise island off Cambodia ’s southern coast is one of the Gulf of Thailand’s most exotic places to travel. It’s starkly different to the tourist town of Sihanoukville (where you catch the ferry), as you’ll find no traffic and very little development, except for a few rustic beach huts. Go night swimming with bioluminescent plankton off M’Pei Bay, take a rainforest hike or sip a coconut in a hammock on Saracen Bay.

Best for families with children: One Resort has a children's playground, plus a range of fantastic activities for the whole family to enjoy (think snorkelling, diving and fishing). The in-house restaurant makes mealtimes carefree, while the resort's two swimming pools and private beach area are perfect for cooling off. Family rooms and bungalows complete the picture.

Best budget choice: The white and blue beach huts of Sarasea Resort are totally charming, with little patios out front to sit and watch the world go by. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, garden and private beach area. The bungalows may look simple, but each comes with a flat-screen TV – not that you'll want to watch it, with the ocean lapping at your door.

With Rough Guides tailor-made trips we can connect you with a local expert in Cambodia to plan your ideal holiday . Everything is one hundred percent customizable, so if there's an activity or experience you've always dreamed of, just let us know.

Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia © Nebula777/Shutterstock

The brilliant white and blue hues of the Whitsunday Islands have become an iconic exotic location for travellers exploring Australia. Located off coastal Queensland, it’s home to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef – a dream for serious divers. With hiking trails and secluded beaches, it’s just as beautiful above the water. Visit between July and September to catch a glimpse of the migrating humpback whales.

Hamilton Island beachfront: Large rooms – with private balconies – and gorgeous views are the hallmark of the Reef View Hotel . To make the most of the hotel's beachfront location, ask for a room that looks out over the twinkling Coral Sea, though the garden rooms are pleasant too. On top of various room options (including family rooms) are a range of superlative suites. For those with deep pockets, the two-bed terrace suite and the presidential suite are the best of the bunch.

Best for on a budget: Palm Bungalows might be reasonably priced, but there's nothing else that feels "budget" here. The stylish interiors are light and airy, while private balconies overlook the lush, tropical gardens. With air conditioning, tea and coffee and free Wi-Fi, plus a fitness centre, swimming pools and tennis courts, the facilities are excellent, too. And with Catseye Beach just a two-minute walk away, the world is your oyster.

Best for active travellers: There's a whole host of exciting activities to get excited about on the Whitsundays. For a day to remember, why not roll several stellar experiences into one, by attempting to snorkel, raft, and bush walk - all in one day . Action-packed adventures don't come better than this.

Best views: The Whitsunday Islands might look great from ground level, but the views from the air are something else entirely. Book a scenic flight from Airlie Beach and enjoy bird's-eye views over the dramatic seascapes of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. In-flight commentary helps travellers identify the key landmarks from above.

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays © Tanya Puntti/Shutterstock

When it comes to exotic holiday destinations, Fiji is hard to beat. A country blessed with gorges, mangrove forests, waterfalls and natural pools, it's the jewel of the South Pacific. There are over three hundred islands in the archipelago and its marine parks offer incredible soft coral diving. It’s also where five different turtle species, spinner dolphins and the rare Fiji crested iguana all call home.

Best for culture enthusiasts: The Untold Broadway Show entrance is a contemporary story about ancient Fiji told through song and dance. It's a well choreographed show, staged in a 450-person capacity arena by internationally renowned dance company VOU Dance Fiji. Prepare to be blown away.

Best for nature experience: The Fijan Nature & Waterfall Experience takes in the sublime tropical rainforests of Colo-I-Suva Nature Reserve, where your experienced guide will highlight all the local flora and fauna. Jungle treks can be hot work, but there are several natural pools and waterfalls along the way – the perfect excuse to jump in and cool off.

Find more ideas for your pastime in our guide to the best things to do in Fiji .

Get to know Fiji with a local expert: Fiji Forever is just one sample itinerary that can be modified and quoted according to your preferences.

Navala village, Viti Levu island, Fiji © Don Mammoser/Shutterstock

Home to otherworldly landscapes and one of the Earth’s most unique eco-systems, few places match the Eden-like quality of Madagascar . Explore Tsingy forests , a series of vertical limestone rocks dubbed the "Forest of Knives", or head to Masoala National Park, packed with unique plant and animal species found nowhere else on earth.

Thinking about heading to Madagascar? Have a look at our Wild Madagascar itinerary and contact your local expert today to receive your personalized quote or send in your details and have the expert craft and quote an itinerary according to your preferences.

The Tsingy Rouge stone formation in northern Madagascar © Chr.Offenberg/Shutterstock

What could be more exotic than being in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by stunning nature and cultural attractions? Our guide to Bermuda offers the perfect off-the-beaten-track holiday.

There are plenty of outstanding candidates for the most exotic places to travel in the world, but these are the pick of the bunch. If you're ready to start planning your next trip, get in touch with our local experts today . They can help you plan, organize and book the perfect exotic holiday, totally customizable to match all your preferences.

Top image: Island of Maui, Hawaii © Joe West/Shutterstock

Lucy is a freelance travel writer and blogger with over 10 years of experience in the industry and has covered everything from bee tourism in Slovenia to dune bashing in Brazil for both print and online titles. She is just as curious about the people she meets while travelling as she is the destination and as a newspaper-trained journalist, she thoroughly enjoys interviewing people she meets along the way. Some of her most memorable travels have included her wedding in Jamaica and a three-month trip through Southern Africa which included canoeing among hippos in the Zambezi river. Follow her at @LucyAMcGuire on twitter and instagram .

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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 Exotic Travel Destinations You Need to Visit This Year

Exotic travel destinations offer a world of adventure, luxury, and cultural exploration. From the majestic Sossusvlei in Namibia to the hidden gem of Tayrona, Colombia, each location promises unique experiences.

Whether it’s exploring the historic marvel of Dubrovnik in Croatia or discovering the mysterious Easter Island in Chile, these destinations boast breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a myriad of activities. Join us as we embark on a journey to some of the most enchanting locations around the globe.

Table of Contents

1. The Mesmerizing Sossusvlei, Namibia

Nestled in the heart of the Namibia Desert, Sossusvlei captivates travelers with its mesmerizing orange dunes and surreal landscapes. The rich reds and deep golds of the dunes create a stunning contrast against the brilliant blue sky, making it a photographer’s paradise.

The area’s iconic Deadvlei, with its ancient, calcified trees, adds an otherworldly charm. Visitors can partake in hot air balloon rides, scenic flights, and guided tours to fully immerse themselves in this exotic destination.

2. The Unparalleled Beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Japan

Nestled in Kyoto, Japan , the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is an enchanting sight to behold. The towering bamboo stalks create a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a stroll. Visitors can indulge in the beauty of nature, capturing the essence of this exotic destination. The forest also offers an array of activities such as scenic walks, rickshaw rides, and cultural experiences, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of this natural wonder.

3. The Hidden Gem: Tayrona, Colombia

Hidden on the Caribbean coast of Colombia , Tayrona National Park is an exotic paradise yet to be fully discovered. With its pristine white sandy beaches, lush tropical rainforests, and coral reefs, it offers the perfect place for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Popular activities in Tayrona include hiking through the park’s trails, exploring the rich indigenous culture, and enjoying the local cuisine. This hidden gem is a must-visit for those who seek an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

4. The Historic Marvel: Dubrovnik, Croatia

The historic marvel of Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a stunning destination steeped in rich culture and history. Encircled by magnificent stone walls, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers otherworldly landscapes, beautiful beaches, and picturesque white sand beaches.

Visitors can explore the city’s historic treasures, take a boat ride along the gorgeous coastline, and indulge in the local cuisine. Dubrovnik truly stands out as one of the most exotic places to visit, combining its historic significance with breathtaking natural beauty.

5. The Mysterious Easter Island, Chile

The mysterious Easter Island, Chile, with its enigmatic Moai statues, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers otherworldly landscapes, rich culture, and exotic animals. Visitors can explore the island’s volcanic origins, delve into the intriguing history of the Rapa Nui people, and witness the Moai statues scattered across the island. It’s a perfect place for those looking for a blend of history, culture, and exotic destinations.

6. The Paradise Island: Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii is a paradise island with pristine beaches and turquoise waters. It offers a perfect place for water sports, whale watching, and scuba diving. The island is famous for its scenic flight over the volcanic islands and the chance to see humpback whales.

Apart from its natural beauty, Maui also boasts a rich culture, with opportunities to explore the local cuisine and experience the warm hospitality of the islanders. Maui truly stands out as one of the most exotic places to visit.

7. The Serene French Polynesia

French Polynesia , with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, offers a serene escape for travelers. This exotic destination is synonymous with overwater bungalows, palm-fringed white sandy beaches, and stunning coral reefs.

Popular activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing trips to explore the diverse marine life. Visitors can also enjoy whale watching and indulge in the local cuisine. The idyllic setting of French Polynesia makes it one of the most sought-after and serene destinations for a tropical getaway.

8. The Majestic Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Nestled in the Guatemalan highlands, Lake Atitlan is a majestic volcanic creation, flanked by three towering volcanoes. Its beauty has long inspired artists and poets, earning it the moniker “the most beautiful lake in the world.” Visitors can partake in a variety of activities, from kayaking on the serene waters to exploring the indigenous villages along its shores. The mesmerizing sunsets and the enchanting Mayan culture make Lake Atitlan a must-visit for any traveler seeking an exotic and culturally rich experience.

9. The Unique Forest of Knives, Madagascar

The unique forest of knives in Madagascar, also known as the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, is a fascinating destination for adventure enthusiasts. This otherworldly landscape is characterized by towering limestone pinnacles resembling jagged knives, creating a surreal atmosphere.

Visitors can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site through thrilling guided tours, offering a glimpse into Madagascar’s exotic flora and fauna. The park’s surreal beauty and rare biodiversity make it a must-visit for travelers seeking truly distinctive and unforgettable experiences.

10. The Vibrant Azores, Portugal

The vibrant Azores, Portugal , is a haven for nature lovers. With its breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches, and stunning volcanic islands, it offers a perfect place to indulge in water sports, scenic flights, and whale watching. The Azores also boasts rich marine life and is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. Explore the otherworldly landscapes, immerse yourself in the local culture, and savor the exquisite cuisine for an unforgettable experience.

11. The Enchanting Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, Turkey, is a captivating fusion of natural wonder and cultural charm. Known for its surreal “fairy chimney” rock formations and hot air balloon rides, Cappadocia offers a truly enchanting experience. Visitors can explore underground cities, ancient cave churches, and the stunning Devrent Valley.

The region also boasts a rich history, evident in its UNESCO World Heritage sites. Whether it’s experiencing the breathtaking landscapes or delving into its historical significance, Cappadocia stands out as an exotic destination offering a unique travel experience.

Read Also: 23 Top Things to Do in Boston That’ll Blow Your Mind!

12. The Tranquil Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Tranquil Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands offers pristine beaches with white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for water sports and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy stunning views, take a scenic flight, or explore the island’s volcanic landscapes. Fuerteventura is known for its diverse marine life, making it a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island also boasts unique flora and fauna, adding to its allure as one of the most exotic places in the world.

Read Also: 20 Incredible Free Things to Do in Philadelphia

13. The Historic Bagan, Burma

Bagan, Burma, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking landscape dotted with thousands of ancient temples. This historic city offers a glimpse into the rich culture and history of Burma.

Visitors can embark on a scenic flight for a panoramic view of the majestic temples or opt for a serene boat ride along the Irrawaddy River. Exploring this exotic destination provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the otherworldly landscapes and the mystique of Bagan.

14. The Tropical Yucatan, Mexico

Nestled in the Mexico Yucatan Peninsula, this exotic destination boasts ancient Mayan ruins, stunning coral reefs, and beautiful beaches. Travelers can explore the underwater museum, indulge in water sports, and admire the diverse marine life while scuba diving or snorkeling. The region’s rich culture and history offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its vibrant underwater world and lush landscapes, the tropical Yucatan is truly an exotic paradise for those seeking unique experiences.

15. The Stunning Whitsunday Islands, Australia

The stunning Whitsunday Islands in Australia are renowned for their white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, making them the perfect place for water sports and marine life exploration. Visitors can indulge in scuba diving, sailing trips, and scenic flights, or simply relax on the pristine beaches.

The Whitsundays also offer opportunities for whale watching, where tourists can witness humpback whales in their natural habitat. With its picturesque landscapes and abundant marine life, the Whitsunday Islands are truly an exotic paradise.

In conclusion, these exotic travel destinations offer a diverse range of experiences and breathtaking sights that are sure to leave you mesmerized. From the otherworldly landscapes of Sossusvlei in Namibia to the historic marvels of Dubrovnik in Croatia, each destination has its unique charm and allure. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these places have something to offer for every traveler.

As you plan your next getaway, keep in mind the safety concerns and available accommodations in these destinations. Embrace the opportunity to explore new cultures, indulge in unique experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to these exotic travel destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique cultural experiences that can be found in the listed travel destinations?

While these exotic travel destinations offer breathtaking landscapes and stunning beaches, they also provide unique cultural experiences that will enrich your journey. Here are some examples:

Local Cuisine: Sample the delicious flavors of Barbadian cuisine in Barbados, indulge in Mauritian delicacies, or savor the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine in Baja California Sur.

Rich Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Polynesian culture of French Polynesia, experience the vibrant Mayan culture in Guatemala, or discover the traditional dances and music of Easter Island.

Craft Markets: Explore traditional craft markets in Madagascar, where you can find handmade crafts and unique souvenirs.

Cultural Festivals: Experience the colorful cultural festivals in Colombia, such as the Carnival of Barranquilla, or participate in the traditional dances of Greece during the summer festivals in Kefalonia.

Historical Sites: Visit the ancient ruins of Croatia’s Dubrovnik, explore the temples and palaces of Belize, or discover the fascinating history of Turkey’s Antalya.

Are there any safety concerns when traveling to these exotic locations?

When traveling to any exotic destination, it’s important to be aware of potential safety concerns and take necessary precautions. Here are some general tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

Check Travel Advisories: Before planning your trip, check the travel advisories for each destination to get updated information on safety conditions and any potential risks.

Take Health Precautions: Depending on the destination, it’s advisable to get the necessary vaccinations and take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases. Consult with your healthcare provider before traveling.

Respect Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of each destination to ensure respectful behavior and avoid any legal issues.

Emergency Services: Keep contact information for local emergency services and your embassy or consulate in case of any emergencies.

Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to provide coverage for any unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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From safaris in Nambia to bike trails in France, NatGeo releases top 2022 travel destinations | LIST

Feeling wanderlust? National Geographic just released its " Best of the World 2022 " list!

These 25 travel destinations include a diverse selection of national parks, outdoor activities, multigenerational journeys and more that are "uniquely rewarding to travelers in 2022," said George Stone, National Geographic Travel's editor-in-chief.

Curated in collaboration with NatGeo Travel's international editorial teams, the list is divided into five categories: nature, adventure, culture, sustainability and family.

It includes easily accessible American destinations like Atlanta and Maryland's Eastern Shore, along with far-off locations like the western Pacific island Palau and Japan's second-largest island Hokkaido.

Some of the journeys emphasize tradition, like China's ancient tea mountains, while others, like Canada's ancient Nepisiguit Mi'gmaq Trail, are more suitable for rugged adventures.

"I'm hoping that people embrace the privilege of travel and they pick a place that means something to them and they get a lot out of it," Stone said.

National Geographic's "Best of the World 2022" list:

Must-see nature voyages include tent camping under the Milky Way in Northern Minnesota and seeing wildlife in the "next great safari destination" of Caprivi, Namibia.

• Caprivi Strip, Namibia
• Northern Minnesota, United States
• Lake Baikal, Russia
• Belize Maya Forest Reserve
• Victoria, Australia

Among NatGeo's adventure selections is Colorado's Arapahoe Basin, where visitors can enjoy North America's highest via ferrata at 12,999 feet above sea level. And in keeping its annual list fresh, the magazine included France's new Seine River Bike Trail, a 260-mile-long route that connects Paris to the sea.

• Seine River Bike Trail, France
• Nepisiguit Mi'gmaq Trail, New Brunswick, Canada
• Arapahoe Basin, Colorado, United States

While beautiful and picturesque, the culture category's Procida is known for its active creative community and has been dubbed the "Italian capital of culture."

• Jingmai Mountain, Yunnan, China
• Tin Pan Alley, London, England
• Hokkaido, Japan
• Procida, Italy
• Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Sustainability

Mozambique recently named Chimanimani a national park, and the country has committed to revitalizing wildlife and restoring its ecosystem.

• Ruhr Valley, Germany
• Parque Nacional Yasuni, Ecuador
• Lodz, Poland
• National Columbia Gorge Scenic Area, Oregon/Washington, United States
• Chimanimani National Park, Mozambique

• Danube River Cruise
• Lycia, Turkey
• Granada, Spain
• Eastern Shore, Maryland, United States

Find out more about the "Best of the World 2022" list online at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of National Geographic Partners and this ABC station.

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The 30 Best Exotic Islands to Visit (World Travel Bucket List)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

These tropical destinations usually boast a balance of exhilaration and relaxation, adventure and pampering. They provide a much-needed escape from our everyday routines, while rejuvenating our spirits with the simple power of nature .

From our earliest trips as a couple (to Hawaii , Curaçao , and the Dominican Republic ) to our memorable visits to Tahiti , the Galapagos Islands , and Isla Holbox, Mexico , Mary and I have always loved exploring tropical islands together.

Though we’ve been able to visit quite a few of the world’s best islands over our last 11 years together, there are still quite a few that remain on our bucket list.

To that end, we enlisted more than 25 top travel bloggers to help us assemble this epic guide to the  most beautiful islands in the world. They span the globe from the Caribbean and Africa to Asia and Polynesia, and should give you plenty of ideas for planning your next tropical vacation getaway.

READ MORE:   The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best african islands.

• Bijagos Islands, Guinea Bissau
• Lamu Island, Kenya
• Mafia Island, Tanzania

Seychelles Islands

Best asian islands.

• Coron, Philippines
• Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
• Komodo, Indonesia
• Langkawi, Malaysia

Best Caribbean Islands

• Bonaire, Netherlands

Turks and Caicos

Best european islands, the canary islands, spain.

• Corsica, France
• Hvar, Croatia
• Madeira, Portugal
• Sardinia, Italy

Best Greek Islands

Delos island, karpathos island, naxos island, best polynesian islands.

• Aitutaki, Cook Islands
• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Easter Island / Rapa Nui, Chile
• Savaii & Upolu, Samoa
• Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Bijagos Islands (Guinea Bissau)

Located off the coast of Guinea Bissau in West Africa, the Bijagos Islands are an untouched paradise with impressive biodiversity. This is one of those exotic places that most people have never heard of, let alone visited. The island is located 38 miles off the coast of Bissau, the country’s capital.

Best Things to Do in the Bijagos Islands

The island of Orango is one of the most biodiverse of the Bijagos Islands.  There you can visit the saltwater hippopotamuses by trekking an hour inland from the beach to their fresh water ponds.

The trek winds along a sandy path through tall grasses, and you can see birds and deer along the way.  The hippos are protected and sacred to the inhabitants of the island, and each visitor is allowed to spend 20 minutes with them.

There is also a long, beautiful stretch of beach on the island that stretches from the Orango Hotel to the drop-off point for the hippo trek.

Where to Stay in the Bijagos Islands

The Orango Hotel is a true ecotourism project where the hotel perfectly integrates into its surroundings. The hotel is located within Orango National Park, and is a major sponsor of protecting the islands’ biodiversity and indigenous cultural traditions. – Nicole LaBarge

READ MORE: The West African Griot

Lamu Island (Kenya)

Most people traveling to Kenya cannot wait to see the country’s diverse array of wildlife and stunning national parks and reserves (including Amboseli , Meru and the Maasai Mara ).

However, visitors also should not miss out on the little-known (but incredible) Lamu island, which is located just off the coast in northern Kenya .

This part of the country differs significantly from the southern region, offering unspoiled nature as well as a unique culture.

Best Things to Do in Lamu Island

When visiting Lamu Island, you’ll have a chance to walk the streets of Lamu Old Town , one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, this historic area is truly a journey back in time.

However, you should also make sure to leave the city streets behind and explore the beautiful nature of Lamu during your visit.

I stayed on the southern tip of this beautiful island and went for long walks on Lamu’s beaches, climbed sand dunes for incredible sunset views, and went for a snorkeling trip along the coast.

I spent a full week on Lamu Island, which was the perfect amount of time to see and explore the island as well as to relax and unwind from my previous travels .

Where to Stay in Lamu Island

There are a few guesthouses and hotels directly in Lamu Town, but I decided to stay in the lovely and peaceful Kizingo  resort. It’s located on the southern tip of Lamu Island, and is highly recommended.

Here, you’re surrounded by remote beaches and far away from the hustle and bustle of the town.   – Patrick Muntzinger of German Backpacker Travel Blog

READ MORE: Animals in Kenya: A Guide to 40 Species of Kenyan Wildlife

Madagascar is sometimes referred to as “the eighth continent.” Ever since it split from the African land mass, the East African island evolved in isolation.

This resulted in an incredible amount of plants and animals that are found nowhere else on the planet, which makes for a truly exotic island vacation.

Those planning to relax can head to Nosy Be Island, a smaller island just off the northern shore, which is home to stunning beaches. Madagascar is the perfect destination for wildlife lovers.

Best Things to Do in Madagascar

Everyone knows about  Ring-tailed Lemurs , which were made famous by the 2005 animated film based on the island. But Madagascar animal life offers so much more.

There’s the Fossa, the island’s largest carnivore (the size of a small cougar); Chameleons in all shapes and sizes; the Leaf-tailed Gecko (one of the weirdest animals we’ve seen); many endemic birds; and more.Ranomafana and Andasibe/Mantadia National Parks are great destinations to see wildlife .

Landscapes around the island are also incredibly varied. Within a few hundred miles you can find deserts , rainforests, mountains , spiny forests, and heavenly stretches of coastline.

A road trip around the Route 7, which runs down the southern half of the island, is a great way to explore the Madagascar’s diverse landscapes

Where to Stay in Madagascar

Luxurious Eden Lodge is an eco lodge in Madagascar set within a private nature reserve surrounded by clear water and white, sandy beaches.

The property is committed to ecotourism: It’s completely solar-powered, built from natural materials, focuses on protecting coral reefs , and its a portion of its profits support local schools and teacher salaries.   –Margherita Ragg of The Crowded Planet

Mafia Island (Tanzania)

Some people claim that Mafia Island Marine Park offers the best snorkeling in all of East Africa . Still, the island– which is about 100 miles southeast of Dar es Salaam– remains well off the tourism track.

The small tropical island is packed with deserted beaches and a few low-rise boutique hotels that cater to divers. But it should be known as a barefoot-style island getaway, where time stands still.

Best Things to Do in Mafia Island

Snorkeling and diving are by far the main draws here. Mafia Island is home to 460 species of fish and 50 hard corals, and whale sharks visit the archipelago annually.

There are 160 species of birds in the area, as well as wildlife rarities such as Dwarf Hippos and Comoros Flying Foxes.

Take a nature walk to explore the verdant green inland and you’ll find overgrown ruins which shed light on the past of the Swahili coast.

Where to Stay in Mafia Island

Go barefoot in Butiama Beach, a casual beachfront boutique hotel on the western shore of Mafia Island. Butiama Beach has a prime location for whale shark watching, as the giants usually swim by the shore during their peak season.

Complimentary kayaks can take you to the island’s deserted sandbanks and uninhabited inlets, whereas snorkeling and diving trips explore nearby Mafia Island Marine Park. -Niina Lehikoinen 0f  Bizarre Globe Hopper

READ MORE: Top 10 Tanzania National Parks & Reserves

While most people associate the Seychelles with white sand beaches (and as one of the best islands for a honeymoon), this archipelago of more than 100 islands is actually a real nature lover’s paradise.

Every island offers something unique, whether it’s lush tropical forests , desolate beaches, endemic flora and fauna, or indigenous cultural traditions. Whether you’re a sun worshipper or an outdoor adventurer, the Seychelles is perfect for anyone looking for exotic vacation destinations.

Best of all, just a few islands are developed: The majority of the Seychelles is totally uninhabited.

Best Things to Do in Seychelles

Since the islands of the Seychelles are scattered in the Indian Ocean, it’s difficult to visit a lot of them in one trip. However, it’s fairly easy to build Seychelles holidays around a small cluster of islands in the vicinity of Praslin. For nature lovers, the following islands are the best places to visit in Seychelles:

Praslin , the second largest island, is home to Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). It’s a lush rainforest where you can find the world’s biggest nut, the coco-de-mer.

La Digue   Island is perfect for those who want to experience traditional local life. It also has some incredible scenery, especially at Anse Source D’Argent, a beautiful beach with giant granite boulders.

Curieuse  Island is a Marine National Park, and the best place to see giant tortoises , endemic birds, and untouched nature.

Cousin  Island is a paradise for bird-watchers, but there are also turtles, tortoises, and lots of other animal species. Snorkeling and Scuba diving are also very popular, with lots of nice spots all over the area. The coral reef here isn’t impressive, but there’s a large variety of colorful fish and sea turtles.

Where to Stay in Seychelles

Probably the best place to stay in this part of the Seychelles is in a Praslin Island hotel. This island has the best infrastructure, lodging for all budgets, and the possibility to arrange day trips. Check out Le Domaine de La Reserve or the  Colibri Hotel .

Coron, Palawan (Philippines)

Coron encompasses a town (located on Busuanga Island), an island (nearby Coron Island), and over 50 minor islets in the Philippines’ Calamian archipelago. This is arguably the most picturesque part of Palawan , which has been voted Best Island in the Philippines and Best Island in the World several years in a row.

Best Things to Do in Coron

There are tons of awesome things to do in Coron, such as climbing Mount Tapyas, swimming in one of the world’s cleanest lakes (Lake Kayangan), snorkeling or Scuba diving impressively pristine coral reef systems, and island-hopping.

But it’s also an incredible place to simply soak in the otherworldly beauty of the stunning karst landscapes, impossibly blue waters, and jaw-dropping sunsets.

The beaches here have been consistently ranked among the best in the world, and the traditional Hilot massage will rub away any aches and pains you may have after a long day of outdoor adventure.

Where to Stay in Coron, Palawan

We enjoyed our time at  Club Paradise Resort Palawan – a secluded private island resort– so much that we stayed there twice.

They offer three types of rooms: Garden View Rooms, Garden Suites, and rustic Villas on both the east (sunrise) and west (sunset) sides of the island.

The snorkeling from the beach is exceptional (we saw Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks, Pufferfish, and Octopi), and their Glow Spa is both relaxing and shockingly affordable .

READ MORE:   Top 15 Things to do in Coron, Palawan

Cat Ba Island (Vietnam)

The beautiful island of Cát Bà, located about three hours east of Hanoi, is perhaps best known as the home of Ha Long Bay.

Although Ha Long’s sheen has faded a bit in recent years due to mass tourism , this remains a stunning region where craggy limestone casts rise out of the turquoise sea. It’s also home to Ha Long’s less crowded (and more affordable!) sister, Lan Ha Bay.

Cát Bà is one of the best islands in Asia. And while its bays are breathtaking, you also won’t want to miss its mountainous jungles, world-class white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife .

Best Things to Do in Cat Ba Island

Going on a Lan Ha Bay cruise is a must. Be sure to book one that includes several kayaking stops, so you get a chance to marvel up close at the huge limestone cliffs looming above you.

Once you’re back on land, hit up Cat Ba National Park, where you can either choose a day hike through the jungle or a longer trek, like a 17-kilometer hiking trail to the remote fishing village of Viet Hai.

Be sure to keep an eye out for monkeys in the treetops as you’re hiking around the park!

Where to Stay in Cat Ba

Cat Ba Sunrise Resort offers unparalleled views of Ha Long Bay and is a conveniently located home base for your adventures around the island.

Plus, with amenities such as its own private beach, pool, and spa, this relaxing resort in Cát Bà gives you a well-deserved break from all that kayaking and adventuring.

Who’s to say that nature lovers can’t enjoy a bit of luxury as well? – Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler

READ MORE: Saving Asian Animals (10 Best Conservation Programs)

Komodo Island (Indonesia)

The country of Indonesia is made up of more than 14,000 islands, but few are more interesting than the island of Komodo and the National Park located there.

Komodo National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 in an effort to recognize and protect the area’s vast amount of biodiversity.

Not only does this region boast the famous (and increasingly rare) Komodo dragons, but it’s also one of the best islands in Indonesia if you want to see an incredible amount of marine life.

Best Things to Do in Komodo Island

Visiting one of the Komodo Dragon Conservation Centers is a must-do for anyone in this National Park, as it’s the only place in the world you can see these rare creatures in their natural habitat.

For those who are interested in Komodo diving, the very best thing you can do is visit Komodo National Park on a scuba diving liveaboard .

You’ll have the opportunity for scuba diving several times each day in the region’s more remote sites, and you’ll likely spot creatures such as Dolphins, Sharks , Sea Turtles, Manta Rays, and more!

Where to Stay in Labuan Bajo

It’s not possible to stay in a Komodo Island accomodation, since it’s a protected national park. Instead, most visitors stay on nearby Labuan Bajo Island and visit the park on a day trip.

Plataran Komodo Beach Resort  is an excellent option. However, for an even better experience, skip the hotel entirely and stay on a liveaboard boat. This covers your accommodation needs as well as several dives per day.

Tanaka is a good choice for a mid-range budget. But if you’re looking for a bit of luxury on the water, Samambaia is sure to deliver. -Katie Diederichs of Two Wandering Soles

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Indonesia for Nature Lovers

Langkawi Island (Malaysia)

From spotting dusky Leaf Monkeys at breakfast to nighttime walks into the jungle to find the Colugo, those elusive gliding mammals who live in the trees, Langkawi Island is a nature lover’s dream.

This UNESCO World Geopark– part of a 99-island archipelago– lies 30 miles off the coast of Malaysia.

It offers a wonderous mix of wildlife, stunning beaches, and awe-inspiring landscapes, making it a great place for families, couples, and intrepid adventurers alike.

Best Things to Do in Langkawi

If you’re OK with heights, one of the most breathtaking Langkawi attractions is the Sky Bridge. Take a trip up to the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang by cable car, and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the island. You can also walk through the jungle canopy on the Langkawi Sky Bridge.

Having taken in the scenic views, make your way down to the white sands of Pantai Cenang beach and explore the sparkling sea water by renting sea kayaks or snorkeling gear. You can also take a boat out to nearby Payar Island for the best local snorkeling spots.

The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is teeming with wildlife, and a trip along the river Kilim is the best way to spot birds, lizards, and even swimming Macaques.

One of my favorite evening Langkawi activities is to take a guided walk into the edge of the jungle to look for Colugo. My kids loved spotting them high in the trees, leaping and gliding from one branch to another as dusk fell.

Where to Stay in Langkawi

Having breakfast at the Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa , you might be lucky enough to be joined by a passing family of Dusky Leaf Monkeys. After breakfast, you can enjoy a walk along their private beach overlooking the Andaman Sea, hire a catamaran, wind-surf, or simply let your stresses drain away at their serene tropical spa.

Temple Tree Resort is a wonderful selection of rescued houses from across Malaysia. They also rescue cats, who wander happily around the grounds.   -Nichola of  Globalmouse Travels

READ MORE: Top 25 Things to do in Malaysia for Nature Lovers

Close your eyes and imagine yourself having one of the best island holidays in a tropical paradise. You most likely picture yourself lying on a pristine white sand beach under shady palm trees, looking out across an ocean filled with various shades of blue.

Now multiply that island by 1200, and you have the Republic of Maldives . With over 200 inhabited islands to choose from, you can treat yourself a life of luxury at any number of  Maldives all-inclusive resorts, adventure through 22 atolls, and immerse yourself in the islands’ rich indigenous culture.

Best Things to Do in Maldives

If you love the water, Maldives is the place for you. You can swim up close with giant Whale Sharks in Maafushi, dive with pods of hundreds of Dolphins in Thulusdhoo, snorkel with Manta Rays in Noonu, or catch some waves at the famous surfer’s hotspot of Coke’s Beach.

You can also enjoy the local cuisine of a traditional Maldivian breakfast, take jet-skis and a picnic lunch to spend the day on an uninhibited Maldives island, and catch your own dinner by handline fishing in the Indian Ocean.

Where to Stay in Maldives

Robinson Club Noonu is a wonderful Maldives all inclusive that offers dreamy over-water bungalows and private infinity pools. There’s also a WellFit gym, sauna and spa, a large pool overlooking the ocean, complimentary snorkeling gear, three restaurants with varied buffets, and three bars for an all-you-can-eat-and-drink experience.  -Sara of Our Kind of Crazy  

READ MORE: Maldives Becomes The World’s Largest Marine Reserve

The small Caribbean island of Bonaire is the lesser known of the Netherlands’ “ABC Islands,” which also include Aruba and Curacao . While the other two islands have seen considerable urban development over the last few decades, Bonaire really hasn’t.

Bonaire is best known for its marine conservation , which dates back to the creation of   Bonaire National Marine Park in 1979. The island is a Scuba diving paradise, with over 80 dive sites and opportunities to see Loggerhead Turtles, Green Sea Turtles, and even Seahorses.

Bonaire is also a great place for birdwatching . Its mangroves offer safe nesting sites for beautiful birds  such as Herons, Ospreys, and Magnificent Frigates. Pink Flamingos can be observed in several locations, including the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary.

Best Things to Do in Bonaire

The island of Bonaire offers plenty of other outdoor activities for nature lovers. Visitors can hike in Washington Slagbaai National Park to see Iguanas in their natural environment, or kayak through the Lac Bay mangroves looking for Herons, reef fish, and the endangered Queen Conch.

It’s fun (and relatively easy) to bike the small, flat roads around the island. You can walk through Rincón, Bonaire’s old town, which was established by the Spanish in the 16th-century.

Learn about the island’s Dutch colonial past, which saw the expansion of salt harvesting and slavery, with the Slave Huts a reminder of that somber period.

And make sure to sample some Bonaire cuisine– a mix of fresh fish, Dutch influence,  Creole spices, and Spanish flavors. Local delicacies include barracuda ravioli, wahoo sushi, and iguana meatballs.

Where to Stay in Bonaire

Cuba is arguably one of the best tropical islands to visit for nature lovers . [Editor’s note: Sadly, one of the world’s most buzzworthy island holiday destinations just became MUCH harder for U.S. residents to visit due to the current administration’s archaic policies .]

The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba is home to a whopping 263 protected areas and six UNESCO biospheres . These include Buenavista, Cienega Zapata, Cuchillas del Toa, Baconao Peninsula de Guanacabibes, and Sierra del Rosario.

Amd with almost 4000 miles of sandy coastline, Cubas’s coral reefs are pristine and virtually untouched (one upside of decades of travel bans by the U.S. government).

Best Things to Do in Cuba

There are many things to do in all these biospheres, and it seems each one has a specialty.

Sierra del Rosario Biosphere is next to the town of Las Terrazas,  which is a self-sufficient, farm-to-table town at the forefront of ecotourism. Every restaurant in town serves only what they grow. Las Terrazas also has an artist’s colony as well as the longest zipline in Cuba, stretching over 6 crystalline lakes.

All of the biospheres have swimming holes and nature hikes led by expert local guides.

Where to Stay in Cuba

The Hotel Moka , which has trees growing in the middle of the lobby, is a fine place to stay in Las Terrazas while you explore abandoned coffee plantations and visit the Soroa Orchid Garden. The hotel sits on a mountainside, overlooking the lush forest below.  – Talek Nantes of Travels with Talek

READ MORE: The Best Hotels in Isla Holbox, Mexico

Dominica Island

Though often confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica easily ranks among the best Caribbean islands due to its under-the-radar tourism profile and emphasis on ecotourism and conservation.

Known as the “Nature Island,” Dominica is said to be the only Caribbean island Christopher Columbus would still recognize if he landed there today.

And though Dominica has been hammered by devastating tropical storms in recent years, this tiny island (population 71,000) in the Lesser Antilles is as unspoiled as any destination we’ve ever visited. Even in 2019, a full two-thirds of its 290 square miles remains completely undeveloped.

Best Things to Do in Dominica

Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains a brief section of the 114-mile Waitukabuli National Trail . It’s also home to the stunning waterfalls at the aptly-named Emerald Pool, which we had all to ourselves during our visit.

The island’s location (and relative lack of tourism) makes it a great place to see nesting Sea Turtles, which are protected by the Dominica Sea Turtle Conservation organization.

You also won’t want to miss a whale-watching tour with Kubuli Watersports, run by Andrew Armour (who is locally known as “the Whale Whisperer”).

Other awesome things to do in Dominica include the volcano-fed hot springs of Screw’s Sulphur Spa, snorkeling/diving at the volcano -heated Champagne Reef, a boat tour down the Indian River, and getting to know the island’s indigneous cultural traditions at the Kalinago Barauna Aute.

Where to Stay in Dominica

One of the best Caribbean resorts we’ve ever visited, Rosalie Bay Resort, was permanently closed in 2018 after taking a major hit from Hurricane Maria.

But we also enjoyed the stunning scenic vistas and private beaches of Secret Bay and the recently renovated Fort Young Hotel , which was built into  a historic fort conveniently located in downtown Roseau. –Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

READ MORE:   Visiting Dominica’s Kalinago Territory

With its aquamarine waters, diverse wildlife , and lush mountainous interior, Grenada and its sister islands (Carriacou and Petite Martinique) are home to an incredible range of natural attractions.

Although this three-island nation is still under-the-radar for mainstream tourists, it’s ideal for independent travellers who want to immerse themselves in a naturally beautiful setting, but also crave exciting things to do.

Take a nature hike in Grenada’s Grand Etang National Park and you can expect to see Tree Boas, Green Iguanas and Lizards as well as Opossum, Armadillo, Mona Monkeys, and some of more than 177 species of birds .

Post-hike, you’ll feel as though you’ve landed in paradise when you cool off by plunging beneath   natural waterfalls .

Best Things to Do in Grenada 

While there’s plenty to do in the island’s interior for outdoor adventurers, the best way to experience Grenada’s natural attractions is to explore its coast.

You’ll find 40 beautiful Grenada beaches with white sand, 30 dive sites, and several coral reefs. The government continues to expand the island’s marine protected areas: Its fourth, the Grande Anse Marine Protected Area, stretches south from the Port Louis Marina. It encompasses the pristine white sands of Grand Anse Beach, which is widely considered one of the world’s top beaches.

A must-do in St. George’s, the island’s capital city, is to take a snorkelling excursion on a wooden sailing sloop to the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park . This is the world’s first underwater museum  (featuring sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor ), and an innovative ecological project helping to raise awareness about the fragility of the world’s environment.

Where to Stay in Grenada

You don’t need to rough it in order to immerse yourself in nature in Grenada. Many of the island’s luxury hotels are small, sustainable, and full of character. Their restaurants serve cuisine that showcases locally-sourced ingredients such as organic chocolate, fresh seafood, and fragrant spices.

The best small Grenada hotels include the Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel , a Relais & Chateaux property set on peaceful Lance Aux Epines Beach, as well as the all-inclusive Spice Island Beach Resort.  This low-rise collection of elegant guest suites is set on Grand Anse Beach, just steps away from some of the Caribbean’s most swimmable waters.

Also located on Grand Anse Beach is the newest addition to Genada’s luxury hotel scene, Silversands Grenada , featuring 43 posh guests suites and villas. -Michele Peterson of A Taste for Travel

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The islands of Turks and Caicos have some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean . The crystal clear blue waters make it an incredible destination for snorkeling or scuba diving.

One of the best beaches in Turks and Caicos is Grace Bay Beach. The barrier reef is about a mile out and protects Grace Bay from the ocean swells of the Atlantic.

Best Things to Do in Turks and Caicos

There are many wonderful activities to enjoy on what I consider among the most  beautiful Caribbean islands . Both islands are primarily known for diving and snorkeling, as the island sits on an underwater plateau that rises more than 11,000 feet above the ocean floor.

The edges of the shelf are lined by miles of relatively unspoiled barrier reef . There are many wall diving sites and sheltered in-shore reefs. If snorkeling or diving is not your thing, lounging on the island’s beautiful beaches are just as good.

Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos

If there’s a downside to Turks and Caicos, it’s that the islands are relatively expensive. If you don’t mind cooking (though groceries are pricey as well), then renting an Airbnb may be a great option.

If you’re travelling with kids then try Blue Haven , an all-inclusive option that offers large suites with kitchens. -Diana of Diana’s Healthy Living

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The Canary Islands archipelago is a fantastic European holiday destination that goes well beyond the typical tropical island concept.

The seven main Spanish islands, as well as the numerous smaller ones, offer an incredible variety of beaches, charming little villages, and cities (including Las Palmas and Santa Cruz) thriving with life.

Nature lovers will also enjoy the island’s lush vegetation, picturesque hiking trails , and striking desert landscape.

Best Things to Do in the Canary Islands

Your opinion of the best Canary Islands to visit will likely depend on the kind of holiday destination you’re looking for.

Tranquil Canary Islands beaches, such as Papagayo in Lanzarote, offer perfect places to relax.  Lanzarote’s steady strong winds are a guarantee of excellent waves, making this the best place to surf in the Canary Islands.

Hiking Tenerife, the home of Mount Teide (the tallest volcano in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is fantastic and attracts the majority of active tourists.

Beautiful villages can be found all across the archipelago. And for that remote desert feeling, Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas Dunes is the place to go.

Where to Stay in Gran Canaria

Lopesan Baobab Resort  is a fantastic Gran Canaria resort located just 600 meters from Maspalomas Beach. Its main attraction is the incredible views it offers overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.  – Claudia Tavani of My Adventures Across The World

READ MORE:  10 Ec0-Friendly European Islands (World Travel Bucket List)

Corsica (France)

Located just north of Sardinia, the French island of Corsica is utterly unique in its culture, food , music, and language.

This makes it an exciting destination for those looking to expand their off-the-beaten-path Mediterranean islands bucket list.

This stunning island has beaches that rival the best in the world, as well as impressive mountains to explore. Plus, having little light pollution makes the stargazing here out of this world!

Best Things to Do in Corsica

The island of Corsica is known in the hiking community as home to Europe’s toughest trek, the GR20. The trail traverses the island’s rugged mountains, and passes through farm stays and along clear blue streams.

The white-sand of Palombaggia in the south and the rocky Plage du Lotu in the north both make for incredibly relaxing beach vacations . Adventure-seekers can amp up their visit with all manner of water sports, such as paddle boarding, boating, Scuba, and more.

For wine lovers, Corsica’s northern wine region is a must-visit, especially when you pair the vintages  with beautifully made Corsican cheeses.

Where to Stay in  Corsica

Bastia is the perfect place to base yourself in Corsica, as it is the main hub for many excursions to other parts of the island.

Hotel Des Gouverneurs is in the Old Town of Bastia, situated adjacent to the citadel and numerous narrow, cobblestone streets leading to delicious local food/wine destinations.

The view out to the Mediterranean is an added bonus. –Christa Rolls of Expedition Wildlife

READ MORE: The Best Hiking Shoes for Travelers

Hvar (Croatia)

Hvar is one of the best Croatian islands, mainly due to its cultural and historic significance.

The island is home to the Stari Grad Plains, an ancient agricultural area that has remained largely untouched from its original layout in the 4th century B.C. Now it is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Aside from history, the island also offers that quintessential Croatian coastline, stretching through the Adriatic Sea but maintaining numerous connections to the country’s  mainland .

Best Things to Do in Hvar Island

The island has a healthy mix of things to do  to suit all interests. In the city of Hvar, you can hike high atop the rocky cliffs to check out the Spanish Fortress or head into town to grab a sweet treat. In Stari Grad, you can visit Tvrdalj Castle, the Renaissance-era summer home of a famous poet.

Outside the small towns, the island is dotted with lavender fields and vendors selling natural lavender-based products. There is also a tradition of wine-making on Hvar, and there are many seaside coves and beaches where you can escape to enjoy the sunshine.

Where to Stay in  Hvar Island

If you’re looking to stay close to the ferry port in Stari Grad, check out B&B  Villa Apolon .  For a more secluded, but eco-conscious Hvar accommodation, Villa Perka is an authentic option you may want to check out! – Eric and Lisa from Penguin and Pia

Madeira Islands (Portugal)

Like most of the polaces on this list, the four islands of the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira have beautiful coastlines.

But they also offer interesting fauna and flora, amazing volcanic formations, delicious cuisine, and glorious mountain peaks, which ranks them among our top islands to visit.

There are a wide variety of activities nature lovers can enjoy on these beautiful islands, which are located off the northwest coast of Africa. And the temperature is pleasant all year round, thanks to the subtropical climate.

Best Things to Do in  Madeira

Hiking in Madeira  is easily the most popular activity. The levadas were historically used as Madeira’s irrigation channels, taking water from the northwest to the more fertile southeast.

But nowadays they’re also used as hiking trails, and offer a great way to explore the island. An absolute must for trekking enthusiasts is the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trail, which connects the highest peaks on the island.

You can also go swimming at Calheta Beach, or catch a boat from the pier to see Whales and Dolphins. If you’re feeling adventurous, try paragliding to get a bird’s-eye view of the island!

Where to Stay in Madeira

Four Views Baía has a great location in Funchal that’s close to many restaurants, cafes, and markets. It’s a great base to explore Madeira island, and a lovely place to relax after a long exhausting day. The hotel also has a spa and pool, which has a gorgeous view. – Krix Eniko  of Travel Hacker Girl <

Sardinia (Italy)

Located just south of Corsica, Sardinia’s wild and rugged mountains hide a myriad of underground grottos, which give an insight into the island’s rich history.

Around the perimeter, pristine beaches (including 5 wheelchair-accessible beaches ) hug the coastline, interrupted by rocky promontories that are pockmarked with sea caves.

It’s arguably the best Italian island to explore, and offers a lot to the curious visitor.

Best Things to Do in Sardinia

Head to the hills if you want to experience hiking Sardinia, with some of the best trails in the European islands and incredible views to match.

Keep an eye out for the mystical looking nuraghi (mysterious beehive-shaped ruins of ancient fortresses that are unique to Sardinia) that punctuate the landscape. You can also discover stunning stalagmites and stalactites in many amazing caves  lurking beneath the island’s surface.

Be sure to also schedule some time to unwind at the beach. But while you do, keep an eye on the sky and you may spot the tell-tale silhouette of a Flamingo in flight!

Where to Stay in Sardinia

At nature’s doorstep you’ll find the authentic and welcoming Hotel Nascar . This unique Sardinia accommodation is a former granary that has been reincarnated as a charming place to stay. It’s the perfect launch pad for trekking the Selvaggio Blu. Awarded the European Eco-Label, it’s a hotel that goes the extra mile to protect the environment.  – Nadine Maffre of Le Long Weekend

READ MORE: A Local’s Guide to Le Marche, Italy

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is also its southernmost. So you can enjoy tropical island weather here longer than the most popular Greek islands to the north, such as Santorini and Mykonos.

Between the stunning cliff beach of Seitan Limania, the pink beach of Elafonisi, and the paradise retreat of Balos Lagoon, Crete is one of the best islands in Greece for those seeking beautiful beaches.

Beyond that, you’ll find the towns of Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymnon to be full of charming historic spots left over from Crete’s Venetian, Ottoman, and even Egyptian past.

Best Things to Do in Crete

For the daring, take the drive out to Seitan Limania beach and make your way down the cliffs to the water’s edge. You can laze around in the sand or climb up the cliffs to jump into the water below.

Outdoor enthusiasts should make time to hike Samara Gorge , while history buffs should explore the island’s numerous amazing archaeological sites .

Where to Stay in Crete

The Rimondi Boutique Hotel  makes a great base from which you can enjoy all the things there are to do in Rethymnon, including touring the Venetian harbor, eating at Raki ba Raki, and strolling along the coast under the Fortezza at sunset. Enjoy their Turkish baths while staying in the heart of the charming Venetian city.   -Stephanie Craig of Sofia Adventures

READ MORE: The Best Places to Visit in  Greece

Delos Island  is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as a pirate island and Apollo’s birthplace. Greek heroes of old were trained here, hoping to absorb Apollo’s skills and blessing before battle.

Though it may not top most travelers’ bucket list of Greek islands to visit, Delos offers plenty of attractions for those with an interest in history and ancient Greek culture.

Best Things to Do on  Delos Island

I would suggest taking a guided tour to see this picturesque Greek island. Hike among the wildflowers, and walk past the famous Delos Lions towards Apollo’s Temple. Visit the Dolphin House, where a Rosetta Stone mosaic design still holds the artist’s signature from the 2nd century.

Walk among the many houses, which contain some of the best-preserved mosaic masterpieces from the 1st and 2nd Century BC. Many of these are considered even more well-preserved than those found in Pompeii.

Visit the Archeological Museum of Delos, which contains nine rooms full of artifacts found on the island from prehistoric times to the 15th century.

Where to Stay in Mykonos (to get to Delos)

While you cannot stay on the island of Delos itself, it is possible to stay on Mykonos and then take a ferry over to Delos. Of course Mykonos is also considered among the most beautiful Greek Islands, and is worthy of a visit on its own merits.

I recommend staying in Nissaki Boutique Hotel because of its close proximity to Psarou Beach, natural wood accents, and cascading pools.

You can also stay in the luxurious Mykonos Dove Beachfront Hotel , with sits olar powered umbrellas and private pools adorned with lush greenery. – Janiel from Culture Trekking

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On Karpathos Island, which is located at the southeast corner of the Aegean Sea between Crete and Rhodes, people measure distances by walking time.

This long, thin, 116-square-mile island is criss-crossed by some 30 signed trails. They pass through forests, rocky mountains, agricultural land, shoreline, and ancient and modern villages. Once you’ve explored it, it’s no wonder some travelers consider Karpathos the prettiest Greek island.

Karpathos and its neighboring sister, Saria Island (which are separated by a 150-meter channel), combine unique natural environments with a fascinating cultural setting.

Once inhabited by Greeks, Romans, and pirates, today the islands attract migratory birds, the endangered Monk Seal , and a rich botanical array. The Natura 2000 nature reserve and national marine reserve demonstrate the island’s commitment to protecting its outstanding biodiversity.

Best Things to Do in Karpathos

Besides the hiking, Karpathos is known as a windsurfing mecca, with bays to suit every ability level. The island boasts more than 100 beaches, most in leeward coves with cliffs framing the clear water.

Snorkeling and caving are popular here. Scuba divers enjoy good visibility, underwater volcanic rock fields, and a few sunken ships. Back on land, activities include mountain biking and cliff climbing.

Hiking is often combined with birdwatching (over 200 species have been identified on the island) or a botanical and culinary walk (featuring dozens of endemic plants).

Don’t miss the northern village of Olympos for a taste of Karpathos’ distinctive food and culture. It produces some of the world’s best honey and the aromatic Greek oregano used generously in its dishes.

Where to Stay in Karpathos

Most Karpathos hotels are in the main port town of Pigadia (Karpathos City) or along the southern coast. Central to everything is the Alimounda Mare Hotel , which offers a complete array of upscale resort services.

For a more intimate, remote experience, try Villa Iliahtida in Tristomo . Contact EcoTourism Karpathos for your help with planning your eco-friendly trip. – Kristin Henning of Travel Past 50

READ MORE:   Ancestors & Expectations at the Acropolis of Athens

Best Things to Do in Leros 

Where to stay in leros.

The Alinda Hotel is in a beautiful and quiet area of Leros, set right on the beach. Agia Marina is full of hotel apartments. Both make great bases from which to explore Leros before the secret gets out about this idyllic island. -Alana Tagliabue of Family Bites Travel

READ MORE: Happy Accidents on Aegina Island, Greece

Naxos is a beautiful Greek island that offers  the perfect combination of food and nature, tourist infrastructure and local authenticity.

The view from the island’s main dock says it all. To the left is an ancient ruin, straight ahead you can see the mountain ranges, and to the right is a great selection of restaurants.

Of course, the iconic white houses and wine-dark sea the Cycladic Islands are famous for complete the dramatic scene.

Best Things to Do in Naxos Greece

As Naxos is one of the largest islands in the archipelago, the best way to explore it is by renting a car. Head into the mountains and hike to find the Kouroi, which are ancient half-finished statues.

Scattered throughout these mountains are beautiful Greek churches and breathtaking views. There are enough traditional tavernas and olive presses to excite any food lover . Just be sure to visit a local shop to taste the world-famous Naxian cheeses. 

Once you’ve had your fill of culture, you can relax on one of the amazing Naxo s beaches, where it is usually possible to find yourself almost completely alone!

Where to Stay in Naxos

Thalassa Naxos provides an amazing beachside base for exploration. This tranquil Naxos accommodation (with cooking facilities and fridge) is nestled in a quiet natural area with long white sandy beaches, cedar forests, and sand dunes. 

If you’re more of a pool lover, then the family-friendly Naxos Palace Hotel will suit you perfectly. It is conveniently located within easy reach of the town and provides complimentary transport from the hotel every 30 minutes. – Samantha of Carry On or Bust

Aitutaki (Cook Islands)

Aitutaki is more than just another jaw-dropping Polynesian island. It’s actually an archipelago of 15 of the most beautiful islands circling a postcard-perfect turquoise lagoon.

This is the perfect place for a holiday in Polynesia, with all the charm you’d expect from the South Pacific and surprisingly few of the tourists. In short, this is the place to indulge your castaway fantasies.

Best Things to Do in Aitutaki 

Taking an Aitutaki lagoon tour is an absolute must. Several companies run small group tours, taking 8 to 12 people on a boat to a few of the nearby islets and the best snorkeling spots. Most include the chance to see giant Trevallies and Wrasses, Giant Clams, blue Starfish and bright purple coral.

For a more intimate, personal experience, rent a kayak or charter a water taxi and see where the mood takes you. You can even ask to be dropped off with a picnic lunch and have a deserted islet all to yourself for the day!

Back on land, don’t miss an “island night” cultural celebration. These luau-like feasts of food and music are the best way to see Polynesian dancing and try traditional Cook Islands cuisine.

Where to Stay in Aitutaki

Our favorite Aitutaki accommodation was Etu Moana , a locally-owned boutique hotel with eight gorgeous villas. There’s no all-inclusive option here, and no poolside waiter service. Just an honesty bar, a quiet stretch of beach, and several friendly cats. -Lisa Bott-Hansson of Rebellious Tourist

READ MORE: 21 Tahiti Photos to Fuel Your Exotic Island Fantasies

Bora Bora (Tahiti)

Bora Bora (whose original name in the Tahitian language means “first-born”) is a luxury traveler’s dream, and the epitome of exotic island indulgence. It’s no wonder Bora Bora is widely considered one of the best islands in the world for a honeymoon.

With two mountains in the center of the island and a picture-perfect lagoon and barrier reef surrounding it, it’s the quintessential Tahiti destination for rest, relaxation, and romance.

“Getting away from it all” is defined by a stay in one of Bora Bora’s famed thatched-roof bungalows, whose glass floors allow views of an underwater world filled with fish, Manta Rays, and Reef Sharks.

Best Things to Do in Bora Bora

Pearl Diving in Bora Bora had been on our bucket list ever since we saw it as a challenge on The Amazing Race . The Bora Bora Pearl Company offers a chance to do it in a picturesque setting, and you learn a lot about pearl-farming in the process. You even get to keep the pearl you harvest!

Swimming with Sharks is another awesome activity, and we found ourselves surrounded by Black-tipped Reef Sharks, Stingrays, and all sorts of tropical fish. Unfortunately many local tour operators still chum the waters, which isn’t exactly what you’d call a responsible travel practice.

But our favorite thing to do in Bora Bora was snorkeling the Ruahatu Lagoon Sanctuary at the Four Seasons Resort. Built from the ground up by marine biologist Oliver Martin, this tranquil lagoon was filled with fish, octopi, a coral farm, and intriguing underwater sculptures.

Where to Stay in Bora Bora

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is everything you want from a Tahiti vacation. It’s got luxury over-water bungalows, stunning scenic vistas, gorgeous beaches, a sumptuous spa, and exquisite seafood.

In terms of the best holiday destinations for couples, it’s hard to beat. If you’ve got the budget, splurge for a private beachside dinner, complete with lobster and tiki torches! –Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

READ MORE: Harmful Traditions & Cultural Practices Tourists Shouldn’t Support

Easter Island (a.k.a. Rapa Nui)

Easter Island, which is known locally as Rapa Nui, is a mysterious and mythical place.Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , this tiny island is littered with some 400 massive stone head statues (a.k.a. Moai ).

Though widely considered one of the world’s top islands to visit, Easter Island is very remote. There are only two ways to get there: a 4-hour flight from Tahiti or a nearly 6-hour flight from Santiago de Chile .

Best Things to Do in Easter Island

The obvious thing to do here is to either independently do the sightseeing of the Easter Island highlights, or join a guided tour group to take you to different places on the island.

Everything is magical here, but don’t miss out on visiting the Moai “birthplace” at Rano Raraku quarry. You can also explore the Ahu Tahai and Ahu Tongariki platforms, the dormant Rano Kau volcano, and Anakena Beach, which is the only white sand beach on the island.

One of our favorite Easter Island activities is  scuba diving . Ask to dive in the Hanga Roa Harbor if you want to see the eerie underwater moai! During the right season, you may even get to hear and spot the Whale migration in the clear waters.

Where to Stay on Easter Island

I highly suggest the 5-star Easter Island hotel,  Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa . Simply a beautiful and relaxing eco-resort, it’s definitely one of the best places to stay on the island.

While the hotel is within walking distance from the town center of Hanga Roa, they also provide a professional concierge service. So you can hire a car, arrange a guided tour, or simply get some R&R in its beautiful swimming pool.   -Halef and Michael of The Round The World Guys

READ MORE: Rapa Nui National Park: Easter Island Facts & Photos

Savaii & Upolu (Samoa)

Western Samoa is an absolute gem in the Pacific, where volcanic activity has created incredible topography across two islands. Savaii and Upolu islands are arguably among the most beautiful islands in the world. They’re littered with waterfalls , rainforest, beaches, cliffs, and swimming holes.On top of that, Samoa has one of the warmest cultures I’ve ever experienced in my years of traveling around the world .

Best Things to Do in Samoa

Where to stay in samoa.

Yasawa Islands (Fiji)

As a country, Fiji is world renowned for its many beautiful islands. But the Yasawa Islands stand out as some of the best thanks to their natural beauty and the fact that they’re so easy to get to from Fiji’s main international airport in Nadi.

Visitors can choose one of the island resorts to relax at for the duration of their trip, or make use of the Yasawa Flyer and island-hop their way through this exotic archipelago.

Whether you’re looking for relaxing tropical places to visit or an adventurous vacation with a bit more of an adrenaline rush, the Yasawa Islands  have you covered.

Best Things To Do in the Yasawa Islands

The Yasawa Islands are known as an island-hopping destination that is especially popular among water sports enthusiasts.

So the best thing to do there is to snorkel or dive the nearby reef systems, which are teeming with marine life. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some massive Manta Rays, or maybe get to scuba dive with Bull Sharks .

Many Yasawa resorts also offer kayaks and paddleboards for rent or loan. At the end of a busy day, you’ll want to spend some time relaxing on one of the white sand beaches and takomh in a stunning sunset.

Where to Stay in Yasawa

The Yasawa Islands resort I stayed at was Octopus Resorts (on Waya Island), which was fabulous in terms of service, location, and amenities.

Another highly recommended place to stay is Mantaray Island Resort , which is located on a nearby Nanuya Balavu Island. -Hannah Logan of EatSleepBreathTravel.com

READ MORE: Hawaiian Mythology (Intro to Hawaiian Gods, Goddess and Legends

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Best Exotic Beach Destinations for 2022 | Sundance Vacations

We understand that the last few years may have put a damper on your travel plans, but 2022 is going to be your year!

The question isn’t what can you do in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Aruba, and the Caribbean, it’s what can’t you do? Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s a variety of activities that will fulfill your vacation wants and needs in these tropical paradises.

Luxury, comfort, and an unforgettable time is what you’ll experience at Sundance Vacations properties. 18th-century colonial Spanish design, sheek, modern atmospheres, and country charm are what make each of these resorts unique. Spas, swimming pools, and beaches are only some of the amenities offered by these oceanfront resorts. They’re also located right in the center of all the fantastic activities you’re going to want to experience!

Cabo San Lucas, México

Pack your bags and plan for a one-of-a-kind vacation to Cabo San Lucas . Lounge on the beach and watch crystal waves lap at the sandy, white shore, or strap on some snorkeling gear and jump into the Playa El Médano ocean–the most popular ocean and beach in the area. Exciting ATV tours, calming sailing tours, and camelback riding excursions are only a few of the activities and sports you can experience in Cabo San Lucas. Sundance Vacations recommends staying at the Cabo Azul Resort , a resort full of flair and natural elegance, located near the Sea of Cortez.

Puerto Vallarta, México

Puerto Vallarta –a city known for its picture-perfect beaches and thrilling nightlife. One of its most popular attractions is the Rhythms of the Night Cruise & Dinner Show, an extraordinary acrobatic show. You’ll be so entranced by the performers that you may miss the scenic sights as you sail through the Bay of Banderas. Fine art, culture, and culinary delights is what Puerto Vallarta is known for. Sundance Vacations recommends booking a stay at Club Regina Puerto Vallarta , a traditional ambience with relaxing ocean and marina views.

Playa Del Carmen, México

Playa Del Carmen is a Mexican city deeply rooted in history. Known for being home to Mayan and Tulum Ruins, Playa Del Carmen offers various tours that allow visitors to observe and explore the ancient architecture. An absolute must in the Chichen Itza Tour , a bus tour that takes you to one of the seven wonders of the world! After visiting the ruin, you can take a dip in a cenote–an authentic Mexican experience you won’t find anywhere else! Between archeological tours, adrenaline surging ziplines, and soothing catamaran rides, you’ll never run out of new things to try. Sundance Vacations recommends checking out Hacienda Tres Rios , an all-inclusive resort with architecturally acclaimed accommodations.

Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata is a city admired for the endless, virgin beaches that stretch across the length of the territory. Not only that, but it has some of the best waterfalls that the Caribbean has to offer. Hike along the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua and wade through dreamy pools made of limestone. Looking for something a little less strenuous? Puerto Plata’s Ocean World offers the memorable experience of swimming with an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. You’re definitely going to want to befriend these loveable sea mammals! If looking to stay in Puerto Plata, Sundance Vacations recommends booking a stay at the Presidential Suites By Lifestyle , an all-inclusive resort which provide guests with a peaceful, indulgent retreat.

Negril, Jamaica

You won’t find waters more pristine and aquamarine than the waters in Negril, Jamaica . Their motto “One Love, One World” truly encapsulates the hospitality you’ll encounter during your vacation to Negril. Speaking of, you’re absolutely going to want to hop aboard the One Love Bus Bar Crawl! This bus tour will take you to local bars where you can sip on Jamaican brewed specialties while experiencing authentic Jamaican lifestyle. A boatload on catamaran cruises can be found around every corner, but bamboo rafting should be your go-to mode of transportation for a unique, Jamaican adventure. Sundance Vacations recommends staying at the Country Country resort, which features soft Caribbean colors and gingerbread wood trim set in lush tropical gardens.

Noord, Aruba

Noord is a bustling city most known for its colorful nightlife, shops, and mouth-watering food, but for golf enthusiasts, Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf is a sight to behold. The PGA championship 18-hole golf course provides immaculate views of the Caribbean Sea with each swing. The heart and soul of Noord is the California Lighthouse and the Alto Vista Chapel–both of which are must-see historical sites that provide breathtaking views of the district. While staying in this Dutch-named city, Sundance Vacations recommends that you book your perfect room at Azure Beach And Blue Residences , two condominium complexes located across from one of Aruba’s most stunning beaches, Eagle Beach.

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Dutch Caribbean

The Dutch city of Philipsburg is the definition of grace and style. On this island, you’ll find a distinctive mix of Dutch-Caribbean culture that exists only in Philipsburg. The capital is seeped in military history and is the home of Fort Amsterdam, a stone structure used in 1631 as defense. If you’re not a fan of historical outings, fear not, the bright shops, lavish jewelers, and lengthy boardwalks will more than make up for it. Spend your time exploring all the city has to offer into the wee hours of the night! When planning a stay in Philipsburg, Sundance Vacations recommends staying at Royal Palm Beach Resort , a resort poised on a pretty bay with the powdery sand beach just steps away.

Want to read more about exotic vacation destinations? Check out more articles on the blog!

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The 12 hottest destinations of 2022

Every year, travel brands look to the future.

We attempt to forecast which cities will be at the top of everyone's flight search history, where the most exciting hotel openings will happen and which countries will emerge from the periphery to be the hottest new destinations for intrepid travelers.

But for the last two years, this has felt like an increasingly challenging task. Sure, we can see where airlines are doubling down on service and where popular hotel brands are breaking ground. But after so many false starts and squashed travel plans, I think we all know that divining the future — particularly in the travel industry — is more art and inspiration than science.

Travelers are eager to return to their favorite destinations and discover new ones, but the ongoing pandemic has made it more difficult than ever to plan anything.

Still, we keep our sights set on what's next, because sometimes that's all you can do: Keep looking ahead. As another challenging year comes to a close, these are the destinations we're most excited about — the ones that fill us with optimism and give us all something to anticipate.

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New York City

Few destinations in the U.S. have made a comeback quite like New York City. So many people speculated that it might have met its untimely end during the prolonged pandemic when Broadway temporarily closed its curtains and some of the city's most iconic hotels and restaurants shuttered.

But simply step onto a subway platform and you'll immediately feel that the city's energetic pace is back. Despite its extended shutdown, the city is eager to welcome tourists from across the globe. If you haven't been to New York City since the onset of the pandemic, you'll find a spate of new attractions, including a mind-bending new observation deck in midtown Manhattan and a park comprised of concrete platforms that look like lily pads floating above the Hudson River.

There are also a number of hotel openings on the horizon that will make Manhattan the most talked-about borough in the city. In addition to the long-awaited Aman New York, The Ritz-Carlton is taking reservations for its second Gotham location in the NoMad neighborhood starting in May 2022.

For travelers craving wide-open spaces within the continental U.S., there are few better places to visit in 2022 than the Cowboy State, which is famous for its world-class skiing, freewheeling Old West culture and stunning national parks.

In 2022, Yellowstone — the country's first national park — will celebrate its 150th anniversary with indigenous art exhibitions, free tours on the park's iconic yellow buses and other events and activities. Plus, domestic airlines have been doubling down on Wyoming and other national park gateways since 2020, making it easier than ever for travelers to reach this destination.

No matter where you're traveling in Wyoming, you'll want to book accommodations far in advance. In addition to classic park lodging, such as the Old Faithful Inn, and luxury hotels, like the relatively new Cloudveil, an Autograph Collection property , travelers can consider a luxe chalet from onefinestay, which expanded to the mountain town of Jackson Hole this ski season.

The southernmost continent is an inhospitable, wintry desert. Getting there has never been a particularly easy task, but with the reopening of borders in South America, it's possible once again for travelers to visit and, in many cases, check off their final continent.

The Antarctic travel season, which kicks off during the austral summer, is just resuming and will continue into early 2022. There's only a fraction of the number of usual vessels calling on Antarctica this season, but more than ever will come here next season, meaning travelers will see even more wild, undisturbed scenery and wildlife.

Though coronavirus protocols continue to complicate travel, many people may find an expedition cruise here takes some of the guesswork out of that. Not to mention, travelers don't need to be too worried about coming into contact with the virus in this uninhabited stretch of ice and rock.

Debut cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages is chartering an A330 to get travelers directly from Orlando to Ushuaia, Argentina, where its first vessel, World Navigator, embarks. Travelers who sail with Silversea have the option to fly directly to King George Island on Antarctic Airways this season. Or, cruisers could sail on Lindblad Expeditions' new National Geographic Endurance , which can be booked with World of Hyatt points instead of cash.

When United announced it would fly to five new European destinations in 2022, the airline's senior vice president of international network and alliance, Patrick Quayle, said the expansion was about connecting travelers with "new, unexpected places." Among them, the fjords of Norway via Bergen (BGO), to which the airline will start flying from its Newark (EWR) hub starting May 20.

Both first-time and returning travelers will have new places to stay throughout Norway, including Sommerro, a reborn Art Deco landmark in Oslo that will boast 231 rooms and residences and the capital's first year-round rooftop pool. There are also reports that the long-awaited Svart hotel in the Arctic Circle will welcome its first guests next year.

Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Fans of Dubai and Abu Dhabi should set their sights on the northernmost emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, which is home to its own array of superlative attractions and five-star hotels, including the forthcoming Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah with overwater villas and an InterContinental slated to open in February.

Once there, travelers can enjoy a spate of over-the-top diversions, such as record-breaking fireworks shows and the world's longest zip line, which whisks travelers down 1.76 miles of the tallest peak in the United Arab Emirates at heart-thumping speeds.

Florida continues to be a top destination for travelers, and in 2022, Orlando will be at the center of this attention.

Disney's 50th-anniversary celebrations continue into the new year with an exciting lineup of new attractions, events and developments, including the launch of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. This highly anticipated immersive hotel experience will be complemented by the opening of Disney Vacation Club resort studios at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Disney enthusiasts can also look forward to the opening of the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind attraction and enhanced technology throughout the parks with "Hey, Disney!" and MagicBand+.

Increased airlift from a number of major airlines will also make it particularly easy — and far more comfortable — to fly to Orlando in 2022. Even international airlines are getting in on the action: Aer Lingus has launched nonstop transatlantic flights from Orlando (MCO) to Manchester, England (MAN).

You don't have to be flying to Disney World to get excited about traveling to this city in Central Florida. By the end of 2022, the high-speed rail company Brightline is expecting to finish its connection between Orlando and Miami.

Luxury travelers have plenty of reasons to plan a visit to Montenegro next year. This small Balkan country with a thread of beaches along the Adriatic Sea is a great alternative for travelers seeking a crowd-free version of Croatia. Check out One&Only Portonovi (the brand's first resort in Europe), which opened in May 2021, and Aman's new sister brand, Janu , which will debut at Sveti Stefan in 2023.

Travelers who want to visit destinations before an influx of tourists should travel here soon, as a luxury hotel with residences, Fairmont Smokva Bay Resort, is also in development for early 2023.

Want to explore the region? Book a flight on the country's new national airline, Air Montenegro, which just launched this year. Flights are available between Montenegro and Serbia, Germany, Slovenia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

United Airlines began its thrice-weekly, year-round service to Accra, Ghana (ACC), from Washington, D.C. (IAD) in May, making it easier for travelers to visit this nation in West Africa.

Ghana is an awe-inspiring gateway for travelers eager to return to the continent thanks, in part, to it being at the center of the heritage travel movement . Every visitor should consider a pilgrimage to ominous Cape Coast Castle, overlooking the Atlantic, to see the so-called "Door of No Return" where many enslaved Africans were forced onto ships bound for the Americas.

These days, the country's capital, Accra, is home to one of Africa's liveliest music scenes, with numerous clubs and other venues hosting concerts by up-and-coming artists. You don't have to venture far for some of the continent's best surfing, either, at Kokrobite beach.

You can even explore some of Africa's lesser-known (and therefore far less crowded) national parks and reserves encompassing everything from grasslands and woodlands to lush rainforests teeming with monkeys and crisscrossed by canopy footbridges.

With so much uncertainty still clouding the travel landscape, many adventurers are seeking solace in familiar, long-loved destinations such as Italy , which is one of the most booked destinations in Europe for next year.

Even frequent visitors may be lured by major hotel openings from some of the top brands, including the intimate 65-room Rosewood Porto Cervo on the island of Sardinia. In Rome, IHG is transforming an early 20th-century property on the Via Veneto into an InterContinental. The capital city will also welcome outposts from Bvlgari, Six Senses and Edition Hotels in 2022.

Travelers might even be able to catch a flight on the nation's new flag carrier, ITA Airways , which takes the place of the now-defunct Alitalia. It will welcome a fleet of new Airbuses in 2022 and is focusing on connecting the East Coast of the U.S. to Milan and Rome.

For years now, Mexico has landed on TPG's list of hottest upcoming destinations. Though it may not be surprising or new, it's a destination that continues to evolve. Throughout the pandemic, Mexico has been consistently welcoming to tourists: Unlike so many nations around the world, it never shut its borders to visitors.

As a result, it's really no surprise that Viator found that, compared to 2019, bookings for hot spots on both coasts (such as Tulum and Cabo San Lucas) have increased by double digits.

In 2022, a new round of fresh hotels and resorts from a number of our favorite brands will welcome travelers for the first time, including the Waldorf Astoria Cancun and the Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort. An Edition hotel is also slated to open in the popular Riviera Maya resort development.

When Canada finally reopened to American tourists, the excitement was palpable — and that wave of energy will continue into 2022. Consider a stay at the forthcoming Ace Hotel in the city's Fashion District or the W in Yorkville, which is expected to open this spring.

Toronto will also be at the center of Canada's cruising comeback, which won't start until April 2022. At this time, the first eastern Canada cruise on the schedule from a major line, Viking, is a 12-night voyage from New York to Toronto embarking on April 18, 2022. By April, it will have been about two years since cruise ships called on Toronto.

In a time of so much uncertainty, it's impossible to say when tourism to Australia will return to something resembling normal. After all, the nation has attempted to reopen in fits and starts, and is still only allowing citizens, residents and their family members to visit without quarantine.

But the decision to relax entry restrictions on Nov. 1 is an important signal that the return of tourism to Australia could be on the horizon. There will be so much to experience when the time comes, particularly with regard to high-end places to stay from the major hotel brands.

Next year, the W brand will return to Sydney, and a Kimpton crowned with a rooftop bar will open in the city as well. In Melbourne, a Ritz-Carlton is expected to open in the West Side Place development. And for travelers who want to splurge with cash, a 169-room Langham will welcome guests to the country's Gold Coast. After years of anticipation, The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is officially opening its doors in a historic building in the heart of Hobart as well.

Travelers who are already thinking about how they'll get to Australia should consider flying with United Airlines and Virgin Australia, as both airlines just announced plans to launch a codeshare partnership in 2022.

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Exotic 2022 Cruises with Norwegian's Extraordinary Journeys

From exploring the ancient mysteries of the Mayans in Mexico to sampling a slice of fresh sushi in Tokyo, Japan, Norwegian's Extraordinary Journeys cater to your wildest dreams. Each tailor-made, once-in-a-lifetime adventure guarantees an unforgettable cruise holiday. Keep reading to learn more about some of Norwegian's amazing exotic cruises for 2022 .

Ready to start planning? Explore all exotic 2022 cruises and Extraordinary Journeys.

Amazing Cruises to Start Planning for 2022

Perhaps you've always wanted to spot the big five on a South African safari . Or maybe the thought of swimming with sharks in the Maldives' Ari Atoll gets your blood pumping. With Norwegian's Extraordinary Journeys there's no shortage of options to start daydreaming about.

Cruise to France & Iceland from New York

Have you ever wanted to see a Broadway play in Manhattan? Perhaps you long to listen to live music while sipping a pint in Dublin's Temple Bar. Or maybe you daydream about the views of Paris from atop the Eiffel Tower. Now's your chance to make all your dreams come true on one incredible journey .

This 16-day Transatlantic cruise starts in the Big Apple, exploring world-famous sites such as the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and Times Square before boarding your cruise ship. From New York, spend a day in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, where you can take a day trip to the quaint rural fishing community of Peggy's Cove. Then, it's time to head out on the open ocean for your Transatlantic journey .

After four fun-filled days at sea, Norwegian Star docks overnight in Reykjavik, Iceland , where you can enjoy a dip in the soothing Blue Lagoon hot springs. From there, make your way to Belfast in Northern Ireland and Dublin in Ireland. Take a quick trip to Paris, France, before disembarking in London, England. Just like New York, London boasts some of the most sought-after sites in the world, including the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben.

RELATED CRUISES: 16-Day Transatlantic Cruise from New York

Antarctica & South America Cruise from Buenos Aires

For a truly magical experience, set sail for the Great White Continent. Your 14-day Antarctic cruise adventure begins in the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires. Stroll through the streets of La Boca and take in a tango show before embarking on your journey south. Stop in Puerto Madryn and visit Punta Tombo Nature Reserve, then sail toward Punta Arenas, the southernmost capital city in Chile. This sprawling city at the bottom of the Americas serves as the gateway to Antarctica.

Dock for a day in Ushuaia, Argentina, affectionately known as the end of the world for its location at the southernmost tip of South America . Then, make your way into the icy waters surrounding Antarctica. Whilst Norwegian ships don't dock at the ice-choked continent, you'll get an up-close look at the chinstrap penguins on Deception Island and the elephant seals of the aptly named Elephant Island from your balcony or the ship's upper deck. Cap off your journey with visits to the Falkland Islands and Uruguay before returning to Buenos Aires.

RELATED CRUISES: 14-Day Antarctica Cruise from Buenos Aires

Egypt Cruise to Jordan & Israel from Athens, Greece

Explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis — check. Snap a selfie with the Colossi of Memnon — check. Ride the world's fastest rollercoaster in Abu Dhabi — check. When you embark on one of Norwegian's Extraordinary Journeys and cruise from Athens to Dubai , you'll check all these spectacular sites and many more off your bucket list.

Start your cruise holiday in Europe's oldest city. Known as the cradle of civilization, Athens is home to some of the most important architectural sites in history. From there, enjoy a stop in Haifa, Isreal before an overnight stay in Ashdod, which is just a short distance from the holy sites in Galilee, Nazareth, and Jerusalem. Then spend the next two days preparing for the unparalleled experience of sailing through the Suez Canal. The famed artificial waterway that connects Europe and Asia serves as one of the world's most important water routes.

Next up, enjoy two action-packed days investigating the mysteries of ancient Egypt when you dock in Safaga for an overnight. Whether you want to bask in the sun on black sand beaches or take a shore excursion to Luxor and the Karnak Temple Complex, the choice is yours.

Take a day trip to the pink city of Petra on your stop in Aqaba, Jordan . Then enjoy four fun-filled days at sea on your way to Salalah and Muscat, Oman, where you won't want to miss the traditional souks and delicious seafood. From there, wrap up your dream cruise holiday with exciting stops in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Here, long-established Arab traditions blend with contemporary Western culture to create an experience like no other.

RELATED CRUISES: 19-Day Egypt Cruise from Athens to Dubai

Whatever your heart desires, you'll find it when you set sail on one of Norwegian's Extraordinary Journeys . Stop daydreaming and start living on the cruise vacation of a lifetime to places you never thought possible on a 2022 cruise vacation.

Shop all of Norwegian's cruise holidays to learn more about the incredible dream cruises to plan for in 2022. While you're there, be sure to sign up for emails to stay up to date about all the latest cruise deals and offers .

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Elektrostal'

Elektrostal' Travel Guide

Experience elektrostal'.

The Moscow Kremlin

Krasnaya ploshchad'

State Historical Museum

St. Basil's Cathedral

Great Moscow State Circus

Moscow State University

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Arbat Street

Where to stay, hotel pioner, yahonty noginsk, house in pushkino, gostinyi dvor hotel, recreation center dubki, yakhontovy les apartments, sloboda na klyazme, what to eat.

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Sights of Elektrostal, Moscow region

Table of contents:, history of the city, park of culture and leisure, historical and art museum, october cultural center, kristall ice palace, memorial complex, museum and exhibition complex.

2024 Author : Harold Hamphrey | [email protected] . Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

In the Moscow region there is a small cozy town Elektrostal. Its sights for the most part have no historical value due to the fact that the city has a relatively small history. But for a visiting tourist or city dweller, they will be of interest. There is something to see, where to go to have an exciting leisure time.

Today the population of the city is 158 thousand people. Until the beginning of the 20th century there were several small workers' settlements here. After the opening of the electrometallurgical and equipment factories, the place began to be called the natural boundary of Calm. The construction of the railway made this settlement accessible, and workers and families flocked here to earn money. In 1925, the station was named Elektrostal, and the rapid increase in population allowed the village to receive the status of a city.

The founder of the city is a prominent Russian industrialist Nikolai Vtorov. It was he who opened the plant here, creating, in fact, a city-forming enterprise that is still operating. In Soviet times, it was a closed facility, and it was not easy to get to work here.

Today Elektrostal is a promising industrial city with a great future and a heroic past. It bears the proud name "City of Military and Labor Glory".

You can learn about the sights of Elektrostal with descriptions and photos here. There are places for walking, outdoor activities and cultural development.

Those who come to the city by train are met by a monument to the metallurgist. It was installed in November 2017 for the 100th anniversary of the Elektrostal plant. The attraction is made in the style of constructivism. The monument quickly won the love of the townspeople, because this city is supported by ordinary workers.

Elektrost altsy and the founding father of the plant, Nikolai Vtorov, are honored. In 2002, a monument was opened in honor of him, which became a landmark of the city of Elektrostal. The bronze sculpture is installed on the site where once stood a monument to the leader of the world proletariat, V. I. Lenin. Times change, characters change. Today, the plant, founded a century ago, is the largest in Russia. Vtorov himself, whose fortune was estimated at 60 million rubles in gold, according to Forbes magazine, was the owner of the largest capital at the beginning of the century. He was a banker, an industrialist, an entrepreneur, a man of action.

The monument was erected byinitiative of the townspeople who wished to perpetuate the monument to the great man.

One of the popular places for spending weekends and evenings among citizens and guests of the city is the Park of Culture and Leisure. Here you can ride attractions for children and adults, play slot machines, rollerblade or bike. The park is divided into two zones. Fans of unhurried walks in the fresh air make a promenade on the Quiet Alley, and those who prefer outdoor activities flock to the Entertainment Alley. The park has a summer stage, where concerts and cafes are regularly held.

Until 1999, there was no central museum among the attractions of Elektrostal in the Moscow Region. The expositions were exhibited in schools, the house of culture, in factory museums. The city was closed, so there was no large influx of tourists and visitors. The appearance of the historical and art museum made it possible for residents and guests of the city to learn a lot of useful information about their native land, the formation of the production process, and the difficult years of the war. The exposition consists of paintings by local artists, historical artifacts, household items, documents, books and much more. The collection is updated regularly. It also hosts outdoor exhibitions, which are always popular with the townspeople.

One of the main attractions of Elektrostal, the photo of which is available to almost every resident or visitor, is the Main Alley. On herpassers-by like to stroll along shady paths, townspeople rest by the fountain after a hard shift at the plant. Flower beds are the decoration of the alley. In 2006, a flower festival was held here for the first time, which has become traditional. Each enterprise of the city and private individuals give residents a real composition of fresh flowers, which pleases with bright colors all summer long. A riot of colors, aromas and a flight of fantasy reigns here. Walking through the park, you can see Snow White with a basket, a bright well, a multi-tiered cake made from fresh flowers, hearts of lovers or a fabulous house. It is almost impossible not to take a photo against the background of these compositions.

There is a cultural center in the city. It hosts performances by local creative teams and visiting stars, performances and circus performances.

In 1971, the ice palace "Crystal" was opened in the city. Almost immediately, a children's and youth hockey team was organized, which gained sports fame. This is the home sports arena for the Elektrostal hockey team. Matches of different levels are held on the ice.

There are sections for children who go in for hockey or figure skating. Citizens come here with their families to cheer for their favorite team or go ice skating.

Elektrostal is a city with a heroic past. During the war years, more than 12 thousand citizens came to the recruiting station and went to the front to defend their homeland. Almost 4 thousand of them did not return from the battle. To these heroesdedicated to the memorial complex with the inextinguishable Eternal Flame, opened in 1968

But the electricians took part in the war in Afghanistan and Chechnya. By decision of the city authorities, their memory is also immortalized in the memorial complex.

It has become a good tradition for newlyweds to lay flowers at this monument.

In 1999, a museum and exhibition complex was opened in the city, where, in addition to the exhibition hall, there are numerous circles for children, classes for young people, and a creative workshop. Various festivals, exhibitions, city holidays and other events are held within the walls and on the territory of the complex, which attract many spectators.

Listing the sights of Elektrostal, it is impossible not to mention the temples. There are several of them in the city: the church of St. John of Kronstadt, St. Andrew's Church, the hospital church of St. Panteleimon. Another new church is being built. In appearance, the temples look ancient, monumental, in the Novgorod style. But they were all built at the end of the 20th century.

Let there be no ancient artifacts among the sights of Elektrostal. But on the other hand, all of them are connected with the history of the city, with everyday work and military exploits of ordinary residents.

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Exoticca Travellers’ Wanderlist: 6 top travel destinations 2022

As the year comes to a close, we’ve been compiling a list of the top travel destinations 2022 !  We know the last few years have been challenging for travel-lovers across the globe. But, as travel restrictions ease, it’s the perfect time to start making travel plans for the new year.

In order to create our Exoticca Travellers’ Wanderlist, we asked our Exoticca travellers to vote for their most sought-after travel destinations for next year. Selecting their favourite destinations for each category, our travellers have helped to create an incredible Wanderlist of places to travel to next year.  Discover the best vacation destinations 2022 with our brand new Exoticca Travellers’ Wanderlist!

Best for a dream beach escape: Maldives

When it comes to dream beaches and paradise shores, our travelers couldn’t ignore the eternal temptation of the Maldives! From a selection of ten tropical destinations, the Maldives came out as the clear winner for 2022. A paradise archipelago in the heart of the Indian Ocean, you can’t deny the pull of this favourite beach destination. Known for its luxury resorts and honeymoon suites, the Maldives is 2022’s most coveted beach destination!

Other notable mentions for amazing beach destinations include exotic Indonesia and tropical Costa Rica.

Best for a captivating cultural journey: Egypt

When it comes to ancient civilisations, Egypt is among the most captivating in the world. With its incredible Great Pyramids and legendary Valley of the Kings, it’s little wonder our travellers voted Egypt as one of the top travel destinations 2022. As the winner of the cultural trip category, Egypt is a fine choice for anyone searching for a journey of discovery. Whether you’re visiting for the enchanting monuments and heritage sites, to experience the hustle and bustle of Cairo’s markets or the tranquillity of the River Nile, Egypt is set to be one of the best vacation spots 2022.

Our travellers also loved the cultural treasures of Peru, famed for its Inca sites, and Vietnam, with its immense history.

Best for wildlife adventures: Tanzania

If you want to know the best travel destinations for wildlife in 2022, put Tanzania at the top of your list! Voted as the best place for a wildlife adventure, Tanzania is well-known for its spectacular animal-viewing opportunities. Home to 22 incredible national parks, Tanzania is a must-visit for those who want to spot the ‘Big 5’ on safari. As well as amazing wildlife-spotting opportunities, Tanzania is also well-known for its idyllic beaches, such as those on the island of Zanzibar. Furthermore, Tanzania is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas on earth!

Other notable destinations for a wildlife adventure in 2022 include Sri Lanka, Namibia and South Africa.

Best for a nature getaway: Costa Rica

Looking for an escape into nature? Voted the best travel destination 2022 for a nature getaway, Costa Rica is well-known for its verdant landscapes and rich wildlife. Home to untamed rainforests, tropical wildlife and colourful Caribbean culture, Costa Rica is a natural paradise on earth. Images of idyllic beaches, lined with lush palms and colourful flora spring to mind just at the mention of its name. Furthermore, visitors on a trip to Costa Rica can also enjoy a number of protected national parks. The perfect choice for a getaway in nature next year!

Wanderlist finalists for the best nature getaway in 2022 include Vietnam and Indonesia.

Best for sensational cities: Italy

One of the best ways to get to grips with a country is to explore its most important cities. We asked our travellers to vote for the country with the most enchanting cities in the world. Of course, Italy topped the charts! Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome, Naples and Pisa; Italy is bursting with unmissable cities. Filled with incredible heritage sites and historic monuments, Italy is a sightseeing paradise. From the Colosseum to the Renaissance artworks of Florence, Italy is a cultural jewel, just waiting to be discovered!

Other noteworthy finalists in this category include Russia, Central Europe and the UAE!

Best for Exoticca Classic trips: Greece

As part of the creation of the Exoticca Travelers’ Wanderlist, we asked you to vote for the best destination for an Exoticca classic tour. From this bucket-list-worthy selection, our classic tour of Greece was chosen as the winner! Nothing beats Greece in terms of cultural heritage, incredible sights and awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether the ancient Athens Acropolis or the floating monasteries of Meteora intrigue you, our chart-topping trips offer you the chance to discover the essence of this captivating country. Explore today and plan your trip to one of the top travel destinations in 2022!

Additionally, other highly sought-after destinations in this category include our exciting tours of Jordan and our unmissable adventures to Argentina!

So, if you’re searching for the top travel destinations 2022, look no further than our Exoticca Travellers’ Wanderlist! These winning destinations are sure to be the most population vacation spots for next year, so book your getaway today:

Exoticca Travellers’ Wanderlist 2022

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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